Interiors Monthly April 2020

APRIL 2020

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

Uncharted territory Coronavirus has left most stores closed, shoppers at home and we are all in this together Napoleon may have thought of Britain as a nation of shopkeepers, but at the moment not many are, with all non-essential stores closed and the public told to stay at home in the effort to halt the spread of coronavirus. The virus has already claimed its first interiors retail victim in Laura Ashley, although it was already in trouble. The Government’s aid package came too late for it to borrow what it needed to survive. One fears it will not be the last.

It is hugely important that the Government makes the process for companies to get grants and loans – and pay contributions for staff later on – as simple and quick as possible to maximise the help the money is meant to provide. It also has yet to announce how it is going to help the 5 million self-employed such as flooring and bedroom fitters.

I’m sure many of you took advantage of not having to pay the quarterly rent on 25 March, although that will have to be paid at some point, but at least business rates have been put on hold. As happened in Italy, I expect that at some point soon the closure instruction will be extended to all but essential manufacturing.

To quote from an email from my dentist which has just arrived announcing its (hopefully) temporary closure: ‘If there is a silver lining to this cloud it is our hope that this will bring all of us together as a society and to reflect on what is most important to us.’

Away from the virus, ScS revealed that flooring sales in the six months to 25 January dropped by 13.2% to £18.7m. It said there had been ‘increasingly aggressive competition between the two largest market specialists’, and that ‘this level of competition has driven pressure on pricing which is likely to be unsustainable in the long term.’ As a result ScS avoided the scrap, trying to maintain margins. It doesn’t seem that that particular rivalry is going to end before one of them discounts the other to collapse. Keep well.

INTERIORS MONTHLY APRIL 2020

INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS 4

Laura Ashley falls into administration

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Half of bed shoppers don’t try before they buy

12 New vision for Sleep Council

FEATURES 14 New products 24 Service 26 Awards

Vote to decide the Interiors Monthly Awards winners

32 Retail

The Conran Shop SS20

38 Carpet

Relaunch, update, cleaning the seas

50 Royal Warrants

Recognition and support, by appointment, regal touch

60 Upholstery Fluid

64 Outdoor

To the Hollywood hills

68 Curtains and blinds

New on the market

74 Review

BFM Fabric Show London

Editor: Andrew Kidd

T: 01273 930 029 E: akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

APRIL 2020

Furniture advertising (South): Tim Boden

M: 07976 122 150 E: tboden@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Carefree Ultra offers top level performance with an added luxury feel. This hardwearing twist is easy to clean and built to last, its perfect for all homes.

Visit: www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Awards Vote for the best

Outdoor A place to chill

Your favourite twist just got heavier

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Sales: Preston - 01772 696 787

T: 01565 631 397 E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Carpet, flooring advertising: Joanne Paull M: 07817 624 922 E: jpaull@interiorsmonthly.co.uk

Representative in India: Amarjeet Singh Gianni T: 0091 98390 35458 E: as_gianni@yahoo.co.in

Published by Interiors Media Limited Minerva House, Kinnings Row, Bordyke, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1NP E: enquiries@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Registered in England no. 6397722 Print: Knockout Print Design by Truprint Media © Interiors Media Limited ISSN 1756-2236

Carefree Ultra

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod Bird

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NEWS

In administration: Laura Ashley closes almost half its stores Laura Ashley has appointed PwC as administrator and closed almost half if its UK stores.

The group says it will retain 77 branches for the moment and will continue to trade online.

‘Since my appointment just last month, I have shared my vision for the future of this brand, accompanied with a robust turnaround plan to set the future direction of the company and return Laura Ashley to the great British brand that is known and cherished around the world. The vision also included reconnecting with our traditional values and our strong British heritage and focusing on developing Laura Ashley as a lifestyle brand,’ says Katharine Poulter, Laura Ashley ceo.

‘I remain unwavering in my belief that Laura Ashley can and should retain the place it deserves in the international retail landscape. Unfortunately, we will lose some brilliant people through no fault of their own. However, I remain hopeful there is a buyer out there who shares my vision and

can see the enormous potential of this iconic British brand that is known and loved around the world.’

The 70 stores employ 721 staff.

Last month it warned that it needed to borrow £15m more by the end of March if it was to survive, but was unable to secure the funds. Ironically the Laura Ashley: sales surged 27.7% chain had seen a dramatic upturn in sales in recent weeks. In the six weeks to 7 March, total sales were up 27.7% with gross profit 22.2% higher, ‘ahead of management expectations’. Majority shareholder MUI Asia said it was unable to provide funding.

John Lewis bonus slashed John Lewis Partnership staff will receive just a 2% bonus – the lowest since the 1950s – after profits tumbled. Its chairman warned it could take five years to see results of the group’s turnaround.

‘With the hard work of partners, we made £123m of profit in 2019⁄20, which is 23% less than in 2018/19. This is a weaker performance than we had hoped for, driven by significantly reduced profitability in John Lewis. Despite a solid performance in Waitrose, it is our third year of declining profit across the partnership as a whole. This year we saw a one-off reduction in the value of our John Lewis shops of £123m, principally as a result of shops playing less of a role

in driving online purchases,’ says Sharon White, John Lewis Partnership chairman.

‘Profits in 2019/20 were at the lower end of what we had forecast. We are, therefore, awarding a bonus this year of 2%. I believe this is prudent and affordable and it recognises the contribution made by partners working in the business today without creating risk for our future sustainability. The result is that we are able to continue to invest in our customers and pay down more of our debt: this year our total net debts has fallen as a ratio of cash flow from 4.3 to 3.9 times.’

The bonus is the lowest since 1953, when no bonus was paid.

New dates for Proposte Fabric exhibition Proposte will take place in late September.

The Cernobbio, Lake Como event was to have taken place from 27-29 April, after Salone, but was forced to postpone because of the coronavirus outbreak.

While Salone has rescheduled for June, Proposte’s management wants to ensure visitors can attend ‘in full tranquillity’.

‘We started with the common intention of confirming the April date to give a

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

sign of positivity and continuity to the worldwide market. The situation has evolved on a day-by-day basis, both internally and internationally. We have decided to postpone the event to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to visit our exhibition in full tranquility and continue their business as usual.

‘It is the best solution for the 2020 edition of Proposte in this difficult year,’ says Piercarlo Viganò, Proposte president.

Brand boost for Homebase Homebase has added dwell to its concession portfolio.

The chain has opened a concession in its Chichester, West Sussex branch and plans to open further concessions as well as selling some dwell products online.

The 4,000sqft Chichester concession includes a selected range of sofas, beds, dining furniture, lighting and accessories.

