Jemima Ketiku, founder of BigBerry Interiors, has told journalists in a recent press briefing that she believes interior designs have healing abilities.

She says, “Just like music has healing abilities, I believe that interior design is as powerful too, and in many ways it has the potential to significantly improve the living experience of its occupants, and that is why I am on a mission to push the boundaries in interior design by introducing world-class innovation and creativity that will produce authentic designs with the ultimate aim of leaving an impact on the heart of everyone who steps into the spaces I design.”

At the centrepiece of what Jemima does at BigBerry Interiors is the desire to create spaces that are aesthetically appealing, and functional, with emphasis on enhancing the living experience of its occupants, as well as the desire to introduce world-class design to the Nigerian housing sector.

Over the years, she has had the honour of working on high-end residential homes to commercial spaces that are both functional and stylish. With a focus on quality and attention to the minutest detail, the spaces she has revamped or set up from scratch have birthed the style dreams of her clients while also delivering lavish toppings of exquisiteness and class to their spaces.

On why she is in the interior design industry? She says, “For me, interior design goes beyond setting up drapes, and styling up plush throw pillows. My mission in the interior design industry here in Nigeria is to rewrite the standard for excellence and ensure that residential spaces and commercial spaces get to experience the rich, unparalleled art of interior design through the inclusion of carefully-curated, timeless decor pieces, world-class design innovation, that speaks the language of class, luxury, sustainability, and authenticity. I am on a mission to bring world-class design to Nigeria and beyond, by creating spaces that are authentic and timeless.”

As a brand, BigBerry Interiors are geared towards creating custom-fit design solutions for their growing clientele. Transforming drab boring spaces into fabulous chill zones that make eyes light up with glee and hearts soar with endless possibilities.

One of the major challenges that comes to mind in the design industry is the struggle with artisans, “you know how Lagos artisans can be. Also, the rising cost of decor items all thanks to inflation is a constant issue when sourcing for decor pieces. It doesn’t help that there are some clients who do not factor in the economic situation and still go ahead and haggle for ridiculous prices.’

She believes the best way to handle the outrageous demands of clients is to first understand that not everyone is her brand’s target audience, hence, “when I come in contact with clients who want a stellar design project and whose budget is literally peanuts, I steer clear of them.”

The anticipation of project completion and the clients’ first glimpse of the finished work is what Jemima looks forward to most in her interior design projects. Her inspiration is driven by clients’ needs, and she blends innovation, creativity, and their preferences to create her designs. Ideas for spaces come from various sources, including conversations, buildings, and online experiences. Balancing client needs with her creative ideas is a delicate art, and she ensures both aspects are harmoniously integrated.

In Jemima’s design process, the focus is primarily on aligning the client’s needs with creative solutions. Functionality and aesthetics are equally vital in interior design, as she believes that a fusion of these elements enhances the charm and appeal of any space.

While Jemima is the creative mind behind her brand, she collaborates with a team of artisans, including carpenters, painters, furnishers, plumbers, and engineers, to bring her designs to life. She emphasizes the importance of essential skills for interior designers in Nigeria, such as a strong work ethic, passion, patience, good interpersonal skills, planning, follow-up, and attention to detail.

The evolution of her brand, BigBerry Interiors, reflects a significant transition from sourcing decor pieces for apartments to designing full-scale residential and commercial spaces. The brand’s processes and structure continue to refine, with a growing online presence and clientele, showcasing the progress it has made over the years.

In every space she designs, Jemima leaves a lasting touch characterized by exceptional creativity, authenticity, and timeless style. These elements define her approach to interior design, setting her work apart and making it a hallmark of her brand.