Country & Town House - C&T INTERIORS 2022/23

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A LIFE IN BALANCE

£12.99

Meet the Finest

50

Interior Designers

+ 20

Top Garden Designers

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EXCEPTIONALLY INSPIRED OPULENCE FOR THE WORLD'S MOST OUTSTANDING HOMES

clivechristianfurniture.com swm@clivechristianfurniture.com

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Recycled 18ct Gold, Diamond and Sapphire Rings Annoushka Boutique 41 Cadogan Gardens 1 South Molton Street 0800 138 1659 Annoushka.com

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Contents REGULARS 8

EDITOR’S LETTER

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CONTRIBUTORS

176

INDEX

FEATURES PLAT DU JOUR Carole Annett reflects on the new trends reshaping the busiest room in the house

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SECOND TIME AROUND Where interiors influencers find their vintage treasure

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AT YOUR FINGER TIPS Claudia Baillie meets the new generation of artisans rejuvenating dying crafts.

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FLORAL SOCIETY Think local, buy seasonal; Marc Abbott discovers the British florists and growers transforming the flower industry for people and planet

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DESIGNS ON YOUR GARDEN The top 20 names to take your outdoor spaces to the next level

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS The votes are in: meet our 50 Finest Interior Designers, as chosen by this year’s expert panel of Jay Blades, Edeline Lee, Richard Parr and Harriet Wetton

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DIRECTORY 70 108 116 140 150 158

DESIGN SERVICES KITCHENS & BATHROOMS FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS GARDENS & OUTDOOR SPACES FURNITURE HOME ACCESSORIES

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ON THE COVER Panelling: Reverie wallpaper and Walls: Cascade wallpaper. Both designs from Cole & Son’s new collection: The Gardens. Photographer: Mel Yates, Stylist: Marianne Cotterill

Editor Carole Annett Editorial Director Lucy Cleland Managing Editor Amy Wakeham Chief Copy Editor Emma Love Sub Editors Sofia Tindall and Ruby Featherstone Features Assistant & Sub Editor Tessa Dunthorne Creative & Production Director Parm Bhamra Online Editorial Director Rebecca Cox Junior Online Editor Ellie Smith Online Writers Charlotte Rickards and Charlie Colville Online Assistant Sophie Bucknall Technical Manager Luigi Bologna Associate Director, Property & Marketing Gemma Cowley Associate Publisher Ellie Rix Account Director Pandora Lewis Account Manager Katrina Gane Digital Manager Adam Dean Advertising Operations Manager Jessica Davey Sales Support & Office Manager Xa Rodger Finance Controller Lauren Hartley Finance Administrator Ria Harrison Finance Director Jill Newey Human Resources Consultant Zoe Jones Chief Commercial Officer Tia Graham Chief Operating Officer James Thrower Managing Director Jeremy Isaac

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Copyright © 2021 Country & Town House Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices are correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change. While every care is taken to ensure all information is correct at the time of going to press, it is subject to change, and Country & Town House Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. Country & Town House, Studio 2, 115 Harwood Road, London SW6 4QL, +44 (0)20 7384 9011

PHOTO: 2LG STUDIO © MEGAN TAYLOR; CHRIS BEARDSHAW © ROOM OF LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

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The LINLEY Caprea Lowbar

B ES P O K E C O M M I S S I O N S | I N T E R I O R D ES I G N | K I TC H E N S & CA B I N E T RY | F U R N I T U R E & H O M E AC C ES S O R I ES LONDON STORES BELGRAVIA, 60 PIMLICO ROAD | HARRODS, FURNITURE, THIRD FLOOR | W W W. DAV I D L I N L EY.C O M

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114 committed to tackling alongside organisations such as United in Design, of which C&TH is a member. As well as our 50 Finest list of established names with exceptional portfolios, take a look at page 68 for the next generation of talent to watch out for. They were all discovered and supported by UiD, which was started by successful designers Alexandria Dauley and Sophie Ashby as a way of uplifting a new generation of design talent from under-represented communities. You can read Sofia Tindall’s longer interview with the duo about their important work on the C&TH website. Alongside our 50 Finest list, there are essays from Claudia Baillie, who ventures out and about to uncover a new generation of craftspeople (p21), and Marc Abbott, who discovers a sustainable approach to buying and displaying cut flowers (p24). We also asked three interiors influencers for their advice on buying vintage online (p17), and I ventured into one of my favourite territories, the kitchen, sitting down for coffee with four companies to find out what’s new in every home’s number one gathering spot (p12). And we couldn’t talk about houses without including their outside space, so we’ve included the 20 leading landscape and garden designers at the top of their game (p28). Finally, we bring you the brands that allow you to dig deeper into a company you may be considering for your next project. I hope it should make at least one of your decisions a little easier.

Editor’s LETTER Designing a beautiful house is all about decisions – which fabric, wallpaper, colour palette and style of furniture to choose – but in the first instance it’s about finding the right interior designer. It should be simple, the talent pool is brimming, but like trying to turn a Rubik’s cube into a perfect square, it’s not as easy as it seems. Hence why we launched The 50 Finest Interior Designers, now in its sixth year, a glossy tome celebrating the people and brands behind the front doors of exceptional houses and hotels. This is the ultimate helping hand, guiding you to the best professional for your own project, be it commercial or residential, small scale or palatial. To select this year’s podium stars we enlisted the help of four people with strong, influential views on style and design. Firstly, renowned architect and designer Richard Parr whose work, notably at The Newt in Somerset, is applauded throughout the industry. Furniture restorer and TV presenter Jay Blades, MBE, whom we all fell in love with on The Repair Shop, accepted our invitation, so too Harriet Wetton, CEO and founder of Narchie, the ‘Depop of interiors’. The final judge is womenswear designer Edeline Lee, whose structured, feminine designs garner a loyal following. We are enormously grateful for their input. See our final 50 on page 33. Diversity, inclusion and representation are an ongoing concern in the interior design world, and one that we are

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CON T R I BU TOR S TH E J U DGING PAN EL

Edeline Lee

Jay Blades

Harriet Wetton

Richard Parr

CanadianBritish fashion designer Edeline Lee founded her eponymous, Londonbased label in 2014 after graduating from Central Saint Martins, and apprenticing in the studios of Alexander McQueen. She has since become known for her performative, immersive shows at London Fashion Week, and her designs have been worn by the likes of Olivia Colman, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Helen Mirren, Taylor Swift and Solange Knowles. All of her pieces are designed with an emphasis on tailoring and made in the UK.

Jay Blades MBE is a modern furniture restorer and eco designer devoted to sustainability, social enterprise and inclusion. Best known as an award-winning TV presenter, his enthusiasm for reinvention and regeneration shines through on many of his programmes, most notably BBC One’s The Repair Shop. He is also the founder and director of restoration company Jay & Co, and was awarded an MBE for services to craft in 2021. Through his work, Jay combats throwaway culture.

Harriet Wetton founded Narchie during lockdown, recognising the gap for a social-first community marketplace for homeware products. Now the CEO of the digital platform (coined the ‘Depop of homewares’), Harriet, through Narchie, highlights small, independent designers and decor enthusiasts alike. Harriet has a commitment to, and passion for, slow, sustainable interior solutions – and Narchie is paving the way to a more circular future for homeware products.

Richard Parr is the founder and director of an awardwinning architectural firm. Over his career he has worked on acclaimed projects including The Farmyard Spa at The Newt in Somerset, and People’s Space in Notting Hill, in addition to a bevy of historical revivals and groundbreaking contemporary designs. His firm, founded in 2012, now hosts a 20-something strong team of architects, and Richard divides his time between his Cotswolds studio, and his Holland Park office.

CONTRIBUTORS

Claudia Baillie

Marc Abbott

Emma Love

Favourite colour combo? Baby blue has always been a colour that makes me happy. I’d pair it with a gold turmeric shade and something red – striped fabric, checkerboard tiles or a red chair for a bit of oomph. Go-to celebrity for a collaboration? During lockdown my absolute favourite programme was Grayson’s Art Club, so I’d make a piece of art with Grayson. It would be something that would cheer people up – like watching a video of baby goats or puppies! In some way it would provide an instant hit of serotonin. What makes a room sing? Old things, personal things and things you really love. I truly believe a room can never come alive if everything in it is brand new.

Favourite colour combo? I’m torn between the muddy tones of a Mark Rothko painting and the punchy white of a hawthorn blossom against its pea-green leaves. Go-to celebrity for a collaboration? The urge to collaborate with Phoebe Bridgers on a capsule collection of Gucci furniture is a strong one. Where do you look for inspiration? There’s nowhere more inspirational than nature, whether that’s to give the mind some space to think, or to spark an idea. Dream alternative career? I’ve no doubt I would’ve been a painter. What makes a room sing? Simplicity of function, an innate calmness, and carefully chosen artworks.

Favourite colour combo? I like Scandi-influenced spaces so warm neutrals are my go-to. Where do you look for inspiration? Travel, books, films, art… there are all kinds of places to look for inspiration. I also find creative people, who are passionate about what they do, really inspiring. Dream alternative career? When I was in college, I studied textiles and had a vague idea about wanting to become a costume designer. Years later I was lucky enough to have a backstage tour of the National Theatre for work and everything, from the set department to the wigs, was magical. What makes a room sing? I think the right artwork and textiles can make all the difference, and make a space feel personal.

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A Pluck kitchen is modern yet timeless, with a playful use of colour

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PLAT DU JOUR T CAROLE ANNETT sits down to discover the kitchen companies serving up a fresh approach to the most popular room in the house here’s no recipe for a perfect kitchen. Like asking a group of chefs to make classic ragu, no two will taste the same. Likewise, design, and thankfully so. Over the years we’ve enjoyed a smorgasbord of styles ranging from Shaker, push-front minimalism and lacquered cabinetry to refectory dining, myriad-shaped islands, and breakfast bars. Worktops spanning from stainless steel and granite to marble and quartzite have battled for starring roles, and even concrete momentarily hogged the limelight. But times change and tastes change, so what’s currently on the design menu for our favourite gathering spot? Leila Touwen of Pluck (pluck.co.uk), a Brixton-based kitchen company founded by three foodies in 2016, thinks we’re moving away from tradition. ‘British kitchen design feels exciting at the moment,’ she says. ‘We’re merging contemporary sensibilities with old designs, and I think classic Shaker [a flat centre panel with edge overlay] can feel heavy in a modern setting. If you have a Georgian house, there’s no longer pressure to mimic detailing.’ Pluck’s kitchens are clutter-free with open shelves rather than a run of high cupboards, plus carefully considered stand-alone items like the brand’s Brixton dresser. Objects, books and artefacts are on show to give a room warmth and familiarity, an important touch given kitchens now double as work and entertaining space in addition to food prep and cooking – they’re the new living room. ‘In my home I have antiques and ceramics,’ explains Leila, ‘it’s fun to mix and match. We take the same approach to kitchen design. Intermingling is the way forward.’ Sophie Vile, senior designer at Smallbone (smallbone. co.uk), shares a similar ethos regarding architecture. ‘Juxtaposing old and new can be really impressive,’ she says. Smallbone’s latest kitchen design, Modernist, is a glamorous newcomer with a swanky hotel bar vibe, boasting liquid metal highlights and a honed Palisandra

grey marble worktop. Its contemporary aesthetic offers new life to old buildings, while elements like hidden custom hinges retain a purity of line. Here, too, open shelves allow clients to showcase an edit of curios and glassware. Lighting plays an important role, highlighting bronze inlays, reflected in fluted glass door fronts, and bouncing off timber, coaxing out rich hues. With all this talk of style it’s easy to forget that, at their heart, kitchens are functional spaces. ‘Cooking has become theatre,’ adds Sophie. ‘The majority of projects we design at Smallbone are open plan with function at the forefront so we often incorporate double islands, one for a chef to prep on and another for entertaining.’ Whether guests are seated or mingling with a glass in hand, they can engage in the creation of a meal. Islands have become ubiquitous in recent years, driven by the change not only in our relationship with the kitchen but also how we eat. With more of us enjoying a broader range of cuisine, appliances such as an in-built wok or teppanyaki grill jockey for position with traditional oven space. Cooking shows have further ignited the fervour – just think of Nigella, chopping and whisking on a hob-topped island with built-in ovens in a wall behind, plus the popularity of chef’s tables, all of which have played a role in us wanting to recreate the vision in our own home. Islands aren’t for everyone, though. Whether designed as a Victorian workbench or with an overhang for seating, they are a major consideration space-wise. If it’s on your tick list, a good tip is to make a paper template of the size planned and lay it down to check walkways. Sacrificing floor space for an island can result in an awkward and uncomfortable ambience. Whether you opt for an island or not, the trend for proper entertaining at home is here to stay. ‘It’s a joy to design kitchens for clients who cook,’ adds Leo McLaughlin from Poliform (poliformuk.com). ‘Gone are the days when a beautiful kitchen was put in a house at great expense yet mostly just for show.’ He feels it’s not just lifestyle but technology driving change. ‘We’ve seen a shift in the way we live and use our kitchens:

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clients are generally buying more fresh produce and therefore require less freezer space.’ Additionally, some find built-in coffee appliances superfluous – ‘too much maintenance and the space can often be better utilised.’ As for what’s new? ‘Extraction,’ says Leo, ‘it’s developed immensely in recent years, particularly of the downdraught variety’ (rising and retracting into the worktop allowing for a clean, uninterrupted space). ‘And we’re seeing an increase in clients opting for steam ovens over microwave appliances, in the same way that induction tends to be more popular than gas cooktops. Clients are more ecologically focused and discerning, preferring to reduce their use of fossil fuels and opt for more sustainable alternatives.’ The most important part of kitchen design is planning, and the positioning of the holy trinity – oven, sink and fridge. The temptation for gadgetry can be overwhelming so it’s important to be realistic about what’s actually going to be used. If steamed food has never appealed, a new oven is not going to switch on a change in eating habits. Larders on the other hand have perennial appeal; either as a cordoned off section of the kitchen, with Crittall-style doors or hidden behind concertina cupboards. In large houses it’s not unusual to specify two – one as a breakfast station and another as dry food storage. In stark contrast, nothing recognisable is on view in a Minotticucine kitchen (minotticucinelondon. com), and that’s the aim. The antithesis of a hectic space, Minotticucine has monastic appeal, creating heavyweight showstoppers, particularly in an outdoor setting. Founded in 1949, the Verona-based company celebrates the beauty of natural materials, raising the design stakes by offering 60mm thick raw-edge stone worktops and a galvanised gold finish. Operating at the top of the luxury sector, most sales are via the architect and interior design community. ‘Our furniture is more than a kitchen,’ explains senior designer Anthony McLean, ‘it’s sculpture for the home.’ Referred to as ‘visual silence’, all traditional kitchen embellishments are either removed or out of sight – no visible appliances or handles, two main aspects that can date a design, along with materials. While

quiet beauty is the common thread, every project is unique. A recent Minotticucine scheme installed for a family in Marlow comprises concealed ovens, natural quartzite worktops and an island cloaked in fossilised wood. A scullery hides behind a run of tall cabinets as storage overflow. ‘We use only wood, stone or bronze in our furniture, natural materials that have existed for hundreds, if not thousands of years,’ says Anthony. ‘Our furniture is contemporary, yet it is also timeless.’ Natural materials are celebrated at bespoke cabinetmaker Linley (davidlinley.com), renowned for marquetry and fine craftsmanship. Marco Arba is Head of Fitted Cabinetry and Kitchens. ‘An eclectic approach to design makes interiors more sophisticated and fascinating, and kitchens are no exception. Ours are rich in detail, some of which, like veneers or metal finishes, can tie a contemporary kitchen to an old house,’ he explains. Linley’s Odyssey kitchen, currently installed at Harrods, was inspired by an original Harrods sign, incorporating figured veneers, inlays and antiqued brass. Book-matched Bolivian marble streaked with blueberry and gold sits atop the main work area, like gloriously rippled marzipan. It comes at a price, of course, but Linley can fulfil any design fantasy. Today’s menu of kitchen designs offers traditional, a casual living-room vibe, or super-glamorous and monastic. As to which is most tempting, it’s worth noting Smallbone’s Original Handpainted kitchen, over 30 years old, is still one of the brand’s bestsellers. Shakerism is here to stay and there are plenty of companies serving it up with relish, including Neptune (neptune.com), Plain English (plainenglishdesign.co.uk), deVol (devolkitchens. co.uk), Humphrey Munson (humphreymunson. com) and Martin Moore (martinmoore.com). Once the main furniture is decided, it comes down to styling, and there’s plenty of choice: wicker baskets, personalisation (a house name on internal drawers, for example), or even a built-in worktop herb garden. As any good chef will tell you, the secret to a great dish is finding the perfect twist and balance of ingredients. n

© CLAIRE TAYLOR

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CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: A Linley kitchen installed in a 16th-century Grade II-listed manor house; an architectural Poliform design; Smallbone’s Modernist style has liquid metal highlights and grey marble worktops; a sleek and streamlined Minotticucine kitchen; the crowd-pleasing Shaker style from Neptune

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Colored Blocks wallpaper. Whitby Sofa in Cascade. Curtains and cushions in Palisade Linen.

Modern Resource Volume 3 wallpapers www.thibautdesign.com tel: 020 7737 6555

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SECOND TIME AROUND

PHOTO: UNSPLASH. DUE TO THE LIMITED-EDITION NATURE OF SECOND-HAND SHOPPING, THESE PIECES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY AND MAY SELL OUT

The vintage renaissance has arrived. Here’s how to give your favourite rooms a second-hand makeover – with a little help from our favourite interiors influencers

RETROUVIUS LONDON YELLOW ARMCHAIR

A D D TO B A S K E T

Gone are the days of scouring dusty antiques rooms... apps and websites like Narchie and Retrouvius are providing Depop-like access to secondhand gems

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GR ANT PIERRUS BEDROOM

Vintage Inspired Abstract Print, £35. hainescollection.co.uk

The bedroom is the perfect place to add organic lines with a wonderful 1970s vase from Foggia, while Haines collection fabric from the 80s injects abstract pattern for a retro-inspired effect. Statement lines also create a powerful impact – take this 1959 Afra & Tobia Scarpa bed, for example. And then I like using a wide table for the bedside, with this Karl Springer telephone table. @grantpierrus

Bertoncello ceramic vase, £220. vinterior.co Karl Springer telephone table, £4,579.68. 1stdibs.com

Bobby candlestick, £40. eesomeshop. com 1959 Afra & Tobia Scarpa ‘Vanessa’ bed for Gavina, £1,495. thepeanutvendor.co.uk

Edwardian armchair in crushed velvet, £1,450. retrouvius.com

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Pair of antique buckleback chairs, £1,375. 1stdibs.com

Set of six crystal wine glasses, £130. tat-london.co.uk

PAULA SUTTON DINING ROOM Even for the most humble of meals, I love to set an interesting tablescape. I’m always falling in love with different sets of dining chairs, and mismatching wine glasses add a joyful touch of carnival-style colour. I have always harboured Mahogany extending dining dreams of long table, £1,925. vinterior.co dining tables filled with happy and entertaining guests... This antique Victorian example is the perfect shape and style to live out all of those magnificent Vintage Ironstone banquet fantasies. tureen, £75. @hillhousevintage theoldcinema.co.uk

CHARLIE PORTER

Surrealist French abstract by Dominique Rossi, £575. Find similar at ancien.co.uk

LIVING ROOM I recently moved into a house and realised that I’ve been rather pathetic with wall colours – they’re all white. I think this is because I hope the pieces I add pack all the punch you need. That yellow from the Retrouvius armchair is jaw-droppingly beautiful, not to mention those colours in the French Abstract painting from Ancien et Jolie – just up my street. @tat.london n

Vintage Berber kilim, £400. Find similar at maroctribal.com

French Louis XVI-style sofa, £1,650. Find similar at lorfordsantiques.com

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Some furniture is made for the here and now. Some is built to stand the test of time. At Neptune, we believe that the best can do both. Good design never grows old.

neptune.com

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AT YOUR FINGER TIPS From quilting to marbling and weaving to marquetry, these forward-thinking young craftspeople are keeping traditional skills alive. By CLAUDIA BAILLIE

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I

Chelsea Vivash describes her marquetry as ‘drawing with wood’

Weaver Delia Jones and one of her works (below)

my siblings and me to make things, so I like using my hands and I knew weaving was the medium for me. I’m also a history nerd and I love the idea of taking an ancient craft and making contemporary work.’ Awarded a Developing your Creative Practice grant in 2021, Dalia is part of Toast’s 2022 New Makers programme that supports emerging artists (toa.st) and is now represented by Cavaliero Finn Gallery (cavalierofinn.com). Future plans include applying for an Arts Council project grant to create an installation for 2024’s Collect Open, a platform pioneering rising artists at the Crafts Council’s influential fair, Collect. ‘I’m also looking into designing a range of textiles that can be produced by a micro factory, then I’ve got my sights on furniture,’ she says. ‘I’d love to work with a furniture maker on statement pieces using my fabrics.’ A similar passion for textiles led Julius Arthur to his practice, which sees him stitch contemporary quilted pieces under the name House of Quinn (houseofquinn.co.uk). Having originally studied fashion and business at the University of Brighton, the self-confessed fabric obsessive’s aim was to follow a more explorative process. ‘I love to paint and print on fabrics, to cut them and collage them back together with patchwork or appliqué, stitching on shapes and building the composition,’ he explains. ‘It’s a departure from the repetitive process of designing and making clothes, which I find very freeing. Craft can have twee associations, but quilts come in many forms. I want to create objects that resonate with people, that have a story and also the ability to take on meaning as they get used.’ One of Toast’s New Makers in 2019,

PHOTOS: © CREATE ACADEMY; © ALOHA BONSER-SHAW; © JESS WHEELER; © TOAST

n a world where technology moves at lighting speed and the things that surround us are, for the most part, mass produced, it’s never been more important to champion traditional crafts and those striving to help them flourish. Fortunately, a raft of innovative young makers are breathing life into age-old techniques, creating distinctive pieces that encapsulate their unique vision and will stand the test of time. One such craftsperson is London-based Chelsea Vivash (chelseavivash.co.uk) who specialises in the time-honoured art of marquetry. ‘I’ve always been fixated with textures and colours in wood grain, and marquetry combines making with my love of drawing,’ explains the Edinburgh College of Art graduate. ‘It’s like I’m drawing with wood; I enjoy the precision involved in cutting veneers, and from the first samples I made, I knew I wanted to hone the skill.’ In her studio in Hackney, Chelsea uses veneer remnants to create a range of mirrors and artworks, which are available through Partnership Editions (partnershipeditions.com), where she was one of 12 winners of the art platform’s Home Open Call. ‘My work is a contemporary take on the craft,’ she says. ‘I taught myself how to cut and press veneers, so my practice has developed over time. You can’t predict how wood will behave and it’s not until the piece comes out of the press and is sanded that the final image is revealed. As a technique, it’s a slow process but it’s worth the wait.’ Another maker with a laborious process is weaver Dalia James (daliajames. com), but it can, she says, be wonderfully meditative. ‘It is time consuming, but the fact that you start with a bunch of yarns and end up with a three-dimensional object is amazing. I’m from a creative family; my mother spent hours teaching

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PHOTOS: © CREATE ACADEMY; © ALOHA BONSER-SHAW; © JESS WHEELER; © TOAST

last year saw Julius launch a book, Modern Quilting (Hardie Grant, £18.99), and he is being kept busy with upcoming exhibitions and workshops in London and Margate. He’s also just launched an online quilting course with Create Academy (createacademy.com). ‘It’s been exciting sharing the process with people all over the world,’ he says. ‘Quilting is accessible; there are basic skills, but once mastered, fabric, scissors and thread are all you really need, and old clothes and scraps can be transformed into incredible things. I like to champion that.’ For Margate-based designer Nat Maks (natmaks. com) freedom is also a quality that she relishes in her work, where she employs long-established marbling techniques and a bespoke 3 by 1.5 metre water tray to produce wallpaper, murals and art. ‘It’s such an organic and hands on method of creation,’ she says. ‘It’s a joy and a surprise every time I lift the paper from the water. Nothing ever feels repetitive, and the pieces hold a lot of emotion.’ A serendipitous discovery while designing stationary led her to the Japanese marbling method of Suminagashi, and she hasn’t looked back since. ‘I found practice makes a master and I’ve been doing it for seven years now, although I’m currently working on new ways of applying inks to form a colour-block effect, which is unpredictable so I’m still learning!’ She says. ‘Unlike traditional repeat-pattern wallpaper, there’s no consistency, which is something I convey to clients who are brave enough to trust me with making them something unique. What I love is how physical and symbiotic it is. Being connected to the paper and the water feels like a very positive and balanced act.’ Physicality plays a key part in metalworker Jess Wheeler’s process too, and the melting, bending, and ultimately the satisfaction of turning a raw material into something delicate and considered is what she really enjoys (jesswheeler.com). A former illustration student and set designer, she moved to rural Wales several years ago, which brought with it the opportunity to explore crafting with metal. ‘I spent time in the workshop of an incredible Welsh

Nat Maks uses marbling methods to create her works of art

Jess Wheeler started making candle sconces inspired by French toleware

sculptor, Stan Jankowski, who taught me how to construct my designs in brass,’ she explains. ‘His free yet meticulous attitude has been massively inspiring.’ A fruitless search for candle sconces led her to make her own, which take their cue from French toleware and the leaves of an ancient oak in the field behind her workshop. ‘I began by painting the brass but then lit an unpainted sconce and things changed in an instant. The raw metal confers a modernity that shifts the focus from colour to form. All the brass is recycled and I use silver solder, which creates an incredibly strong bond,’ she explains. ‘I like to think they transcend trends, and will last forever.’ Going forward, Jess is developing a new collection using an ancient technique known as ‘lost wax’ casting and is also filming a course with Create Academy. ‘There are projects people can literally do at their kitchen table,’ she says. ‘I’m excited to share what I’ve learnt and to inspire others.’ n

Julius Arthur’s obsession with fabrics led him to quilting

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FLORAL SOCIETY

Our rooms and spirits are always lifted by flowers, but how can we take a more sustainable approach to sourcing and displaying them? MARC ABBOTT discovers a flourishing community of florist-growers with some easy answers

Sourcing your flowers locally is the best option for the planet

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PHOTOS: HANA SNOW; EVA NEMETH; EMMA LEWIS

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s windows are f lu ng open and summer sunbeams grace our walls, we long for the visual delight and olfactory assault of cut flowers in our rooms. But with ecological approaches to interior design increasingly key, how do we ensure that our floral embellishments are sourced, displayed, and their delight prolonged, in the most sustainable manner? One obvious answer lies close to home. ‘Sourcing your flowers as locally as possible limits their air miles,’ says Olivia Wilson, owner of Hertfordshire flower studio Wetherly (wetherly.co.uk). ‘And most small market farms won’t use pesticides or will limit their use of chemical interventions that are more harmful to the planet.’ By obtaining our flowers from local growers (flowersfromthefarm.co.uk is a great place to start), we also ensure a seasonal approach to displaying them. ‘Flowers grown out of season carry a huge carbon and chemical footprint and are often grown under heated greenhouses requiring vast amounts of water and fertiliser to keep them alive,‘ echoes West Sussex florist Milli Proust. ‘That’s before they’re wrapped in single-use plastic and flown across the world.’ By expecting certain flowers to be always available, some would argue we risk losing our attachment with traditional cycles of the earth. To this end, Somerset-born f loriculturist Kitten Grayson opines, ‘The fact that


PHOTOS: HANA SNOW; EVA NEMETH; EMMA LEWIS

we promote roses for Valentine’s Day is madness.’ She suggests combining foraging with finding a local grower, adding, ‘I sometimes look for branches that have fallen, placing one or two in a large vessel to give a canopy-like feeling to a display.’ This method forms the basis of the largescale ‘everlasting installations’ for which she is renowned. Of course, the inevitable reality of cut flowers is their far-from-everlasting life in our homes. Organically grown flowers at the end of their lives can go on your compost with food waste, but West Sussex florist-grower Jess Geissendorfer (jessicablume.co.uk) has you covered when it comes to prolonging their impact. ‘It really makes a difference to keep cut flowers out of direct sunlight; you’ll increase their life by around a week,’ she says. ‘Also, you should trim the foliage so it’s all above water, and completely change the water every few days to prevent bacteria building up,’ adds Olivia. ‘Re-cutting the stems is important, and another thing people forget to do is to take away any dead stems; suddenly that lifts a bouquet.’ Both Olivia and Jessica propose novel uses for petals once those blooms are waning. Kitten uses dried petals strung on thread to create unique art pieces for the home, as well as utilising them in fabric dying, while Jess explains that tulip petals, plucked then dried once the flower is just past its best, make delightful, eco-friendly confetti. Indeed, drying an entire bunch of flowers is one way to ensure its appeal never ebbs, and guarantee a floral presence in your home during winter months when fresh flowers aren’t available. ‘The traditional way to dry flowers is to hang them upside-down,’ explains Olivia. ‘Or you can let them drink all the water in the vase then leave them standing – that works well for hydrangeas.’ ‘It’s also easy to dry dahlia, helichrysum, larkspur and gomphrena’, adds Kitten. ‘But steer clear of the foam ‘oasis’ that people use to support them; it’s a microplastic – basically just poison.’ Olivia reassures that if you want to frame your flora, two heavy books and some blotting paper are all you need to ensure a bloom is perfectly pressed for posterity. What’s for certain is the wisdom and passion of this burgeoning community of ecologically minded growers proves there is no more pressing issue in floristry than sustainability. And, by putting their practical advice to good use, we can all pursue our blossoming interest with more consideration for the planet.