‘With 39 stores nationwide and the new concessions opening in Homebase, we will be able to provide customers with even more choices when it comes to finding the perfect furniture and accessories for their home,’ says Peter Jenkins, dwell ceo.

‘Our partnerships with leading brands play a key part in our plan to make Homebase the go-to place for the inspiration, expertise and products customers need to create homes they love. The dwell range will be a fantastic addition for our customers,’ says Damian McGloughlin, Homebase ceo.

Homebase already has concession deals with Tapi, Silentnight, Bedeck, Denby and AHF, as well as Bathstore branded areas after buying the brand from administration last year.

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NEWS

Almost half of bed buyers buy without testing Almost half of shoppers buying a mattress do so without testing it.

Research by the National Bed Federation, based on a sample of 500 people who had purchased a bed or mattress from September 2019 to February 2020, found that online sales had risen from 51% in the previous six-month period to 55%. In-store purchases made up 42% of sales, by telephone 2% and other 1%.

Of those buying online or by telephone, 80% had not tested the mattress. This rose to 90% for the over 55s.

The mean price paid for a bed was £516.80 compared to £538.33 six months ago, a drop of 4%. However, compared to the same period in 2019, the value has dropped by 11%.

Comfort was the most important purchasing decision factor among two-thirds of buyers (66%) followed by price (57%) and reviews from other customers (31%).

The over 55s were the least likely to use reviews from other customers, with less than a quarter (22%) of them doing so compared to 37% of 35-54 year-olds and 36% of the under 35s.

Orders rise at ScS ScS saw like-for-like orders rise by 3.3% in the seven weeks to 14 March, compared to a fall of 4.4% in the previous six months.

‘Trading has strengthened since our market update on 29 January 2020, with like-for-like order intake in the last seven weeks growing 3.3%. This is a significant improvement on trading for the first 26 weeks of the year, which had a likefor-like order intake decline of 4.4%.

This has resulted in a like-for-like order intake decrease of 3.0% for the 33 weeks ended 14 March 2020,’ says David Knight, ScS ceo.

‘Whilst consumer confidence remains low, the group has been successful in sustaining profitable growth and

increasing its resilience.

‘Trading in the early part of the year was particularly challenging. However, the improvement and return to growth seen over the key winter sales period and for the first six weeks of the second half was encouraging.

‘In the past week we have seen reduced footfall and we are mindful of the developing situation with COVID-19 and the potential impact on deliveries and demand.’

In the 26 weeks to 25 January sales rose 0.5% to £160.1m. Furniture sales rose 1.4% to £131.6m while flooring sales fell by 13.2% to £18.7m as it avoided ‘unsustainable’ discounting by Tapi and Carpetright.

Early closure The final 11 department store branches of Beales closed two weeks early because coronavirus fears hit sales.

The branches – Beccles; Chipping Norton; Diss; Fareham; Great Yarmouth; Kendal; Lowestoft; Poole; Skegness; Southport and St Neots – closed for good on 19 March, ending 139 years of trading.

‘While this is two weeks ahead of the administrators’ original schedule, the impact of COVID-19 on the retail environment has meant that trading can no longer be supported,’ says KPMG. Will Wright, KPMG partner, praised ‘the fantastic support’ that staff have provided to the business, but said the ‘impact of these unprecedented circumstances left us with no alternative option’.

Minerva match for La-Z-Boy La-Z-Boy UK has become a supplier to Minerva Furniture Group.

Tristan Pyke, La-Z-Boy head of sales for independents, believes the partnership will be mutually beneficial.

‘Minerva’s customer profile suits our requirements very well. In general, they are able to invest in the brand and dedicate sufficient floor space to attract customers into a branded shopping environment.

‘We met a variety of Minerva customers at the January Furniture Show so have had numerous enquiries already since joining the group,’ he says.

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

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PRIMO PLUS One of Cormar Carpet Company’s most loved and popular ranges, ‘Primo Plus’ has been given a new look with the addition of some exciting on-trend new colours ready for the Spring/Summer season.

Perfect for high traffic, domestic areas of the home such as the living and dining room as well as the stairs. Primo Plus has been refreshed in 9 stunning new shades, with the 9 best selling colours also being retained. And to widen the choice, all plain 18 shades are also available in the heavier weight Primo Ultra.

Made using a durable 2-Ply, bleach cleanable 100% Excellon Polypropylene yarn, the range is both pet and family friendly.

The collection is available in 4 and 5 metre widths and will be delivered via the Cormar nationwide delivery fleet.

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NEWS

DFS says it will face £15m monthly bill

New vision

The Sleep Council has unveiled a new logo as it marks its 25th anniversary and a new vision.

At a time when millions of people are experiencing issues with sleep and often going without help, The Sleep Council wanted to make it as easy as possible for people to take the first step in getting advice and support.

‘The insight and feedback from within the sleep and health industry clearly evidenced a belief that The Sleep Council has the equity and authority to be the go-to organisation about sleep, but our current format lacked gravitas and didn’t fully reflect the service we provide,’ says Lisa Artis, Sleep Council head.

‘Our role has changed significantly over the past quarter of a century. When we started out, our raison d’être was to bring the bed replacement cycle down from the 17-year mark to 10 years. We achieved this, and it currently sits below this today.

‘We have acted as the consumer education arm for the National Bed Federation looking at the health and wellbeing benefits of a good night’s sleep, how a bed plays an important role in that, as well as giving independent, generic advice.

‘While we will stay true to the message of “comfortable, supportive bed for a good night’s sleep”, we have now become an organisation that is taken seriously in the sleep world, and with plans to lobby the Government and work on the public health agenda we needed a new look.’

DFS says it will face monthly costs of £15m after closing stores and halting its UK manufacturing and deliveries due to the coronavirus restrictions.

It says it will significantly reducing its marketing, to reflect the current environment, apart from where cancellation terms are excessively punitive; pause all discretionary capital and operating expenditure including the deferral of six planned new showroom openings; agree with senior leaders of the business to reduce their pay while the shutdown continues, and defer all annual salary reviews and halt recruitment.

‘During this period, with support from the UK Government's coronavirus job retention scheme, we intend to maintain employment for our colleagues for as long as possible. Our people are our most valuable asset and we stand by them at this unprecedented time,’ it says.

It has cancelled its half-year dividend, saving £8m.

Underlying EBITDA (excluding the impact of IFRS 16) decreased from £57.9m to £41.5m for the 26-week period leading up

to 30 December 2019.

Sales for the same period dropped by 5.7% to £488m.

‘We continue to make progress on our strategic agenda focused on driving the DFS core business, further developing our group platforms and setting Sofology up for future growth.

