As Managing Director of BLOCC Interiors and BAYA, Philippa has spent her career nurturing talent and cultivating innovation within the interior design industry.

At BLOCC, she collaborates with developers to deliver interiors that resonate with buyers and reflect each project’s unique identity. At BAYA, she works closely with private clients on bespoke projects that bring their personal vision to life. 

Leading both companies, Philippa creates spaces that combine functionality with artistry; making each project an opportunity to inspire and exceed expectations.

It goes without saying that you are *quite* the woman! Tell us a bit about your business journey so far…

It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions. However, I love every day, I love what I do, and my mind never checks out. I am constantly thinking about what’s next and how we can improve. I’m loving the journey; the destination is ever-changing!

What inspired you to set up your business and what have been the most significant steps in growing it to where you have to date?

I was an original founder of BLOCC INTERIORS, established in the summer of 2009. Invited to take over the reins in 2019, I grabbed the opportunity with both hands. My experience began just in time to navigate us through Brexit, COVID, and a fire! My strength comes from working with a superpowered team.

Did you dive straight into entrepreneurial life, or did you take your time planning?

I have always had the drive and determination to be the best version of myself and never take no for an answer. I had not planned to lead the business. When I was invited, I was cautious and felt vulnerable, but that soon disappeared!

Business support comes in so many forms – accelerators, mentors, finance, and networking, to name a few. What support have you found the most significant in helping you to start and scale?

I am grateful and fortunate to have such great mentors and advisors. A huge appetite to learn, be curious, authentic, and kind, I believe, has aligned some serious opportunities. Collaborative partnerships and helping others have had such a positive impact on my journey so far.

What’s on your vision board this year?

The launch of a new brand, which is super exciting!

They say “if you don’t ask, you don’t get” so what’s the magic bullet that will help you scale and who do you need to make it happen?

Determination, a can-do attitude, ask for help, help others, learn, be curious, and stay uber-focused.

Apparently, a founder’s morning routine says a lot about them. Talk us through yours…

I’m part of the 5am club. I take my whippet for a walk while listening to a podcast, pushing myself to walk up steep hills! I’m grateful for another day full of opportunity and get going! Oh, and coffee – very important to me 😊.

What are your non-negotiables, in both business and life?

In both business and life, I consider destructive or negative behaviour completely unacceptable. Creating a positive and supportive environment is a non-negotiable for me.

As a successful founder, how easy do you actually find it trying to have work/life balance?

Exceedingly difficult, especially as I love what I do – it doesn’t feel like work. It’s something I am working on, though; too much work and not enough play makes for a dull girl!

Are there any go-to resources you’d recommend to fellow founders – be that books, podcasts, memberships, or something else entirely?

Start with Why by Simon Sinek, Find Your Why by Simon Sinek, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni, and Trust & Inspire by Stephen Covey. Podcasts: The Diary of a CEO. I am a member of a Progressive Leaders Group, and it’s absolutely awesome. From ESG strategy to being a business for good, AI in business – all the topics are relevant. Please ask me for details!

On the subject of advice, what’s the most BS advice you’ve ever received? Did you ignore it straight away or learn the hard way?

When I was told not to join a leadership group on several occasions, I was told it would be a waste of time! I ignored it, and thank goodness I did – it completely transformed me as a leader.

Finally, we believe in the power of celebrating your wins. What are you most proud of?

My team. Without them, my ideas and vision wouldn’t come to life. Our wins are collective – some are small, some are large – but having a happy team means I’m winning.

WHAT. A. WOMAN!

Do you know a founder that will inspire The 51% Club community?
Get in touch with us and tell us a bit about her story: girlpower@the51percent.club