MAKING THE SUSTAINABLE CUT

MOTHER EARTH

There are few floral studios with such an enviable commitment to sustainability as Kitten Grayson Flowers. Following biodynamic principles, her flowers are planted according to the lunar cycle and with no sprays, following a growing cycle that’s in touch with Mother Earth. With a focus on creating unique floral installations for events and bespoke commissions, her studio is also creating a closed loop system, whereby all the waste from flowers grown for its commercial clients is brought back to where they were grown and returned to the soil. kittengrayson.com

SEASONAL AFFINITY

Milli Proust is now in her sixth year of cultivating flowers, with a focus on creating playful and romantic arrangements for personal clients as well as large events. Inspired by the way flowers flourish in the wild, and growing her stems in rhythm with nature, she uses organic practices that reflect the seasons and help to both protect and regenerate the surrounding wildlife. Her new book, From Seed to Bloom (Quadrille, £20), is a mine of practical information for anyone seeking a sustainable approach to sowing, growing, harvesting and arranging their own flowers. milliproust.com COUNTRYANDTOWNHOUSE.COM/INTERIORSGUIDE | 25

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A FAMILY AFFAIR

Chosen to dress the Bull Ring Gate entrance at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Lucy Vail Floristry’s studio is very much in the ascendency. During the summer months, she uses purely home-grown flowers for her bouquets, all produced at Floriston, her family-run Suffolk flower farm. Her online shop offers a subscription service as well as the chance to make one-off purchases, while deliveries within central London are conveyed by eco-bike. lucyvailfloristry.com

GROW YOUR OWN What could be more sustainable than planting your own flowers? Here are Kitten Grayson’s top tips for your first cutting garden

1 BETTER TOGETHER

Olivia Wilson, Jess Geissendorfer and Lulu Cox form SSAW Collective – a community of chefs, florists and growers. Their motivation? To work in the most ethical way with seasonal produce (SSAW denotes Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter). The trio advocates for fair wages, soil regeneration, the replenishment of insect populations, and an altogether slower, more considered approach. While its individual members have their own fields of expertise, the overreaching aim is to create work – either floral, farming or food-related – that promotes true seasonality and sustainability. ssawcollective.com; wetherly.co.uk; jessicablume.co.uk; lulucox.com

DON’T DIG Prevent weeds by following the ‘no dig’ approach to flower bed prep. Layer cardboard on top of the soil, leave it for a couple of months, put soil on top, then plant directly on to it.

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GO POTTY Start out by planting tulips in pots during autumn – they’re fairly bulletproof. HAVE FUN Create moodboards, think of colours you love, and bring in wildlife…

SWAP SEEDS Set up a seed sharing community, or a WhatsApp group, to find out what your neighbours have, and swap with them. MOVE IT If you plant outdoor containers with poppies, for instance, you can bring them into the house and have that pop of colour throughout your home. n

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RUGS

&

RUNNERS

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DESIGNS ON YOUR GARDEN Meet the 20 gardeners and landscape designers breaking new ground this year. By Sofia Tindall

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ANN-MARIE POWELL

Hampshire-based Ann-Marie Powell’s work is instantly recognisable by its wild, loose textural planting style, encouraging wildlife and lifting spirits in droves. No wonder, then, that the RHS was quick to poach her for Wisley; her ‘living laboratory’ wildlife and kitchen gardens opened officially last summer. This year will see Ann-Marie continue her relationship with the flagship site, alongside her usual mix of private commissions. ann-mariepowell.com

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ARNE MAYNARD

An ability to identify and draw out an essence of place, giving his gardens a quality of harmony and belonging, is the reason Arne Maynard’s clients flock from far and wide for his expertise. Allt-y-bela, his Monmouthshire home, is a striking ongoing example of the stylistic flair for which he has become best known; encompassing loose wildflower meadows, striking topiary and drawing inspiration from visual arts and crafts. arnemaynard.com

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CAMERON GARDENS

Spearheaded by Alasdair Cameron, London-based Cameron Gardens has been designing gardens which inspire and recharge for over 20 years. Equally adept in city and country, one of its recently completed landmarks is a contemporary penthouse in Whitehall, with multiple roof terraces, a herb garden water feature and several outdoor ‘rooms’ overlooking the skyline. camerongardens.co.uk

PHOTOS: © ARNE MAYNARD GARDEN DESIGN; © ROOM OF LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY; © NATIONAL TRUST / EVA NEMETH

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CHARLOTTE ROWE

From large-scale country landscapes to town courtyards, Charlotte Rowe’s gardens are revered for their clean, simple sensibility and ‘exemplary bone-structure offset by soft, generous planting and careful detail’. This year the Kensington-based studio is in high demand in the country, with projects in Surrey, Yorkshire, and Herefordshire. Charlotte will also continue to work locally, bringing her expertise to London spaces in need of love. charlotterowe.com

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DANNY CLARKE

DAN PEARSON

First and foremost a ‘friend of the earth’, Danny Clarke is a tour de force of the gardening world, making it his mission to address both climate change and community integration. Between co-hosting programs like Love Your Garden and Filthy Garden SOS he can be found working on community gardens and bespoke projects. Grow2Know, his non-profit, aims to inspire and empower young gardeners. theblackgardener.co.uk

Master rewilder Dan Pearson has made an art form out of constructing lavish sustainable wildernesses, underpinned by an ecologically balanced, naturalistic approach. His Mona Lisa is arguably National Trust Sissinghurst, where he has been the garden advisor since 2014 – but commissions elsewhere this year include a 400-acre rewilding project, 64-hectare winery in Tuscany, and luxury hotel in the Berkshires. danpearsonstudio.com

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HARRIS BUGG STUDIO

Keen sensitivity to historical context and a regenerative thinking runs in the DNA of Harris Bugg Studio, an ethos realised to new heights at its recently completed Kitchen Garden at RHS Bridgewater inspired by Victorian field maps and old canal routes. The studio, led by duo Charlotte Harris and Hugo Bugg, is equally busy with private projects across the country this year, and talks at Charleston Festival and Chelsea Barracks Spring Fair. harrisbugg.com

10 PHOTOS: © ARNE MAYNARD GARDEN DESIGN; © ROOM OF LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY; © NATIONAL TRUST / EVA NEMETH

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JINNY BLOM

For over 20 years clients have been turning to Jinny Blom to realise complex visions – her immersive methodology, delving into history, geography and culture of landscapes has made her a master of out-of-the-ordinary spaces. Over the years this has included an arid sculptural garden in Kenya; blazing autumnal forestscape in Scotland; and free-roaming ‘anti-garden’. This year sees the release of her second book, African Anthology. jinnyblom.com

CHRIS BEARDSHAW

An RHS Chelsea Flower Show veteran, Chris Beardshaw’s talent for blending architectural and exterior elements has established him as one of the most highly regarded names in the business. If you want to get a space in his schedule, you’ll have to squeeze in between commissions for the RNLI, a parterre garden at Pitmedden, and project at Trinity College, Oxford, which is in the works for next spring. chrisbeardshaw.com

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CLEVE WEST

A committed vegan, Cleve West’s work is shaped by an environmental focus and pioneering ‘veganic’ approach. That means keeping human intervention to a minimum, mitigating habitat loss, and enhancing flourishing wildlife. Among the six-time RHS Gold medal winner’s projects you’ll find public spaces, leafy islands, restored ‘refuge’ plots and an animal sanctuary in British Columbia – all rooted in eco-conscious design. clevewest.com

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JO THOMPSON

With every variety of commission you can think of under her belt (historic landscapes, urban boltholes, coastal gardens and restaurant rooftop gardens), Jo Thompson’s blend of romantic English planting with a strong sense of respect for biodiversity must be the magic formula. If that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, she’ll also be releasing her second book this year, The Gardener’s Palette, exploring the theory, construction and creation of colour in gardening. jothompson-garden-design.co.uk

If an impactful urban garden is what you need, look no further than John Davies. ‘For me the process is all about responding to the site and problem solving to create a beautiful space,’ explains John, ‘this entails looking at the architecture of a space, relationship between mass and void and tracing a spatial narrative.’ With a talent for roof terraces, his studio is behind some of London’s most inventive outdoor spaces – like Stylus Old Street. johndavieslandscape.co.uk

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JULIET SARGEANT

The ultimate polymath, Juliet Sargeant began her career in medicine and psychology, going on to become a gardener, TV presenter, RHS judge and Fellow of the Society of Garden Designers. Even so, you’re still most likely to find her doing what she does best – designing imaginative gardens inspired by human connectivity. Recent and upcoming projects include the new Blue Peter garden, and a commemorative Commonwealth and Gurkha Garden Project in Woolwich. julietsargeant.com

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MARCUS BARNETT STUDIO

Based in west London with a satellite studio in Hampshire, Marcus Barnett has earned international acclaim for his sensitive balance of naturalistic planting and strong architectural form. The team’s culture is underpinned by Marcus, who remains closely involved with each project. It’s an approach which has served the studio well, with outstanding projects in far-flung locations and on home soil. marcusbarnett.com

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MARIAN BOSWALL

At the heart of Marian Boswall’s philosophy is a wellbeing-first focus and profound respect for the healing force of nature. Her newly-published book, Sustainable Garden, connects all of these elements and puts them into words which will resonate with any eco-minded gardener. Also in the works this year is an estate in Sussex with a swimming pond and bluebell wood, winery, and contemporary dry garden in the Cotswolds. marianboswall.com

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PHOTOS: © MATTHEW J THOMAS; © ALISTER THORPE; © JASON INGRAM; © MIMI CONNOLLY

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JOHN DAVIES LANDSCAPE


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McWILLIAM STUDIO

‘Returning to a wilder garden experience, we’ve used native species to produce a more diverse and sustainable landscape,’ explains Gavin McWilliam of a recently completed garden in Quinta do Lago, Portugal. Enhancing the connection between people and nature, it sums up the ethos which has led the studio for over 15 years. Its exemplary track record continues in 2022 with projects spanning restoration, regeneration, and inception of groundbreaking new spaces. mcwilliamstudio.com

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RANDLE SIDDELEY

A sought-after landscape architect, Randle Siddeley’s clients come back time and again for his wealth of experience, creative flair and unmatched attention to detail. The studio’s latest pièce de résistance is Hedsor Wharf, an estate stretching 50 acres along the banks of the River Thames. Due to be completed this summer, it will encompass sweeping lawns, natural streams, woodlands and a complete reinvention of the formally structured gardens. randlesiddeley.co.uk

RICHARD MIERS

Already a well-known name in Home Counties circles, Richard Miers is the secret weapon of those looking to overhaul rambling manor mazes and upgrade Cotswolds lawns. This year he stepped into the limelight with a first Main Avenue appearance at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, showcasing his mastery of symmetry and classical design in partnership with horticultural charity Perennial. It was the People’s Choice award winner 2022. richardmiers.com

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SPARROW GARDEN DESIGN

‘We were put on this earth to make full use of our senses, and creating a garden is the ultimate visual and sensory experience,’ says Sparrow Morgan-Grenville, a sentiment which her clients all seem to share. Inherent to Sparrow’s philosophy is her upbringing in Asia, resulting in an energetic fusion of ‘the gentle palette of the English garden with a subtle south-east Asian heartbeat.’ sparrowgardendesign.com

20 PHOTOS: © MATTHEW J THOMAS; © ALISTER THORPE; © JASON INGRAM; © MIMI CONNOLLY

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TOM STUART-SMITH

One of the most in demand gardeners in the UK and beyond, Tom Stuart-Smith is a master of spaces with richly-layered planting and cinematic finesse. This year he’s taken his talents to a public garden at Hepworth Wakefield and a biodiverse haven at Knepp. In London keep your eyes peeled for his Islamic Jellicoe Gardens in King’s Cross and a project by St Paul’s Cathedral. tomstuartsmith.co.uk n

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THE

FINEST INTERIOR

DESIGNERS Drum roll, please... Turn over to discover which names are lighting up the British design world in 2022. Words by EMMA LOVE

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2LG STUDIO

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PHOTOS: © MEGAN TAYLOR

Founded by a pair of former actors-turnedinterior-designers, Jordan Cluroe and Russell Whitehead, 2LG Studio (or Two Lovely Gays, as they are known to their friends), describe their trademark style as joyful minimalism. ‘We believe that the two extremes – minimalism and colour and pattern – are not mutually exclusive,’ confirms Russell. The duo began by creating and screen-printing their own fabrics, which they sold at Greenwich Market, before officially setting up their practice in 2014 after Jordan was runner-up in BBC Two’s Great Interior Design Challenge (they are currently filming the second series of Changing Rooms). Their aim is to tell stories within a space and help clients express themselves through design. Favourite material? ‘We’ve been using Smile Plastics for years. It’s a small company that recycles waste and sea plastics. We put it in one of our most celebrated bathrooms and people often think its terrazzo.’ 2lgstudio.com

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS

1508 LONDON

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‘If we analyse the common threads in all our work, they would be quality of materials, attention to detail and immersing ourselves in the local vernacular and culture,’ explains Hamish Brown, partner at 1508 London which, over the last 12 years, has expanded into an 80-strong global team. ‘We take a holistic approach and strive for balance: elegance and comfort, function and meaning, nature and technology.’ Current commercial jobs include The Raffles Residences at The OWO and the Cipriani Residences in Miami; private commissions range from villas in France to penthouses in Athens. ‘Our job is to create spaces that respond to a client’s lifestyle. For instance, at a recent property in London, the entrance lobby was key so we used materials such as stone and marble, and soft lighting, to bring a sense of arrival.’ 1508london.com

ABBIE DE BUNSEN

PHOTOS: © MEGAN TAYLOR

‘I am slightly obsessed with all colour but at the moment I am working with a lot of green, which gives such a fresh, interesting feel when mixed tonally,’ says Abbie de Bunsen, who launched her eponymous Balham-based design studio over a decade ago. Her aim is always to ‘create memorable spaces that are a joy to be in,’ with small, surprise details that encourage lingering. Favourite past projects include a house for a family who were relocating from Paris to London and bringing with them an impressive art collection, and the new Belgravia atelier for fashion designer Anna Mason. ‘Working with another creative from a different discipline was a delight, and made the process very organic and energetic,’ she recalls. ‘Translating Anna’s brand and style of fashion into an interior language was fascinating. We sourced antiques, and designed furniture and bespoke rugs around a monogram created from ribbons.’ abbiedebunsen.com

ADEKO & CO

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For Nigerian-born, London-based Tolù Adèkó, design runs in the family. ‘I come from four generations who worked in the Lagos textiles industry,’ he says, citing the late Sir Terence Conran as a mentor during his teens. His African heritage is inspiring two in-progress restaurants in Tangier. ‘I love to collaborate with local artisans so I’m having chairs upholstered with traditional aso oke woven textiles.’ Although his practice was established in 2014, it was put on hold while he did stints at other interior design firms (including David Collins Studio). His experience ranges from hotels and cruise ships to an island resort in the Bahamas. Now he is taking on commissions under his own name again and has recently completed a duplex apartment in north London. ‘The client wanted something that was fun and quirky, that he could fill with his own collection of Japanese and Chinese art. I used detailing such as brass inlays and hand-blown glass lights. I am passionate about longevity in design and creating spaces that last the test of time.’ adeko.co

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS

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ALBION NORD

ATELIER NM

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‘The Atelier NM approach is very much humancentred and intuitive,’ says founder Najwa Mroue, whose personal design journey is influenced by her childhood growing up in Lebanon and the Czech Republic. ‘We start by asking a client what story they want to tell and how they want to feel. Our designs are adventurous and full of soul. Also, scale is imperative: there has to be a hierarchy within a space. Too many “wows” in one room create needless drama.’ Often, she will use a single prominent hue or statement material (antique brass is a current favourite), which is then grounded with quieter, thoughtful details – whether a set of bespoke shelves to display an owner’s vintage treasures or somewhere for an existing collection of art to shine. ‘London is our inspiration right now but everything influences me; it’s a curse of being a designer, but also a blessing,’ she concludes. atelier-nm.com

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Set up in 2017 by four directors – Ottalie Stride, Camilla Clarke, Anthony Kooperman and Ben Johnson – who all met while working at Candy & Candy, Albion Nord’s aim is to ‘create authentic and timeless spaces that are built on history and context.’ Natural materials such as linens, pippy oaks, plasters and sisals play a significant role in their interiors (‘Kentia palms or figs are great for large spaces,’ says Camilla); another go-to is the use of antiques to add depth and character. ‘Some of our greatest design influences range from the Georgian period through to the architect John Nash and the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic found in the work of Axel Vervoordt. Both of which value balance, simplicity and honesty in materiality,’ she continues. Recently completed residences include Benham Park, a Grade II-listed stately home in Berkshire and two Chelsea Barracks townhouses. albion-nord.com

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BEATA HEUMAN

‘I want to create environments that bring out the best in people. That make them feel relaxed, happy, comfortable and inspired,’ says Swedishborn Beata Heuman who opened her studio in 2013 after a nine-year spell working for Nicky Haslam. ‘Spaces should look beautiful but it’s equally important that they are a true reflection of human nature, which to me is a great mix of different and sometimes contradictory influences.’ She is known for her offbeat palettes (of-the-moment choices include buttery yellow, rustic linens, mohair and pine), playful detailing and often adding a surprise otherworldly element. ‘Not knowing quite what to expect makes you more observant to your surroundings. It encourages you to think about the room you are in, so you are more present in the moment,’ she confirms. A Josef Frank villa in the south of Sweden, a boutique hotel in Paris and a Scottish estate are all on the go. beataheuman.com

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS

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BEN PENTREATH

BERNARD INTERIORS

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With commissions ranging from a contemporary renovation of a Victorian villa, which incorporates a purpose-built structure for a collection of vintage Porsches, to several Audley Villages developments aimed at redefining what senior living looks like, there’s no doubt that Bernard Interiors has a broad remit. ‘We tend to start with the architectural elements of a space and create layers that consider scale, light, colour, texture and pattern,’ explains Jen Bernard, who founded the Newcastle-based studio in 2008. ‘First impressions count for a lot when you walk into a room and we aim to get a balance of all these elements to create a successful scheme.’ Classic neutral linens and grass cloth wallcoverings, leathers, velvets, and muted tones such as olive green and earthy brown are all staples. ‘We also love to use curved shapes and geometric patterns to add interest,’ continues Jen, who is a big believer in the ‘buy well, buy once’ philosophy of design. bernardinteriors.co.uk

PHOTOS: © SIMON BEVAN; © JASON INGRAM

Ben Pentreath’s architectural and interior design studio works on every scale, from large new urban developments such as Poundbury – the Duchy of Cornwall’s pioneering urban extension to Dorchester where some of the houses are based on Georgian examples in Weymouth – to individual private residences. Most recently, the latter has included the decoration of a new coastal home on Jersey, a manor house in Oxfordshire and a residence in Vienna. This decorating side of the business is renowned for its playful style influenced by historical interiors of all periods (including the English practitioners of the 1960s and 70s), but infused with a fresh, modern sensibility. Ben is also co-owner of furniture, lighting and homewares shop Pentreath & Hall (which he set up with decorative artist Bridie Hall more than a decade ago), and has a new monograph on the work of the practice in the pipeline. benpentreath.com

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CAMPBELL– REY Duncan Campbell and Charlotte Rey set up their joint studio in 2014, and since then have made their name with rich, tactile spaces: ‘We are a glass half-full practice so we love colour and often juxtapose materials,’ says Duncan, citing a walnut burr with polished steel detail, or a lapis lazuli inlay that plays against a tapestry wall as examples. They often include little details for clients to discover over time too – whether it’s a jib door or a hidden bar cabinet. ‘We work with our network of decorative painters to create trompe l’oeil moments or illusions of perspective to change the perception of volume in a space. Specialist techniques like églomisé glass, mosaic work, marquetry and fabric wallcoverings are also very exciting for us as they give a new expression to traditional crafts,’ continues Charlotte. Keeping them busy is the renovation of a Belle Époque villa near San Remo, the restoration of a Beaux Arts villa in Cap d’Antibes and their ongoing furniture collaboration with design gallery The Invisible Collection. campbell-rey.com

PHOTOS: © OSKAR PROCTOR; © GG ARCHARD; © HELEN CATHCART

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS

CARDEN CUNIETTI Over the last two years, Audrey Carden and Eleanora Cunietti – who teamed up in 1996 and originally ran a homeware shop in Notting Hill together – haven’t let the pandemic slow them down, taking on 40 projects that are now at various stages of completion. These include an Art Deco house in Jersey, an estate in Virginia that was once home to Jackie Kennedy and JFK, and a new build in Antigua. ‘We are always led by our client’s needs, be it a request for a place of calm refuge or somewhere glamorous to entertain, but a welcoming space should make you want to stay longer,’ says Eleanora. ‘Our interiors tend to involve lots of texture, combinations of wood, stone, fabulous fabrics and custom-designed pieces.’ On their design mood boards now are several quite different palettes: neutral tones with texture and deep jewel colours with a hint of Deco. carden-cunietti.com

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PHOTOS: © OSKAR PROCTOR; © GG ARCHARD; © HELEN CATHCART

CAVE INTERIORS Led by Creative Director and Founder Georgina Cave and her daughter Anouska, Primrose Hillbased Cave Interiors is a small but busy studio with 10 projects on the go, from an Arts & Crafts house in Hampstead to a new-build on the Scottish coast and a converted barn in the Cotswolds. ‘A typical Cave interior will be rich in its use of colour and pattern, and more often than not feature antique pieces,’ explains Georgina. ‘Reuse is at the forefront of our minds and wherever possible, this is something that we like to incorporate – whether through vintage lighting, furniture or textiles.’ Reclaimed zellige tiles, salvaged timber and unlacquered brass are also recurring themes. ‘We use soft lighting, textural rugs, thoughtfully placed pieces of furniture and art to draw you in, set the tone and create a sense of enveloping warmth.’ caveinteriors.com

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CLARE GASKIN INTERIORS A Clare Gaskin interior is characterised by creativity, practicality and inspiration taken from nature. ‘Our role is to create a home that tells a story – revealing itself room by room,’ explains the designer, who left a career at Sotheby’s to set up her eponymous studio in 2009. Experimentation is not something she shies away from, whether using fabric made from recycled bottle tops, reupholstering an existing piece of furniture for a new lease of life, or reframing (and possibly restoring) a beloved artwork. ‘We prioritise using UK-based suppliers, which usually includes finding incredibly talented craftsman and artisans to work with,’ she adds, citing a family home in Balham inspired by Parisian style, and townhouse in Marylebone as projects set to be completed by the studio this year. claregaskin.com

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Sophie Eadie and Fi Crole joined forces in 2019 (the former previously worked on houses with her property developer husband, the latter has worked at, among others, Veere Grenney and Joanna Wood), bonding over their shared love of timeless interiors. ‘We like to create homes that are comfortable, and classic with a modern twist,’ says Sophie, of the pair’s ongoing commissions which include a Grade II-listed London townhouse, a farmhouse in the south of England and a château in France. ‘Our trademark touches are in the everyday details. For instance, contrast binding that introduces more colour or texture to upholstery and curtains.’ They collaborate with British craftsmen as much as possible to create bespoke pieces and always have in their minds a tip from the late Roger Banks-Pye, a former interior design decorator at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, ‘Each room requires, whether large or small, something black; this helps to ground all other colours in the space.’ eadieandcrole.com

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ELICYON Flow of space and scale are both crucial aspects of designing for trained architect Charu Gandhi, who founded Elicyon eight years ago and is known for her opulent tailored interiors (past career defining moments include waving her wand over private apartments in Clarges Mayfair and several spaces at the landmark Chelsea Barracks development). ‘Creating a joyful environment for our clients is at the heart of our endeavours. Ultimately, I always ask, can someone live their authentic life here?’ she says. ‘I particularly love creating a rhythm within each room, giving a hint for what lies further, through a common tonality, approach to form or sequence.’ The geometry and placement of furniture, lighting and contrasts are always key considerations. For instance, in a recent Belgravia penthouse, she juxtaposed dark tones of blackened bronze detailing with a neutral base and accents of raspberry pink, blues and greens. elicyon.com

15 ELNAZ NAMAKI Iranian roots, an English upbringing and working for Bruno Moinard in Paris have all contributed to Elnaz Namaki’s way of cohesively combining different styles and eras. ‘Signature touches are the use of warm lighting, bronze accents and clean lines,’ says Elnaz who often teams up with HvB Development to offer a complete design and build service. ‘We also like to mix old and new, with vintage pieces where possible; use natural materials in earth tones; and add colour, textures and patterns in soft furnishings.’ She has recently completed a stucco villa in Kensington with a focus on traditional architectural detailing, a cosy second home in Holland Park and a bachelor pad in Chelsea featuring dark joinery and monochromatic colours. Her current inspiration includes historical designers such as Alberto Pinto and François Catroux, feng shui principles and expressionist art while her furniture collection, Luuna, is based on mid-century modern forms. elnaznamaki.com

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FRANCIS SULTANA A go-to interior designer for serious art collectors, Francis Sultana’s clients appreciate his ability to merge the practicalities of a residential space with often large-scale visual paintings, sculpture and installation pieces. His atelier produces annual collections of bespoke and limitededition furniture and textiles (it is in the same building as the David Gill Gallery in St James’s, of which he is artistic director): ‘My furniture, which features bespoke upholstery and patinated bronze, is, I suppose, the foundation of all my interiors, as well as the accessories I design like rugs and lighting. My collaborations with artists are also very much part of what my work is about. I use texture a lot, from woven tweeds in upholstery to woods, and I like to let these elements come to the foreground,’ he says. His biggest news this year is the opening of Hotel La Palma in Capri and he is starting work on the Corinthia Palace hotel in his native Malta. francissultana.com