‘Despite the challenging retail environment, and excluding some isolated systems disruption in Sofa Workshop [which saw the chain fall into the red as it switched from legacy IT systems], our performance over the first half has been as expected, given the exceptional prior year comparative driven by latent demand,’ says Tim Stacey, DFS group ceo ‘In particular we have seen a good performance by the DFS brand in driving conversion and margins and continued online sales growth.

‘Trading in the second half for the group has also started satisfactorily with performance in the DFS brand particularly encouraging, with order intake growth year-on-year and good gross margins,’ he added.

Cancelled – and latest rescheduled dates The Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers has cancelled its Long Point show.

The event had been due to take place on 4-6 May in Long Eaton with more than 25 companies expected to take part.

‘We have taken the difficult decision to cancel the Spring Exhibition in an attempt to restrict the spread of

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COVID-19. Our website will be updated with the latest designs from our members and guests over the coming weeks,’ says Andrew Mitchell, Long Eaton Guild chairman.

The Autumn event is scheduled to take place on 21-23 September. n The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show that

Interiors Monthly April 2020

was due to take place in May has been cancelled. n Clerkenwell Design Week has been postponed from 19-21 May to 14-16 July.

‘The safety and wellbeing of all those involved is our priority and we are grateful for the support we have received from our exhibitors and partners in making this

difficult decision. We believe these new dates provide an opportunity to deliver a very successful CDW at the height of British summer,’ says Lee Newton, Media 10 ceo. n Consumer exhibition Grand Designs Live, due to take place from 2-10 May in London, has been rescheduled to take place from 22-31 August.

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1 Harvey Maria is launching a new collection of decorative luxury vinyl tiles from celebrated British designer Dee Hardwicke. Patterns includes four designs, each sharing a geometric flower motif adapted from an original ceramic illustration. The meadow-inspired design, with its heritage colour palette, creates a casual rustic feel that’s suited to both modern and traditional interiors.

Visit: www.harveymaria.com 2 Avenue’s Comfytex brings a problemsolving cushion floor ready to take on troublesome subfloors. Thanks to its Luxatex textile-based backing, Comfytex can take on a range of challenging subfloor

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

conditions and even be installed over existing floorcoverings, soaking up imperfections. It can be loose-laid in rooms up to 20sqm.

Visit: www.avenuefloors.co.uk 3 Part of its best-selling Atlantic collection, Monetti from Louis de Poortere strips away defining form to celebrate the artist’s palette in a glorious mix of blurred colours.

The lack of defined pattern gives the range an ethereal look, representing the brush strokes of Impressionism.

Visit: www.louisdepoortere.com 4 Balta has expanded its Leonis collection with the addition of Newport. With a

2,000g per sqm pile weight providing the luxury underfoot and 100% bleachcleanable StainSafe yarns, Newport provides an easy-clean solution for consumers looking to add a luxury floor without compromising on durability.

Email: broadloom@baltagroup.com 5 Furniture Link’s Arizona collection of sofas and chairs offers a winning blend of modern styling, quality materials and excellent comfort and is available in Caramel and Slate fabric with options in fixed, manual and electric reclining. Simply sit down, relax and let this suite envelop you in its supreme comfort.

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A UKAbrand UK brand sincesince 19641964

16/03/2020 16/03/2020 9:48:40 9:48:40

NEW PRODUCTS

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6 Leoline has introduced Comfytex Deluxe into its 2020 collection, bringing retailers a problem-solving cushion floor ready to tackle troublesome subfloors. Thanks to its Luxatex textile-based backing, Comfytex Deluxe can take on a range of subfloors and is even suitable over existing floorcoverings, absorbing imperfections while laying perfectly flat.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk

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7 Making sure its Satino range of super-soft Imprel polyamide carpets remains high up on the shopping list of homeowners hunting out luxurious carpets, Balta has introduced Cascade, as well as colour updates to Exquisite and Royale that reflect the latest home styles.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211 8 Already known for its success in creating bestsellers, Abingdon Flooring has updated its popular Rustique, Rustique Deluxe and Country Life ranges by adding a soft fleece backing, providing these ranges with a softer feel underfoot to help retailers keep up with demand from modern consumers.

Visit: www.abingdonflooring.co.uk 9 IB is just one of the premium furniture collections now offered in Signature by Kettle Interiors. Crafted to bring enduring industrial-style furniture to the home, IB comes with handdesigned parquet inlays on fronts, and tabletops crafted from aged grey oak, for a sophisticated appearance.

Tel: 01536 444 960 10 When Viggo Boesen first introduced Little Petra in 1938, it won instant praise at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild Exhibition, subsequently winning awards at shows in New York and Berlin. Over 80 years later, the iconic lounge chair is available as a two-seater sofa for the first time from &Tradition.  Visit: www.andtradition.com

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

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11 Floorwise has a range of spray adhesives ready and waiting for those big jobs. 19.5litre canister spray adhesives make light work of big surface areas, dramatically cutting down on installation time and getting fitters off their knees. For fixing trims and edges and securing those intricate details, installers will be turning to Floorwise handy can spray adhesives.

Visit: www.floorwise.co.uk 12 The Academy for Excellence in Flooring sees many self-taught flooring installers through its doors, with one aim in common: to improve their skills in installing

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

wood, laminate and LVT floors. Boosting confidence and making installations 20-30% faster, attending an Academy programme is worth the investment.

Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk 13 Lema has updated its Shade table with new oval versions and the new porcelain stoneware – Calacatta gold glossy and Laurent glossy – six matt and glossy finishes for the marble tops: Carrara white, Celadon white, Calacatta Vagli gold, Gray stone, Imperial Portoro black, and Marquinia black.

Visit: www.lemamobili.com

14 Balta has announced a major refresh of its in-store merchandise, bringing new ranges and collection updates as well as new stand designs, ready to boost sales in 2020 and beyond. For its Balta Carpets line-up, the manufacturer is introducing a new book stand, introducing Carinthia alongside other popular styles.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211 15 Inspired by agricultural sieves, Amura’s Setacci coffee table has a perforated top in wood, leather or metal with a base in wood, metal or leather fastened by leather ties.

Visit: www.amuralab.com

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SERVICE

Richard Renouf

Open mind

Preconceptions can get in the way when dealing with customers Discretion prevents me from telling you what they told me about the customer they’d asked me to visit. But it wasn’t good. I’d seen the headlines some years before and knew he was associated with allegations of serious fraud. As far as the retailer was concerned he was a villain, a nasty one, and they’d found him very difficult to deal with. Not least because he twisted their words and manipulated the situation to get his own way.

‘He’ll have you for breakfast!’ was their warning. ‘Don’t say anything – he’ll use it against you!’

I was understandably apprehensive when he answered the door of his luxury apartment overlooking a famous golf course. He owned the one downstairs, too, he told me, and I acted impressed.

