JRI Design + Soft Furnishings was founded by Julia Radakovic; brought up in Hertfordshire, she heralds from a long line of seamstresses, weavers, upholsterers and designers, holding fond childhood memories of her family interiors shop. Here she witnessed how the perfect combination of fabrics and trims can be crafted into beautiful window coverings, and how, through her Grandfather's skill of upholstery, a tired old piece of furniture can be transformed into a stunning, expertly produced piece. Throughout her life, Julia has had a fascination with materials and their endless possibilities, with a particular love for textiles, colours and textures.
Julia studied design and construction of theatre & television costumes in Liverpool, learning how to produce a huge variety of costumes, as well as gaining a deep insight into the history of design, something that helps her greatly throughout her work. Julia went on to work within both the theatre and film industry: as a maker, supervisor and subsequently a designer.
JRI Design + Soft Furnishings was born in 2004, a natural progression for Julia, this new endeavour fitted perfectly with her changing family life, and has allowed her to continue expressing her love for textiles and design. Julia, along with her long term partner Giles, and their son Jake, have extensively renovated several homes, with an extremely hands on, practical approach. Together, they lovingly, brought a three story Wells town house back to life, transforming it from a uncared-for derelict hostel to a cherished family home. Their seemingly endless hard-work was ultimately repaid, resulting in a tastefully, and comprehensively renovated town house. The house caught the attention of many, with a national television show requesting access to follow the restoration of this previously unloved home, and a number of interior magazines showing interest in photographing the property. When the eventual purchasers visited the home, they noted the clear attention to detail that had been shown throughout the renovation project, this is something Julia displays in all of her work.
Julia sees great importance in visiting clients in their homes, allowing her to understand their environment and gain an accurate view of their needs and requirements. She understands that what may look great in a shop or online may very well look starkly different in a working home environment. Julia is happy to work with measurements provided by the customer, but prefers to take her own in order to ensure that her high standards are upheld throughout her work.
Julia studied design and construction of theatre & television costumes in Liverpool, learning how to produce a huge variety of costumes, as well as gaining a deep insight into the history of design, something that helps her greatly throughout her work. Julia went on to work within both the theatre and film industry: as a maker, supervisor and subsequently a designer.
JRI Design + Soft Furnishings was born in 2004, a natural progression for Julia, this new endeavour fitted perfectly with her changing family life, and has allowed her to continue expressing her love for textiles and design. Julia, along with her long term partner Giles, and their son Jake, have extensively renovated several homes, with an extremely hands on, practical approach. Together, they lovingly, brought a three story Wells town house back to life, transforming it from a uncared-for derelict hostel to a cherished family home. Their seemingly endless hard-work was ultimately repaid, resulting in a tastefully, and comprehensively renovated town house. The house caught the attention of many, with a national television show requesting access to follow the restoration of this previously unloved home, and a number of interior magazines showing interest in photographing the property. When the eventual purchasers visited the home, they noted the clear attention to detail that had been shown throughout the renovation project, this is something Julia displays in all of her work.
Julia sees great importance in visiting clients in their homes, allowing her to understand their environment and gain an accurate view of their needs and requirements. She understands that what may look great in a shop or online may very well look starkly different in a working home environment. Julia is happy to work with measurements provided by the customer, but prefers to take her own in order to ensure that her high standards are upheld throughout her work.