17 Relaunched by Victoria Wormsley as French-Brooks Interiors in 2017 (she bought out Chester Row Interiors from her property development partners), the studio’s roster spans anything from an old monastery in the south of France to a contemporary new build in the capital. ‘Our underlying values are that the space is well laid out and lit before we think about decorative schemes. The end result needs to be elegant but also comfortable and individual,’ says Victoria. ‘I dislike anything too trend driven which will date quickly, or anything so ostentatious that it’s intimidating.’ Lighting designs are produced in-house so are incorporated from the start, and she loves using textured wallcoverings such as grasscloth to add subtle interest and offset artwork. This season, she is favouring bolder colours such as emerald green and citrus yellow on painted furniture and fabrics, and swapping stone for porcelain in bathrooms. french-brooks.com

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GODDARD LITTLEFAIR From Gleneagles in Scotland to The Mayfair Townhouse in London, Goddard Littlefair – aka Martin Goddard and Jo Littlefair – are behind some of the UK’s top hotels. Uniting the duo is a belief in ‘listening to the soul of a property and its location to articulate a narrative with integrity.’ The pair are also conscious of their impact on the planet’s resources and see part of their contribution as ‘raising the conversation of sustainable materiality, be that by sourcing products which perhaps had a previous life or insisting on raw materials that can be replenished,’ says Jo, listing a penthouse at Belvedere Gardens and The Conrad residence at 9 Millbank as a flavour of recent commissions. ‘However, our attitude to sustainability is to expect a high-quality finish from the materials, so sustainable shouldn’t automatically mean rustic.’ goddardlittlefair.com

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HELEN GREEN DESIGN Founded two decades ago by the late Helen Green, this design studio is renowned for its considered, understated take on interiors. ‘We focus on specialist craftsmanship and championing British design,’ says Creative Lead Alexandra Jurkiewicz, who joined the company three years ago. ‘We are proud to say that most of our sourcing is done in the UK and comes from specialist artisans and suppliers; each project we take on must embody the same pursuit of excellence, meticulous attention to detail and perfection.’ The studio recently worked on a duplex Grade II-listed apartment in Knightsbridge and a modern villa in Vienna. ‘The setting of each could not be further apart in terms of architecture and location. Completed almost at the same time, it was fascinating to see how our core values resulted in creating two completely different yet extraordinary interiors, beautifully telling the story of their surroundings.’ helengreendesign.com

20 HOWARK DESIGN ‘Saskia has a bit of a superpower for picking the right colour for spaces,’ says James Arkoulis, referring to his Howark Design co-founder Saskia Howard. ‘Our signature style is colourful and characterful: we work with clients to create homes that have a warm and welcoming feel. We are also not too precious in our approach – these are homes to be lived in.’ The pair also put an emphasis on local materials and like to collaborate with British artisans to create one-off pieces. ‘One especially memorable commission was a beautiful Nakashima-style coffee table created by joining two hand-picked pieces of chestnut that came from within a few miles of the client’s home; we know it will become an heirloom for the family,’ continues James. Current projects include a coastal pad in West Sussex, a Chelsea pied à terre and an Edwardian country retreat. howark-design.co.uk

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JANINE STONE & CO Exceptional homes without exception – that’s the simple premise Janine Stone’s eponymous design studio was founded on (her husband Gideon is managing director). ‘The way we compose our designs in a highly curated manner is our signature,’ says Janine, who is working on a new build on Surrey’s Wentworth Estate, a full refurbishment of a listed country house in Cambridgeshire, and an estate in Yorkshire. ‘Our projects are always a tailored response to our clients, their personalities and lifestyles. Someone’s art collection, favourite holiday destinations, fashion tastes or how they like to socialise might all feed into the inspiration.’ The secret to a welcoming space? ‘Good lighting. It’s important because it either creates a monotonous impression or makes you stop and not want to leave. When someone enters a room, it’s the lighting that welcomes them, energises them, comforts them – or at worst depresses them.’ janinestone.com

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KATHARINE POOLEY ‘The essence of the Katharine Pooley design ethos is the balance of evocative beauty and an original viewpoint with effortless comfort and luxury,’ explains the interior designer. ‘I am always pushing my 47-strong team to be bold, unique and daring.’ Works in progress include a yacht, a beach villa in Sardinia and a château 700 feet above the Mediterranean overlooking the bay of Cannes. ‘It is of large historical importance and a rare jewel of a project,’ says Katharine of the latter. ‘I am so thrilled to be overseeing its redesign, especially as this is where my favourite actress Grace Kelly filmed To Catch a Thief.’ She has always found the natural world a great source of inspiration and spending time on the French coast has been no exception. ‘Being there is encouraging me to use organic, natural textures like timber and stone, as well as soft woven fabrics such as linen, cashmere and wools. Visiting some exquisite French gardens has also influenced me.’ katharinepooley.com

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LAURA HAMMETT Renowned for her understated and authentic interiors, Laura Hammett first and foremost designs around how a client wants a home to feel. ‘Our signature palette is warm and neutral, highlighted with metal touches and rich, sumptuous fabrics; I just love the contrast of plush fabric and warm metal together,’ she says. The Fulham studio, which she runs with her husband Aaron, is splitting its time between working on a penthouse apartment in the Bahamas, two villas in the Middle East and a pair of family homes in Surrey – one of which includes an entertainment floor with a car show garage and a golf simulation room. ‘For us, the most important aspect of designing a room is that it is as useable as it is beautiful. The ultimate luxury is when every single thing has been considered so that living is absolutely seamless.’ laurahammett.com

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LINDA BORONKAY

She is perhaps best known for her role as former Design Director of Soho House, but two years ago Linda Boronkay founded her own studio to create ‘spaces which are deeply personal and have meaning. I love it when you walk into a party and can guess who the host is from the style of the home,’ says Linda, who has just completed a hotel near Sydney and is in the midst of installing a private family club in Madrid which includes a library, bar, yoga studio, spa and basement screening room. ‘We created a series of bespoke lights, furniture and rugs with local craftspeople, and sourced many of the vintage items in markets in Italy and Spain,’ she says of the latter. ‘The colours are vibrant and the textiles tactile; we used marble and tiles and worked closely with our clients who come from fashion and architecture backgrounds.’ lindaboronkay.com

LINLEY Michael Keech and Graham Green have been in charge of the interior design division at Linley for the last four years, lending an architecture-first slant to the company’s often vast projects (over 50,000 sq/ft). The pair recently completed two country houses: one a new build in the Baroque style, the other a moated, medieval pad with handsome neoclassical additions. Now, they are tackling a historic residential building in the Far East and apartments on the world’s largest private yacht, the Njord Ocean Residences. ‘The biggest consideration is the client and what they would like to get from the space. Are they out to impress or are they after comfort and cosiness? Do they have a large collection of art or a grand piano that need to be housed perfectly? These are the questions we ask.’ davidlinley.com 52 | COUNTRYANDTOWNHOUSE.COM/INTERIORSGUIDE

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MARTIN BRUDNIZKI DESIGN STUDIO A party pad in Austin designed to be a surrealist take on Texas; a contemporary country house with traditional details in Lahore; and a bungalow in West Hollywood overlooking Chateau Marmont with a mid-century Italian feel… these are just some of the diverse residences on Martin Brudnizki Design Studio’s roll-call. Of course, he’s best known for putting his distinct stamp on bars, retail spaces and members’ clubs around the world (including Scott’s and Annabel’s in London and several Costes-owned hotspots in Paris) but whether he’s designing a home or for hospitality, context and the client always come first. That and light, which he believes is the most important consideration when designing a room. ‘Both how the natural light fills the space and the ambient light in the evenings. Not only to make the room look good but the people in it; it’s a bit like a stage set.’ mbds.com

27 MARTIN HULBERT DESIGN

Martin Hulbert and Jay Grierson are best known for traditional country house hotels with a contemporary twist – such as The Grove in Hertfordshire and The Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire, where they have just completed the latest phase of work. ‘It is everything other than what you would expect a hotel interior to be,’ confirms Jay of the refresh. The long-established design duo have also been turning their attention to various residential properties too. Most recently this meant remodelling a seven-bedroom Greek island villa, creating a house for living and entertaining on a grand scale in Regent’s Park, London, and working on a 14-bedroom holiday home on a private estate in Italy. ‘We like our spaces to look and feel deeply comfortable, to have a personality that reflects the owner’s taste as well as our own need for perfection,’ he concludes. martinhulbertdesign.com

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MARTIN KEMP DESIGN Martin Kemp has long been on speed dial for the super prime market – which means his extensive output ranges from jets and superyachts to jaw-dropping private residences. ‘Our workload has the usual levels of diversity,’ he says. ‘For instance, we have three houses in Switzerland, several classical mansions in London, a multi-unit development in Monaco, a sub-penthouse in the Bahamas, a yacht in Italy and a vast apartment in New York on the go. We love the variety of styles these projects allow us to embrace, everything from rural calm to urban chic, from charming to sophisticated.’ For Martin, positioning furniture to take maximum advantage of the space is always a major consideration as is ‘how one enters, where does one place keys, which are the strongest views to soak up, how best to locate artwork… combining these aspects with the architectural restrictions one sometimes encounters can be a challenge, albeit a stimulating one.’ martinkempdesign.com

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MLINARIC, HENRY AND ZERVUDACHI Founded in 1964 by David Mlinaric, MHZ first became known for working on important London and country houses, often in association with The National Trust. Now, it’s an international set-up with a trio of offices (London, Paris, New York) that both collaborate and take on briefs separately, and a portfolio that spans ski chalets, yachts and houses in far-flung destinations such as Mustique and New Delhi. ‘The attention to architectural detail is what drives our design process,’ says Tino Zervudachi, who oversees two of the studios. ‘We try to make spaces look as unforced as possible. We also believe in exceptional art to elevate an interior from good to great. And in making sure the house functions well, which we do by getting the layouts and detailing right.’ The result is refined and harmonious, achieved through a sympathetic use of colour as well as clever combinations of antique and modern furniture. mhzlondon.com

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS NATALIA MIYAR A trained architect and former design director at Helen Green Design, Natalia Miyar set up her studio in 2016 and has since become known for her tactile interiors, where materiality is equally important as colour and pattern. ‘My spaces are likely to show a confident use of colour; I’m not afraid to make strong statements through bold and vibrant pattern choices, but overall, I want my schemes to be elegant and balanced,’ explains Natalia, who cites an apartment in Belgravia, inspired by Manhattan living, where she combined geometric patterns, soft textures and bespoke joinery, as an example. ‘I want people to enjoy using the homes I create which is why I consider all the senses when I’m making my materials selection. In terms of style, I am guided by location, the client’s lifestyle and the architecture. What works for one client may not for another but these guiding principles are present in all my work.’ nataliamiyar.com

NINA CAMPBELL

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‘The Covid years have been quite productive really,’ reflects interiors doyenne Nina Campbell, in what sounds like something of an understatement. She has been juggling briefs that include the exclusive women-only Alexandra Club in Melbourne, updating a palatial home for a member of Jordan’s royal family and a house in Maine which features a private pub. ‘We’re currently doing the bedrooms at The Alexandra; it’s all been long distance but with the advantage of having visited immediately before the pandemic. We’ve tried to maximise the space and make each one as cheerful and inviting as possible, with everything you might need.’ Whatever she’s designing, in social areas the seating plan and making sure that guests aren’t marooned is always at the front of her mind. ‘I’m constantly going round rooms making sure the tables are in the right place and the light is coming in where I want it.’ ninacampbell.com

32 Olivia Outred’s first experience of working in the industry was under interior decorator Philip Hooper at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. ‘Philip instilled in me the importance of graceful spatial planning, balance, and classical furniture arrangements,’ recalls Olivia, who also headed up the interior design side of Lulu Lytle’s Soane before opening her own studio in 2014. ‘My signature style is very much linked to those lessons, but with the addition of the odd contemporary piece of furniture and some offbeat colour choices.’ She often creates bespoke furniture, mirrors and lighting for clients; describes herself as a colour enthusiast; and loves materials such as plaster and gesso that are ‘clean, white and uplifting. We are also using split cane a lot, which is fantastic and very decorative.’ A Georgian property in Edinburgh, a pair of bachelor pads in Notting Hill and a private members’ club in the Cotswolds are all in progress. oliviaoutred.com

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PANDORA TAYLOR ‘Rather than throw everything at a space, I usually champion one big wow and then layer everything around it to ensure it doesn’t feel over the top. I want my interiors to be fun but also sophisticated,’ says Pandora Taylor, who started out working in auction houses before retraining at KLC School of Design. A job at Kitesgrove followed; then she set up her studio in 2018. She often designs one-off pieces of furniture for clients, some of which are sold through her website. ‘My headboards in particular have become a signature, with bold and often asymmetric outlines that challenge our ideas on traditional furniture shapes.’ She doesn’t shy away from out-of-the-box hues either: ‘the way we experience colours can literally change the way we feel and have a profound effect on the way we live. They should be enriching and uplifting, whether the aim is to create a moody, or bright and airy atmosphere.’ pandorataylor.co.uk

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Architect-trained Sophie Pringle began her career at Turner Pocock before founding her studio seven years ago. Threaded through every scheme is her belief that good design has the power to enhance wellbeing. ‘This philosophy underpins every step of our creative process, providing the foundations on which we create our clients’ dream homes,’ says Sophie, who is working on a new build on the Isle of Arran, a listed house in Petworth and a Queen Anne home in Suffolk. ‘We look at each property holistically to ensure that all requirements are met, sometimes changing room uses or tweaking internal layouts, before approaching each space with colour psychology to create the appropriate energy or feel.’ Bespoke joinery appears in nearly all her interiors, she especially loves designing bedrooms for children, and typically layers patterns and colours wherever she can. pringleandpringle.co.uk

Having studied both art and interior design, it’s no wonder that Rachel Chudley is known for her artsy, whimsical schemes. ‘I want to bring joy into the everyday with unexpected design that aims to delight,’ she says. ‘Interiors and art should both be an extension of your personality. My clients often spend time at a gallery with me and we visit artists’ studios together.’ She employs both artists and designers at her practice and always uses custom paint shades created by The Rachel Colour Studio in collaboration with renowned colour consultant, Donald Kaufman (green, she says, is making a big appearance on her mood boards). She has just completed her first home in America: a 1980s Manhattan apartment that she transformed with a ‘modern Baroque tableau of texture and colour. The expressive decoration drew on the client’s love of spectacle and collection of kimono-inspired silk robes’. rachelchudley.com 58 | COUNTRYANDTOWNHOUSE.COM/INTERIORSGUIDE

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SALVESEN GRAHAM Nicole Salvesen and Mary Graham focus on creating classically beautiful and carefully curated schemes that feel comfortable and stylish – often incorporating antiques (either sourced specifically or family heirlooms), as well as colour and pattern, to ‘inject a fresh, sometimes playful sense to an interior’. For a home in Mayfair, for instance, they are reinstating the original architectural details as well as creating some new and exciting ones, such as a curved cantilevered staircase. They are also revamping several country houses – an Arts & Crafts home in Hampshire, an Edwardian rectory in Sussex, and a Queen Anne house in Buckinghamshire – and launching their first wallpaper and fabric collection, based on historic patterns that have been reimagined. ‘They encapsulate the Salvesen Graham Future Heritage aesthetic and have been designed to complement all furniture and accessories in The Collection by Salvesen Graham,’ says Nicole. salvesengraham.com

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SAMANTHA TODHUNTER DESIGN

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Samantha Todhunter aims to create interiors ‘suffused with an easy, modern glamour; laidback chic underpinned with traditional flourishes’ – whether it’s a major reworking of a 16th century farmhouse with a hyper modern extension or an overhaul of a tired family home. For the latter, the team combined handsome furniture with plays on pattern and texture. ‘The house was grounded by a caramel toffee colour with flashes of red,’ says Samantha. ‘We used an interesting map of hard materials throughout, from backlit onyx to waxy parquetry panels, rough jute and silk carpets.’ She believes that layering is a must for adding interest, depth and warmth. ‘I love the sort of juxtaposition that makes you stop and ask yourself why a fabric works. They might be prints that shouldn’t really sit together in any typical sense but in actual fact, they just look right.’ samanthatodhunter.com

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SARA COSGROVE STUDIO County Mayo-native Sara Cosgrove cut her teeth working at Helen Green Design and Candy & Candy before being appointed Head of Interior Design at Harrods. In 2014, she set out on her own and now works on all scales, from apartment developments to members-only wellness clubs and, recently, a schoolhouse turned residential beach escape. ‘Our style is tailored, tonal and timeless,’ says Sara, who also spent several years as Design Director of The Principal Hotel Company, overseeing the interiors of properties such as the Kimpton Fitzroy in London. For Sara, schemes often hang around a single showpiece: ‘on one project we discovered two aquamarine upholstered vintage shell chairs and the whole interior evolved from there.’ Details that often appear in greater or lesser amounts include ‘old maps and the colour blue. I also love introducing vintage and antique pieces into a crisp, contemporary space.’ saracosgrove.com

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‘Our work brings aesthetic integrity together with wellexecuted spatial design,’ says trained architect Shalini Misra. ‘This approach tends to deliver homes that not only look beautiful, but also function properly.’ Using materials in interesting ways, curating collections of art and design, and prioritising wellness are all characteristic of the practice. ‘Enabling wellness is crucial to our work and our aim is to achieve this in any project. Our immediate surroundings are so important to feel our best, so this is front of mind through the whole process,’ she says. ‘We design around natural light and air flow, maximising the relationship between indoors and outdoors wherever possible, and integrating clever technology that aids productivity, health and relaxation.’ She is working on a historic former museum in New York that is being converted into a 20,000 sq/ft home, a traditional Yali house on the Bosporus in Istanbul and a triplex penthouse in Mumbai. shalinimisra.com

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SHALINI MISRA

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS

SIBYL COLEFAX & JOHN FOWLER The longest established interior decorating firm in the UK, Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler has been synonymous with the English country house aesthetic for nearly a century. This pioneering approach – effortlessly mixing old with new, and luxurious with humble – is today interpreted by seven decorators (all supported by an architectural interior designer) who are as experienced working on modern city apartments as they are updating historic buildings. ‘We combine the clients’ needs with respect for the architecture of the building and create spaces that are serene and comfortable but nonetheless exciting,’ explains Chairman Wendy Nicholls of the practice’s portfolio, which ranges from a ranch in America to ski chalets in Europe and beach houses in the Caribbean. ‘Half the fun of being an interior designer is helping extract from people their view of themselves and bringing that to life.’ sibylcolefax.com

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Known for her elegant English style, Emma SimsHilditch has perfected the knack of creating layered spaces that feel lived in. ‘Antiques are always included in our designs; they add such gravitas and work well in both contemporary and more traditional homes,’ she says. ‘Heavy lined curtains, pretty floral fabrics and statement art are also key.’ As are natural materials such as linen, which she uses for everything from window treatments to wallpaper. ‘In terms of colour, we are currently enjoying yellow. A sunny yellow like Farrow & Ball’s Babouche is one of our favourites.’ The team has recently installed the first phase of an 18th century family home near Winchester. ‘The design was led by the countryside views. We knocked down an existing extension and worked with an architect to replace it with a more in keeping brickwork design. Sliding doors connect the property to the garden, framing the landscape beyond.’ simshilditch.com

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SPACE SHACK Led by architecttrained Omar Bhatti, this small but ambitious six-year-old East London studio tackles all sorts of projects from quirky makeovers to full-scale refurbishments. He understands the importance of maximising every square inch of space. Meanwhile, a leaning towards a minimalist aesthetic and unassuming materials results in fresh, relatable interiors. ‘Natural materials and tonal schemes with pops of colour are my thing right now,’ he says. ‘The simplicity of textures and neutral colours is often underestimated. I love the richness of travertine, for instance, and more heavy graphic printed fabrics for upholstery.’ He’s currently working on a renovation for clients who want to turn their Victorian terraced house into a contemporary space with Australian and Turkish influences. spaceshack.co.uk

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STEPHANIE BARBA MENDOZA

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‘I take great joy in infusing a home with colour,’ says Mexican designer Stephanie Barba Mendoza who studied interior design in her home country before completing the KLC diploma course in London, and working for Martin Brudnizki. She launched her studio in 2020 and is already making her mark with a maximalist style – think an uplifting riot of patterns, mix of high-low tactile materials and bespoke handcrafted pieces next to vintage finds. ‘From artists who specialise in hand-painted finishes and clay sculptors to papier-mâché makers and glass workers, I find craft immensely inspiring; this type of collaboration adds something wholly unique to our designs.’ For Stephanie, the devil really is in the detail, whether that’s lining a wardrobe in a beautiful fabric, adding a trim to curtains or searching for a special item of furniture from a local gallery. barbamendoza.com

Inseparable friends since they were 13, it was perhaps inevitable that one day Venetia Rudebeck and Romanos Brihi – both avid art collectors – would end up working together. ‘Clients see us as a little more daring than some of our peers and respond positively to our passion and enthusiasm,’ says Romanos, of the studio, which the pair set up in 2014. ‘While we both bring slightly different design elements to the table, our schemes are very coherent: the final result is always colourful, layered and full of surprises. The emphasis on art defines many of our designs, often juxtaposed with interesting antiques or one-off pieces of vintage furniture,’ continues Venetia. Projects are brilliantly varied and include a recently completed duplex apartment in Belgravia with Portuguese tiles and teal lacquered cabinets in the kitchen, soaring hallway murals and an enormous light fixture sourced from a Viennese train station. studio-vero.com 64 | COUNTRYANDTOWNHOUSE.COM/INTERIORSGUIDE

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THORP ‘We are always quick to convey to new clients that what we do is so much broader than people might realise,’ says Philippa Thorp of her 360-degree vision which encompasses architecture, interiors and landscape design. ‘It is the entirety of a house within its setting and gardens that ultimately creates a real home. The arrival and the garden set the tone of what’s to come. Levels, trees, planting and scent all play their vital part to modern family life where external rooms provide different places to visit throughout the day. It is the views out from the house that complete it.’ She also emphasises the importance of light and different finishes: ‘balancing textures in a room is essential and so often overlooked.’ Projects now in their final stages of installation include a mountain house in America’s exclusive Yellowstone Club and a large villa on Lake Como. thorp.co.uk

46 TURNER POCOCK

Bunny Turner and Emma Pocock take a holistic stance to their interiors, always aiming for a strong sense of continuity and calm throughout – no matter the scheme, colour or pattern in question. ‘There is no doubt that flowers and plants are more prevalent in the interiors world than they have been for a while, and these are certainly creeping into our designs,’ says Emma. ‘However, we will always have a natural love for geometrics, as well as a stripe.’ The pair are passionate about joinery (‘it can make or break a project,’ she says) and are working on (among other things) a listed house in Oxfordshire ‘where history is presented to us at every turn. We peeled back painted wallpaper to find original block printed William Morris prints underneath and are trying to reuse old troughs in the boot room as a dog bath.’ turnerpocock.co.uk

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS

VENTURA Founded by Arlene McIntyre and named after the coastal Californian city that inspires her, this interior design studio is known for its classic contemporary style. ‘We believe that homes should be more than just comfortable and beautiful; they should be interesting too,’ she says, speaking for her 50-strong team who provide a complete turnkey fit out for all clients. ‘Sitting down and immersing myself in what the space will be used for is instrumental in getting it right.’ That goes for one of her all-time favourite assignments: a 240sq/m penthouse apartment in Ireland with a wraparound balcony and sensational views of the Irish Sea. ‘Those sea views were the starting point for the scheme, for the layout of the rooms and the idea to thread through a Hamptons vibe with a warm, neutral palette that felt tonal and timeless.’ ventura.ie

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‘Essentially my objective is to make my clients’ dreams a reality – even if they don’t quite know what they are or how to achieve them,’ says Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors, an expert in country houses. She often adds an element of surprise, for instance, a modern painting in an otherwise traditional interior or an unlikely combination of pieces from different periods and places. ‘I recently used a tapestry as wallpaper to cover a vast cavernous entrance hall to wonderful effect; I also put a lot of wallpapers and antique rugs in bathrooms and kitchens which some people find quite unexpected but I feel that these rooms in particular need attention to create a feeling of warmth.’ Her portfolio ranges from an old dairy house on a Dorset estate to a Georgian manor in Oxfordshire and a house influenced by Spanish style in Montecito. vspinteriors.com

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VSP INTERIORS

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In a short-stay, couch-surfing world, there are still those who dream of a forever home johndwood.co.uk

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THE 50 FINEST INTERIOR DESIGNERS WARD & CO Mother and daughter duo Sarah and Rosie Ward are passionate about creating perfectly balanced, unique spaces that stand the test of time. ‘We tend to focus on neutral palettes and textures with clean lines and layer these with confident, bold colours; a combination which has great longevity,’ says Sarah. Location and context are also hugely important. For instance, for a recent home in Antigua, ‘we incorporated warm tones synonymous with the sand and sea, adopting a calming neutral base palette, layered with pops of eye-catching artwork,’ she continues. Similarly, for a more rural setting in Suffolk, the beautiful sprawling wisteria on the exterior of the property set the tone for the colour palette within. wardandco.com n

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Top row from left: Jayda Barham, Yeji Son, Alexandria Dauley, Fiona Poon Bottom row from left: Sophie Ashby, Afreena Sakeer, Joanna Santos, Awa Jallow, Fola Irikefe, Aaliyah Oshodi

Diversity and representation are an ongoing concern for the UK interiors industry. United in Design, founded by Sophie Ashby and Alexandria Dauley, is on a mission to change that, through uplifting and supporting aspiring BIPOC designers. Here are some of its talented new apprentices for 2022/23 – read the full story at countryand townhouse.com n

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THE NEXT CHAPTER

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© Valérie Lade

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Vezo www.baobabcollection.com

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DESIGN SERVICES

The interior design names to add to your little black book

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DESIGN SERVICES

1508 LONDON

A global interiors and architectural practice with a collaborative approach to design

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508 was an auspicious year for design. The Pope at the time invited the great and good of the art world to pitch for the commission of the Sistine Chapel ceiling and an unknown artist called Michelangelo turned up with a pencil and drew a perfect circle free hand. The Pope was so impressed that he commissioned him to paint the ceiling of the chapel. Hence the name 1508 London, which has a narrative-centred approach to design. The interior and architectural practice was established around 12 years ago, working mainly with private clients in London. As the company has expanded its expertise has developed, and now the team also works on residential developments, hospitality projects and yachts. However, each project is completely unique and bespoke. To best assist clients abroad, 1508

London has opened several offices around the world, including, most recently in Singapore, Dubai and Miami. ‘It’s important to understand 1508 London’s ethos, which is perhaps different from other practices,’ says CEO and partner Stuart Horwood. ‘Our foundation is as an open, expansive company and we are not led by a single design style. We invest a lot of time in understanding our clients’ every need in order to best tailor a scheme to meet their exacting requirements.’ Each of the 100-strong team bring their own strengths, with charted architect and partner Laura Lockwood scouring the globe for the greatest design talent, all of who are able to bring a wealth of experience to 1508 London’s projects. ‘In order to work at the highest level, it is important to have huge experience and deep knowledge of design,’ she confirms.

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‘Our foundation is as an open, expansive company and we are not led by a single design style’ In addition, the practice has a collaborative philosophy based around three core parameters. The first of these is the vision, which is driven by an overarching concept. The second is the sense of place, where the team takes into consideration everything from proportion and symmetry to materiality within the site context. Finally, there’s the transformational opportunity. In other words, the design team’s ability to interpret the brief and, crucially, deliver what the client wants. ‘We work on projects all over the world which look completely different one to another. However, if we analyse the common threads in all our commissions, it would be quality of materials, the attention to the details and immersing ourselves in the local vernacular and culture, but most of all, in our clients,’ says partner, Hamish Brown. ‘Private clients remain at the heart of the studio; residences we’ve designed range from beautiful townhouses in London’s Holland Park to penthouses in Asia and developments in America.’ There is also a separate, dedicated team for large-scale commercial schemes such as The OWO Residences by Raffles in Whitehall, Atmosphere restaurant at the Burj Khalifa (the highest restaurant in the world), and the Mandarin Oriental Beverly Hills. The company has also been awarded the job of designing the Cipriani Residences in downtown Miami – the latest in a lengthy roll-call of prestigious projects for this international outfit.