He liked that. I admired the artworks on

The customer shared a passion for whisky

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

his walls. I didn’t recognise them but they were clearly well chosen and revealed his interest in modern artists and he was happy to share his passion with me for a few minutes. We found we shared an interest in writing. He was part of a writing group because he had nothing better to do and needed to fill his time (he was in semi-retirement, or shall we say, keeping his head down) whilst I was trying to improve my articles and a group seemed a fun way to do it – but you can judge whether it has worked or not! It gave us some common ground.

I don’t normally spend as much time warming up a customer, but the value of the job required ‘kid glove’ treatment.

I’m sure If I’d stayed a few more minutes and not left before noon we’d have been sharing our mutual passion for whisky,

too. But I needed to get the inspection done in a reasonable time, so this wasn’t to be. As it is, the job was lucrative enough for the retailer to have accepted it, in spite of his misgivings about the customer, and now it needed to be brought to a conclusion. It wouldn't help if I crossed with the customer.

The customer allowed me, once the niceties were over, to do my inspection work without any interruptions or suspicious questions. There was definitely a problem, his complaint was valid, but as usual I didn’t share any of my findings – that would come in the report. The retailer wouldn’t be happy, but an independent consultant usually has one party who disagrees every time he provides a report, sometimes more.

I left feeling the customer was quite normal, perhaps a little privileged but willing to be both hospitable and fair. It wasn’t for me to judge him. I didn’t know the facts of the scandal and the public inquiry hadn’t led to any charges. So ‘innocent until proven guilty’ was a useful mantra. The product was definitely faulty and the complaint was valid.

My view was, of course, different to that of the retailer. Both the customer and the product had looked different to him. Was his view of the complaint distorted by the attitude of the customer, or the customer’s attitude distorted by the way the retailer handled the complaint?

If the retailer had approached the complaint with an open mind, perhaps the customer’s response to him would have been different and this in turn would have made a resolution much easier. Who can tell? But it might be worth trying the next time.

Visit: www.richard-renouf.com Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant

AWARDS

Once again in the Interiors Monthly Awards, we want you to tell us which retailers, manufacturers and suppliers are the best in the interiors industry. As ever, the criteria to base your vote on is entirely up to you. Download a copy of the entry form from www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk, email akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk or complete the email questionnaire we’ll send you. As well as having your say, casting your vote gives you the chance to win a superb hamper from Fortnum & Mason. Voting closes on 30 June. Here’s a reminder of the winners of the 2019 awards.

Best Flooring Retailer (1-3 stores): AJ Rogers & Sons Best Furniture Retailer (1-3 stores): David Salmon Best Flooring Retailer (4+ stores): SCS Best Furniture Retailer (4+ stores): Dreams Best Online Retailer: Argos Best UK Furniture Manufacturer: Whitemeadow Best UK Flooring Manufacturer: Furlong Flooring Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer: Wiemann Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer: Balta Best Furniture Buying Group: AIS Best Flooring Buying Group: ACG Best Bed Manufacturer (Upmarket): Hypnos Best Bed Manufacturer (Mid-Market): Sealy Best Bed Manufacturer (Value): Silentnight Best Carpet Manufacturer: Cormar Carpet Company Best Bed Manufacturer (Adjustable): Adjustamatic Best Rug Supplier: Think Rugs Best Bedroom Manufacturer: Nolte Mobel Best Laminate Manufacturer: Egger Best Dining Room Manufacturer: Skovby Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer: Woodpecker Flooring Best Living Room Manufacturer: Rowico UK Best Underlay Manufacturer: Interfloor Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury): Ashley Manor Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer: Westbridge Furniture Designs Best Vinyl Manufacturer: IVC Group Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury): Ekornes Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer: La-Z-Boy UK Best LVT Manufacturer: Karndean Designflooring Best Recliner Manufacturer: himolla Best Accessory Supplier: Premier Housewares

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Interiors Monthly April 2019

Best Flooring Accessory Supplier: Ball & Young Best Children's Furniture Manufacturer: Steens Best Flatpack Furniture Supplier: Core Products Best Home Entertainment Supplier: Jual Best Fabric/Soft Furnishings Manufacturer: Morris & Co Best Mattress Protection Provider: Mattressgard Best Furniture Wholesaler: Julian Bowen Best Flooring Wholesaler: Floorwise Best Customer Service (Flooring): Associated Weavers Best Customer Service (Furniture): Julian Bowen Best Business Support (Flooring): SMG Best Business Support (Furniture): Greenwood Retail Best Marketing Support (Flooring): Flooring One Best Marketing Support (Furniture): NBF Best Software Supplier (Flooring): Computers for Flooring Best Software Supplier (Furniture): RetailSystem Best Flooring Exhibition: BGNFS Best Furniture Exhibition: January Furniture Show Best Product Protection Provider (Flooring): Stroolmount Best Product Protection Provider (Furniture): Staingard Best Warranty Provider: Castelan Group Best New Supplier: Orbital Best Flooring Website: Karndean Designflooring Best Furniture Website: Sleepeezee Best Finance Provider: V12 EDITOR’S CHOICE Product of the Year (Flooring): Associated Weavers Flooring Brand 2020: Cormar Carpet Company Furniture Brand 2020: Parker Knoll Sustainability (Flooring): CRUK Sustainability (Furniture): Silentnight Outstanding Performance (Flooring): Ulster Carpets Industry Contribution: The Metro Group

AWARDS

Who gets your vote?

RETAILERS TO COMPLETE ONLY Best Customer Service (Furniture) Best UK Furniture Manufacturer Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer Best Furniture Buying Group Best Accessory Supplier Best Lighting Manufacturer Best Mattress Protection Provider Best Bed Manufacturer (Luxury) Best Bed Manufacturer (Mid-market) Best Bed Manufacturer (Value) Best Bedroom Manufacturer Best Dining Room Manufacturer Best Living Room Manufacturer Best Children's Furniture Manufacturer Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer Best Luxury Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer Best Luxury Leather Upholstery Manufacturer Best Flatpack Furniture Manufacturer Best Furniture Wholesaler

Best Underlay Manufacturer Best Flooring Accessory Supplier Best Vinyl Manufacturer Best Luxury Vinyl Supplier Best Flooring Exhibition Best Flooring Website Best Flooring Wholesaler Best Software Supplier Best Finance Provider Best Business Support (Flooring) Best Business Support (Furniture) Best Marketing Support Innovation of the Year Best Recliner Manufacturer Best Home Entertainment Supplier Best Warranty Provider Best Product Protection Provider Best New Supplier Product of the Year Best Blinds and Shutters Supplier Best Rigid Floor Manufacturer

Best Fabric/Soft Furnishings Manufacturer Best Furniture Exhibition

SUPPLIERS TO COMPLETE ONLY

Best Furniture Website

Best Flooring Retailer (1-3 stores)

Best Customer Service (Flooring)

Best Flooring Retailer (4+ stores)

Best UK Flooring Manufacturer

Best Furniture Retailer (1-3 stores)

Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer

Best Furniture Retailer (4+ stores)

Best Flooring Buying Group

Best Online Retailer

Best Carpet Manufacturer Best Rug Supplier

Email your nominations to: akidd@interiorsmonthly.co.uk Name:.......................................................................................................................................................

