Interior design expert Banjo Beale, known for his role as a judge on Scotland’s Home of the Year, is swiftly rising to fame and is now a recognised figure all around. The Australian designer, who relocated to Scotland almost ten years ago, has emerged as one of the BBC’s prominent personalities. Beale is set to return to our screens next week with the second season of the popular series Designing the Hebrides.
At just 37 years old, the charismatic Banjo Beale, living on Mull with his husband Ro, has shared that he sometimes feels like a member of the legendary Beatles. Reflecting on his journey, Beale revealed that as a child growing up in the Australian outback, he had an inkling that he was destined for something extraordinary, but never imagined it would lead him 10,000 miles away to Scotland.
Being a judge on Scotland’s Home of the Year alongside designer Anna Campbell-Jones and architect Danny Campbell, Beale expressed his surprise at how he is now constantly recognised wherever he goes. He recounted encounters with fans approaching him for selfies, even being chased down the street. Beale humbly acknowledged the impact he has had, sharing a touching moment on a ferry where a woman approached him to say that seeing him on television helped her family accept her gay son.
Describing his challenging yet rewarding experiences, Beale highlighted the diverse makeovers showcased in Designing the Hebrides, set against the breathtaking backdrops of Scotland. The series captures Beale’s infectious passion, creativity, and design expertise as he and his team tackle unique interior design projects on a restricted budget and tight schedule.
Despite facing obstacles like being stranded due to a cyclone while filming on South Uist, Beale expressed his joy in exploring new islands and delving into diverse projects including transforming honesty boxes in Mull and South Uist, revamping a wool shop in Iona, and creating a dual-function room for a hotel in Tobermory.
As Beale prepares for the SHOTY Christmas special and the release of his upcoming book, ‘A Place in Scotland: Beautiful Scottish Interiors,’ he reflected on deeply moving moments during the show, such as emotionally connecting with a crofter in South Uist. Beale shared how incorporating a personal touch into the design evoked powerful emotions, leaving a lasting impact on both the client and the design team.
Looking ahead, Beale expressed his gratitude for pursuing his childhood dreams, which have led him to Scotland and a successful career in interior design. His unwavering enthusiasm and dedication have endeared him to audiences, cementing his status as a beloved figure in the design world.
Fans can catch Banjo Beale in action on Designing the Hebrides, airing on BBC Scotland every Monday at 7 pm, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer.