About Me.
My name is Ella Carr-Hartley, and I am a vibrant and evolving interior designer with a strong passion for bringing spaces to life through distinctive and thoughtful design. I am driven by creativity and purpose, incorporating my enthusiasm for sustainable design into every project to ensure a harmonious balance between aesthetic appeal, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
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My signature style is defined by the considered use of soft, neutral tones, thoughtfully enhanced with carefully placed accents of colour that introduce depth and vibrancy. I strive to create interiors that feel calm yet expressive, timeless yet contemporary.
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Born with a love for the arts, my journey found its true direction when I discovered interior design. It was here that I recognised the powerful ability of design to transform environments into meaningful, functional works of art. My work reflects not only my artistic sensibility but also my dedication to sustainability and contemporary design principles.
I am skilled in industry-standard design software, including AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, as well as rendering programmes such as Enscape, which allow me to communicate ideas clearly and bring concepts to life with precision and realism.
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Much of my inspiration is drawn from the natural world. Nature’s textures, tones, organic forms, and ever-changing landscapes strongly influence my creative process, guiding me toward designs that feel grounded, authentic, and connected to their surroundings.
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Join me on my creative journey as I continue to shape and redefine environments, leaving a thoughtful and distinctive imprint within the world of interior design.
Qualifications
2021-2023
BA in interior design
Vega school, Pretoria
I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, where I developed a strong foundation in both creative and technical design.
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In my first year, I learned the core design principles and spatial planning fundamentals that form the basis of good design, along with technical drawing and drafting by hand. In second year, we transitioned to digital platforms, gaining proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp while working on more complex, industry-focused projects. In third year, these skills were refined and elevated to prepare us for a seamless transition into the professional industry.
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Throughout the degree, we were encouraged to think creatively, develop innovative solutions to design challenges, and manage our time effectively under pressure.
This degree laid the foundation for the designer I am today, equipping me with both creative vision and technical precision.
2024
Honours Degree
InScape, Stellenbosch
I completed a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Design, specialising in Interior Design. This year was primarily research driven, requiring the development of an in-depth thesis alongside a practical portfolio project.
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My research focused on adaptive reuse methods to achieve historical authenticity, specifically exploring Cape Dutch buildings and contemporary interiors within Western Cape boutique hotels. The study examined how heritage architecture can be preserved and celebrated while accommodating modern design interventions.
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Running parallel to the thesis, I developed a practical portfolio project that applied my research in a real-world context. This involved transforming the historic Blettermanhuis building in Stellenbosch into a boutique hotel, carefully retaining its historical authenticity while integrating contemporary interior elements. The project aimed to celebrate the building’s heritage while creating a refined and relevant hospitality experience.
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This Honours year strengthened my research capabilities, conceptual thinking, and ability to merge theory with practical design execution.
About Ech Designs.
Ech Designs is not just a brand; it's a transformative journey into the artistry of interior design. With a commitment to creating spaces that resonate with individuality and sophistication, Ech Designs embodies a fusion of style, functionality, and personal expression. Every project undertaken by Ech Designs is a canvas where innovation meets timeless aesthetics. From conceptualization to execution, the brand thrives on translating clients' visions into captivating, harmonious interiors. Ech Designs stands at the forefront of the industry, pioneering trends while respecting the timeless principles of design. With an unwavering dedication to quality craftsmanship and a keen understanding of the evolving dynamics of contemporary living, Ech Designs is more than a design solution; it's an immersive experience that breathes life into spaces, making them truly exceptional and uniquely yours.