Best Laminate Manufacturer

Company:.............................................................................................................................................

Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer

Position:.................................................................................................................................................

Tel:..................................................... Email:.........................................................................................

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk

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PROTECTION

Clients can book appointments through WASP

Continuation

The company has seen growth in its ‘first year’ services

Castelan will continue to provide its services ‘The fact that these are challenging times – the like of which we have never seen before – is a truth that will, no doubt, be with us for some time to come,’ says Martin Napper, Castelan Group ceo.

‘During this period I would like to assure our clients, and their customers, that Castelan is doing all we can to ensure the continuation of our services. Obviously, the overriding concern is the health and wellbeing of colleagues, customers and clients alike.

Claims-handling capability has grown

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

‘We, like all other responsible businesses, continue to monitor the advice given by Public Health England, the UK Government and the World Health Organisation in order to best protect our colleagues and customers whilst adapting our processes accordingly.

‘We are committed, and have plans in place, to continue providing the products and services that you have come to expect from us and we really appreciate the support of our clients at this time.

‘By being certain of, and focusing on, the fundamentals of our business proposition, we have been pleased to continue to grow and have secured a number of new relationships over recent weeks. Our “first year” services, through our national network of employed technicians, continue to attract more business as we are seen to be an extension of our clients’ own excellent service commitments. Our clients particularly appreciate the ease which they can book jobs and appointments, and that is due to our in-house developed Web Accessible Service Portal.

‘We have also been appointed as the trusted partner for clients looking to expand or secure their warranty product offering. It is not only the flexibility of product on offer that has been of interest but also our claims-handling capability, which has grown hugely through the use of online functionality.

‘The future has always been impossible to predict, but even more so at this time.

Castelan stands ready to do all it can to support our clients and deliver on the promises made, whether through service or a warranty product. As always, we would be delighted to discuss all aspects of our service with you and, in the meantime, thanks again for your support and we wish everyone well at this challenging time.’

Visit: www.castelangroup.com

Trust has to be earned.

Having won the ‘Best Warranty Provider’ award for three consecutive years - 2017, 2018 and 2019, as well as a Trustpilot rating of ‘Excellent’, we’ve earned a lot of trust..

To find out how we can help your business call our Business Development Team on 07748 100 254 or email sales@castelangroup.com

Your customers love us too! www.castelangroup.com

PROTECTION

Being better

The portal (above left) will allow consumers to process claims online, while technicians (above) may soon be able to upload reports

Guardsman is investing online The main focus for Guardsman this year is to deliver a better customer experience.

The first of its initiatives is the launch of a new online claim management portal.

The portal has been developed to make the claims handling process more streamlined.

‘This is an exciting time for Guardsman.

We realise that customers don’t always want to pick up the phone to make a claim because it’s not convenient, so this new portal allows our customers the option to log a claim at any time. The system will keep them updated throughout the claim process, so they will always know what stage their claim is at,’ says John Glaysher, Guardsman project analyst, who led the project.

Guardsman’s focus is not only on its customers’ requirements: it recognises it’s equally important to ensure that the needs of its retail partners are met. Phase two of the project will see the launch of

an online retailer portal, which will allow retailers to record and submit protection plan registrations, as well as being able to order in-store support materials, making the whole process more streamlined, professional and easy.

‘It’s so important to be focusing on making things better for customers and retailers, and future-proofing our business. It’s great that we are able to make these improvements,’ says David Evans, Guardsman sales director.

As well as working to improve the customer journey, Guardsman’s plans also include continuing to grow its business-to-business service.

‘It’s great to be able to partner with so many fantastic brands who want to work with us because they believe in the service we provide. The recent addition of Insurance Provider Claims Planet shows just how diverse we are now,’ says William Taylor, Guardsman technical manager.

‘Over the years Guardsman’s businessto-business focus has been on working with retailers and manufacturers, but we have proven to be diverse enough to move into different sectors now.

‘We continue to offer unrivalled expertise in upholstery cleaning and furniture repair and can demonstrate the long-term savings we can deliver on warranty work and showroom repairs due to our unrivalled 80% first visit fix rate.’

‘The new claims and retailer portals are just the beginning of big changes this year,’ says Evans. ‘We are also looking at a technician portal that will allow our technician network to upload reports in real time at the customer’s home, making the process quicker for all, as well as launching a new website. We have a lot more system developments and new initiatives to come, all of which will help to take the business forward.’

Tel: 01235 444 700

Guardsman is investing online to future-proof its business

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

To help everyone enjoy and be proud of their furniture IM Advert April 2020.indd 1

19/03/2020 10:36:38

RETAIL

Egg and Swan in Febrik upholstery

GJ Bow chair

Coastal palette

The Conran Shop’s SS20 collection has embraced Modern Mediterranean The Conran Shop’s SS20 collection can be broadly characterised as Modern Mediterranean, as shown by the coastal palette of blues and yellows, stripes and crosshatches and highlight pieces from Greece, Portugal and beyond, as well as the emphasis on outdoor living.

This responds to Sir Terence Conran’s vision to ‘make everyday life more in tune with what we enjoy’. Pleasure, he says, ‘is too important to be sidelined into a vacation break and side-stepped

the rest of the year.’

Exclusive collaborations with The Conran Shop include the Arne Jacobsen Egg and Swan chairs in Febrik upholstery. Originally designed by Jacobsen using pioneering techniques, these distinguished heroes of midcentury design receive a velvet finish for the first time. Incorporating a new wool blend from Febrik, the chairs are now available in 21 colours of Kvadrat’s luxurious Gentle Velvet Clay

and Gentle Blue Wool Velvet.

Danish brand Lange Production has worked closely with the estates of iconic designers such as Grete Jalk, Fabricius and Kastholm and Horst Brüning to establish itself as a leading manufacturer of the finest European furniture. Items include the captivating GJ Bow chair.

Jalk’s most renowned design, the expressive chair’s complex plywood structure and refined lines have been  lauded for over half a century.

Grasshopper

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

Your Furniture

Safe in our hands

Inspite of the Coronavirus we are still at work looking after all our customers needs...

