About

Rhonda Drakeford is a cross-disciplinary British designer based in London — Founder and Creative Director of Studio Rhonda [since 2018] & Darkroom [since 2009]

Currently working mainly in the arena of interior and furniture design, Rhonda's work is fearless and exciting — playfully and skilfully mixing international and historical references, strong colour themes, texture and pattern. A deep respect for order and function is offset with joyful twists and sensory surprises. A strong narrative thread runs through Rhonda’s output, which is gleefully referential and wedded to concepts that are subversive and purposefully playful. A love of contrast and experimental materials and colour palettes have become a signature part of her bold portfolio. Rhonda’s approach is individual and intuitive as much as it is collaborative and responsive to the needs and personalities of her clients.

After studying graphic design at Central Saint Martins, Rhonda formed multidisciplinary consultancy Multistorey with Harry Woodrow in 1997. With Rhonda at the helm, Multistorey, became known for its innovative use of traditional and new materials and processes – and often witty solutions, working on major projects for clients including the Design Museum, V&A and the Science Museum.

In 2009, Rhonda joined forces with Lulu Roper-Caldbeck to launch the critically acclaimed design store and brand Darkroom, providing an experiential platform for the best of international interior products and accessories. Darkroom became as much known for its bold black and patterned store interior as for its own distinctive output of accessories and furniture. In 2016 the brand evolved, closing the doors of its London stores to focus on product design and online retailing where Rhonda continues as Creative Director.

In 2018 Rhonda combined her wealth of experience across the design and retail worlds to launch her own-name studio, providing a cross-disciplinary offering of interior design and styling, furniture, product and print design for both domestic and commercial clients.

Portrait by Veerle Evans for Made.com