Our Background
Hannah McHugh is a commercial interior design practice, creating bespoke interior designs for the hospitality sector, the workplace, beauty industry, retail, shopfront design and many more. Based in Co.Tyrone, Ireland, covering projects across all of the UK, Ireland and internationally if required. Over 10 years experience working in commercial practice in Belfast, Shanghai - China, Baton Rouge - United States, and Jakarta - Indonesia. Hannah also has experience in high end hospitality, having worked in service at the Formula One - so she understands the importance of the floor plan of a bar / restaurant from a service point of view, and will consider both the customer and the employee in her designs.
Hannah McHugh established the business in 2019 shortly after graduating in 2018 and went on to become the youngest self employed interior designer in Ireland at that time. Maintaining a small practice, Hannah oversees each project from concept to completion. Every project is different, and tailored towards the clients needs. We are extremely passionate about the success of our clients business', designing distinctive spaces for distinctive brands.
The Design Process
Stage One- Research
Initial meeting, survey of space, concept and vision boards with an initial floor plan.
Stage Two - Design
FF&E selections, meeting with suppliers. Designing in a 3D model to create photorealistic images of the proposal. Agree finishes, furniture, bespoke joinery etc.
Stage Three - Technical
Final interior ideas and concepts are drawn up to a complete set of technical drawing
which are required for construction, Quotes gathered for all works.
Stage Four - Fit Out
Monitoring of fit out and liasing with all of the team on site to ensure the design is completed to a high standard.
Stage Five - Enjoy!
Education
2013-2018
Ulster University
2016-2017
Louisiana State University
Queens University
2024-2025
Belfast Metropolitian College
2024-2025
South West Regional College
2025-2026
Ulster University
2020-2021
BDes Interior Design
BDes Interior Design
PostGrad Cinematic Architecture (Applierd Architecture)
Digital Construction
CMI Project Management
PostGrad International Business
What is the role of a commercial Interior Designer?
There is a real misconception behind what an interior designer does, as qualified commercial designers, we offer so much more than just decoration and picking beautiful cushions. A commercial interior designer is responsible for designing interior spaces used by businesses and organisations, with the aim of making them functional, attractive, practical, compliant, and aligned with the client’s brand.
Consultations
Understands the business, its target customers, budget, requirements, and brand identity.
3D Visualisation & Rendering
Produces 3D models, renders, mood boards, and presentations so the client can visualise the finished space
Technical Knowledge
Produces detailed drawings such as floor plans, elevations, reflected ceiling plans, joinery details, and furniture layouts.
Project Management
Helps oversee the project from initial concept through procurement, construction, installation, and completion.
Space planning
Develops layouts that make the best use of the available space, considering circulation, furniture, capacity, accessibility, and functionality
Material & Furniture selection
Specifies flooring, wall finishes, ceilings, furniture, lighting, fixtures, fittings, and decorative elements
Building Regulations &
Compliance
Works within relevant requirements for fire safety, accessibility, building regulations, health and safety, and commercial use
Budget Managment
Selects appropriate solutions and materials while keeping the design within the client's budget.
Concept Development
Creates the overall design direction, including colours, materials, finishes, lighting, furniture, signage, and architectural features
Brand Integration
Incorporates the company's identity into the physical environment through colours, logos, signage, graphics, and design language.
Coordinating with other
design professionals
Works with architects, contractors, engineers, suppliers, lighting designers, joiners, and other specialists.
Site Visits
Surveys existing spaces, checks dimensions, reviews construction progress, and resolves design issues on site.