Care Kits ࠮ Mattress Protectors ࠮ Insured Furniture Care Plans Leather repair products and technical support Fabric protectors and cleaning products ࠮ Extended Warranties

Staingard wishes all its customers, their family, friends and colleagues well during this crisis.

For further information please call 01244 888 658 or email info@staingard.co.uk • www.staingard.co.uk

RETAIL

Mesa

The Karuselli lounge chair, now available in black leather

Conran’s favourite chair, the Karuselli lounge chair designed by Yrjö Kukkapuro, is now available in all-black prestige leather, with the store having three models. An experimental play with moulds, the undulating yet balanced form is reminiscent of the human body resting in snow. Sitting atop a fully rotating and reclining base, the sturdy fibreglass shell and generous padding ensure exceptional comfort.

Preben Fabricius and Jørgen Kastholm designed the Grasshopper in 1965. Lange has had the rights to it since 2006 and uses the original tools, and it is exclusive to The Conran Shop in the UK. Highlights of the SS20 collection have also been designed in-house. The double-weave handmade Bamboo

Bamboo shades

shades are made in Vietnam and throw a soft light through their durable, natural material, creating a beautiful, hatched shadowplay. The Conran Shop’s team has sourced the longest bamboo nodes in the world, allowing the design to push the boundaries of the material. The result is three timeless forms that can now be made in dramatic sizes up to 45cm.

Made in India by skilled artisans, the Mesa cushion covers feature an intricate hand-embroidery technique on a practical linen base. The selection comprises materials such as linen and mohair in countless colourways and is intended to be mixed and matched to add variety to the home.

Handcrafted in whitened beech wood, with a back and seat in either navy Director’s Chair

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

Crofter

Beautiful berber

Shown: Crofter ~ Country Cream 50oz.

Crofter, our beautiful, timeless cut pile berber range is crafted at our mill in Lancashire using a blend of the finest wools, to give a top quality finish; complemented by our traditional sustainable jute backing, for easy fitting and lasting good looks.

This stylish yet practical carpet is available in 9 subtle must have shades, in a choice of 40oz and 50oz, and 4m or 5m guaranteed full widths, to create a warm welcoming feel to any home.

Penthouse quality...naturally!

For samples and further information call 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk

Style • Colour • Comfort

RETAIL Bistro

or navy stripe, the Director’s Chair brings a summertime twist to the classic director’s chair. Intended primarily for indoor use, the paint finish protects it from sunlight, preventing cracking, but isn’t rain-resistant. Compact and easy to store, it folds away when not in use.

Check & Plain is a lightweight dinnerware set that encourages you to combine patterns for an eclectic tablescape. The collection includes a check pattern and two solid-wash colours, with either a glazed or handpainted finish. They are microwave and dishwasher-safe, too.

The retailer has looked to the past for some of its outdoor introductions.

Originally designed in the 1950s as a tribute to Gustav Eiffel, the Bistro folding chair and table are constructed from minimalist yellow frames of epoxypainted metal. The chair is finished with a wooden seat. Made by Portuguese design house Adico, founded in 1920, this classic set also folds for easy storage.

Manufactured by Adico since the 1930s, the Portuguese 5008 chair appears as contemporary today as it did over 80 years ago, and is found on many Portuguese squares and seafronts.

The 5008 chair is stackable, made from epoxy-painted metal for longevity, and is available in a range of statement colours, including a new-season yellow.

Visit: www.conranshop.co.uk

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

Check & Plain

5008 has a new yellow finish

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with our collection of soft & sumptuous carpet ranges that have the practical advantage of being totally bleach cleanable!

www.abingdonflooring.co.uk | 01274 655 694 | sales@abingdonflooring.co.uk

Abingdon-Fullpg-IM.indd 1

16/03/2020 10:15

CARPET

Take it easy

Primo Plus Snow Drift 285

Cormar has relaunched and extended its Primo Plus collection Cormar Carpet Company has relaunched its Easy Clean Twist carpet range Primo Plus. The collection has been updated with nine new colours, as well as retaining nine of the most popular existing shades.

The refreshed collection now includes a relaxed French Grey, a warm Cotswold Clay and a striking Cornflower Blue.

The relaunched collection is bleachcleanable, stain-resistant and now comes with a 10-year stain and wear warranty.

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

Primo Plus is a 10th gauge, two-ply carpet made with 100% Excellon polypropylene and is available in 4m and 5m widths. All 18 Primo Plus plain shades are now available in the heavier weight Primo Ultra collection.

‘We’ve had great success with our Primo family of Easy Clean carpets over the years, so it made sense to give the collection a makeover and offer all the colours in the heavier weight Primo Ultra. This gives customers even more

choice and a vibrant new look to a collection that has been a firm favourite since it was first introduced in 2003,’ says David Cormack, Cormar Carpet Company marketing director.

All Cormar Carpet Company’s wool and Easy Clean ranges are manufactured at its Lancashire mills and distributed throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland through its own dedicated delivery fleet.

Visit: www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Taking the feature wall to create a feature floor

Artisan Wilton – Statement

The UKs biggest stockist of patterned carpet 01133 071900 | sales@fellscarpets.co.uk

CARPET

Eternity Amaryllis in 90

Luxury and liveability Balta’s polyamide offer has been updated ‘For homes where peace of mind is just as important as a luxury look and feel, the Eternity collection is the answer.

With a solution-dyed Imprel Finesse SD polyamide yarn – where colour runs right through the fibre – Eternity offers a lifetime of stain-resistance without compromising the softness and silk look that makes polyamide a favourite choice,’ says Filip Poelman, Balta sales director.

Available in two styles, Primrose and Amaryllis, Eternity brings 12 vivid and rich colours – another benefit of solutiondyed yarns – across a broad palette of naturals, trending greys and rich jewels.

And with consumers safe in the knowledge that even the palest cream has lifetime stain-resistance, the styles are a tempting proposition in any colour.

Both Primrose and Amaryllis are made in a 1/10th gauge Saxony pile, offering two weights so that homeowners can Satino Exquisite in 34

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

choose the quality on their budget or need. For example, the heavier Primrose can be used to withstand the wear encountered in living spaces, while Amaryllis will prove more than luxurious enough for any bedroom.

Eternity also makes use of Balta’s Twinback, a dense needle-felt backing that boosts underfoot comfort. Twinback also makes installation easier thanks to better flexibility, making Primrose and Amaryllis more attractive propositions for customers and fitters.

‘The well-established Satino has been active on the market for several years, steadily winning a loyal fanbase with retailers keen to build on the growing demand for polyamide styles. And as the market continues to appreciate the incredible softness and silk-like looks of the best styles, we have reinvigorated the collection with a brand-new style, updated colours on its existing qualities and a fresh look,’ says Poelman.

