An Interview with Jack Willcocks
Author: Jack Willcocks
How did you fall in love with interior design and property development?
I have always been fascinated by what mankind can create. I think the built environment is the perfect physical example of that ability. The evolution of construction styles and techniques acts as a physical catalogue of how far we have advanced over the decades. My work within interior design and property development is essentially my mark in that catalogue.
As co-founder of Burbeck Interiors, what is your vision for the company?
We don’t want to limit ourselves, we will always be looking to adapt and grow with new opportunities.
What are the unique selling points of Burbeck Interiors compared to other interior design companies in the UK?
We have always wanted to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations. Our emphasis has always been placed on client satisfaction. We therefore not only want to deliver a truly unique and personalised interior design scheme but also ensure our clients receive an extremely high-level of service.
Our true expertise sets us apart: Burbeck interiors is not simply limited to interior design we have experience in London property development and construction, project management and development investment. Unlike many of our competitors, we understand the commercial drivers of any project and the importance of budgets and managing spend.
What does your typical day at Burbeck Interiors look like?
A working day will always start with assessing and responding to emails. Then after a quick coffee, I will make various important calls and schedule plans for the week. Most of the afternoon is spent on site at a specific job, giving it my full attention, or spent focusing on delivering a scheme from my desk.
What projects are you working on currently?
Personally, I am in the final stages of finishing a complete refurbishment of a £6m flat in Cadogan Square, Chelsea. It was a two year project that required the complete strip out and redesign of a two-bed flat, which we made into a four bed family appropriate apartment. This summer, I also finished a 2,800 sqft complete new build in SW13 and I am continuing to work on the fit out of a 5,000sqft house in Ascot. These three jobs have fully utilised my unique skill set as a project manager, developer and interior designer.
What is the project you are proudest of in your career to date?
ln 2021, we finished work converting a 6 bed house into 5 separate stylish and luxury individual flats. The project involved a double width basement excavation and full layout rework. We project managed and interior design the whole project. It went on to win ‘Best Redevelopment/Renovation’ in London, and then the UK in the 2021 United Kingdom Property Awards.
What is your design philosophy or style?
Where do you usually get inspiration when designing luxury homes? – I always try to keep my eyes and ears open to life and try to take inspiration from everything I can. I have endless photos saved on my phone from little snippets of inspiration I see in every day life.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
More than anything I enjoy playing paddle or tennis. Other than that I spend my free time with family or walking my dog. I love the silence and processing time available when going for a long dog walk.