Named after a world-changing year for design, 1508 London aspires to the same ideals that inspired the likes of Michelangelo

1508 London 7 Howick Place London SW1P 1BB +44 (0)20 7802 3800 1508london.com 1508london

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DESIGN SERVICES

BERNARD INTERIORS

Innovative design studio creating exceptional solutions for later living

Jen Bernard is passionate about creating timeless, elegant environments for the elderly to enjoy

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ll too often residential spaces for retirement can seem like an afterthought. Not when they are the vision of Jen Bernard, who founded innovative design studio Bernard Interiors from her kitchen table in 2008. Personal, polished, passionate and professional are its four key values – an approach that she applies to all kinds of awardwinning projects, from private residences abroad to hospitality developments and, one of her biggest areas of expertise, luxury later living environments in the UK. She is especially passionate about the latter, creating timeless, elegant environments that defy preconceived ideas about later living and provide five-star facilities for those who wish to downsize, while remaining connected to their local communities.

A prime example of this is the recently completed Nightingale Place in Clapham, Audley Village’s first retirement village in central London. Finished during lockdown in 2020, it has 94 one-to-three-bedroom apartments as well as a pool, restaurant and health club. The leisure and restaurant facilities form the Audley Club, which is also open to non-resident members. Here, Jen and her talented team have created a haven of peace and relaxation in the capital, with thoughtful nods to the past. ‘The brief for this project was to create a unique interior for the Audley Club at the heart of the village, housing the restaurant, library, bar bistro, cinema and health club,’ explains Jen. ‘Many of Audley’s villages are situated within the grounds of a heritage building and utilise the main house for the Club. This allows us to draw upon the history of each property for design inspiration, to encapsulate the timeless Audley

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‘We’ve mixed classic and contemporary to create a truly original space that appeals to Audley’s future residents’ signature style.’ However, as Nightingale Place is an entirely new and urban development, in this case influences have come from the adjacent Clapham Common, as well as London and popular culture. ‘We’ve mixed classic and contemporary to create a truly original space that appeals to Audley’s future residents,’ she enthuses. Inspiration for everything, from the colour palette to the artwork, has come from the surrounding area, life in the capital and the experiences of the village’s future residents. Bold and vibrant largescale artworks line the communal corridors, whilst the pool and spa are a serene sanctuary in the city, featuring specially commissioned details such as a cascade of individually worked metal leaves on the wall by sculptor Ollie Holman, who joined the team on site for the installation. ‘Each area has its own identity with the overall linking theme of a luxurious, relaxed urban retreat,’ explains Jen. ‘Design trends in the 1970s were marked by a backlash against the bright colours and futurism of the 1950s and 1960s. There was a rise in popularity of a sophisticated palette of dark, earthy tones with extensive use of brown, green, purple and orange. This aspect of people’s lives has influenced parts of the space and been harmoniously combined with elements from other eras and styles appropriate to Clapham. She concludes: ‘I feel incredibly privileged to work at the forefront of the later living and healthcare sectors. I’m repeatedly challenged to create a safe and comfortable environment for residents.’

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DESIGN SERVICES

CHARLOTTE ELIZABETH INTERIORS

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boutique interior design studio based between London and Monaco, Charlotte Elizabeth Interiors works across the residential, commercial and hospitality sectors with both private clients and developers. Founder and creative director Charlotte-Elizabeth Evans grew up between the rural Yorkshire Dales and sophisticated Monte Carlo before discovering her passion for design and enrolling at the KLC School of Design (she has a background in history of art, architecture and design). She launched the practice in 2017 and, since then, has made a name for herself creating perfectly balanced spaces that combine rough-smooth textures. Charlotte-Elizabeth only says yes to a limited number of commissions to ensure that she is able to give each one the full attention it deserves, working collaboratively with the architect, contractor or client from inception to completion. Every project undertaken by the studio is managed by highly experienced interior designers who put an emphasis on honest materials and craft. While each project is driven by the client’s unique requirements, the studio embeds a relaxed refinement throughout each scheme. Chic and rustic touches are paired together, underpinning a respect for context and tradition that results in a calm, elegant aesthetic with its own distinct character. ‘For us, the fundamental starting block for any design scheme is a neutral palette,’ reveals Charlotte-Elizabeth. ‘We like to build on the finishes of carefully selected furniture and accessories; these are the items that we have spent a great deal of time sourcing and so wish for them to become a focal feature.’

One such recent project was 100 Sydney Street, in the heart of Chelsea, where the studio was tasked with creating a show apartment for an upscale development. Soft, tactile fabrics, simple pieces of furniture, accentuated by the natural light of the space, and pops of colour via carefully curated finishes were all layered onto a neutral base. ‘We love working with more weathered furniture items as they lend depth; our wonderful restorers bring them back to life and then we create cohesion with our fabrics through soothing colour tones and thick weaves,’ explains Charlotte-Elizabeth. ‘The addition of sumptuous velvets, silks, handpainted wall coverings and specialist finishes, such as intricate bronze inlays or stone, elevates the scheme with a subtle luxury.’ Over the last four years the company has continued to grow, attracting clients looking to create timeless elegance within their homes. Now a team of four, the studio’s international portfolio ranges from luxury residential developments to family townhouses and contemporary apartments – in other words, projects of all sizes and budgets. As a young designer who has recently rebranded the business, Charlotte-Elizabeth has come out in full force this year. An array of exciting projects underway and in the pipeline range from a penthouse flat to a pied-à-terre for a jet-set couple. And it’s this great mix of commissions that has allowed the studio to be even more innovative and step into its exciting new design future.

Charlotte Elizabeth Interiors Park Walk, Chelsea London SW10 0AG +44 (0)20 7193 8510 ce-interiors.com charlotteelizabeth.interiors

PHOTOS: DARREN CHUNG – PROJECT: 100 SYDNEY STREET BY CDL DEVELOPMENTS

A London-Monaco interior design studio creating relaxed, refined spaces

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PHOTOS: DARREN CHUNG – PROJECT: 100 SYDNEY STREET BY CDL DEVELOPMENTS

Chic and rustic touches are paired together, underpinning a respect for context and tradition that results in a calm, elegant aesthetic with its own distinct character

With a growing team and an impressive portfolio of international projects, Charlotte Elizabeth Interiors has an exciting future ahead

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DESIGN SERVICES

CHARLOTTE STUART INTERIORS

An innovative new interior design consultancy service

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ampshire-based Charlotte Stuart is a qualified interior designer who, having worked in the industry for over 20 years – including five as one of the top colour consultants at Farrow & Ball – has seen how it has evolved and recognised the need for a simpler solution. Deconstructing the more traditional, typical offering from interior designers, she is now thrilled to be launching her own design consultancy. Over the past two years Charlotte’s briefs from private homeowners and property developers in London and the south of England have required full-service interior design solutions. However, more recently the necessity to meet via Zoom thanks to the pandemic has led to a sharp increase in consultations that have proven to negate the need for a site visit. A more flexible design approach is perfect for clients who know their own style, but just need that vote of confidence to either get going with a project, or help to complete it. Charlotte is as adept at working on full house commissions as she is at smaller room-led projects, and can alleviate angst and procrastination in as little as an hour. Her enthusiasm is contagious; she is brimming with energy; and her schemes are as playful and warm as her own personal style. She introduces colour where it feels comfortable, with a balance of neutral tones to create a cohesive flow throughout the space that brings the design together. With a natural flair for interiors and eye for detail, she is able to craft homes that are practical yet elegant and luxurious too.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Designer Charlotte Stuart; a collaboration with Manuel Canovas Fabric for a luxurious walk-in wardrobe; Zoffany velvet bespoke statement chair, designed for a drawing room

The personalised, flexible service, which is chargeable at £125 per hour, begins with a pre-appointment questionnaire to find out more about the clients’ individual objectives and challenges. The consultation then takes place in person or over Zoom, when Charlotte will talk through suggested designs and put forward options to fulfil the brief. Afterwards, clients receive a follow-up specification, plus samples where appropriate. She can help with anything from paint choices and fabrics to making the best of existing furniture or new additional pieces. In addition to this, she can offer support through larger build projects, helping clients to make those all-important decisions. Sourcing and recommendations on suppliers, colours, lighting, brands, storage and more, are also an option and she can share her advice on where to spend and where to save. For one recent client, for instance, she came up with creative colour solutions for a double-height hall in a duplex apartment. For another, the focus was on ways to maximise the limited space of a bedroom in an annex. ‘The client wanted to make it really special but couldn’t quite see how,’ recalls Charlotte. ‘We had a collaborative brainstorm where she told me what she did and didn’t like. I came up with ideas for colours, fabrics, wallpapers. I also suggested an upholstered bedhead and a small walk-in wardrobe area. Sometimes it can be simple changes that make all the difference.’ The perfect service then, for anyone who is overwhelmed by choice, short on time, or simply looking for inspiration and a fresh pair of eyes to help make confident, curated decisions.

Charlotte Stuart Interiors +44 (0)7973 886152 charlottestuartinteriors.co.uk charlotte_stuart_interiors

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Charlotte’s more flexible design approach is perfect for clients who know their own style, but just need that vote of confidence to either get going with a project or complete it

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DESIGN SERVICES

ELICYON

Forging a new luxury, crafting only the most thoughtful and visionary interiors

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driving force in the design world, award-winning Kensington-based studio Elicyon is renowned for its exquisite interior design projects, from ultra-luxury developments to complex heritage homes. Combining the rigours of architectural training with an abundance of flair, founder and director Charu Gandhi has been creating highly personalised and thoughtful spaces since 2014, taking each client on a journey of discovery throughout the design process. The passion and craftsmanship poured into each new project can be seen in Elicyon’s work in some of London’s finest apartments and listed townhouses, as well as country homes, and largescale developments in New York, Miami and the

Middle East. Together with creative director Cecilia Halling, Charu leads a team of expert designers, architects and project managers who dive into the heart of each brief and execute their client’s vision with the utmost expertise, undeterred by complexity or scale – from creative concept through to completion. The studio’s vision is inspired by the narrative behind each property and those who occupy it, believing that, above all, a design must be authentic to the client and how they want to live. One such project is Elicyon’s in-progress lake house, cantilevered over the water’s edge of Windermere. Once completed in 2023, it will be a weekend retreat and hunting lodge for long-standing clients, a family of five. It is a contemporary build with a series of pitched roofs and exposed ceiling rafters, an impressive boot room with a dog shower,

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Whether it’s a large international development, or an exemplary family home, Charu Gandhi’s expert team bring the same passion to every project

Interiors typically reflect extraordinary detail and a dedication to material, minutiae and modernity and a large-scale games room in the basement for entertaining guests. Its main draw, however, are the breathtaking lake views which lead the eye to the rolling hills beyond. Elsewhere, the studio has also recently completed a four-bedroom Marylebone home overlooking Regent’s Park in London. Designed for a young international family, the apartment’s aesthetic is elegant and sculptural, combining British influences with European accents. The colourful tonality and cosy curved furniture result in a relaxed environment and offer scope to entertain all ages. ‘As designers, I believe our role is to improve our clients’ lives, quite simply by realising their dream homes that facilitate their varied lifestyles,’ says Charu of the thinking behind the commission. ‘With a brief to include ample seating that would be appropriate

to both entertain business associates in a formal setting, and friends and family in a casual manner, in this project we mixed hard materials – such as an Elan Atelier white ‘Gesso’ side table and a Holly Hunt titanium marble coffee table – with soft playful textures like bouclé ball cushions in the office. This allowed each space to have its own distinctive character and feel, while remaining practical and unified.’ Interiors typically reflect extraordinary detail and a dedication to material, minutiae, and modernity. A network of trusted artisans contributes joinery, furniture and lighting made especially for the proportions of the space. As Charu concludes, ‘We treat each client’s aspirations as our own, weaving them into the fabric of their homes.’

Elicyon First Floor, Avon House Avonmore Road Kensington Village London W14 8TS +44 (0)20 3772 0011 elicyon.com elicyon

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DESIGN SERVICES

HELEN GREEN DESIGN

Timeless, tailored and eco-minded luxury interior design

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elen Green Design is one of the country’s most respected interior design practices. Founded by the late Helen Green in 2002, the studio creates luxurious yet liveable residences and strives to deliver exceptionally high, personalised levels of service – values which have always been at the very heart of the business. Helen Green was known for her uncompromising eye for detail, extraordinary taste and work ethos. The practice has given rise to many great designers and strong businesswomen, and her legacy continues to inspire a new generation of creatives. The studio has evolved throughout the years, however two decades on its reputation for outstanding quality strongly remains. Creative Lead Alexandra Jurkiewicz and her team aim to maintain these standards and ensure the brand develops in

a way that Helen would be proud to identify with. Over the past 20 years, the team has developed an invaluable reputation for creating sophisticated, timeless interiors for its international roster of private clients. Helen Green Design shines the spotlight on craftsmanship and British design, through sourcing one-off pieces in the UK produced by specialist artisans. Alexandra’s main focus going forward is to promote and implement the company’s core values as well as the team’s passion for looking after the planet. Taking a more sustainable approach plays a significant part in the studio’s designs and wish to inspire others in the industry to pursue ecofriendly ideas. ‘We pride ourselves on creating outstanding, tailored concepts in response to the needs of our clients,’ says Alexandra of the studio’s signature aesthetic. ‘Our style is elegant, considered and

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The studio is committed to making informed choices – and starting a dialogue on pro-planet considerations with makers, suppliers and clients beautifully curated. As all our projects are unique, we tend to steer away from repetitive accents and details but we do love to use furniture and accessories from our ‘HGD’ collection. We also try to stay away from seasonal trends and fashions as we pride ourselves on creating spaces and schemes that don’t date. Rather than using popular colours or materials, we like to make sure we are always aware of the latest home technology, and keep educating ourselves on sustainability, as well as how to create healthy and progressive working environments.’ The Helen Green Design portfolio includes luxurious properties worldwide. Recently completed projects include a contemporary villa in Vienna, a listed duplex apartment in southwest London’s Ennismore Gardens, and a manor house in Surrey. The team are currently busy working on a stunning apartment overlooking Pavilion Road in Chelsea, a duplex apartment in Marylebone and a residence in St Georges Hill, Weybridge. The studio is committed to making informed choices – and starting a dialogue on pro-planet considerations with makers, suppliers and clients – to ensure that future projects are more sustainable. ‘We have been busy developing beautiful schemes, collaborating with exceptional British artisans and detailing stunning interiors for our clients to grow in and love for years to come,’ says Alexandra. ‘Our commitment is to continue to create the same luxurious interiors synonymous with Helen Green Design while being mindful of the environment.’

Rather than chasing trends, the Helen Green Design team is committed to achieving longevity and a timeless feel

Helen Green Design 29 Milner Street London SW3 2QD +44 (0)20 7352 3344 helengreendesign.com hgdstudio

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DESIGN SERVICES

JANINE STONE & CO.

Exceptional homes and interiors, from concept to completion

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anine Stone & Co. designs, builds, renovates and furnishes exquisite private residences for the most discerning clients. The daughter of a dress designer and an artist, Janine’s childhood was filled with fine furnishings and exotic fabrics, which both hugely influenced her choice of career. When her father branched out into interior design, it was inevitable that she would join him. Travelling extensively throughout Europe, she honed her craft and developed an enviable network of global artisans. She set up her studio, Janine Stone & Co., in 1987 and the multi-disciplinary practice has since grown to incorporate a global in-house team of talented architects and interior designers, supported by a build and construction management department. As a Savile Row tailor cuts cloth, Janine Stone & Co.’s projects are similarly customised to the individuals who commission them. The studio is renowned for not having a particular house style and instead strives for originality and a sense of timelessness. ‘Our aim is always to create a look and feel that embodies the people we are designing for. If there is a common thread that links all our projects, it’s simply design that is of exceptional quality,’ says Janine. She firmly believes that ‘every home and interior should be much more than just a collection of bricks and mortar but should tell a story that is as special as the people who live there.’ Janine Stone & Co. attracts an international roster of clients that has included captains of industry, elite sportsmen and entertainment figures across its 30-plus year history. The illustrious design firm’s multidisciplinary capabilities allow it to be involved in projects

beyond the scope and scale of many others. Not only does it assist those who want to reinvent their current living space, the practice can also help find houses with development potential. For clients wanting to create a new home from scratch, Janine Stone & Co. can also oversee the entire process from concept to completion. In our post-Covid world, the studio is increasingly fulfilling clients’ wishes for more versatile spaces – whether it’s incorporating al fresco dining and entertaining areas in underutilised gardens or constructing subterranean home spas to the sort of high specification one only expects of the world’s top spa hotels. ‘The pandemic was a strong reminder of the pricelessness of where and how we spend time with friends and family,’ she continues. Janine Stone & Co. encourages clients to participate in the design process, to visit the studio, to contribute to interior schemes, play with fabrics, trial furnishings and interact with the team so that they can truly feel that their home is their own. Recent projects include the renovation of several apartments and townhouses in London’s Grosvenor Square, Kensington and Holland Park, the interior design for a new-build mansion on Wentworth Estate in Surrey, and the renovation and refurbishment Janine Stone & Co. of a number of country homes The Imperial Laundry and estates in Oxfordshire and 71-73 Warriner Gardens Yorkshire. The company also London SW11 4XW enjoys undertaking international +44 (0)20 7349 8888 commissions in Europe, America janinestone.com and the Middle East. janinestone_co

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As a Savile Row tailor cuts cloth, Janine Stone & Co.’s projects are similarly customised to the individuals who commission them

Not limited to a specific style or aesthetic, Janine Stone & Co.’s designs are linked by their common goal: exceptional quality

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DESIGN SERVICES

LAWSON ROBB

An interior design house delivering considered, curatorial spaces

The studio has three key principles: to design with an atemporal, considered and curatorial style

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or nearly 20 years, Lawson Robb has been designing beautiful interiors and exceptional residences worldwide. From private apartments and townhouses to superyachts, luxury villas and hotels abroad, nothing is impossible for the talented design team. Now under the new direction of creative leads George Wolstenholme and Lena Cottray, the mission of the design house is to continue delivering the unexpected and unconventional, producing the kind of spaces never seen before. Design for Lawson Robb means extracting the DNA of an idea and seeing what can be developed from it. Each project has its own story to tell and a project identity that sets it apart. Schemes never fall into the uniformity of current trends but instead

relate back to the practice’s three key principles: to design with an atemporal, considered and curatorial style. Whether the brief requires a nod to heritage and timelessness, or fusing custom joinery and decorative objects for a look that feels more futuristic and innovative, Lawson Robb’s aesthetic is constantly evolving. The objective is to create approachable yet thought-provoking spaces that are unique to each client. With a Masters in yacht design and ten years of experience in superyachts and ultra-prime residential properties, as well as bespoke furniture design internationally, George’s expertise is in complex yet strikingly beautiful environments. Design partner Lena has an equally impressive background, bringing a wealth of knowledge that stems from her years spent working in the high-end hospitality and residential

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From private apartments and townhouses to superyachts, luxury villas and hotels abroad, nothing is impossible for the talented design team sector. She began her career in the art world, specialising in modern masters and contemporary artists. This fed her passion and innate eye for art something that ultimately translates into her interiors. The pair began collaborating four years ago and have since taken on large-scale projects around the world. Most notably of which is the superyacht ‘Phi’, a ground-breaking 58.5m sub 500GT vessel that was designed in collaboration with Royal Huisman, Cor D Rover and Van Oossanen Naval Architects. The exterior details of Phi have been released, but the interiors remain under wraps until her final launch towards the end of 2022 The duo has also recently completed the renovation of a Grade II-listed townhouse in Little Venice in London, for discerning clients who wanted to retain the history of the building, while elevating it

with clean lines and contemporary details that align with their lifestyle. George and Lena have also had the opportunity to design their first piece for the Allect Group’s new bespoke furniture brand Unknown Editions. The wider team is also currently working on new projects both in the Middle East and in the UK. The pair’s recent inspirations are the new ideals of luxury that they are seeing in their clients around the globe, and translating this into their schemes. Alongside this, they are continuously inspired by curiosities in the design world, from the new and exciting to the work of classic masters. In all, Lawson Robb is a global, multi-disciplinary practice with a proven track record in pushing the boundaries of interior design and creating spectacular spaces.

Lawson Robb 29 Milner Street London SW3 2QD lawsonrobb.com lawson_robb

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DESIGN SERVICES

MARTIN KEMP DESIGN

Refined interiors, delivered with discretion, that redefine discernment

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artin Kemp Design was established nearly 11 years ago as an exclusive studio working almost entirely within a guarded residential sector that embraces spectacular private homes, developments, yachts and planes. It has established a revered reputation among those seeking a discerning home, delivered with complete privacy and the utmost discretion. These are properties you rarely see gracing the pages of glossy magazines, rather they are talked about – whispered about even – as enigmatic and confidential commissions. The formula for such originality remains a simple one: the studio listens carefully to any brief given and responds appropriately to a client’s requirements – whether they are asking for rural calm or a dynamic, contemporary aesthetic for a city home – and always in a humble, respectful manner. Creatively, it embraces any vernacular. The limit is simply how far a client is keen to explore and, with many owning multiple homes, the schemes vary greatly. Such clients might be seeking the full restoration of a classical mansion in London or the creation of an ultra-modern penthouse in New York. No matter, MKD welcomes each brief and develops elegant and striking solutions, adding its trademark attention-to-detail to each project. The work is inspired first and foremost by the client, who may have ideas they would like to explore. Often though, initial stimulation is presented by the architecture and its setting. From that, ideas are drawn for discussion and development; potential layouts are

Martin Kemp Design has an impressive creative range, meeting the challenge whether a client is seeking to add a tranquil countryside feeling to their home, or contemporary dynamism

shown by hand, as well as in 3D modelling, where a scheme can be explained more visually; and of course, a space is styled both spatially and through furnishings. While styles vary enormously, very little of what the studio delivers is ever published, owing to strict confidentiality agreements. Projects currently include classical mansions in and around London being fully restored and updated (several as private homes, one as a multi-apartment development), a development in Monaco featuring three sumptuous spas, an extraordinary rural retreat high in the Alps, a vast estate in France that encompasses four villas, a yacht under construction in Italy, penthouses in New York and China, plus a magnificent villa in Zurich. In addition to its interior design work, the studio has collaborated on several products – notably with THG Paris, a French manufacturer of bathroom fittings and accessories through which the Corvair collection of sanitaryware is available (it is inspired by the aerodynamic lines and shapes characteristic of the golden age of travel). MKD has also teamed up with SA Baxter to launch a range of ironmongery and, recently, sold a remarkable table tennis table via the Rolls Royce showroom in London. Other partnerships and a homeware collection are both on the horizon. Despite this somewhat intriguing and elite impression, the studio is extremely welcoming as Martin remains true to his warm Welsh roots and encourages staff to be down-to-earth. In a world where clients come from the highest levels of success, MKD retains a humble, open charm, is always discreet and eminently approachable.

Martin Kemp Design Greencoat House Francis Street London SW1P 1DH +44 (0)20 7183 3885 martinkempdesign.com martin_kemp_design

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The formula for such originality remains a simple one: the studio listens carefully to any brief given and responds appropriately to a client’s requirements

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DESIGN SERVICES

NINA CAMPBELL

The influential interior designer looks ahead to a year of new collections and working with British craftsmen

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ina Campbell is one of the world’s most respected and influential interior designers with a company founded over 50 years ago. Renowned for her contagious wit and brilliant sense of style, her designs appeal to both young and old, and sit well in both contemporary and traditional interiors. Her list of clients and design expertise is unparalleled. Building on the success of her interior design work, Nina was able to expand the business by opening a design studio, retail shop and furniture showroom as well as designing her own signature products across accessories, wallpaper, fabrics and furniture. The company is proud to be family run: first Nina’s son

Max Konig joined in 1999 as Managing Director, then, a decade later, Nina’s daughter Alice Deen took on the role of Head of Communications. The upcoming year looks set to be thrilling for the business, with collections in fabrics and wallpaper on the horizon as well as brand new furniture and several exciting collaborations. Nina’s latest book will also be gracing bookshelves from spring 2023, based on the interior design of a multi-functional house in Maine which has everything from a separate pool house for parties to a tennis pavilion. ‘What we have been focusing on more and more as a brand, as have many others, is creating and commissioning British-made products as much as possible,’ says Nina. ‘When working all over the world

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Nina Campbell has been leading the interior design world for over 50 years

Renowned for her contagious wit and brilliant sense of style, her designs appeal to both young and old, and sit well in both contemporary and traditional interiors as we are on interior design projects, we love using local craftspeople to add an element of the surrounding environment. It’s amazing what you can find and what incredibly interesting, beautiful and creative pieces are being made in all sorts of pockets of the world.’ This year, Nina Campbell Ltd has restarted the antiques side to the business and there is now a small selection of pieces available in the Walton Street shop. ‘I love antiques and always try to use them in jobs; I love the history and the individuality they can bring – whether to an interior or a table or a shelf,’ explains Nina. On the interiors side of the business, 2022/23 is already proving to be busier than ever, with a number of exciting jobs, both residential and commercial, home

and afar. ‘We are working a lot in various parts of the States as well as Jordan and we also have some lovely jobs in England, which makes a nice change. They are all rather different which is exciting.’ Although the pandemic curbed Nina’s travel, it has resulted in the business becoming more time efficient. ‘It is, however, amazing to be able to visit sites, install in real life and see clients face to face which is something I really missed,’ she continues. ‘These relationships are so important to me when decorating. The pandemic has instilled a practice of thinking flexibly, problem solving and working around unforeseeable situations. I feel London is bouncing back and I am really thrilled by what the next few years have in store for our brand.’

Nina Campbell 9 Walton Street London SW3 2JD +44 (0)20 7225 1011 ninacampbell.com ninacampbellltd

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DESIGN SERVICES

OCTAGON INTERIORS

An exclusive interior design service from a pioneering property developer

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ctagon Developments has an unmatched reputation across London and the Home Counties for building luxury homes of the highest quality. Offering an expert turnkey service from concept to delivery, the talented in-house team of designers and architects are responsible for all Octagon homes, each one with distinguishing features that give it an individual character while still retaining the company’s unmistakable style. In early 2020, the property developer launched Octagon Interiors, an interior design service available exclusively to new and historic clients, those buying a speculative build, flagship site or working with the bespoke division on their dream home. This division of the company has seen exceptional success since its founding, expanding rapidly to meet demand, with several new members of the team joining this year. Offering a comprehensive service from design consultancy to procurement and installation, clients work directly with the Octagon Group’s in-house team to create a personalised scheme that mirrors the splendour of the exterior architecture of the property, unlocking the full potential of each new home. This is a rare partnership between house builder and interior designer, and provides a seamless client experience. The interior team are involved from initial conversations with the architects to the finishing touches on your coffee table. Ensuring the resulting spaces are just as beautiful as they are practical, where clients feel at home from day one, Octagon Interiors deliver to all sorts of tastes. From modern to classical, the team has huge creative scope having already worked on projects ranging from a two-bedroom apartment to a 12,000 sq/ft super mansion.

