After leaving school he spent four years studying decorating in Bournemouth before joining the family's decorating business in Salisbury. Further study, examination and experience led to Fellowships of the Chartered Institute of Building and the Chartered Society of Designers. These were followed by an MSc in Construction Management from the University of Bath.

In 1976 Adrian opened his Consultancy in Architectural and Interior Design and for the next twelve years designed and managed many UK based projects from domestic alterations, school and hotel extensions to the total interior design of hotels, bars and restaurants. To date he has completed over 500 contracts in the UK.

In the late 1980s he saw and took the opportunity to do similar work in France for British people who were, by then, flocking to buy property there. He has completed over 200 contracts in France covering most areas of the country and always working with local artisans. Adrian travels to France approximately twice a month for several days at a time to meet clients and to plan and oversee current projects.

Back in the UK Adrian's name was added to the Law Society Register of Expert Witnesses in 1990 and he now works regularly with lawyers in cases relating to construction, decorating or design. For this he travels extensively in the UK and occasionally to other parts of the world.

From time to time Adrian lectures building and decorating students and has had articles on different aspects of the industry published. He is often commissioned to review books on the construction industry.

The year 2002 saw Adrian Barrett, Interior Designer and Construction Consultant, celebrating 40 years in the construction industry.