‘In a colourful palette of 26 tones, including vibrant shades of Green Shimmer, Cliff Dive and Caramel Gold, there’s no doubt new Cascade is capturing carpet’s welcome return to colour. With Sand Fossil, Silvery Moon and Winter Chill among others, there’s also plenty of choice for homeowners looking for something a little less adventurous and so making this style

ready for almost any setting.

‘Made with Imprel Opal yarn to deliver a subtle silk effect aimed at today’s fashion-conscious carpet purchaser, Cascade’s Saxony construction gives a really luxurious mood in the home. With incredible underfoot softness and a 10-year wear promise, Cascade is an exciting addition to the Satino collection.’

The Imprel Finesse yarn constructed Satino Exquisite ands Satino Finesse have been given new colour banks. Exquisite is offered in 17 tones from grey and cream to natural blue, heather and green.

Finesse is now available in a palette of 12 pastel tones, including a choice of greys, and uses the Imprel Finesse yarn to lend a luxurious shimmer. Offering a fine appearance through its 1/10th gauge Saxony, it is set to bring the appeal of polyamide carpet to a wide audience.

Marketing for the Satino collection has also been given an update with Balta creating a more lifestyle-focused presentation that targets homeowners on the hunt for luxurious finishes.

‘With Satino and Eternity in-store, retailers can respond to the growth of interest in polyamide carpets with ranges that deliver style, quality and the value that comes from being made in Belgium

by Europe’s largest carpet manufacturer,’ adds Poelman.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211

WOULD WOULD YOU YOU LIKE LIKE TO FIND TO FIND OUT OUT MORE MORE ABOUT ABOUT THE SHOP-IN-SHOP THE SHOP-IN-SHOP

BY AW?

BY AW? Please Please contact contact your local your local Area Sales Area Sales Manager Manager for more for more details. details.

AW UK adv AW POS UK adv 2020_SoMe.indd POS 2020_SoMe.indd 1 1

• A •bundle A bundle of successful of successful concepts concepts & innovations: & innovations: ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® ® , Invictus , Invictus , Vivendi , Vivendi , Sedna , Sedna & StainAway & StainAway . ®. iSense iSense • Multiple • Multiple modules modules can can be tailored be tailored individually individually to the to concept the concept of your of your store store • Customers • Customers can can stroll stroll around around the the collections, collections, presented presented in clear in clear displays, displays, in a in relaxed a relaxed atmosphere. atmosphere.

• A •dynamic A dynamic overall overall solution solution for successful for successful carpet carpet sales. sales.

www.carpetyourlife.co.uk www.carpetyourlife.co.uk

13/03/2020 13/03/2020 15:57:3715:57:37

CARPET

There are two Sedna ranges in the UK: Yara and Varuna

Cleaning the seas

The use of Econyl yarn is helping to protect wildlife Sedna carpet is soft, luxurious and durable. It is made with Econyl regenerated nylon, a yarn made from recycled waste material such as old carpets and abandoned fishing nets collected from the bottom of the sea.

Sedna thus helps to save thousands of beautiful sea creatures like sea turtles, dolphins and seals that will no longer get stuck in this life-threatening waste.

It is estimated that 640.000 tonnes of fishing gear is lost or abandoned in our oceans each year, accounting for one-tenth of all marine litter. Each year, more than 100.000 sea animals are trapped and killed in those nets.

Carpet manufacturer Associated Weavers is aware of the important role it can play in the journey towards a more sustainable use of plastics. Along with Healthy Seas and Econyl it is on a mission to clean the seas of marine litter.

By collaborating with the fishing industry and farms and with the help of volunteer divers from Healthy Seas, ghost fishing nets are being collected worldwide. Then, along with other waste,

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

including old carpets that otherwise end up in landfill, they are regenerated into nylon yarn through the Econyl process. This yarn can be reused time and again while maintaining its quality.

Visit: www.sedna-carpet.co.uk

Sedna POS

Kingsmead_Publication_Advert_17_2_17.qxp_A4 20/02/2017 10:36 Page 1

ARTWORK FA S H I O N RANGE INFUSION Kingsmead Carpets are celebrating a relaunch of a classic, The Vitronic Plains Collection has had a fashion infusion with new colours - offering a choice of 18 home furnishing hues.

This 80/15/5 wool carpet range is manufactured in four pile weights 32oz, 40oz 50oz and a heavy weight 60oz in 4 and 5 metre wide giving a comprehensive choice of options for the home.

With a palette of 18 plain carpet shades including new neutrals such as Greyhound, Polished stone and Hessian as well as soft blues and greens like Cornflower, Eau De Nil and Putting Green, the Vitronic Plains Collection is made from 80% wool, 15% polypropylene and 5% Kingloc polyester, also with the added assurance of being moth resistant and included within the Wool Owners Warranty programme.

The Vitronic Plains Collection has been a staple range in our wool carpet portfolio, enjoying huge success over the years and it remains a firm favourite with retailers as it offers such a wide choice of contemporary colours, different weight options and four price points making the collection a game changer in the marketplace.

Vitronic Plains Kingsmead carpets latest addition to its Clean easy family. Awesome is made with the same family-friendly Everlon polypropylene fibre renowned for its stain resistance and hardwearing properties. It has been developed to make it softer than the standard Clean easy carpet ranges but retains the same level of lustre giving the range a more softer feel. Available in three weights - Gold, Silver and Bronze it comes in 14 modern plain and heathered colours. With Awesome stain resistant qualities and non-fade colours, this range is perfect to cope with hectic family lives, so much so is our confidence in the range it is reflected with a lifetime warranty against food and stains. AWESOME!

Vellutto - Duck Egg Vellutto is the a luxurious velvet in 15 contemporary shades.

Made from 100% Polyamide Stainmaster 2 Fold Yarn which gives this carpet range a unique, distinctive, luxurious look and feel. This fibre Kingsmead Carpets are proud to be relaunching our popular Artwork technology has a tighter and smoother molecule structure which combined with the stain master fibre enables it to be more resistant range, available in 23 plain colours in 4m and 5m wide, with 8 stripes to staining and dirt. The mix of shades comes in a palette of greys such as Gunboat, taupes - in Cafe Au LaitContact and neutrals such as Decor available 4m. your local Representative for more details. available in 4 and 5 metre widths .

Awesome

For further information please call 01827 831424 or visit www.kingsmeadcarpets.co.uk Kingsmead Carpets, Relay Park, Relay Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire. B77 5PR.