Octagon Interiors is currently working on a variety of exciting projects across Surrey, Central London and Kent, including a super mansion which sits adjacent to the world-renowned championship golf course at St George’s Hill. Creating a warm and welcoming, yet luxurious home that challenges the more typical Octagon look, the team has developed a sumptuous design with clean, sleek, and modern interiors. Overall, the colour palette is one that exudes elegance while incorporating new and emerging decorating trends. The advantages of using Octagon’s in-house service became swiftly apparent to several clients moving into the developer’s flagship development Broadoaks Park in West Byfleet, Surrey. The excellent working relationship between the interior design team and the other departments saves clients’ valuable time; the interior designer’s expertise when it comes to space planning ensures everything from chic rugs to stylish occasional chairs are positioned correctly and in place (an art that ensures a space is brought to life). The company’s established relationships with interior suppliers across Britain and Europe also means it can offer the very best in bespoke furniture, creating an interior scheme which is just as unique as the property itself. Priding itself on going the extra mile Octagon Interiors to help achieve all design ambitions, Weir House, Hurst Road from the initial design consultation East Molesey through to installation, Octagon Surrey KT8 9AY Interiors works with clients to create +44 (0)20 8481 7500 elegant, sophisticated designs that octagon.co.uk are as beautiful as they are practical, octagoninteriors functional, and truly exquisite. octagondevelopments

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Luxury living at a central London townhouse; a sumptuous en-suite bathroom for a private client; the indoor leisure complex at the St. George Hill super mansion

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DESIGN SERVICES

RANDLE SIDDELEY

Innovative gardens that remain timeless and true to their heritage

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ust over 40 years ago, Randle Siddeley formed his landscape construction company, which quickly grew into a full-service landscape architecture practice, with a contracting division offering a full turnkey service, from initial sketches to ongoing maintenance. Today, he works globally with a team of 80, transforming dingy back yards or vast fields into magical oases. He has a deserved reputation for classic, timeless design that is also very contemporary and often excitingly innovative, but always respectful of the heritage of its surroundings. Randle began his professional life working for his father, interior designer John Siddeley. He quickly realised that designing gardens was very different to renovating homes. ‘With interior design, you can see fairly instantly whether a paint colour or piece of furniture works,’ says Randle, ‘but with gardens you wait months – years – to see what effect has been achieved. Rooms stay static but gardens are ever-changing.’ Randle’s philosophy remains rooted in a refusal to compromise, working with talented craftspeople to ensure every detail, from bespoke trelliswork to stonework, is finished to the highest standard. His firm belief is that any space, however tiny or dauntingly huge, can be transformed. However, he is also everpractical, whether placing a swimming pool where it’s not a draughty eyesore or ensuring plants don’t need a ridiculous amount of maintenance to survive. Randle works with artisans and artists like David Harber to provide talking points and eye-catching water features or sculptures. He worked with specialist Andrew

FROM TOP: One of Cashmere Caveman’s Wildkitchens, which Randle uses in many of his al fresco dining designs; the inside and outside of Blue Forest’s treehouse at Chelsea Flower Show 2022, which Randle collaborated on

Moore to create a decorative glass wall and textured glass shard sculptures, rising to about two metres and suggesting beautiful sea-cold flames or giant blades of translucent grass, thrusting skywards. Though we’ve eased back into old patterns now restrictions have been lifted, our relationship with the outdoors has permanently altered. Those of us lucky enough to have al fresco space will never again take it for granted. Many now look to their garden as a valuable second room and last year Randle was busy ‘bringing the inside outside’, creating generous dining and family-friendly entertainment spaces, often with kitchens, integrated heating, outdoor snugs and clever pergola canopies. As we repurpose our gardens with patio heaters, wood burners and fairy lights, Randle continues to seek clever solutions for seamless outdoor dining and entertaining, whatever the weather. At the 2022 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Randle collaborated with Blue Forest, whom he describes as the ‘RollsRoyce of treehouses’, drawing many visitors to the company’s sumptuously comfortable safaristyle accommodation up in the trees. Randle is also a fan of the film director Guy Ritchie’s Cashmere Caveman range of Wildkitchens, which Randle says, ‘represent a game-changing concept that will revolutionise al fresco dining, even in winter.’ Randle’s designs constantly evolve to adapt to his clients’ changing needs. ‘As someone passionate about nature, it is a privilege to help clients design their perfect garden spaces,’ says Randle. ‘A garden is both an intensely personal project and very public. Creating a space, however tiny or huge, that is both beautiful and usable is the most satisfying challenge we face.’

Randle Siddeley Trafalgar House, Juniper Dr, London SW18 1GY +44 (0)20 7627 7260 randlesiddeley.co.uk randlesiddeley

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‘As someone passionate about nature, it is a privilege to help clients design their perfect garden spaces’

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DESIGN SERVICES

RIGBY & RIGBY

A multi award-winning international design studio

Rigby & Rigby’s luxurious residences are designed for jet-setting lifestyles

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igby & Rigby is an award-winning multi-disciplinary studio based in London with a holistic approach to design. The company has a reputation for developing unrivalled residences and stunning commercial spaces, all designed for high-flying lifestyles. Considered one of the leading names in ultra-prime property, Rigby & Rigby has delivered projects in some of the world’s most exclusive destinations. From heritage houses to contemporary new builds, current commissions include luxury homes, superyachts and high-profile developments in the UK, across Europe, in the Middle East and Asia. While Rigby & Rigby continues to grow, commitment to the client experience remains at the heart of each project, and the qualities that define the company remain unchanged: intelligent design that combines traditional craftsmanship and handmade materials with cutting edge technology and an unparalleled attention to detail. The result is perfectly resolved residences, with a style defined as understated refined luxury, and a service that is second to none. The company is renowned for creating carefully considered authentic designs that are bespoke to each client’s needs. ‘Every day we have the opportunity to work on legacy projects – and this in itself is inspiring,’ says Studio Director of Interior Design, James Ashfield. ‘We improve the lives and experiences of our clients through a combination of great design, research and technology. We aim for a well-considered, refined product and there is an extensive and enjoyable journey to reach it. Patience and flexibility are both important. Our clients, our design and our research provide a wealth of inspiration to keep pushing and

being at the forefront of the high-end market.’ The Rigby & Rigby team is finding that the lifestyle of its clients continues to evolve. ‘Our projects are smarter and more connected than before,’ says Iain Johnson, CEO and Creative Director. ‘With support from our amazingly talented team, we have diversified into a studio where we are completing projects in ultra-prime residential, hospitality, retail, restaurants, and superyachts. We are also proud to be the first studio in the UK to develop a wellnesscertified private residence and two zero carbon developments with outstanding sustainable criteria. With our research and development modules, we are specialists in each of these areas: this ensures a comprehensive and proactive response to opportunities with a client focused vision. With our multi-disciplinary approach, we have designed a full ecosystem as a comprehensive design studio.’ Recent projects include a private family office in a picturesque setting in Oslo; elegant suites in the Aero Wing of the Maybourne Riviera hotel on the Côte d’Azur; and guest rooms and suites at Claridge’s hotel in Mayfair, London. This year will see the completion of one of the most anticipated special projects in the studio’s current portfolio, a 17,000 sq/ft mansion in Knightsbridge in partnership with US architect Olson Kundig. Other current projects in super prime central London include Rigby & Rigby a mixed-use development on 80 Brook Street, Mayfair Mount Street in Mayfair and London W1K 5EG the penthouse suite in the new +44(0)20 3418 0446 extension of the Berkeley Hotel rigbyandrigby.com in Knightsbridge. rigbyandrigby

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DESIGN SERVICES

STUDIO HOOTON

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stablished by Emma Hooton in 2010, Studio Hooton specialises in high-end holistic interiors, from the initial planning and architectural layouts to full kitchen and bathroom design. The brand’s friendly, experienced team – which includes interior architects, textile designers, lighting designers and joinery experts – has long-standing relationships with talented craftsmen and specialist tradesmen who deliver to their own exacting standards. ‘Whether you’re a homeowner, investor or developer, we go beyond the visual aspect of a property and focus on the feeling of a space,’ says Emma, a graduate from the prestigious KLC School of Design who began her career working for interior designer Hugh Leslie. ‘From initial concepts right

through to the completion of a project, we lead each phase of the design and build process from the technical to the decorative.’ To ensure the studio remains focused, Emma is strict about the number of projects it takes on. Due to the location of its offices in London and Winchester, these are typically based across the south east of England in areas including London, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Kent, Hampshire, Dorset and Sussex. ‘We mainly take on country houses: refurbishments of historic properties, often with a contemporary extension,’ Emma says. One such recent project was The Grange in Hampshire, which involved the addition of a glass box at the back, which is now the kitchen. ‘It’s first and foremost a family home so the interiors were formed with this in mind. We restored the original features of the main house in a very classic

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PHOTOS: MARTINGARDNER.COM

A high-end interior design studio with a holistic, eco-minded outlook


Whether working on a historic property or a new build, Studio Hooton always brings the same level of dedicated craftsmanship and flair to every project

PHOTOS: MARTINGARDNER.COM

Studio Hooton’s friendly, experienced team has long-standing relationships with talented craftsmen and specialist tradesmen who deliver to their own exacting standards way, bringing the property back to its former glory. The main daytime living areas were kept neutral and child-friendly, and these flowed into darker, more atmospheric reception rooms for winter evenings. The challenge is to merge old and new in a sensitive, natural way.’ In contrast, Studio Hooton also often works on new build houses, teaming up with an architect right at the start of a project. ‘At the moment, we’re doing a particularly interesting LA farmhouse-style new build in Berkshire. It has lots of dark wood cladding and Crittall windows; we’re adding in elements of the country aesthetic but with an original twist,’ Emma continues. Art is always integral – the studio typically includes a full art plan as part of the scheme – as is choosing gorgeous fabrics from its extensive library (which includes rare, hand printed designs from

America and Europe) and, where possible, using furniture from British designers such as George Smith and Benchmark. This year, the studio’s key mission is to champion sustainability in interior design through its new concept: Planet Hooton. It has four core messages that cover everything from the ethical approach the studio takes to its sourcing of paint, fabrics and furniture, and being an advocate for a better, more environmentally friendly industry. ‘Our values underpin everything that we do for our clients,’ says Emma. ‘Whatever we source, we ask questions about the supply chain. We’re also going to monitor the carbon footprint of the average project and give clients the option to offset their emissions. Eco-minded interiors that don’t compromise on quality or beauty, that’s our aim.’

Studio Hooton Worlds End Studios Lots Road, Chelsea London SW10 0RJ +44 (0)20 7349 7090 studiohooton.com studiohooton

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STUDIO VERO

The interior design duo creating colourful spaces filled with art and antiques

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nseparable childhood friends, interior designers Venetia Rudebeck and Romanos Brihi followed similar career paths. Both studied at the KLC School of Design, as well as a course in art history in Italy, and each had their own design business before joining forces to launch London-based Studio Vero in 2014. As serious collectors themselves, art is an important consideration in all their projects. The pair often collaborate with artisans and artists to create bespoke pieces, which they combine with interesting antiques and flea-market finds to create timeless interiors. ‘Art elevates a space,’ says Venetia, recalling a recent apartment project in Chelsea where an Antony Gormley painting, spotted at the artist’s Royal Academy retrospective, prompted the start of an evolving collection of British art for the client that was sourced from over 20 galleries. ‘As well as visiting many of the major exhibitions, we get really excited by the discovery of new artists who aren’t yet that well known. Sometimes we work with clients to source artworks to add to an existing collection, while with others we go on the journey with them, finding new pieces that work with their possessions.’ According to Studio Vero, good design should make a home inviting and intriguing in a seemingly effortless way. This they achieve by a sensitive and intelligent use of lighting, together with an adventurous colour palette, rich textures and convivial corners, all designed to create relaxed, layered spaces that are so comfortable and welcoming that

As they focus on residential properties, Venetia and Romanos’ relationship with their clients is of paramount importance

guests don’t want to leave. This approach to design is perfectly illustrated in a commission for a quirky newly completed townhouse on Westbourne Grove. ‘We used an abundance of bold colours and exquisite wallpapers with jungle scenes and unusual patterns to introduce a sense of theatre, while antiques sourced from all over the world added character and charm,’ explains Romanos. For the duo, fully grasping the brief and gaining an intimate understanding of the client’s lifestyle is paramount. ‘When you’re working on someone’s home for several years, that relationship between client and designer is key because it’s such a personal and emotional process,’ continues Venetia. Studio Vero focuses solely on private residences, which are as varied as the clients themselves. ‘A current project involves reconfiguring a double-fronted villa on one of Notting Hill’s tree-lined avenues,’ continues Romanos. ‘Our goal here is to enhance the entertaining space, which includes a wonderful garden with an outdoor kitchen and bar, and a low-level seating area. It works brilliantly for parties.’ Inside, against the backdrop of a significant art collection, natural materials such as jute, linen, marble, reclaimed timber and cane have been used to create a deliberate counterpoint to the property’s quiet luxury. Romanos and Venetia work closely on every project and, while they share a similar aesthetic, they also have different tastes, ensuring clients have the advantage of two perspectives on design decisions. As a result, this collaborative approach not only reinforces their own individual creativity but remains a continuous source of inspiration, which is the secret behind the success of Studio Vero.

Studio Vero 11 Pembridge Studios 27a Pembridge Villas London W11 3EP studio-vero.com studioverouk

PHOTO: SIMON BROWN / THE INTERIOR ARCHIVE

DESIGN SERVICES

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PHOTO: SIMON BROWN / THE INTERIOR ARCHIVE

The pair often collaborate with artisans and artists to create bespoke pieces, which they combine with interesting antiques and flea-market finds to create timeless interiors

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DESIGN SERVICES

TAYLOR HOWES

International interiors studio with an ethos of ‘true design for living’

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ounded in 1992, in 2022 Taylor Howes Designs celebrated a significant anniversary year. Under the stewardship of founder and CEO, Karen Howes, and the Creative Head of Studio, Jane Landino, the interior design practice in the heart of Knightsbridge has become synonymous with couture-like room schemes and exceptional homes. The practice’s in-progress projects illustrate not only its international scope but the heights of the work the team of nearly 30 designers is undertaking. This includes a chalet in Switzerland, a French-Moroccan style palace in the Middle East and a 67,000 sq/ft new build house in Essex. All of which is hot off-the-back of the studio completing an 18,000 sq/ft new-build in the Cotswolds and its

first major hospitality project, Chateau Denmark, in London, which has received international press for its hedonistic and punk-rock inspired rooms. Also in the capital, the team are heads down on delivering the super-prime rental apartments within Knightsbridge Gardens, a development that’s slated to finish in 2023. Inspired by the heritage of the surrounding area and its place in fashion and royal history, the new apartments celebrate British interiors with furniture, colours and accents reminiscent of design houses such as Burberry and William Morris. Meanwhile, September 2022 will see the studio complete its second project with property company REDD, which will bring to the market 7 Charles Street. This follows 51 Mount Street, a turnkey 1,500 sq/ft apartment interior designed in collaboration

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From the Cotswolds to a Swiss chalet, Taylor Howes’s 30strong team has a diverse portfolio of projects on the go

Working closely with entrepreneurial clients to understand their nuances and realise their designs, the studio specialises in delivering ‘true design for living’ with Tanya Baxter Contemporary Art. Recognising the relationship between art and interior design, Taylor Howes enlisted Tanya to place collector-level pieces within the property, elevating the finished apartment further. For Karen, her enjoyment has always been as much in the business side of interiors as it is the actual designing. Working closely with entrepreneurial clients to understand their nuances and realise their designs, the studio specialises in delivering ‘true design for living’. ‘Attention to detail has contributed to our success and we are progressive in nature as a design studio,’ says Karen, who cites the energy and creativity of her team as a constant source of inspiration. Client projects aside, 2022 has seen Rest Nest – the charitable initiative founded by Karen and the

studio which endeavours to redesign and improve the break room faculties for NHS nurses and key workers – make further ground in a significant roll-out scheme across the Imperial Healthcare Trust in partnership with NHS Charities Together. Most recently, the studio redesigned the staff room on the A&E ward and children’s intensive care unit at Charing Cross Hospital. Commenting on next year, Karen says: ‘As I look ahead to 2023 and what it has in store for the studio it would be easy to get overwhelmed, but I am immensely proud of all that we’ve achieved and I will see next year as the year of gratitude. Not just in business, but more broadly for a lifetime spent in the world of design and its wonderfully brilliant community. In the wake of the pandemic, it’s important to give back and the work we do daily enables us to do just that.’

Taylor Howes Designs 49-51 Cheval Place London SW7 1EW +44(0) 20 7349 9017 taylorhowes.co.uk taylorhowesdesigns

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DESIGN SERVICES

THORP

Impeccably designed interiors that complement their environment

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horp is a multi-disciplinary design studio comprised of a team of highly creative architects and designers with a wealth of experience and a heritage that spans five decades. Based on London’s Sloane Street, it takes a proactive approach to designing and managing all aspects of a project: architectural and interior design, furnishing and decoration, art curation, gardens, and landscaping. The studio has an extraordinary client list, including English landowners, world leaders and financiers, many of whom own several homes around the world and ask Thorp to design them all. Typically, Thorp focuses on large turnkey projects for private clients in England and internationally; these range from a client purchasing a green field site to the refurbishment of an existing building. In addition, the practice also undertakes commercial

commissions such as restaurants, gyms, and even, recently, a state-of-the-art horse box with living accommodation for both the animals and humans. From the outset, the team works collaboratively, designing bespoke buildings with wholly integrated, united interiors that respond to the client’s unique needs. The brand’s director, Philippa Thorp, believes that indoor and outdoor spaces should balance each other perfectly, so gardens and landscaping are designed to complement a client’s home and their lifestyle, as well as reinforcing a connection to nature and creating a sense of natural harmony. A large proportion of the furniture and furnishings are designed in-house, specifically for an individual client’s property. ‘We regularly work with other leading designers and craftspeople who specialise in a specific discipline – be that glass, wood, stone or textiles,’ says Philippa. ‘We collaborate with living

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From the outset, the team works collaboratively, designing bespoke buildings with wholly integrated, united interiors that respond to the client’s unique needs artists and together we assist in curating private art collections for many of our clients. In our studio, we have an art gallery where we showcase artists and their work.’ Thorp’s expansive portfolio spans locations across the globe, from ski chalets in Europe and the USA to private villas in Thailand, the south of France and the Caribbean, and a penthouse apartment in Miami. This is in addition to the countless residential homes completed in the UK. The studio designed the exclusive KX Private Members’ Club (gym, restaurant and café) as well as, more recently, the famous Wentworth Golf Club and the Wentworth Health Club and Spa, not to mention the interiors of schools, yachts and private planes. Current projects that are in the final installation stages include two large new build turnkey residences: the first, a private mountain house in the USA’s exclusive Yellowstone Club and the second, a villa on Lake Como. Both were commissioned at the start of lockdown and have been completed despite the many challenges brought by the pandemic. At present, the studio is in the early design stages of a large lakeside residence in Connecticut, the refurbishment of a family home near New York, and a new build holiday home within an exclusive private club on the coast outside Lisbon. Closer to home in England, the studio is undertaking renovations and refurbishments of four private homes for clients.

Thorp specialises in bespoke homes that cater to their owners’ every need – even the furniture and furnishings are often designed in-house

Thorp 190/192 Sloane Street London SW1X 9QX +44 (0)20 7235 7808 thorp.co.uk thorp_design

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WARD & CO

Creating distinctive interiors for a discerning clientele

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ard & Co is a London-based interior design and architecture firm run by mother-daughter duo Sarah and Rosie Ward. Originally established in 1986 as Interiors by Sarah Ward, the studio rebranded to Ward & Co in 2021 to reflect the studio’s family ethos. The firm’s design experience spans both commercial and residential sectors, having delivered interiors for boutique hotels, restaurants and clubs as well as an impressive range of residential projects in the UK and abroad, from historic estates in the home counties to chalets in the Alps. Over the past 35 years, the studio has gained a reputation for delivering classic contemporary designs with bold flair, offering an authentic and highly personalised approach to interior design. ‘With each new project, we take the time to fully understand how each client lives and how they will use the space, thinking about family and staffing arrangements, working habits, likes and dislikes,’ says Sarah Ward. ‘Understanding someone’s lifestyle and culture is essential and always feeds into our designs, whether it’s a dedicated space for private artworks or supercar collections, or a desire for a spice kitchen or prayer room. Only by investing in our clients’ physical and emotional needs can we deliver a truly liveable space that will make their lives easier and more joyful.’ As a family business, Ward & Co offers a unique proposition. Sarah and Rosie’s relationship allows

From the Caribbean to Chelsea, Sarah and Rosie Ward bring their own distinct sense of style and authenticity to every project they work on

for maximum collaboration and agility and clients enjoy the combined expertise, insight and imagination of these two Creative Directors. The pair share a deep-rooted passion for travel, architecture and international cuisine and this often translates into their projects. Rosie’s extensive European travel and Sarah’s childhood spent in the Far East has instilled in the studio a wealth of knowledge. The exposure to diverse cultures, striking buildings and varied landscapes around the world have inspired numerous designs over the years. More recently, these interests led the duo to develop a project in Antigua. Working closely with local architects and landscape designers to transform the plot into a unique Caribbean home, they adopted a calming neutral base palette layered with pops of eye-catching artwork, natural materials and fabrics. Over the past year, the studio has also forged partnerships with leading industry suppliers such as Muse Design, becoming the exclusive UK stockist for the Far East-inspired lighting, accessories and accent furniture brand. Ward & Co is also a strong supporter of local artisans, working closely with some of the finest British independent craf tspeople, artists and designers to deliver projects or real longevity. Sarah and Rosie also hold regular mentoring sessions, coaching budding interior designers and helping them to study and hone their craft via practical and real-life experiences. Looking to the year ahead, Ward & Co is planning to grow the team in London and expand its portfolio in the Caribbean as the studio prepares to complete further projects in Antigua, a riverside apartment in Chelsea, a townhouse in Kensington and a country estate in Buckinghamshire.. Ward & Co Michelin House 81 Fulham Road London SW3 6RD +44 (0)20 3667 7796 wardandco.com wardandcointeriors

PHOTOS: JONATHAN BOND; TARAN WILKHU

DESIGN SERVICES

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PHOTOS: JONATHAN BOND; TARAN WILKHU

Over the past 35 years, the studio has gained a reputation for delivering classic contemporary designs with bold flair, offering an authentic and highly personalised approach to interior design

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Ready to make a splash? Do it in style with the best brands in the business

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Clive Christian Furniture Co, p110

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

CLIVE CHRISTIAN FURNITURE CO.

Opulent kitchens and bespoke cabinetry for the home

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live Christian Furniture has been designing for the world’s most outstanding homes for nearly five decades. The Lancashire design studio and cabinetry workshop is under the stewardship of Managing Director and owner, Phil Cole, and Head of Design, Oliver Deadman. From inception, the brand has sought to deliver an unparalleled level of opulence for its global client base. Built around a philosophy of detail-oriented design, it delivers products made from the world’s finest and rarest materials. Clive Christian Furniture is the foremost designer of ultra-luxurious kitchens and bespoke fitted cabinetry for the home. Traditionally working from the concept of a project, either directly with the client or their interior designer, each design starts with a hand drawn sketch and a nod to the brand’s handmade approach. The Clive Christian Furniture cabinetry collections are inspired by the majesty, proportion and scale of grand architecture. This past year has seen the culmination of several major home projects in Europe, the US and the UK. These include a historic house in Henley steeped in musical antiquity designed by Carmen Evans and Clive Christian Weybridge; a townhouse on Northumberland Street in Edinburgh designed by Anna Mills Interiors and Clive Christian Scotland; and a new-build family home in St George’s Hill, Surrey. This summer, Clive Christian Furniture is launching its first new cabinetry collection in almost a decade. Entitled ‘The New Classical’, the cabinetry – pioneering in its design and use of materials – embodies the spirit of the company’s classic designs but in a bold, contemporary way. ‘The New Classical’, which is engineered to be more sustainable, means that the cabinetry is highly adaptable, so that changes to

façades, colours and finishes are more easily applied. It is a new internal carcass design, which allows for multiple cabinets to share a single frame. The result is a single seamless surface on which to apply a texture or new finish. In tandem, the new design has allowed Oliver to create a new body of finishes, textures and colours that will launch this summer. A refreshed reminder of what statement cabinetry design is all about, ‘The New Classical’ collection celebrates raw materials while creating something art-like in style. It sees Clive Christian Furniture working with other British craftspeople and makers: Tom Dixon, Philip Watts and Joseph Giles. Experimenting with materials, Oliver has created one new finish made from encapsulating Tamo Ash wood veneer in glass. Sourced traditionally in Japan, Tamo Ash is a coveted decorative wood featuring swirls and twists that give the natural veneer a high sheen and feeling of movement. ‘The launch of the new cabinetry and finishes is a real milestone for the business,’ says Phil. ‘It showcases the principles synonymous with Clive Christian – scale, grandeur and opulence – with sustainability firmly at its core. Complementing existing cabinetry collections, ‘The New Classical’ is a statement of intent to remain at the forefront of our sector, delivering the world’s finest homes and continuously pushing the design boundary.’ Clive Christian Furniture Co The latter half of 2022 and early St Germain St, Farnworth 2023 will see further expansion Bolton BL4 7BG for the brand with the opening of +44 (0)1204 702200 new showrooms in LA, New York clivechristianfurniture.com and Edinburgh. clivechristianfurnitureco

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Built around a philosophy of detail-oriented design, it delivers products made from the world’s finest and rarest materials

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Interiors Anna Mills and Clive Christian Furniture Scotland, cr. Zac&Zac; The New Classical Kitchen by Clive Christian Furniture; Interiors Carmen Evans and Clive Christian Furniture Weybridge, cr. Astrid Templier

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

SUB-ZERO & WOLF

Luxury, high-performance kitchen appliances

Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances are found everywhere, from the homes of professional chefs to Hollywood movie sets

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hird-generation and family-run, Sub-Zero & Wolf was founded in 1945 in Madison, Wisconsin by Westye Bakke, who pioneered the new, safer standards of freezing, achieving below-zero temperatures for the first time. His mission with the Sub-Zero Freezer Company was to build the best refrigeration he possibly could and that tenet is as pivotal today as it was back then. In the year 2000, Sub-Zero’s co-brand Wolf launched its first cooking appliances, after purchasing the residential arm of a 70-year-old US commercial cooking company and redesigning the product range from the ground up. Fourteen years later came the ‘New Generation’ range: the biggest product roll-out in the company’s history, which includes coffee machines, convection steam ovens, a new series of integrated wine storage and refrigeration. More recently, outdoor products such as gas grills, burner modules, warming drawers and refrigeration, plus ‘Wolf Gourmet’ – luxury countertop appliances – have also been added to the collection. Today, the company is run by Westye’s grandson James Bakke and still operates from the original site of the two-car garage where Westye began building his first prototype freezers. The values and ethos that the company was built on still stand and will continue to do so, as it evolves and grows. Sustainability is at the forefront of every decision made. Over 75 percent of the stainless steel and up to 50 percent of the plastic used in the refrigerators comes from recycled materials (and over 560 tons of scrap is recycled each year, which would otherwise go into landfill). All waste water has been eliminated in the manufacturing

process, with almost 200,000 gallons recycled annually. And over 30 appliances have earned the Energy Star rating for outstanding energy efficiency (meaning that they use 15 percent less energy than those that are non-certified). That’s not all: new LED lighting in Wolf’s manufacturing plant saves over 1,000 kW hours of electricity per year and even the largest Sub-Zero appliances use less energy than a 75-watt light bulb. Build quality, manufacturing, performance and longevity of products are all paramount. Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances are handbuilt and designed to last not just years but decades. It’s no wonder that the products are loved by professional chefs, high-profile celebrities and high-net-worth individuals alike, often appearing in Hollywood films and UK cooking programmes on both sides of the Atlantic. Such a wide range of luxury appliances also allows clients to replicate their main home kitchen on a yacht, jet or within in their outdoor spaces. This autumn sees the launch of new under-counter refrigeration including a single door all fridge and glass door beverage centre, as well as re-designed coffee systems and ‘E Series’ ovens that feature a touchcontrol panel and automatic cooking modes. What began as a US-only based and marketed brand in 1945 is now a highly aspirational company that sells its products globally. The Sub-Zero & Wolf unrivalled product quality and 251 Brompton Road performance is matched only by London, SW3 2EP the world-class customer care and +44 (0)20 7858 3480 sustainability values that Sub-Zero subzero-wolf.co.uk & Wolf centres its approach around. subzerowolfuk

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Even the largest Sub-Zero appliances use less energy than a 75-watt light bulb

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

WEST ONE BATHROOMS

An illustrious supplier of bespoke bathrooms

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stablished in London’s Mayfair in 1978 and run by the Waters family ever since, West One Bathrooms rapidly became known for sourcing the most beautiful products and accessories. Breaking the mould in the industry, it led the way in innovation, transforming the perception of bathrooms from being seen as merely functional and basic into indulgent sanctuaries. West One Bathrooms is proud to offer eight luxury bathroom showrooms across London and the South East that are regularly updated with new and cutting-edge products to reflect trends, as well as timeless classics. On display you will find a curated selection of the very best in bathroom ideas, design and inspiration including the exclusive Wall&Decò Waterproof Wallpaper. West One Bathrooms is also the exclusive stockist in the UK and Europe for the prestigious tile and stone makers, Ann Sacks and New Ravenna, with a dedicated showroom in the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour. The newest showroom in Tunbridge Wells takes a forward-thinking approach to retail, showcasing signature luxury bathroom displays while providing a unique offering and experience for customers. It’s home to the Virtual Worlds 4D virtual reality theatre, where clients can experience their new bathroom before it becomes a reality. The space incorporates the ‘Studio’ concept that was first introduced in the Clerkenwell showroom, placing an emphasis on a mood board and portable concept. At each showroom, there is a creative, knowledgeable

As a multi-award winning company, West One Bathrooms melds luxury with high quality and its unique creative spark

designer who has an almost infinite product choice to work with, including exclusive and bespoke ranges. They receive constant training on the latest products and software, and visit leading international trade shows as well as manufacturers’ factories to experience the craftsmanship behind the products first hand. With a portfolio extending to more than 750 global brands, thousands of products across the spectrum are covered, from the most exclusive and unique, to more affordable and high-quality essentials. The dedicated sales, design, project and contracts teams have the expertise to cater for all sizes of project, budgets and styles. The teams understand that planning a bathroom is a big decision – a delicate balance of the desire for the finer things along with practical considerations of who will be using the space. As a multi award-winning supplier of bespoke luxury bathrooms, West One Bathrooms believes in offering sustainable options without compromising on the aesthetic. Manufacturers are increasingly working to develop sustainable products that will make bathrooms more eco-friendly, and West One Bathrooms is ideally placed to introduce them. The company is also working with architects and designers to promote water-saving and environmentally minded products as well as giving teams the tools to help customers make more sustainable choices. The aim at West One Bathrooms is to make purchases as streamlined and fulfilling as possible. With its own fleet of vehicles, the company can ensure prompt and reliable nationwide delivery, while for overseas clients it offers a full packing and exportation service. A one stopshop for expert advice, renowned design, excellent customer service and an infinite product selection.

