In this episode of the Interior Design Podcast, Hayley sits down with Evan from Walking With Reptiles - a passionate and dedicated reptile specialist - who’s opening a reptile handling centre in Haybridge (near Maldon, Essex).
Evan shares how watching Steve Irwin as a kid sparked a lifelong obsession with crocodilians, how his first snake changed everything, and why hands-on animal experiences can completely transform fear into fascination.
We also dive into the crossover between landscaping, interiors, and building “living” environments - from slate backdrops and natural stone features to bioactive vivariums that look like a rainforest in your living room. If you love jungle-style interiors, terrariums, indoor “rainforest” vibes, or you’re curious about reptile care and myths… this one’s for you.
In this episode, we cover:
· Evan’s reptile origin story (Steve Irwin, crocodiles, and that first corn snake moment)
· What bioactive vivariums are (and how to build one)
· Plants that work best: pothos, bromeliads, mosses + more
· The biggest mistakes people make building indoor rainforest setups
· The vision behind Walking with Reptiles and what visitors can expect
"At The Hotel" licensed via Music Vine: DESKRUPM3PLZEZT0