Meet The Member - Lenka of Saint and Noire Interior Design
Saint & Noire Interior Design
We caught up with our member Lenka of Saint & Noire Interior Design to discover how she brings bold storytelling and timeless design into every project—from Hertfordshire to the Cayman Islands.
We are thrilled to have you as a member of We Are St Albans, and we would love to hear about your journey. Have you always wanted to work as an interior designer, or did you pursue something different before this?
I’m happy to be a part of this network. My journey has been driven by a profound passion for furniture and interiors, a passion that has been with me since childhood, when I spent time in my father's upholstery workshop, learning about materials and furniture-making. Earning my master’s degree in design allowed me to refine my skills and broaden my creative vision. This education laid the foundation for a career filled with collaborations with luxury furniture brands and leading architectural firms in London. Ultimately, this journey led me to establish Saint and Noire, an interior design practice creating expressive, layered spaces for a discerning clientele here in St Albans, which is my home.
How would you define Saint and Noire’s style? Do you have a particular style that people recognize as yours?
Each project we undertake is a unique story, creating an inspiring atmosphere through thoughtful sourcing and storytelling. We dare to be different, fusing timeless classics with curated eclecticism, while blending contemporary styles with traditional influences. Through collaboration with local artisans, we craft bespoke interiors that are not only impactful but also deeply personal.
What do you most want your clients to feel from the spaces you create?
A room should feel like it has something to say—softly, yet with conviction. We recreate a story because I believe that every space deserves a narrative that includes one or two unexpected details to invite curiosity and spark conversation; space to feel “impossible to forget.”
If you had to choose a favorite project you’ve worked on, what would it be and why?
This year, we are embarking on a stunning house renovation in Harpenden with a fabulous client who has a unique style, and I eagerly anticipate sharing some inspiring concepts on social media soon. Last year, I had the privilege of working on a project in St Albans at St Stephen’s with a visionary client who granted me full creative freedom.
She inspired me to take risks and push beyond the expected, leading to invaluable lessons. We are currently designing the rest of the house, and the lounge stands out beautifully. Our time spent curating furnishings and selecting materials fills me with gratitude for having such wonderful clients in St Albans. Additionally, we are managing international projects, including one in the Cayman Islands that will be completed soon. This is the second house I am designing for the same client, who has become like family to me.
How has your approach to interior design changed since you started?
The dream was always bigger than the fear. I stayed curious, followed my heart, and trusted my instincts, never hesitating to take risks. The most memorable spaces are often those that tell a story, rather than simply adhering to the rules. So, breaking the rules and viewing interiors from a different perspective has always been an important part of the creative process for me.
How do you strike a balance between your vision for a space and that of your clients?
What clients say they want isn’t exactly what they truly need, so part of the job involves reading between the lines. By building trust, we keep the atmosphere light, add a touch of humour, and ensure the process is comfortable. Once clients are with us, we hold nothing back. I often ask without filter, “Do you want me to tell you what you want to hear or what I think you should do? ‘’That’s usually when the real magic happens.
Are there any tricks of the trade that we may not know?
It’s widely understood that trends and fashions are cyclical. How you layer those elements to transcend the ‘of-the-moment’ nature of a trend. Simply don’t chase trends; trust your instinct. I believe timelessness comes from knowing your references and not being afraid to rework them. If something has depth—whether it’s a classic timeless colour or a piece of iconic furniture or unique artwork—it will outlast fleeting trends.
Are there any aspects of your business that people are surprised to hear about?
Our kitchens and cabinetry are made exclusively in the North of England, showcasing true British craftsmanship with locally sourced materials. We work with small artisan companies that have a long heritage running within their families. I believe it’s important for clients to know where their products come from, as it creates a connection to the past and allows them to celebrate the unique English furniture styles that are unmatched anywhere else in the world. Additionally, we source many unique artworks and furnishings also from Milan and Prague, providing our discerning clients with something extraordinary.
Finally, what is your favourite place in St Albans to visit in your spare time?
St Albans Cathedral; I feel drawn to it like a fly to a light. There isn't a week that goes by without me walking past it with my daughters. I also enjoy meeting my clients at St Michael's Manor, where they serve espresso nearly as good as that in Milan, all while offering beautiful views of Verulam Park.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
Starstruck. A few years ago, I collaborated on a famous film script. As a reward for my help and consultations, the screenwriter created a main female character named Lenka, and let’s say there are striking similarities.