West One Bathrooms Battersea 41 Queenstown Road London SW8 3RE +44 (0)333 011 3333 westonebathrooms.com westonebathrooms

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Breaking the mould in the industry, it led the way in innovation, transforming the perception of bathrooms from being seen as merely functional and basic into indulgent sanctuaries

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Zoffany, p138

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS Beauty, statement and timeless appeal – these designers have them spades

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

ARCHIVE

Other stand-out designs include two wallpapers by William Morris: the recoloured 1864 ‘Fruit’ design with its twisting, diagonal stems of fruit and flowers that evokes the symbolism of the Mediterranean, and his ‘Daisy’ strewn pattern that still feels delightfully fresh now. Both prints have a gorgeous Arts & Crafts feel, ensuring they are charming and cohesive without being too overbearing in a scheme. One of the most daring designs from the collection is ‘Forbidden Fruit’. An energetic reimagination of Pat Etheridge’s 1968 ‘Nana’, it celebrates the vision of her original botanic print, featuring poison greens prickling under petals of copper and an entangled orchard of deep tones and natural hues. Once considered too risqué for the design world, her trademark bohemian energy lends itself brilliantly to a more liberal time. Maximalism through the Archive lens is a heady mix of energetic and enigmatic prints. Aimed at the design curious non-conformist, more is more and scale is queen. It is about creating interiors that inspire others to be brave. Stripes combine with print patterns in evocative spaces; matching curtains and wallpaper can be paired up for a no holds barred commitment to colour and pattern. There is artistic bedding to anchor a room, from the steely blue hues of ‘Strawberry Thief Beetle Mania’ to ‘Palmetto’, with its exotic rubber plants and passion flowers that bring to mind an orangery. And plush velvet colourful cushions finished with extravagant trims – one highlight is the superbly symmetrical 1895 tulip and bird print by C.F.A. Voysey. This is a brand that marches to its own dynamic beat, where difference is encouraged and there are no home design rules to follow.

A bold new maximalist brand from the Sanderson Design Group

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he Sanderson Design Group has long been known as a home emporium of pattern, colour, and print. Now, it has opened up its vault of design treasures to launch a new brand, Archive. Smashing the barriers between heritage and modernity, Archive exists to reignite a love for timeless designs by the likes of Pat Etheridge, C.F.A. Voysey and William Morris, and make them relevant for interiors today. Embracing maximalism is in the brand’s very being: a bold exploration of prints and patterns, it pushes boundaries and goes beyond the expected, channelling British eccentricity with self-expression at the fore. With its first releases, the Archive team had the glorious task of cherry-picking some of the most memorable designs from Sanderson Design Group’s past, ranging from the Arts & Crafts era to the swinging Sixties. They put together an eclectic mix of patterns, giving each one a new lease of life through vibrant colourways. Take the iconic ‘Golden Lily’, perhaps the most enduring design by William Morris’ protégé John Henry Dearle. The new fantastical reworking sees the design available as a printed velvet and matching wallpaper. It comes in four colourways including ‘Espresso’, which pairs muted tones with the daring swirling tendrils of the print, and the far more flamboyant ‘Serotonin Pink’. The latter shouts freedom of expression, and, when the fabric and wallpaper are put together, has the ultimate rock and roll feel.

Go bold and go beautiful with Archive designs

Archive Sanderson Design Group Chalfont House, Oxford Road Denham UB9 4DX archive.sandersondesigngroup.com archive_sdg

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Archive pushes boundaries and goes beyond the unexpected, channelling British eccentricity with self-expression at the fore

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

COLE & SON

The revered design house ushers in a new chapter with The Gardens collection

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ole & Son was first established in 1875 in the north London borough of Islington, an area renowned for its many hand block printing businesses at the time. Today, the company’s archive is a beautiful and inspiring chronicle of artistic styles and expressions spanning three centuries. It consists of approximately 2,000 block print designs, 500 screen print patterns and a vast quantity of original drawings and wallpapers. This archive and log of commissions attest to some of the most important decorating schemes of the 19th and 20th centuries, from stately homes such as Chatsworth House, Blickling Hall and Audley End, to Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and the wallpaper designs of AW Pugin, which featured in the Palace of Westminster. On occasion, this extensive archive is a source of inspiration for new designs within collections. Elements from historic prints and patterns are carefully selected, adapted and coloured by the brand’s artists and printed by craftsmen to produce wallpapers faithful to the character of the original document, yet contemporary in feel. Some of Cole & Son’s most beloved prints have inspired a fabric collection. The ‘Contemporary Collection – Fabrics’ is a curated range of textiles, including the lusciously leafed ‘Palm Jungle’, which is offered as a linen union and velvet, as well as the contemporary classic ‘Woods’. Launched at Salone del Mobile 2022 was an exciting new collaboration with Stella McCartney. ‘Fungi Forest’ – based on the designer’s summer 2022 toile de Jouy print – is reimagined as a wallcovering on the company’s most sustainable base to date: a new eco substrate derived from 79 per cent renewable fibres with a manufacturing process that produces 30 per cent less greenhouse

gases than traditional non-woven wallcoverings. Summer 2022 also sees the company pay homage to its roots with a collection of wallpapers titled ‘The Gardens’. Emanating from the world of art, ‘The Gardens’ tells the enduring story of nature’s vistas, as rendered through the artist’s brush. Hand-drawn and handpainted over countless hours, the ever-changing light, colour palette, and organic movement witnessed in gardens and outside spaces is delicately captured with every stroke. ‘The Gardens: Vol. I’, wallpapers are a series of epic design stories each containing their own extraordinary chapters. Three distinct panoramas make up the collection: the romance of the sweeping English garden is met with the fanciful whimsy of flora and foliage of a sun-drenched land, with the narrative complete in the understated natural beauty of a woodland through the seasons. These expansive landscapes are complemented by two foliage designs of petite petals and a lush patchwork of inflorescence bursts that can either be used in isolation as an all-over print or as a coordinate to break up the panels. ‘The Gardens: Vol. I’ will be followed by ‘The Gardens: Vol. II’, Cole & Son’s second fabric collection. The latter offers an exquisite selection of fabric complements in rich jacquards, crisp poplin and lustred velvet, enhancing the home with an elegance that is uniquely yours. With a commitment to, and Cole & Son passion for, excellence, Cole & Son 3 Jubilee Place is dedicated to creating unique and London SW3 3TD distinctive designs that help shape +44 (0)20 8442 8844 inviting interiors through colour cole-and-son.com and pattern. cole_and_son_wallpapers

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With a commitment to, and passion for, excellence, Cole & Son is dedicated to creating unique and distinctive designs that help shape inviting interiors through colour and pattern

‘The Gardens: Vol. I’, wallpapers are a series of epic botanical design stories

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

COLEFAX & FOWLER

A diverse design group with a portfolio of luxury interior brands

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he Colefax & Fowler brand name has represented quintessential English style ever since the 1930s, when Lady Colefax began creating interiors for her wellconnected circle of friends. Today, the company consists of a diverse range of textile, furniture and interior design brands including contemporary Larsen, Parisian studio Manuel Canovas, Jane Churchill, Cowtan and Tout, and Devon-made Kingcome sofas. Not to mention the interior decorating firm, Sibyl Colefax and John Fowler, which continues the company’s heritage, delivering interiors to a resolutely confidential clientele with uncompromising attention to detail. It is the diverse offering of the brands within the group that allows it to offer luxurious comfort all-round, from high quality fabrics to sumptuous

sofas. Colefax & Fowler (as well as its partner brands) launch collections internationally every six months, most recently adding a selection of embroidered trimmings. A series of nine decorative braids that celebrate craftsmanship and embellishment, ‘Mirador Trimmings’ are classically tasteful with a subtle maximalist feel. Each design has also been curated to sit alongside the entire range of fabrics and wallpapers. When it comes to upholstered furniture, a key brand in the Colefax Group stable is Kingcome. The company was founded in 1971 in Totnes, Devon, by charismatic WWII flying ace Group Captain Brian Kingcome and his wife Lesley, a former Vogue model. It soon cemented its place as a British institution known for manufacturing the highest quality furniture from the best materials. The timeless collection is designed to complement any interior, whether traditional or contemporary,

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The Colefax & Fowler brand name is a by-word for quintessential English style

It is the diverse offering of the brands within the group that allows it to offer luxurious comfort all-round, from high quality fabrics to sumptuous sofas and includes numerous sofa and chair styles, stools, ottomans and dining chairs. The team believes in the life-enhancing value of fine furniture, handmade in the English tradition. Many of the expert craftsmen and women at Kingcome have been working there for decades, proud to pass on skills to a new generation of young artisans. They pride themselves on their personalised service, meticulous care and attention to detail, quality and longevity. Specialist disciplines within the company range from cabinet making, carpentry, wood turning and polishing, to pattern cutting, upholstery, machine sewing, and hand sewing. All of which can be used to meet specific customer requirements, creating customised and bespoke furniture that reflects an individual’s taste and personality.

Every piece of furniture is built to stand the test of time. The classic sofas and chairs, often realised with a modern twist, are designed to become treasured heirlooms. Frames are crafted to order from sustainable hardwood timber and the company has a reputation for its excellent fabric cutting, pattern matching, as well for handstitched buttons, skirts, and finishes. Alongside the showroom in London’s Chelsea, which serves both private customers and interior designers, Kingcome has recently launched an ecommerce platform featuring an edited range of pieces from its extensive catalogue. Here, customers can view the collection and make customisations to the style of fabric and size of the piece. An integral part of the Colefax Group, Kingcome is the go-to for the finest handmade furniture.

Colefax & Fowler Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, London SW10 0XE Kingcome 110 Fulham Road London SW3 6HU +44(0) 20 8877 6400 colefax.com colefaxandfowler

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

DEIRDRE DYSON

Bespoke hand-knotted rugs that transcend trends

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trailblazer in combining contemporary designs with traditional techniques, artist and designer Deirdre Dyson has been producing painterly rugs and carpets for over 20 years. Although they have evolved over time (and are entirely independent of trends), one thing remains: they are all of heirloom quality and primarily hand-knotted by Nepalese artisans in wool and silk. ‘The inspiration comes from the same things that inspire my paintings; they are just in a more graphic form,’ explains Deirdre, citing refracted light through a vase, bulrushes reflected in a lake and a folded piece of paper as simple moments that have been the starting point for her past creations. Deirdre sketches each design, colour matching from a selection of over 5,000 wools and silks. It is then translated digitally by a design technician, who traces the lines precisely, ready for mapping and weaving (it allows her to visualise the designs before they are produced and ensure that the carpets are as close to the original artwork as possible). This hand-wrought element is what makes each floor covering unique. A Deirdre Dyson rug could never be described as ‘patterned’ – with her designs, there’s an artist’s eye at work and each composition fully utilises the talents of the weavers to create something incredibly special.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ‘Falling Ribbons’ rug in a home designed by Charlotte Lane Fox; the ‘Sea Shell’ rug in situ; the ‘Shallows’ rug design

Alongside the annual themed collection that is launched at her London and Paris galleries, Deirdre produces individual designs to suit each of her clients’ exact requirements – haute couture for your floor, as it were. Size, shape, and colourway are all customisable. ‘A beautiful hand-knotted carpet can be a backdrop or the star of an interior design setting. It can work to tie every component of the overall design together for a harmonious result that appeals to all the senses,’ she says. Deirdre is seeing a trend for large-scale carpets that form the centre piece for an interior and pairs of carpets which create a connection in a larger space. As a case in point, take the ‘Falling Ribbons’ rugs, commissioned by interior designer Charlotte Lane Fox for either end of a double drawing room (left). Ribbons are one of Deirdre’s classic motifs and allow the gentle yet impactful introduction of colour in the alternating silks. Another client recently commissioned two versions of ‘Unravel’ – the same design in alternative grades – for a study and facing sitting room. Meanwhile, for a Manhattan penthouse, Deirdre created seven carpets of the same ‘Sea Mist’ design, each with a different colour grade which informs the artwork and furniture selected for the bedrooms. With a background in fine art, Deirdre has an innate ability to select tones and colours that work together perfectly. Her latest collection ‘All at Sea’ is a great example. Here, she has used the naturally occurring colours created by the reflection of the sun and cliffs on sea water, and the creatures beneath, to create a calming palette in nine designs which have really resonated with clients, both in the UK and abroad. And, looking ahead to January, the 2023 collection will be a bold and graphic celebration of colour, to symbolise the joy of a world opening up once again.

Deirdre Dyson 554 King’s Road London SW6 2DZ +44 (0)20 7384 4464 deirdredyson.com deirdredysonrugs

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‘A beautiful hand-knotted carpet can be a backdrop or the star of an interior design setting’

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

FERMOIE

Fine furnishing and interior fabrics, designed and printed in-house

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wapping the world of paint for printing fine textiles was a natural next step for Farrow & Ball founders Tom Helme and Martin Ephson, who established Fermoie a decade ago. Taking their expertise in colour in a new textural direction, the company specialises in beautiful and original fabrics, all made at its factory in Wiltshire. What makes Fermoie so unique is its design and printing techniques. All designs are original and hand-drawn by the team in the studio, who then mix water-based pigments to build a bespoke colour palette that works with the existing collection (this is inspired by the vast colour library of natural dyes). These pigments are then printed onto woven base-cloths in the factory and dispatched within seven days – something that is incredibly unusual in the industry.

Whether discussing initial designs, deciding on the right base-cloth or the perfect pigment combination, the close-knit team are all passionate, talented experts in their chosen fields. ‘From weaving and dying to our studio drawings, we have our own take on traditional printing,’ says co-founder Tom. ‘Original thinking and unparalleled care go into everything we do.’ All patterns in the Fermoie offering are presented in five colour families: reds, yellows, greens, blues, and neutrals, and edited to create infallible combinations. Fabrics are either pure cotton, 100 per cent linen or a union of the two, and are suitable for upholstery, drapery, fabric walling and other interior uses. ‘Much of the beauty of Fermoie fabrics is down to the materials from which they are made,’ continues Tom. ‘Texture and depth bring a beautiful pattern to life so we continually experiment with natural fibres and blends to achieve textural perfection without

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‘From weaving and dying to our studio drawings, we have our own take on traditional printing’ losing sight of our sustainability goals.’ Linen is the company’s single biggest raw material and its weavers work with flax farmers within a few hundred miles of the factory (flax is sustainable) while the cotton is woven exclusively for Fermoie by the first UK cotton mill to be awarded Soil Association and Global Organic Textile Standard accreditation. The company also produces a co-ordinating range of accessories, made in-house using Fermoie fabrics. All cushions are piped, made with a hidden zip, and available in a rainbow of colours and various sizes. Gathered lampshades come in patterned and plain fabrics; lamp bases come in beautiful hand-blown glass. The entire range of fabrics, as well as upholstered furniture and fabric walling, is on display to inspire customers in both the Pimlico Road and newly refurbished Marlborough showroom (all accessories are stocked too). In the latter, which is part of the studio complex, there is also a constantly changing array of colour trials, end-of-roll and archive fabrics, all available for purchase. Lampshades and cushions are also in stock. Naturally the showroom team at both locations are on hand and ready to help customers with their scheme, and virtual appointments are also available. Whether you’re looking to adorn a gallery wall, upholster a contemporary sofa or make curtains for a country cottage, there is bound to be a Fermoie fabric to suit.

Fermoie Hertford Court, Marlborough Wiltshire SN8 4AW 53-55 Pimlico Road London SW1W 8NE Set up by Farrow & Ball’s founders, Fermoie’s beautiful fabrics are all screen printed in the UK onto woven base cloth

+44(0) 1672 513723 fermoie.com fermoie

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

GP & J BAKER

Timeless fabrics and wallcoverings inspired by the archive since 1884

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P & J Baker continues to create innovative fabric and wallcovering collections inspired by original documents from its extensive archive. These include handpainted, early-20th-century designs by famed textile designer William Turner featuring pretty flora and fauna motifs, as well as rare Indienne cottons and Chinese wallpapers. The brand’s archive also features works from Arts & Crafts designers including CFA Voysey. Over the last few years, the company has witnessed an increasing appetite for wallcoverings, and for 2022 it has reproduced many of its cherished historical designs as stunning wallpapers, rescaled and recoloured to appeal to today’s discerning customers. One example is the ‘Ashmore’ wallpaper collection by the aforementioned William Turner, an exceptional range of

decorative designs with a quintessential English country house aesthetic. Meanwhile, the ‘Original Brantwood’ wallpaper collection is inspired by the many Arts & Crafts documents housed in the GP & J Baker archive, including designs from CFA Voysey, which have been creatively reimagined in exciting new colours. Several of the company’s designs have been in production for over 100 years, each reissue adding another layer to their charm. ‘GP & J Baker’s treasured archive continues to inspire and delight our customers and we are thrilled to translate these authentic designs into fabulous wallpapers,’ says Creative and Managing Director Ann Grafton. ‘This year we are also proud to launch the ‘Baker Original’ stamp of authenticity, which is designed to authenticate our wallpapers and fabrics by allowing us to highlight the provenance of each of our exceptional archival designs.’

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For 2022 it has reproduced many of its cherished historical designs as stunning wallpapers, rescaled and recoloured to appeal to today’s discerning customers

GP & J Baker looked to its extensive archive for its beautiful new collections of reissued wallcoverings and wallpapers

Several Baker Original designs are included in the new wallpaper collections. The ‘Ashmore’ range includes ‘Broughton Rose’ from 1918, a charming depiction of helmeted guineafowl surrounded by anemones, convolvulus and Malmaison roses. The current design was inspired by the reverse of the original block-printed fabric, with the bleed through of the dyes giving a wonderful faded, aged appearance. The collection also features Turner’s ‘Eltham’ from 1910, a pretty, painterly design of majestic birds in leafy branches. Known as one of ‘The Turner Birds’, ‘Eltham’ was painted in the Arborescent style and printed onto linen using six sets of 81 blocks. The ‘Original Brantwood’ wallpaper range includes ‘Birds & Cherries’ from 1897, a beautiful design purchased by George Percival Baker featuring cherry trees and great tits, and ‘Iris Meadow’ from 1873, designed by the eminent Arts &Crafts designer Kate Faulkner. This was

first produced by GP & J Baker in 1895, and possibly gifted to George Percival Baker in the 1880s by Faulkner, in recognition of his discovery of, and interest in, Alpine plants. The design features delicate winter iris alongside snowdrops and winter anemones. In addition to this, GP & J Baker’s extensive ‘House’ collection of fabulous weaves, supple velvets, luxurious textures and elegant linens have been designed to sit alongside the wallcovering and decorative fabric collections to create timeless interiors for both traditional and contemporary spaces. With smart showrooms in London’s Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and Paris, GP & J Baker is dedicated to creating beautiful products and offering a comprehensive resource for the international design community – and that includes its latest wallpaper collections with their delightfully enduring appeal.

GP & J Baker Design Centre East Design Centre Chelsea Harbour London, SW10 0XF +44 (0)20 7351 7760 gpjbaker.com gpjbaker

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

GRAPHENSTONE

Eco-friendly paints combining artisanal techniques and innovative 21st century technology

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hese days paint colours seem to come with ever-more alluring names. But what a paint is called can easily distract from the real question: what it’s made from. Does it contain petro-chemicals (even if it’s encouragingly marked as ‘water based’) or microbeads that damage waterways, oceans and eco-systems? Does it release VOCs after application, adversely affecting indoor air quality? Even a product marked as ‘low VOC’ can have up to 30 grams of toxins per litre – which, in fact, is not low at all. These are the important paint questions for consumers. One answer is Graphenstone: a paint range that combines traditional, harm-free ingredients used since Roman times, with the latest 21st century carbon technology. Created in Spain in 2013 by

coatings technician Antonio Leon, to bridge a critical gap in the paints sector, it is now distributed in 40 countries worldwide. His objective was to shift the world forwards from the decades-long use of toxic synthetic coatings, replacing these polluting, unhealthy oil-based products with trusted natural and sustainable minerals such as lime, chalk, clay and silicate. This is paired with Graphene, which is made from pure inert carbon and the strongest material on earth. It was discovered at Manchester University in 2004 by two scientists, both of whom are now Nobel Prize winners, due to the extraordinary potential behind this remarkable advancement. ‘Our combination of the oldest, most trusted minerals like lime and silicate, together with 21st century Graphene technology, sets our range apart from the competition,’ says Patrick Folkes, CEO of

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Of course colour is important, but Graphenstone also asks its customers to consider the environmental impact of their paint choices as well

Graphenstone UK. ‘Ecological and sustainable yet extremely durable, our clean-tech ranges create safe and healthy environments, with no compromise on performance.’ Graphenstone’s range contains no plastics, man-made chemicals or microbeads, with only trace VOCs (under 0.1 percent). And, in complete contrast to the intense toxicity of typical synthetic paints, this most modern of sustainable options offers strength, durability and an unsurpassed richly pigmented finish. The purifying lime paints actively remove CO 2 and air-born toxins. Graphenstone is now the most independently certified, sustainable and ecological mineral paint brand in the world. Awarded Cradle to Cradle Institute Gold, Silver and Bronze across all its main ranges, in addition to many other prestigious harm-free product evaluation standards worldwide, it sets the bar for

PHOTO: PHILIP VILE

Graphenstone is now the most independently certified, sustainable and ecological mineral paint brand in the world technology, ecology and health in the paint sector. The range includes ‘Biosphere’ and ‘Ecosphere Premium’, exterior and interior pure lime paints with a matt finish; ‘GrafClean Premium’, suitable for general use indoors and out, plus ‘GrafClean Eggshell’ for woodwork and trim; and the latest VOC-free emulsion, ‘Nevada Ultra’, a trade paint which can also be used as a mist or first coat to reduce cost. Of course, colour choice has always been a powerful tool to motivate buyers and Graphenstone has a palette of over 1,000 rich shades. The annual ‘Colour of the Year’ story rolled out by the big brands is often the key narrative in paints. Given the indisputable climate crisis, however, Graphenstone asks buyers to consider other critical issues ‘Beyond Colour’, a concept it has now trademarked. Natural and environmentally friendly, these are paints that tick all the right boxes.

Graphenstone Speedwell Way, Border Valley Harleston, Norwich IP20 9EH +44 (0)1379 772940 graphenstone-ecopaints.store graphenstonepaintsuk

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

LOOMAH

Luxury bespoke carpets and rugs, handmade to order

Loomah’s luxurious, bespoke rugs are designed to work harmoniously with the wider design scheme

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oomah is at the forefront of designing and supplying traditional and contemporary luxury bespoke carpets and rugs. With over 30 years of experience working with the best artisans and factories in the industry, the brand’s husband and wife founders Andrew and Natalie Cotgrove set up Loomah with the vision of creating a studio focused on delivering exceptional quality alongside a personal design service. Loomah has an eclectic portfolio but it is the company’s bespoke design service that makes it stand out in a crowded arena – and allows clients to create something completely unique. All carpets and rugs are custom made to order, to exact specifications. No matter the size or scope of a project, there is always a focus on offering a personal customer experience. ‘We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and going the extra mile to ensure the end product is the ultimate in elegance and luxury,’ says Andrew. Everything is designed by the in-house design team in Loomah’s London showroom and expertly hand tufted to the most exacting standards by highly skilled craftsmen. ‘Whether a client has a concept in mind or wishes to utilise the expertise of our designers to draw inspiration from their existing interior, our team will work with an individual to develop their design to ensure that it works in harmony with the overall look and feel of a space,’ continues Andrew. He cites a recent commission designing and supplying bespoke carpets for the reception areas and staircase of an exclusive luxury apartment building in Mayfair as an example.

