TIPTOE by Philippa Coules
Can you introduce yourself?
Hi, my name is Philippa Coules and I’m an illustrator based in Oxfordshire, in the United Kingdom. I love creating works that evoke warmth and joy, drawing inspiration from bright color palettes as well as subtle textures.
How would you define your creative world?
I would define my creative world as colorful, warm, and cosy. Drawing has always been a source of comfort for me, so I like to reflect that in my artistic style.
Where do you find your inspiration every day?
I’m very inspired by nature, urban style, photography, fashion, and even everyday objects like food! I’m also very drawn to the interesting, bold color palettes found in retro children’s books or fashion photography from the 1960s and ’70s. Other artists inspire me enormously, and I also love going out to see current art and design exhibitions when I have free time.
How important is your interior to you?
Interior design is extremely important to me because it can often inspire my work. We’re currently renovating, so I’m in the process of creating moodboards. I love bringing colors, patterns, and textures together!
I think a well-thought-out, well-designed space can truly influence your well-being, which is very important, especially when you often work from home.
What is your vision of TIPTOE?
TIPTOE products are so versatile and can adapt to so many interior styles. I love how sustainability is an integral part of their design DNA.
What made you want to bring our pieces into your world?
It was fun to illustrate the MIDI table and show how people socialize and interact with the product. The fact that it’s an outdoor piece allowed me to create a beautiful setting inspired by nature! The architecture and façade of the boutique in Paris were also very beautiful and inspiring.
Any recent creative discoveries to share with us?
We recently bought a print by Sophie Smallhorn; my husband introduced me to her work, and now we have it hanging in our dining room. I almost always work digitally on my iPad to create art, so a recent rediscovery has been using real pencils and colored pencils again when drawing with my daughter!
Your favorite place in Oxfordshire?
We’re lucky to be surrounded by incredible countryside, so at weekends we love going for walks near the Ridgeway or around Oxford—usually finding a good place to eat!