I’m Inga Mills, the founder of Ajoupa (ah-JOO-puh) Interiors, a soft furnishings and interior decoration studio based in west London.

Ajoupa Interiors draws inspiration from my Caribbean heritage and childhood memories of sewing curtains with my mother and our visits to the fabric shops. This formed part of my parents’ redecoration of our home each year. These early experiences ignited my passion for interiors.

I’ve had a 20-year career as an environment and health scientist, which included attaining a PhD while holding a full-time job in the field. During this time, home interiors provided an escape from the structured world of science. From sewing my own curtains when my partner and I bought our first period home in London to early morning trips to Sunbury Antiques Market for furniture or art, interior decoration has been my creative outlet.

I pursued my particular interest in soft furnishings by undergoing professional training to master crafting made-to-measure curtains, roman blinds and other items. I learnt traditional hand sewn techniques and how to produce high-end, tailored soft furnishings. I later established Ajoupa Interiors, a business which now brings together my creative and technical skills. It focuses on residential projects from both private clients and interior designers. I aim to help clients navigate the bespoke soft furnishing process and make beautiful items for their homes.