Property people: AMC Design

Ilkley-based interior design agency, AMC Design, has expanded as a new designer joins its growing team.

The agency, founded by Ann Marie Cousins in 2014, has appointed local designer Karen Lilleyman, who has taken on a newly created design role to further AMC Design’s offering, guiding and inspiring clients to achieve their dream home.

Originally from Yorkshire, Lilleyman studied French at Nottingham University, followed by a law conversion at The College of Law, London, before pursuing a career as a commercial litigator.

In 2013, she left the legal profession, moving to the USA in 2014 to explore new opportunities. While there, she retrained as an interior designer with the New York Institute of Art and Design, graduating in 2021.

She said: “A career in the law can be intellectually stimulating and exciting, but it is also stressful, intense and demands a lot of long hours.

“After 13 years, I was burned out and looking for a more creative outlet, where I could have more autonomy and flexibility, while maintaining the same work ethic.

“Though my interior design career began in the USA, I was drawn back to my UK roots and more specifically Yorkshire, where I felt my creativity could really thrive.

“I like to think that I’m a people person, so listening to both what a client says, and doesn’t say is key. I also feel a lot of affinity with AMC Design’s ethos to encourage clients to be brave with their design choices.”

Cousins added: “Karen’s arrival came at a pivotal time for AMC Design, as we begin some exciting new long-term projects.

“With Karen’s skill and natural understanding of our region she is sure to be a long-term asset to the team.

“Our paths crossed during our legal careers, and I am excited by this fantastic opportunity to pursue our creative careers together.”