‘With the scheme for the space designed and fabrics and finishes selected, the carpet was the final element to be considered but also a key component in achieving the desired finish,’ says Andrew. ‘The brief was to create a bespoke design that balanced both the modern and traditional elements of the space and achieved the bright, elegant finish desired by the residents.’ Loomah leant on its provenance for more classical designs and, more specifically, took inspiration from its Pembroke design, an Arts & Crafts-style rug that was on display in its London showroom at the time. The final rug design was sensitive to the history of the building, featuring an ornate trellis border as a subtle nod to the original carpet, and the inclusion of a delicate floral motif to complement the wall murals. The carpet was curated as a single piece, laid throughout the entire communal area. The central trellis motif then continued up the stair runner, creating a continuous flow through the space. ‘The key to the success of a project of this nature is the planning,’ says Andrew. ‘By investing time in the planning, not only did we ensure the perfect finish but we were able to minimise waste. This means less cost both financially and to the environment.’ Whether it is the simple opulence of a luxury silk carpet in a plain Loomah custom-dyed colour or an intricate 592 Kings Road border design following the contours London SW6 2DX of an elaborate staircase, each project +44 (0)20 7371 9955 is designed to suit the requirements loomah.com of an individual interior. loomahltd

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Loomah has an eclectic portfolio but it is the company’s bespoke design service that makes it stand out in a crowded arena

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

RIVIERE RUGS

the most eco-friendly fibres of all, completely renewable, with little impact on the planet throughout its production process. The rugs are hand woven with a minimum of 100 knots per square inch (there is also a wide range of other knot counts), using intricate techniques that The ‘Nuvola’ rug shown here in a project create sumptuous textural layers featuring fabrics and wallcoverings by and depth of colour. Each design Mark Alexander, part of The Romo Group. can be fully customised with markalexander.com. CLOCKWISE: ‘Jigsaw Chalk’, ‘Seti Hara’, ‘Trevi Hermes’ a choice of colour, size, shape and materials. In addition, the company provides a colour matching service, with an extensive library of more than 2,000 colour poms at its Lots Road showroom in the heart of London’s Chelsea Design Quarter. Working closely with leading interior design practices worldwide, Riviere also offers a fully bespoke design service and a range of alternative materials that can be used for the rugs. This service gives the industry the scope to create one-off pieces for their clients suiting a wide range of budgets and lead-times. More recently, Riviere was proud to launch renowned interiors brand Zoffany’s inaugural rug collection. The fabric and wallpaper brand is a firm favourite of Camilla and Leo, who have worked with Zoffany on numerous design shoots, so creating a range together seemed like an obvious next step. Given exclusive access to Zoffany’s archives, they selected designs to be carefully translated from fabric or wallpaper into rugs, taking in account composition, scale, and colour. After a fantastic initial response, the Jigsaw design, which has a low loop knot blended silk and wool base in distinctive abstract forms, has proved to be the runaway favourite. Like the rest of the Riviere collections, these are unique pieces of floor art, designed as timeless heirlooms to be treasured for years to come.

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nspired by their extensive travels in Europe and Asia, Camilla and Leo Riviere founded Riviere Rugs in 2005. Since the beginning, the idea behind the company has been to combine fine craftsmanship and creativity, and produce original rugs that will last for generations. Riviere’s beloved designs and timeless colour palette are based on the couple’s background in art and design, and their thorough understanding and appreciation of classical and modern architecture, as well as paintings and interiors. Focusing on sustainable design, they work closely with their workshop in the Kathmandu valley of Nepal to create custom designed, exquisite handcrafted rugs for both contemporary and traditional schemes. Proud to be part of a highly skilled artisan tradition in an increasingly mass-produced world dominated by synthetic materials, Riviere’s rugs stand-out as a natural and truly unique alternative (no project is ever the same). Each rug is produced using age-old techniques passed down through generations: from the dying of the yarns to the highly labour-intensive weaving process, the entire crafting of the rug is carried out by hand. Using only the finest natural materials and raw fibres, such as hand carded Tibetan wool from sheep reared in the nearby Himalayas, alongside pure hand spun silk and biodegradable botanic silk, each rug has a low impact on the environment. Wool is one of

Riviere Rugs 46 Lots Road London, SW10 0QF +44 (0)20 3601 4600 riviererugs.com riviererugs

NUVOLA RUG PHOTO BY JAKE CURTIS

Exquisite natural rugs, custom designed and handcrafted in Nepal

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NUVOLA RUG PHOTO BY JAKE CURTIS

Riviere’s beloved designs and timeless colour palette are based on the couple’s background in art and design

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

TANIA JOHNSON DESIGN

Nature-inspired photographs translated into custom, hand knotted rugs

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extile designer Tania Johnson specialises in contemporary hand knotted rugs. Using her own photography as inspiration, the designer translates each image into an intricately woven wool and silk piece. Made by hand using the finest natural materials, each rug will last generations. Tania graduated from London’s Royal College of Art with a Masters in woven textiles before working at a weaving mill in Switzerland and then in New York where she was a textile designer for Calvin Klein Home. She designed the fashion brand’s first rug collection, which is where she discovered her passion for creating innovative floor art. Tania went on to launch her debut collection of hand knotted rugs in 2010, returning to the UK a year later. All rugs in the collection are certified by GoodWeave, the organisation that aims to eliminate child labour and improve working conditions for adults. Tania has been a member of GoodWeave since forming the business and strongly supports the initiative. From the start, she wanted to be sure her rugs were produced ethically and help the communities involved in their making. Being a member of GoodWeave has ensured this happens. She has also always worked closely with the same manufacturer since the beginning. ‘The highly skilled artisans we work with in Nepal are at the core of everything we do,’ she says. Each design starts with a moment that inspires Tania, for instance the way light creates shadows and reflections, or the microscopic details found in nature. She captures these constantly shifting patterns that form and change around us through her camera lens. Using

her textile background, she creates every weaving graph herself and specifies how each pixel should be translated into yarn and colour – something which sets her apart from her competitors. This attention to detail can be felt in each of Tania’s characteristically complex designs. This year marks the ten-year anniversary of Tania’s best-selling ‘Water’ collection and, to celebrate, the designer will launch a number of new colours and shapes. Each rug in the range is based on images of light and reflections on water (their names, which include ‘Ripples’, ‘Splash’, ‘Rainstorm’ and ‘Whirl’, give an indication of each pattern) and are hand knotted in silk and wool. Alongside this collection, Tania also has a selection of simple, hand-carved, gradated and geometric designs created on a hand loom. The company offers a completely bespoke service and works with both interior designers and private clients. Every rug can be produced in any colour, size or shape. Clients are always welcome to visit the studio to view full size rugs but Tania and her team are also very happy to take a range of samples and the extensive set of colour poms to someone’s home, to see what works best in the space itself. Tania puts an emphasis on a highly personalised service and loves the process of developing the Tania Johnson Design perfect – and individual – creation Unit 12, Crane Mews for each and every client. Designed 32 Gould Road with integrity from beginning to end, Twickenham TW2 6RS each Tania Johnson rug conveys +44 (0)7979 193971 a unique connection between taniajohnsondesign.com inspiration, design, tradition and skill. taniajohnsondesign

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Textile designer Tania Johnson’s rug designs are first captured on camera, before being meticulously translated into yarn

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FABRIC, WALLS & FLOORS

ZOFFANY

Luxury wallpaper and fabric underpinned by artistry, heritage and exceptional craftsmanship

Many of Zoffany’s unique designs come from its extensive archive, or from collaborations with exciting emerging artists

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‘Drawing on a rich and illustrious heritage, each of our collections includes beautifully crafted pieces and a wonderful variety of archival documents that have been lovingly reinterpreted for today’

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omprising wallcoverings, printed and woven fabrics, embroideries and paint, Zoffany is a classic British interiors brand with an eclectic core. Produced to the highest quality, with inspiration frequently taken from its extensive archive, its products span from quietly confident creations to refined and elegant designs. ‘Artistry and integrity sit at the heart of everything we do’, says Peter Gomez, design lead at Zoffany. ‘Drawing on a rich and illustrious heritage, each of our collections includes beautifully crafted pieces and a wonderful variety of archival documents that have been lovingly reinterpreted for today.’ Zoffany has been a long-standing admirer of the Royal College of Art (RCA) and its roster of emerging talent. In 2020, this relationship was formalised with the introduction of the Zoffany Award for Visual Arts, which supports postgraduates as they approach their final show. Peter continues: ‘It’s such a pleasure to work with RCA students – drawing out the individuality of each artist, enabling them to bring their design ideas to life. Our first collaboration was with graduate Sam Wilde, whose ‘Precarious Pangolins’ design charted the plight of one of the world’s most trafficked animals.’ In 2021, illustrator and RCA alumni Ruth Blanke saw her work translated into an exquisite hand screen-printed wallpaper. Titled ‘Avalonis for Zoffany’, its mythical landscapes sensitively characterised the connection between humans and animals. Ruth’s pure illustrative designs appealed not only for her craftsmanship as a printer but her artistry as a storyteller. ‘Water is central to the mural’s theme,’ explains Ruth. ‘It represents the flow of eternal life, navigating and negotiating, limited only by the challenges we

face.’ From the outset, long table printing was selected to best represent what Ruth wanted to achieve with her design. The technique brought ‘Avalonis’ to life with overlapping printing screens and translucent inks creating the wallpaper’s variety of shades from just two colours. In spring 2022, Zoffany launched ‘Cotswolds Manor’, an upscale range of fabric and wallpaper based on English ideals and the splendour of rural life. Charting the stylistic changes of country houses over time, the ten wallcoverings, eight prints, two embroideries and two weaves represent a world of underplayed glamour, weekend escapes and an altogether more genteel pace of life. Meanwhile, ‘Luxury Coordinates’ presents a decorator’s toolkit of plush velvets, domino weaves and quartz velvets. Combining performance with integrity, this exciting range of elevated plains complements the entire Zoffany range. Another highlight is Zoffany’s ‘True Matt’, a water-based emulsion that effortlessly teams intense colour with durability. Joining the company’s paint portfolio alongside ‘Elite Emulsion’ and ‘Acrylic Eggshell’, it is fabulously pigmented, environmentally friendly and suitable for both commercial and residential spaces. From new Zoffany paint shades to partnerships Sanderson Design Group with upcoming artists, and London Showroom, 1st Floor the reimagining of archival South Dome, Design Centre prints, Zoffany is known for Chelsea Harbour, London SW10 0XE its cornucopia of products +44 (0)800 894 6185 that endure as masterpieces zoffany.sandersondesigngroup.com of British interior design. zoffanyfw COUNTRYANDTOWNHOUSE.COM/INTERIORSGUIDE | 139

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GARDEN & OUTSIDE SPACES Landscape designers, accessories and furniture to take your garden to new heights

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GARDENS & OUTDOOR SPACES

EAST LONDON PARASOL COMPANY

Beautiful handmade garden parasols

East London Parasol Company’s vibrant prints and joyful designs have proven popular as more people are drawn to al fresco living

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n India the parasol was once considered a symbol of royalty, often seen protecting a Maharaja from the tropical sun as he sat proudly in his bejewelled howdah, high on an elephant’s back. Today, this ancient tradition of the splendidly ornamental umbrella is flourishing again thanks to the East London Parasol Company. Launched in 2016 by Lucy Ferguson, the brand produces artisan parasols with elegant, timeless bases – materials include carved wood, terrazzo and stone. These are complemented with matching cushions, napkins and decadent, handmade rattan chairs that infuse any outdoor space with colour and elegance. The last few years have been tremendously successful for the East London Parasol Company as dining outdoors has become increasingly popular. Ranging from bright colours and floral patterns to contemporary prints with tasselled and scallopedges, the brand’s parasols are a simple yet attractive way to extend any living area outside. Parasolshaded setups have brightened celebrations, dinner parties and all kinds of gatherings (social media is a testament to the company’s following, with much of its Instagram account made up of customer photos). They are perfect for providing stylish shade for long al fresco lunches or for creating a festival or holiday vibe, or for afternoons lounging in the garden with a good book. East London Parasol Company has long worked with craftsmen in India and Indonesia, but more

recently it has also begun production in the UK. Here, it employs local Hampshire carpenters who had previously been making stage scenery but had to diversify due to the pandemic. Each parasol is a labour of love, constructed using traditional methods: the frames are made from sustainable FSC-certified ash wood, while the brass fixtures and fittings are bespoke, with a maritime feel inspired by yacht fittings. The brand is proud of its role in keeping artisans in work and their age-old skills alive. The fact that the parasols are handmade is an essential element of their appeal: many of these processes cannot be mechanised without compromising the beauty of the fabrics. Founder and designer Lucy strongly believes in giving back and has partnered with One Tree Planted, a not-for-profit charity with a mission to help global reforestation efforts. The company plants a tree in India and Indonesia for every parasol sold. This year’s collection is a kaleidoscope of polka dots, stripes and pastel colours, with a broad range of influences that include 1970s spirograph patterns, ikat weaving and the late photographer, Slim Aarons. ‘Last year was meteorologically miserable. It was inspiring and expansive to work with beautiful colours and patterns, and to look forward to sunnier times ahead. We hope our colourful new designs lift spirits and herald a summer of sunshine,’ says Lucy. There is also a new collaboration with British artist Harriet Popham, who has created a playful, whimsical print inspired by willow pattern and chinoiserie, which tells the story of East London Parasol Company. Looking ahead, the brand will continue to champion craftsmanship and maker partnerships, and produce ever more fabulous designs that encourage people to celebrate colour in their outdoor space.

East London Parasol Company eastlondonparasols.com eastlondonparasolco

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Ranging from bright colours and floral patterns to contemporary prints with tasselled and scallop-edges, the brand’s parasols are a simple yet attractive way to extend any living area outside

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GARDENS & OUTDOOR SPACES

GAZE BURVILL

Beautiful, sustainable outdoor furniture and kitchens, craftsman-made in Hampshire

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tarted in 1993 by Simon Burvill and Christian Gaze, the company’s mission from the outset was to create beautifully crafted outdoor furniture without using tropical woods. The pair decided to source oak of the very finest quality, as recommended by Gertrude Jekyll, doyenne of British garden design. Minimising impact on the environment is central to its ethos, as is Gaze Burvill’s commitment to both keeping traditional wood-working skills alive, and embracing the latest technological and digital best practice. The company cherishes its team of highly skilled craftsmen, designers, apprentices, aftercare technicians and support staff, and is proud to provide a top-level customer service for clients; these include lead international garden

designers, private owners of the most beautiful homes and gardens, and some of the country’s finest public gardens. With Gaze Burvill’s established expertise in creating furniture specifically for the outdoor environment, the company was approached to make kitchens too. Gone are the days of the unsightly BBQ monster hidden in a corner of the terrace: customers are seeking the same sleek, high-performing kitchen experience outside as they would expect from their space inside. Fine cabinetry, the best appliances, and a personal design service are now de rigueur. Gaze Burvill’s experience and knowledge of creating a smart cooking arrangement that will stand the test of time has meant that outdoor kitchens are an important part of what the company does. Whether a small-but-beautiful mobile kitchen for a London

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Gaze Burvill’s oak garden seating designs are intended to weather beautifully and stand the test of time

Minimising impact on the environment is central to its ethos, as is Gaze Burvill’s commitment to both keeping traditional wood-working skills alive, and embracing the latest technological and digital best practice terrace, or a dramatic ‘Oval Broadwalk’ table that seats 14, Gaze Burvill can design something that exudes timeless elegance. The company’s commitment to protecting the planet’s resources remains key. The workshop is heated by a biomass boiler, fuelled with wood waste, which is topped up with energy from the solar panels on the roof (which also powers the electric car chargers). The oak used comes from certified, sustainably planted and re-planted British and European forests and has been carefully nurtured for more than a century, purely for the purpose of providing wood for use in furniture making, for example. Gaze Burvill champions this cycle of careful forest management, and, as the public understanding of its benefits grows, people are increasingly preferring to invest in wood – one of nature’s oldest

carbon-locking materials. Gaze Burvill furniture and cabinetry is designed for long life, adapting to the caprices of the climate and gently turning silver with time, but an aftercare service is offered to help keep pieces in tip-top condition for even longer. Gaze Burvill has always had a magnificent – and multi-award winning – display at RHS Chelsea Flower Show and visits to the Hampshire workshop and showroom are welcome by prior appointment. The collection provides an excellent choice of garden seats and landscape pieces, such as tree seats and garden spirals, as well as dining arrangement options, which can be paired with comfortable seating (comfort is a key mission when designing a seat of any kind). Good design and true originality that doesn’t compromise on craftsmanship define these outdoor collections which will elevate any al fresco space.

Gaze Burvill Lodge Farm East Tisted, Alton Hampshire GU34 3QH +44 (0)1420 588444 gazeburvill.com gazeburvill

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GARDENS & OUTDOOR SPACES

HARRISON OVENS

Handmade, heritage charcoal ovens for stunning outdoor living spaces

The Harrison range comes in a variety of colours and finishes for all kinds of outdoor spaces

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ith its beginnings in the world of world-class professional cuisine, Harrison Ovens is a name synonymous with marrying high performance and iconic design. This has led to Harrison being commissioned to make ovens for the finest Michelin-starred restaurants and culinary masters like Jason Atherton and Yotam Ottolenghi, as well as for designers of the most impressive superyachts in the world. Since 2011, Harrison Oven’s founder, designer, engineer and maker, Daniel Thumwood, has not stopped exploring ways in which to contain fire, control it and deliver a cooking experience that puts the chef in control of the flames. His philosophy is to make heritage pieces that are built to last a lifetime. In a world of mass production and high-speed living, he uses manufacturing skills reminiscent of more authentic bygone methods. Quality is everything therefore Harrison Ovens operates a waiting list system, which has led to the ovens being the most sought-after outdoor cooking appliance there is. In 2021, ‘Harrison at Home’ was launched, which brought these striking ovens to the outdoor kitchens of some of the most beautiful homes around the world, including in the UK, Switzerland, Portugal, Germany, Sweden and the USA. In 2022, Harrison Ovens wowed the crowds at The Chelsea Flower Show with its award-winning Kent Coastal Foraging Garden, which captured the imagination of visitors with industrial-chic ovens that rose from the beautiful planting scheme like sculptures. Whether grilling, baking, steaming, slow cooking, roasting or smoking – using charcoal or wood – a Harrison Oven can maintain the highest or

lowest temperatures for hours, with an even, radiant heat that negates the need for a rotisserie by retaining moisture and flavour. It raises the question why anyone would limit themselves to a pizza oven as perfect pizza is just one thing a Harrison can do –in three minutes, at 350°C, with no need to turn. Higher temperatures are easily achievable, but not necessary. The Harrison collection includes ‘The Classic’, which comes with an optional stainless steel cabinet on wheels to make transporting it outside from the kitchen easy; ‘The Icon’, which has two ovens in one that cook at two different temperatures; and most recently ‘The Atom’, which includes an oven, a plancha and a hob. All the ovens are customisable with a curated range of colours and finishes to enhance the most stylish outdoor kitchen spaces. Committed to sustainability, this tiny company on the coast of Kent is vitally aware of the environmental impact that charcoal production has on the planet, which leads to mass deforestation. As well as recommending that their clients only use sustainably sourced, local charcoal, Harrison Ovens accept that the onus is on them, not the individual, to make a difference. In partnership with the forestry activist organisation 9Trees, Harrison Ovens Harrison Ovens has pledged to plant three trees for Unit 2, Sharpes Place each oven purchased. The hope is to Ellington Road, Ramsgate increase this over the coming years Kent CT11 9TD as the business grows. In the words +44 (0)20 3858 0568 of Yotam Ottolenghi: ‘The hero is harrisonovens.com The Harrison Oven’. harrisonovens

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GARDENS & OUTDOOR SPACES

THE HEVENINGHAM COLLECTION

Elegant iron furniture, custom-made in the UK

Handmade in the UK, the collection can be found in many great houses

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stablished by Annie Eadie in 1990, The Heveningham Collection is a company that creates sought-after metal garden furniture. Annie began her career working for Nina Campbell and John Stefanidis before launching her own interior design business. It was during this time that she was asked by a client if she could supply a range of luxury iron garden furniture. After searching across the UK, she realised that there was nothing of sufficiently high quality and style available to meet the brief. And so The Heveningham Collection was born. From the outset Annie’s mission was to create a range of outdoor metal furniture that is timeless and sophisticated, and that would last a lifetime. Since those early days, the pieces have always been handmade at a UK forge by a team of craftsmen and, today, The Heveningham Collection can be found in many great houses, palaces and hotels internationally (including The Connaught, The Beaumont, Claridge’s and the Mandarin Oriental in London). This is beautiful furniture that requires no maintenance and is perfect for lounging in the garden, terrace, conservatory or by the pool. The company carries a standard range – including elegant dining sets, chaise longue, armchairs and tables in a variety of sizes, bar stools, benches, trolleys, Versailles tubs and swing seats – which can be viewed by appointment. Only the finest materials are used throughout the manufacturing process and

all furniture is hot zinc-coated, followed by a custom powder coating process with a choice of black, dark green, gunmetal or white. This ensures that the pieces are both luxurious and highly durable so that they can be left outside throughout the year. Special colours and finishes are also available on request. The comfortable cushions are supplied plain or buttoned in various colours of Sunbrella showerproof fabric. The tables tops come in many sizes in a choice of glass, limestone, granite or marble. The Heveningham Collection also undertakes bespoke commissions for individual projects, and works with both private and corporate clients. Their designs have proved extremely popular with clients in the UK, Europe and North America, and have been selected for residences on the Côte d’Azur, as well as destinations such as Tuscany, Geneva, New York, Toronto, Aspen and Virginia. During the past 30 years the company has built enduring relationships with many leading interior designers and landscape architects (including Randle Siddeley, Veere Grenney, Guy Goodfellow, Commune Design, Finchatton, Helen Green Design and VSP Interiors) to provide solutions for their clients. Annie herself remains central to this process, listening carefully to design briefs and using her in-depth knowledge and experience to ensure furniture and fabrics are perfectly matched to expectations. She has always insisted on maintaining a consistent and instantly recognisable style; as a result, clients often return, sometimes after many years, to add to their collections. The Heveningham Collection is the ultimate in luxury outdoor furniture and brings comfort and elegance to gardens and terraces all over the world.

The Heveningham Collection +44 (0)1424 838483 heveningham.co.uk theheveninghamcollection

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From the outset, Annie’s mission was to create a range of outdoor metal furniture that is timeless and sophisticated, and that would last a lifetime

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FURNITURE

Fill your house with timeless pieces you’ll treasure forever

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FURNITURE

THE CONRAN SHOP

The home of iconic designs and future classics

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onsidered design has been at the core of The Conran Shop ever since the late Sir Terence Conran founded it in 1973. Offering a unique and personal blend of design classics and future icons, its furniture and lighting collections, homewares, and gifts have excited visitors for generations, continually evolving to reflect how we live. ‘I always thought that The Conran Shop should be filled with the very best and most interesting products and furniture from the four corners of the world, all chosen with the same pair of eyes,’ Sir Terence once said. Today, this legacy brand with a contemporary edge manages ten stores worldwide, including those in London, Paris, Japan, and South Korea, each providing an unbeatable shopping experience.

It also has a significant online presence, delivering to over 200 countries. Mid-century classics and inimitable vintage styles from a selection of the world’s best brands are complemented and brought up to date with an innovative collection of exclusive editions from world-famous designers and makers, continuing its founder’s grand ambitions. For autumn and winter 2022 alone, these new additions champion a new roster of iconic pieces, as well as a series of homegrown future classics. First, there’s Pierre Paulin’s characterful ‘Groovy Chair’ for Paulin, Paulin, Paulin, exclusively made over in four vibrant hues of a specialist, hardwearing wool fabric. Next, Lucy Kurrein’s timeless and modular ‘Bibendum Sofa’ for Molinari plays with lines of the Sixties, revised in a contemporary key, only available at The Conran Shop.

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‘I wanted it to be a shop that sold classic, modern furniture for a more informed generation, alongside fine glassware and china, beautiful handmade rugs and the very best French cookware’ – Sir Terence Conran For lighting and homeware, there is a mix of revived luminary classics and a radiant assortment of Spanish handcrafted table, floor, and ceiling lights from Pott. The connected ‘Terre Table Lamp’ by Altherr Désile Park rests halfway between artisanship and industrialisation, a tribute to clay and its organicity, while Karin Hossack’s exclusive and eclectic pottery parades handcarved edges and complementing hues for the considered home. An unabating leader in shaping future heroes within the design sphere, The Conran Shop’s partnership with New Designers continues to thrive; young talents Cameron Rowley, Frank Winter, and Huw Evans are now under the brand’s mentorship, their poetic designs finally realised and soon available for purchase. For example, Winter’s ‘Core’ collection, a bench, desk, a series of tables, and a bed with a co-ordinating headboard, pays homage to the mitre clamp, the trusted woodworking tool. While The Conran Shop nurtures new talent, it also supports local design celebrations such as London Craft Week, London Design Festival, and Paris Design Week, consistently teaming up with talents from home and afar to spotlight its latest developments. As The Conran Shop approaches its 50th anniversary next year, the brand is ever adapting and evolving, driven by Sir Terence Conran’s founding vision of considered design and curated living. Endorsing established designers and emerging talents, it curates décors that are informed by the past, mindful of the present, and ready for the future.

As it approaches its 50th anniversary, The Conran Shop continues to thrive under its founder’s ethos of considered design

The Conran Shop +44 (0)20 7589 7401 conranshop.com theconranshopofficial

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FURNITURE

Makers of luxury, handcrafted upholstered furniture

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eorge Smith is an experienced maker of exceptional upholstered furniture for prestigious projects around the world. Originally founded as a boutique shop specialising in Howard-style furniture, the company has grown steadily and now boasts the largest team of master upholsterers in the UK. With a 35-year track record in delivering high profile hospitality and residential projects, it partners with clients to create inspirational, bespoke furniture. George Smith pieces can be seen in iconic locations including Annabel’s in Mayfair, Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel in New York and the Soho House member’s clubs, as well as in family homes across the globe. Its furniture can also now be found in Auriens, Chelsea, the ultimate in later living accommodation. George Smith worked closely with the designers of Auriens to develop custom pieces, each of which help provides residents with autonomy and confidence while staying inherently stylish. United by passion and enthusiasm, the George Smith team believes in quality and service without compromise to provide beautiful, enduring, comfortable pieces. Its flagship showroom is located on the King’s Road in London, where clients can see first hand the extensive collection of sofas, chairs, chaises and stools, all in a variety of designs and fabrics to suit both contemporary and classic interiors. George Smith also has a presence in the US, with showrooms in the design districts of New York and Los Angeles, and numerous global partners. The beating heart of the company is the factory in the

Clockwise from top left: Auriens Chelsea; Sims Hilditch Collection for George Smith; Morris & Co, Harrods

George Smith 587-589 King’s Road London SW6 2EH +44(0) 20 7384 1004 georgesmith.com georgesmithfurniture

PHOTO: SIM CANETTY-CLARKE

GEORGE SMITH

north of England where each piece of furniture is meticulously handcrafted using a fusion of traditional techniques, precision technology and natural materials. Quality has always been fundamental to George Smith. Using only the best, responsibly sourced materials, the team ensures every handmade piece is comfortable, beautifully finished and built to last. Frames are guaranteed for 25 years, meaning that furniture is passed down through generations; these are timeless heirlooms that are built to stand the test of time. Production is all in-house, which provides assurance that each piece is made using exceptional craftsmanship from start to finish. In autumn 2021 George Smith launched the Sims Hilditch collection, comprising the Emma chair, sofa and ottoman designed by Sims Hilditch. Once again, the company has brought to life the design team’s aesthetic and ethos in a truly unique way. Continuing to meet new requirements, George Smith recently introduced an unrivalled Quick Ship service, displaying an array of its bestsellers in selected fabrics handmade to order and delivered in four weeks. In October 2022, George Smith will be launching its dreamiest collection yet, introducing a range of crafted headboards and bed bases. The new bed range will expand the signature collections and be fully upholstered in its own fabrics. In addition, George Smith will be taking a big step into the great outdoors in 2023. Having created bespoke, luxury outdoor furniture for years, the company has decided to make it official and launch a specialised range, upholstered in George Smith outdoor fabrics. An exciting new development for this everevolving brand.

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With a 35-year track record in delivering high profile hospitality and residential projects, George Smith partners with clients to create exceptional upholstered furniture.

