If you’ve spent any time in the world of interiors and design, chances are you’ve come across Interiors Addict, the wildly popular online publication that’s become a go-to source for design lovers across Australia. And behind it all? The incredible Jen Bishop—a journalist-turned-entrepreneur whose passion for interiors, knack for storytelling, and refreshingly down-to-earth approach have made her a powerhouse in the industry.
Jen’s journey into the design world wasn’t exactly traditional. She started her career in journalism, working as a crime reporter and even as a news editor at New Scotland Yard in London before moving to Australia. But her love for interiors and her natural curiosity led her to create Interiors Addict in 2011—a side passion project that quickly grew into one of Australia’s most influential interior design platforms.
A Personal Connection
I first met Jen in July last year, and from the moment we started chatting, I knew she was someone special. You know when you meet someone and it just clicks? That was Jen. What struck me the most wasn’t just her incredible knowledge of the industry (which is next level), but the way she genuinely sees people—their passion, their stories, their struggles. She’s not just reporting on design; she’s lifting people up, giving them a platform, and celebrating their work in a way that feels so rare and refreshing.
Me prepping my booth at Decor + Design 2024 where we met in person.
Our conversation flowed effortlessly—talking about creativity, business, and the unexpected paths that lead us to where we are. There was an instant feeling of support and encouragement, like she truly got it. And that’s what makes her so impactful—not just as a writer or editor, but as a person.
The Interview: Jen in Her Own Words
Q: What was little Jen like? Did you always have a love for interiors, or was it something you discovered later?
"I actually always loved the concept of decorating and making your home nice, even as a child. Certain friends had homes I really loved because of the way they felt cosy or interesting. I vividly remember my first bedroom that was just mine, not shared with my sister, and being given the freedom to decorate it as I wished and choose things for it. Such a joy! I was about 12 and it was themed to within an inch of its life with a scheme of navy with blue and gold stars, suns and moons! Very nineties! I also like telling the story of me starting to paint our living room Wedgwood blue when my dad was taking a long bath. I think I was about 15. What a weirdo!"
Q: What does home mean to you? How has your own style evolved over the years?
"Home to me means comfort, security, family, relaxation and entertaining. I love how my home makes me feel with its bright colours, art and decor pieces I love. It's also somewhere I like to invite and entertain other people, whether that's my girlfriends or the kids' friends. I really think your home should make you feel good, both mentally and physically, and be a reflection of the people who live there and their interests and loves. I feel this way about our home. My style has evolved into something I'm more confident in over the years, so rather than changing things up as trends come and go, I stick to what I know and like and just tweak here and there."
Q: The Interiors Addict has become such a go-to source for design lovers. What do you think makes it resonate so deeply with people?
"I think people resonate with Interiors Addict because it's for everyone; it's real and achievable and not too snobby or designer. We really lean into that high/low decorating concept of investing in some things and the thrill of a bargain here and there!"
Q: What’s one piece in your home that tells a special story?
"I love this question! I have one buffet that I love so much it has been upcycled not once but twice. It started off white when I bought it, I later had someone paint it duck egg blue to work in a different room and gave it new hardware, and then I later painted it myself in blush pink chalk paint to work somewhere else. I'm now looking for a stone offcut to put on top of it. It's satisfying to give a piece new life and I wish more people would consider this before getting rid of things."
Q: What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
"That I used to work at New Scotland Yard in London, the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police Service. I was news editor of their internal magazine."
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
"It's a cliché, but worry less about what other people think."
Q: What do you absolutely love doing in your free time?
"Taking a bath, walking outside in nature with my husband and kids, or going out for dinner."
Q: What's your creative outlet—other than work, of course?
"I'd have to say decorating and styling my own home is my creative outlet!"
Q: What is one trait you cannot stand in people?
"Snobbery."
Q: Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
"Hopefully semi-retired and still tinkering away at something in the interiors world, perhaps living back in the UK (my Australian husband wants to retire to Cornwall), with my grown-up sons visiting us all the time!"
Why Jen’s Work Matters
What Jen has built isn’t just a publication—it’s a community. She’s created a space where design feels welcoming, where every story matters, and where creativity is celebrated in all its forms.
And for me? Meeting Jen was a reminder of why I love this industry so much. It’s not just about the beautiful spaces—it’s about the people behind them, the passion that fuels them, and the connections that make it all worthwhile.