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FURNITURE

ST JAMES INTERIORS

Bespoke joinery based on heritage and craftsmanship

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come from three generations of craftsmen; my grandfather, father and now me,’ says Pritesh Lad who founded bespoke joinery company St James Interiors in 2018. ‘The business stems from years of handed down knowledge and skills, and that idea of really taking the time to produce beautiful work. I want to pass on that legacy by infusing craftsmanship with modern technology to deliver timeless luxury furniture and interiors.’ St James Interiors focuses on two key areas: manufacturing and designing bespoke interiors (such as kitchens, wardrobes and wine rooms) and highly crafted furniture tailored to individual requirements. Key to Pritesh’s values is honesty (‘we always give honest advice to a client, be it on material selection or design direction, because it’s all about building long-term connections’), creating original, high-quality work, and

sustainability. As well as producing pieces that will last for life, this also means, on a practical level, using only FSC-sourced timber, heating the workshop with sawdust and reducing its carbon footprint with less skip waste. Clients are encouraged to visit the workshop, meet the team and learn more about how the company works and see their work in production. ‘We are super excited about launching our furniture brand, Jush London, later this year,’ says Pritesh. ‘This has been in the pipeline for a while but the pandemic allowed us the opportunity to fine-tune its direction.’ The brand’s previous award-winning designs, like the ‘Vithal Jesse’ table and ‘Dhan’ desk, gave him the inspiration to move forward with this venture. Added to the range will be his twist on modern organic furniture. ‘Our speciality as bespoke joiners is working with wood, however we love to add materials such as stone, metal and fabric into the mix to showcase craftsmanship in our pieces.

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‘St James Interiors stems from years of handed-down knowledge and skills, and that idea of really taking the time to produce beautiful work’ We will look to push boundaries on what is considered furniture: we see this as an opportunity to be innovate and original,’ he continues. Among other projects, this year St James Interiors is working collaboratively with clothsurgeon, the first tailored streetwear brand on Savile Row. ‘We are finding textures in materials a big trend at the moment and with our five axis CNC machine we are able to offer completely bespoke patterns and textures,’ he continues. The St James Interiors ethos is to enrich its clients’ lives through impeccable design, as well as to inspire the next generation of craftsmen. Everything is bespoke, from the materials used to the size of a piece of furniture. Detail is at the heart of every piece to ensure the absolute best finished product. The experienced workshop team (many of whom knew Pritesh’s grandfather) has a can-do attitude and they are unafraid of pushing design boundaries, testing out-of-the-box ideas or experimenting with new ways to work with innovative materials and machinery. ‘What I love is that every day brings a new challenge. Whether it’s a first-time client with an exciting brief or discovering a different way to work with a material, no two days are the same,’ concludes Pritesh.

Expert joinery and craftsmanship are the bedrock of St James Interiors

St James Interiors 35 Gorst Road, Park Royal London NW10 6LA +44 (0)20 8961 1342 stjamesinteriors.com stjamesinteriors

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It’s all about the finishing touches

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Yves Delorme, p174

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ARMAC MARTIN

The finest brass cabinet hardware

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stablished in 1929, Armac Martin designs and manufactures luxury brass cabinet hardware and accessories for the world’s finest interiors. A fourth-generation family business based in Birmingham with over 90 years’ experience, its reputation is built on quality and skills that have been passed down over time. Dedicated to creating beautiful brass fixtures and fittings of exceptional design and exquisite detail, the company designs every product in-house, crafting them from solid brass and finishing them by hand. The go-to destination for luxury hardware, Armac Martin products are highly sought after for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture. With a portfolio of over 20 finishes and styles ranging from modern to Art Deco and traditional, there is hardware to suit all projects. The company is always adding new lines too, such as shelf brackets and wine glass holders, and has future plans to expand into bathroom accessories. Inspired by the English countryside, the renowned ‘Cotswold’ collection is favoured by interior designers looking for a classic-yet-contemporary farmhouse aesthetic (it works beautifully in Shaker-style kitchens) while the innovative ‘MIX’ is a series of interchangeable solid brass hardware that offers customers more control over their design: simply select the style and finish of cabinet pulls, knobs and caps, as well as the size and finish of the backplate. Suited to modern interior cabinetry and industrial freestanding furniture alike, the ‘MIX’ collection is ideal for those seeking truly personalised hardware. The company’s latest collection, ‘Digbeth’, is the

Armac Martin has been making its exquisite brass fixtures and fittings in Birmingham for almost a century

most exclusive design available. Advanced engineering is used to create the ridged detailing and cuboid shape that makes for an effortlessly bold statement. With plenty of choice for designers, the collection consists of both T-bar and pull handles, matching cabinet knobs, appliance pulls, optional backplates and over 20 finishes. Other ranges to check out include ‘Bromwich’, for industrialinspired cabinet pulls and ‘Arbar’, for contemporary handles. Sustainability is part of the design process from the get-go. Before any manufacturing happens, the product development team thoughtfully design pieces with timeless appeal. And, while they do draw influences from current interior trends, producing hardware with longevity that celebrates true craftsmanship and uses the best possible materials is what sits at the forefront of their minds. Other eco-friendly initiatives include switching to plastic-free packaging, electric vehicles, and updates within the factory that reduce energy usage. In 2022, Armac Martin was honoured with The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade. An incredible accolade, it recognises the significant growth in export sales. Commercial Director Richard McGrail reflects on this success: ‘Our business has gone from strength to strength over recent years and winning this award highlights how our international growth strategy has really paid off, despite a global pandemic. We have streamlined and automated processes within our factory to help meet demand, allowing us to reduce lead times which has given us an edge over competitors.’ Now, over 50 percent of orders are shipped overseas. This leading name in luxury brass cabinet hardware continues to invest in both people and technology – and the future looks bright.

Armac Martin 160 Dollman Street Birmingham B7 4RS +44 (0)1213 592111 armacmartin.co.uk armacmartin

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Dedicated to creating beautiful brass fixtures and fittings of exceptional design and exquisite detail, the company designs every product in-house

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DAVID HUNT LIGHTING

Bold, beautiful designs from the heart of the Cotswolds

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brand that can trace its lineage as far back as the 17th century is unquestionably enduring. However, what really characterises David Hunt Lighting is not only its provenance but also its pioneering spirit. Born in 1687, master brass founder John Hunt (the earliest family member on record) made his name crafting ornate candlesticks. During the late 1700s, as the Industrial Revolution began to transform the British landscape, the Hunt family seized the opportunity and began to innovate, pivoting from candlesticks to outdoor gas lamps. The company was not only selected to exhibit its exciting new designs at Prince Albert’s prestigious Great Exhibition in 1851, but also became among the first to light the streets of Britain. As technology developed further by way of electricity and the National Grid, the David Hunt Lighting brand was once again at the forefront. It was a leader of electroplating by the 1890s, then overhauled the then Birmingham-based factory to become one of the first manufacturers of electric lighting – a decade before the technology was rolled out nationwide. The exciting and ornate designs from this period captured the Art Deco sensibilities of the day and beautifully adorned the newly built Odeon cinemas of the 1930s. The long-awaited design revival of the 1950s and 1960s saw a young David Hunt move the company factory to the northern edge of the Cotswolds, while continuing to embrace new ideas and technology. At this time, it was an industry leader in spun metal and fine resin casting techniques that typified this futuristic and

Product Manager Steve Hillman and Creative Director Hollie Moreland

forward-thinking era. Over the last 20 years, the company has driven some exciting changes, including a rejuvenation of its design archive, the genesis of a talented new design team and an unashamed revival within the British interior design sector. Creative Director Hollie Moreland joined David Hunt Lighting in 2005 and initially worked alongside the tenth generation of the family, Peter Hunt. She now works in partnership with Product Manager Steve Hillman and Managing Director Andrew Cooper, who, alongside their talented team, are collectively continuing to inspire within the modern lighting industry. David Hunt Lighting’s spring/summer 2022 collection is a perfect example of this. The ‘Scallop’ pendant, launched at London Design Week and the hero product of the collection, characterises Hollie’s methodology: ‘This launch was about reintroducing some fun and colour back into the world after a prolonged hiatus,’ she explains. ‘For the London Design Week launch, we combined our ‘Scallop’ design with sumptuous paint colours by fellow British brand Little Greene,’ continues Hollie. ‘This culminated in a series of stunning one-off pieces that we showcased at our Chelsea showroom during the event. The bold and expressive combinations, seen on the spun pendant, have now been echoed on our own product configurator, allowing our customers to really explore their own tastes.’ The David Hunt Lighting product configurator, available on the brand’s website, enables its customers to build and visualise their potential product combinations in real time, which really helps when selecting accessories for an interior design scheme. It also underlines the brand characteristics of innovation and exploration that John Hunt initiated almost 350 years ago.

David Hunt Lighting Third Floor, Centre Dome Design Centre Chelsea Harbour London SW10 0XE +44 (0)20 7349 8111 davidhuntlighting.co.uk davidhuntlighting

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A brand that can trace its lineage as far back as the 17th century is unquestionably enduring. However, what really characterises David Hunt Lighting is not only provenance but also its pioneering spirit

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HOME ACCESSORIES

EMMA J SHIPLEY

Homeware and accessories for nature lovers, dreamers and maximalists

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mma J Shipley’s mission is to share the magic of nature and spark the imagination. The joyful and vibrant homeware brand is known for its fantastical prints based on founder Emma’s hand-drawn illustrations. Her inspiration comes from the unique beauty of the natural world, and her designs explore myths, legends and surreal fantasy. The brand’s collections include home furnishings, accessories and lifestyle items (such as scarves, phone cases and notebooks), all adorned with Emma’s colourful and intricately drawn artworks. Everything is made ethically, in premium materials, while always considering and minimising the impact on the environment. Sustainability is a key part of the brand, and all pieces are meant to be treasured for

years to come. Bestselling styles include the zebrastrewn ‘Lost World’ bedding, the ‘Zambezi’ luxury velvet cushion with its elegant elephant design and the ‘Lynx’ wallpaper. The brand launched at London Fashion Week in 2012, after Emma graduated from the Royal College of Art. She won multiple awards for her drawing and designs on graduation, and has since won business recognition in the UK and internationally, including the WGSN Global Fashion Award for Emerging Brand. Fashion boutique Browns launched her graduate collection of printed scarves; today, the homeware and lifestyle collections are stocked in some of the best department stores around the world, including Harrods and Liberty London, with the full range available on emmajshipley.com. The company has always been committed to

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Emma’s vibrant and intricate designs are meant to be as practical as they are magical

The joyful and vibrant homeware brand is known for its fantastical prints based on founder Emma’s hand-drawn illustrations protecting the environment, and, in particular, endangered species. ‘We have given back to nature with a number of charities over the years, and in 2020 we launched an ongoing partnership with World Land Trust,’ says Emma. ‘As part of their Plant a Tree programme, WLT are planting native trees to save, protect and restore critically threatened habitat for wildlife. We have currently donated over 3,000 trees, funded by purchases on emmajshipley.com, and we will continue to support endangered wildlife in the future.’ The last few years have seen the product range grow, and in spring 2022 the first ‘Fine China Dining’ collection was launched. It comprises plates, bowls and mugs, all crafted expertly in Stoke-on-Trent from fine bone china, and adorned with four of the brand’s bestselling illustrations: ‘Lynx’, ‘Zambezi’, ‘Kruger’

and ‘Rousseau’. The series has been designed to be as practical as it is magical, with all pieces being dishwasher and microwave safe. ‘It’s been so exciting to work on a completely new category and material for me, especially collaborating with such talented makers here in the UK,’ says Emma. ‘It wasn’t easy translating my detailed designs, which required 12 layers of screen-printed colour; however it was worth all the hard work and I’m delighted with the outcome. I can’t wait for people to be able to spark their imagination with my designs over a meal or cup of coffee!’ The product range will continue to grow this year, with more pieces to add to the table, new cushions and prints, plus some special collections to celebrate a decade of the brand. These are original designs, to be treasured for years to come.

Emma J Shipley 81 Rivington Street London EC2A 3AY +44(0)20 4538 4201 emmajshipley.com emmajshipley

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JAMB

The finest antique and reproduction fireplaces, lighting and furniture

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Taking inspiration from antique pieces, Jamb’s modern reproductions are made using traditional skills and materials

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amb continues to be synonymous with the English country house aesthetic, taking endless inspiration from the layered, evolved interiors of the finest private homes in the land and the objects therein, which so often surprise and delight. From the finest Palladian mirror to an unadorned, robust oak pantry table, the thread that binds the Jamb collections together remains the quality and patina of quintessential country style. Once an antique is sold, it’s gone forever, but a faithful reproduction continues its design life: that was the inspiration behind antiques dealer Will Fisher’s decision to set up Jamb 19 years ago. He began by creating a reproduction collection from antique lighting and chimneypieces that he had once owned; in 2004, Will’s wife Charlotte joined him and together they have continued to grow the business. Antique fireplaces form the backbone of the business and Jamb has a reputation for having the most extensive reclaimed antique fireplace collection in the UK. This includes period pieces from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries that recall the work of Britain’s finest architects such as Inigo Jones, William Kent and John Nash. Jamb is fastidious when it comes to historical detail leading to the most faithful of designs, and having these important antique fireplaces in the company’s possession enables the highly skilled craftsmen in the workshop to create replicas with an unparalleled level of historical accuracy. Bespoke fireplace commissions range from creating a collection of one-off mantels for a Neoclassical mansion, to the demands of designing and building a unique Gothic centrepiece for a château in France. Currently, Jamb is making many reproduction fireplace

designs in wonderful Italian marble, as well as stones from the oldest English quarries. The constantly changing Pimlico Road showroom can also be visited to view fireplaces, foundry-made grates, lighting and furniture. Clients can make an appointment to view the 200 antique chimneypieces at the company’s warehouse, which is a former tank factory on the outskirts of London. When it comes to reproduction lighting, a globe lantern is still Jamb’s signature, yet there are more than 100 designs in the collection, all of which stem from antique originals. This year, Jamb has continued to grow in new and exciting directions, announcing several new collections whilst operating at the highest level of the design industry across the world. Exciting developments included a definitive range of ‘Country House’ furniture, including the spectacular ‘Upton’ sofa, and exploring sophisticated, layered painted and gilt finishes in the ‘Tavern’ and ‘Heddon’ tables. Jamb has also acquired quantities of rare marbles, informing a new series of chimneypieces from the George I period that showcase these exquisite blocks. The ‘Berrington’ and ‘Skibo’ lanterns lead the new line of lighting, drawing inspiration from the golden age of lighting design, constantly pushing the possibilities of antique finishes and patinas. Pulling these efforts together into Jamb one publication, Will and Charlotte 95–97 Pimlico Road created the Jamb Journal II, bringing London SW1W 8PH writers and photographers behind the +44 (0)20 7730 2122 scenes to tell the story behind the jamb.co.uk finished designs. jamb_london COUNTRYANDTOWNHOUSE.COM/INTERIORSGUIDE | 167

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NOSTI

A handmade astrological orrery, designed for luxury gifting and exquisite interiors

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t was a fascination with the cosmos and an interest in world faith systems that led PR veteran Alison Canning to astrology – and ultimately to set up her brand Nosti. ‘We’re made of energy,’ says Alison, who worked in London and New York for 30 years before selling her business and returning to her native Cornwall in search of something more meaningful. ‘The idea that we receive an energetic blueprint from the heavens at the moment of our birth seems wonderful to me.’ The surprising accuracy of her own natal chart led her to model it in 3D. ‘The more I studied my chart, the more I found it helped me know myself better,’ she continues. Hence Nosti, which is short for ‘Nosce te ipsum’, the Latin form of the Delphic maxim, ‘Know Yourself’. As well as the company name, Nosti is an astrological orrery (an interactive model of the solar system) handmade in brass, granite and leather. Its arms and cups each contain a crystal that represents the sun, moon or planets; these rotate around a stationary earth crystal at the top. The wheel shows the 12 signs of the zodiac. Each crystal arm can be placed in any position on the wheel and so, in any of the signs. Rotating arrows at the base of the column also show the 12 houses of astrology, along with other items of astrological significance. As all its parts move independently, Nosti can be used to construct a 3D natal chart – a personal map of the heavens at the moment you were born – or to track the daily

Nosti’s bewitching orreries come in three designs, for all tastes and interiors styles

movement of celestial bodies. Or it can simply be enjoyed for its aesthetic appeal as a stunning objet d’art. Interest in the ancient knowledge system of astrology is booming. According to Washington-based analytics company Gallup, one in four Brits and Americans believe in it. ‘Astrology has always been central to Asian and Middle Eastern cultures,’ Alison explains, ‘and it’s making a comeback in the West as people try to make sense of an increasingly complex world and look to more esoteric answers to life’s questions.’ And does really astrology work? ‘Well JP Morgan certainly thought so,’ she laughs. ‘He claimed millionaires don’t use astrology, billionaires do!’ Alison produces Nosti in three editions. The ‘Antiquarian’ model features images inspired by the medieval clock tower in Venice printed on ivory leather to resemble old parchment and mounted on a black granite wheel with aged brass components. Meanwhile, ‘Empyrean’, with its highly polished brass, royal purple leather and golden granite wheel has a more mystical feel for anyone with spiritual leanings. And finally ‘Neoteric’, a sleek modern version of the orrery in stainless steel, ebony leather and nero granite suits the styleconscious minimalist who wants a conversational piece to their living space. All editions are sold with a handblown glass dome to protect the workings from interference by children or animals, and to keep the orrery clean and dust free. Each piece is handmade and sells for £4,000 to £5,000. Bespoke models are also available. ‘The orreries make special gifts and beautiful ornaments,’ sums up Alison. ‘We can design them to reflect your personal taste and interior decoration.’

Nosti +44 (0)1726 870304 nosti.co.uk info@nosti.co.uk nosti_astrology

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Nosti can be used to construct a 3D natal chart – a personal map of the heavens at the moment you were born

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HOME ACCESSORIES

THE SOHO LIGHTING COMPANY

Exquisite lighting and accessories, handcrafted with the planet in mind

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or Lee Lovett, co-founder of The Soho Lighting Company, an obsession with beautiful lighting and accessories stems from years spent as an interior designer and period renovation consultant on numerous London and home county projects. The challenging quest to source lighting products with a perfect blend of authenticity, quality and finish led to the design and creation of Lee’s own innovative lighting products and ultimately, the birth of her company in 2017. She and her team design and create their own range of timeless lighting in an array of elegant finishes and materials. It all began with a mission to create a completely screwless collection of switches and sockets, made from the finest materials. ‘We engage more with switches and sockets than most other design

features in an interior,’ reasons Lee. ‘Each time a light is switched on, or a charger or appliance plugged in, your design choices are being subconsciously viewed, used, and appraised. Our switches and sockets are designed to provide a beautiful aesthetic, eliminating the use of unsightly screws and plastic rockers.’ They work seamlessly with, or without, home automation technology. Today, this British brand meticulously and ethically sources high-quality, traditional materials from the UK and around the world. It designs its collections in London and then manufactures, handcrafts and hand finishes them from its workshop in Cornwall. ‘There is a wealth of artisan talent in Cornwall and a passion for sustainable creativity,’ says Lee about the brand’s headquarters. ‘Combining this with our London design roots, we strive to bring the very best

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Formerly an interior designer, Lee Lovett’s struggle to find quality lighting led to her co-founding her company in 2017

The Soho Lighting Company is passionate about creating inspirationally lit spaces while striving to protect the world that we live in of our country’s talent to lighting.’ As well as switches and sockets The Soho Lighting Company produces interior and exterior lighting: ultra-efficient LEDs, Edison-style bulbs, high CRI (colour render index) bulbs and downlights, all of which are stylish and kind to the planet. ‘Understanding light, how it illuminates, falls and changes the mood of your interior, lies at the heart of what we do,’ says Lee. Alongside great design and craftsmanship, sustainability and the environment are front of mind for this creative brand, and it is always pushing the boundaries of exciting and new ways to approach luxury lighting. April 2022 saw the launch of its inspirational pendant range, ‘The Ocean Collection’, in Selfridges, London. These exquisite pendants are made using old, discarded fishing nets and other plastics retrieved

from the sea, which are then recycled into 3D printing nylon. Each design is made to order, resulting in not only a chic aesthetic (they come in a choice of surf white, sea green, emerald green and clear water) but one with an environmental message that shines the spotlight on our diminishing oceans and sea life. ‘We are very proud of this collection and the response has been overwhelming,’ continues Lee. ‘With each pendant being created individually for a customer, the experience feels incredibly personal and special.’ Lighting Industry Association-accredited, The Soho Lighting Company is passionate about creating inspirationally lit spaces while still striving to protect the world that we live in. An innovative company creating beautiful lighting with a conscience.

The Soho Lighting Company 85 Great Portland Street London W1W 7LT +44 (0)20 8106 1221 soholighting.com thesoholightingco

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HOME ACCESSORIES

ULTIMATE LIBRARY

Beautiful, bespoke book collections for hotels and homes Ultimate Library’s team carefully curates bespoke libraries for hotels, homes and later living residences BELOW: Ultimate Library at the Patina Hotel, Maldives

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ver the past 13 years, Ultimate Library has invigorated and curated libraries for countless hotels, homes and long-stay residences around the world. Founded in 2009 by former CEO of Blackwell’s, Philip Blackwell, the London-based company replaces worn and secondhand book collections with libraries that revitalise and entertain readers in hotels and resorts such as Pan Pacific, Four Seasons, and Soneva. Ultimate Library also works extensively with interior designers and private clients, bringing its expertise to a more domestic setting. The inspiration behind the business came from Philip’s love of travel and the extra time it gave him to read. His thinking being: why not read books that help you explore the local area and give a greater sense of place? No matter the size, Ultimate Library has experience in creating intelligent and beautiful collections to suit all reading tastes and design aesthetics. From vast libraries spanning 180 metres of shelves to a small space in a super yacht and everything in between, the expert team at Ultimate Library ensure that all reading matter is tailored to a property’s location and a client’s interests. Understanding the importance of both style and content, Ultimate Library provides books that can give either a modern or vintage look. The key to every collection is the personal, bespoke service that

ABOVE: Ultimate Library at the Fellows House

the team offer, beginning with the design concept, right through to installation. Working with interior design firms such as Fiona Barratt, Victoria Fairfax, Albion Nord and Sophie Patterson, Ultimate library is bringing bespoke and curated libraries to more longstay residences and private homes than ever before. Last year saw a move to personalise and enhance domestic spaces, while 2022 is looking towards a sustainable and timeless version of this personalisation that people can enjoy for longer. The trend is highly suited to a bespoke book collection or library, with classics and contemporary titles coming together to create a design feature and source of entertainment that can be used time and again by both residents and guests. Another change the brand is seeing is the increase in retirement living as an option for those wishing to downsize. Working with companies such as Auriens and Riverstone Living, Ultimate Library is creating rounded book collections that will continue to enrich residents’ lives for many years to come and support their ongoing health and wellbeing – it is now widely reported that continued access to new materials and actively reading can make sure you stay sharper for longer. Over the past couple of years, book sales have soared as people rekindled their love of reading. And, now more than ever, it has become important for spaces to reflect individual personalities. Using neutral hues to create a calming atmosphere or pops of colour to stand out, an Ultimate Library collection can fit any brief. The end goal is to create libraries that are entertaining, inspiring, and educational for everyone, whether a luxury hotel, private home or an entire community.

Ultimate Library Studio 9, 115 Harwood Road London SW6 4QL +44 (0)20 8705 0765 ultimatelibrary.co.uk ultimatelibrary

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The Ultimate Library collaboration with Albion North at Benham Park

No matter the size, Ultimate Library has experience in creating intelligent and beautiful collections to suit all reading tastes and design aesthetics

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HOME ACCESSORIES

YVES DELORME

A historic home linen brand, whose new collections are inspired by nature

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ounded by Ernestine Fremaux in France in 1845, Yves Delorme is a family-owned, international luxury linen brand. It is recognised by the French government as an ‘Enterprise of Living Patrimony’ – an indicator of the highest quality manufacturing that originates from its authentic savoir-faire, cultivated over the past 175 years. Over 125 skilled artisans – including specialists in engraving, embroidery and weaving – are based in the company’s studios in Nieppe and Sevelinges, where they work diligently on all the fine detailing that goes into making an Yves Delorme piece. Since 2001, Yves Delorme has also been a member of The Comité Colbert, which unites the most prestigious French and European brands and cultural institutions. The first Yves Delorme boutique opened in Paris

in 1979, followed, in the 1980s, by more in the United States and United Kingdom; now it has over 400 stores worldwide including the flagship on Walton Street in south-west London. As a conscious linen house, Yves Delorme is committed to the preservation of the planet. Collections are manufactured with certified organic cotton, solid fibres of excellent quality that are also particularly resistant. Organic cotton not only eliminates toxins and pesticides from its production, it also respects soil fertility, has less impact on air quality, uses 88 per cent less water and 62 per cent less energy than cotton that is made by conventional methods. What’s more, each studio operates autonomously in order to optimise logistics and avoid pollution, while maintaining ecological requirements, such as systematic recycling, using energy-certified appliances,

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The Fremaux family; ‘Eaux’ bed linen and robe; ‘Éclats’ bed linen details; in the creative studio; ‘Soierie’ bath linen

As a conscious linen house, Yves Delorme is committed to the preservation of the planet the re-use of excess threads and fabrics in workshops, harvesting rainwater for washing and ironing, and no single-use plastics. While the Spring/Summer 2022 collection evoked ideas of freedom and journeys suspended time, the soon-to-launch Autumn/Winter 2022 range will focus on cosy, decorative designs befitting the colder seasons. Enveloping fabrics and misty, water-coloured patterns combine with deep, sophisticated colours, all inspired by nature. Designs include ‘Boréale’, which conjures up images of the first frost with trees drawn in blue and amber tones set against a white background; floral ‘Eaux’, featuring vibrant orchid and peony blooms that appear as if they are floating on water (a full bath linen range completes the look); and opulent ‘Foulard’, inspired by the modern dandy with a striking paisley jacquard pattern. Others, such as ‘Rameaux’

which takes its design cues from autumnal trees, and ‘Soierie’, with a Rococo-inspired floral motif that is reminiscent of a delicate lace, are equally elegant. Complementing the readily available classic designs, Yves Delorme also has an exclusive couture collection for those seeking the ultimate luxury. The quality and rarity of these fabrics, combined with the finesse of the tailoring (which often includes exquisite hand embroidery), makes each creation truly unique. At the Walton Street boutique, clients can also find the signature Monogrammed Linen Shop homeware collections, which include ranges for children, beautiful gifts, decorative accessories and a bespoke monogramming service. With an emphasis on excellence and craftsmanship, and designs that celebrate nature, this heritage linen house is going from strength to strength.

Yves Delorme 158 Walton Street London SW3 2JL +44 (0)20 7589 4033 uk.yvesdelorme.com yvesdelormeparis

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I N DE X 1508 London

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A Archive Armac Martin

118 160

B Bernard Interiors

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76 78 110 120 122 152

162 124

E East London Parasol Co Elicyon Emma J Shipley

142 80 164

F Fermoie

126

144 154 128 130

H Harrison Ovens Helen Green The Heveningham Collection

146 82 148

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N 90 168

O Octagon

92

R Randle Siddeley Rigby & Rigby Riviere Rugs

94 96 134

S St James Interiors Studio Hooton Studio Vero Soho Lighting Sub Zero Wolf

Tania Johnson Taylor Howes Thorp Design

156 98 100 170 112

166 84

136 102 104

U Ultimate Library

172

W Ward & Co West One Bathrooms

106 114

Y Yves Delorme

J Jamb Janine Stone

132

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G Gaze Burvill George Smith GP & J Baker Graphenstone

86

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Nina Campbell Nosti

D David Hunt Lighting Deirdre Dyson

Lawson Robb Loomah

Martin Kemp Design

C Charlotte Elizabeth Interiors Charlotte Stuart Interiors Clive Christian Cole & Son Colefax & Fowler The Conran Shop

L

174

Z Zoffany

138


A step ahead

Design Centre Chelsea Harbour | London SW10 0XE | Tel 020 7351 5153 | samuelandsons.com

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ASHMORE COLLECTION

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GPJBAKER.COM

fabric & wallcovering

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