LVT

Cottage Oak Truffle

Expansion

Designers Parquet Duchess

Associated Weavers has expanded its Invictus brand to luxury vinyl flooring Since its launch in 2015, Invictus has been a key reference in the UK market for comfortable broadloom carpet. With its dense pile, Invictus carpet will make you prefer the carpet to the sofa.

Associated Weavers, the maker of Invictus, now presents Invictus luxury

Highland Oak Chocolate

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

vinyl flooring. With the same attention to quality, the same eye for exclusive designs, and a unique performance level, Invictus luxury vinyl flooring is the perfect match for Invictus carpet.

Associated Weavers stands out from the crowd in terms of UK presence,

branding and in-store solutions. The Invictus luxury vinyl flooring concept and display are no exception – the attractive branding and visuals immediately draw customers’ attention. Associated Weavers has reinvented the in-store display and brings a tool with an intuitive digital module, sure to offer a great customer experience and guide customers through an efficient purchase process that's also fun. The symbiosis between traditional samples and digital journey was previously unseen in the flooring business.

‘When it comes to delivering a great performance, nothing beats Invictus luxury vinyl flooring. The name is no coincidence: in Latin invictus means invincible. Invictus luxury vinyl flooring is sure to meet all your expectations’, says Gavin Pugh, Associated Weavers md.

‘Invictus luxury vinyl flooring brings a well-balanced collection of 84 SKUs: wood, stone and parquet designs in dryback and rigid click. Whatever your decorating style, there’s an Invictus luxury vinyl floor for every home, from contemporary to country, from traditional townhouse to urban loft.

Choose your preferred style and let it guide you towards the floor that is just right for you. For even more inspiration, use the online room visualiser.’

Visit: www.invictus.co.uk

LVT

New look

Korlok by Karndean Designflooring: Frosted Stone RKT2401 (above left) and Metro Grey RKT2403

Stone designs are being added to the Korlok collection for the first time Karndean Designflooring is celebrating the understated colour tones found in natural limestone by introducing five new stone designs to its modern Korlok collection.

Designed to offer quicker installation times and added acoustic benefits, this is the first time the brand has added stones to its ‘click and lock’ rigid core portfolio. Warmer underfoot and easier to maintain than natural stone, the tiles come in a 18in x 24in size.

The new Korlok stone palette includes

Volcanic Black RKT2406

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

a range of silvery and warm mid-greys, muted and soft neutrals and honey colours. From the striking charcoal grey of Volcanic Black to the elegant Frosted Stone with its chalky limestone effect, there’s a tone to match traditional and contemporary interiors alike.

The collection also features Urban Grey and Metro Grey with its contrasting warm, mid-grey colourways, and Cotswold Stone – reminiscent of the dry-stone walls and honey-coloured cottages found in the Cotswolds.

Like all Karndean floors, the designs are handcrafted to reflect the muted tones found in natural limestone and have been developed to include subtle veining, delicate mottling and a chalky appearance to create a realistic finish.

As it clicks and locks into place without the use of adhesive, Korlok features Karndean’s K-Core technology, meaning it can be fitted over most existing subfloors, floorboards or ceramics. With K-Core also providing excellent acoustic benefits by reducing sound transfer to rooms below by 21dB, it is fast becoming the format of choice for home designers looking to boost wellness and achieve a healthy home.

‘This is the first time we have introduced a stone in our Korlok collection, so it’s a very exciting time for us,’ says Stella Coyle, Karndean Designflooring national retail sales manager.

‘Our new limestone-inspired stones are perfect for anyone looking to create a neutral backdrop in their home. Each design can be perfectly paired with a wide range of trends including Scandi, modern industrial and minimalist. It also means those faced with the challenge of an uneven subfloor or existing ceramic floor now have the option of a stone in a convenient rigid core design. We hope home designers love the soft tones of our new Korlok designs as much as we do.’

Visit: www.karndean.com

Understated elegance

Shown: Stateside - Atlanta.

Stateside from Penthouse Carpets; our beautiful plain dyed, pristine cut pile carpet comes in 18 gorgeous contemporary colourways, designed to complement today’s interiors. Made using only the finest raw materials, to give the superb quality and finish for which we are renowned.

Offered in 40oz and 50oz options, in guaranteed full 4m and 5m widths, this durable easy to fit 80% wool 20% synthetic fibre carpet will stand the test of time.

For samples and further information call 01706 639 866 or visit penthousecarpets.co.uk

Style • Colour • Comfort

ROYAL WARRANTS The wool Hypnos uses is traceable

By appointment

All Hypnos beds are recyclable

Hypnos has held a Royal Warrant for more than 90 years Hypnos has been a proud holder of a Royal Warrant since 1929, under the Keen family who still run the business. With the Royal Warrant firmly at the heart of its activities, the company regards it both as a symbol of quality and testament to its pioneering approach to sustainability and ethical trading.

‘We’re incredibly proud of our Royal Warrant status. Having one is not just a mark of excellence and superior quality, it’s a way of life for us and something to be trusted. Retailers can feel confident that if they’re stocking a product with a Royal Warrant, they’re getting something that’s altogether special and responsibly

Hypnos has held a Royal Warrant since 1929

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made,’ says James Keen, Hypnos chief executive and fifth generation of the Keen family.

‘Hypnos is proud to be the only bed maker to actively supply all Royal residences including Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and St James’s Palace.

In addition it is also commissioned to re-upholster antique furniture from time to time for the Royal state rooms by using respected and traditional upholstery techniques to care for these timeless pieces.’

A Royal Warrant from the Queen provides the company with a symbol for exceptional quality and reinforces its

reputation for the best of British design.

‘Whether we are making a bespoke bed for one of the palaces or giving advice on the importance of sleep and its impact on health and wellbeing, it ensures we are producing beds to the highest standards. This means retailers can be confident they’re providing their customers with a luxury, well-made bed that will stand the test of time,’ says Keen.

‘The combination of traditional craftsmanship with an innovative approach to materials and suppliers is driving our development to create exceptional and sustainable furniture.

Every bed is created from natural and sustainable materials such as wool, which is ideal for regulating body temperature during sleep and, of course, entirely biodegradable. We have an entirely traceable British wool partnership with Red Tractor assured farms and use FSC or PEFC certified timbers that have been sourced from managed forests.

‘Our wider sustainability is also emphasised by being the first bed maker in the world to become carbon neutral and to hold this status for almost nine years, achieving FSC certified company status, passing the Sedex Ethical Trading Audit and creating a lean, green manufacturing culture by putting into place an internationally recognised ISO14001 environmental management system. Furthermore, each Hypnos bed is recyclable, meaning 100% landfill avoidance.’

Visit: www.hypnosbeds.com

The Hypnos

Origins Story

We value the people, animals and places behind our new sustainable and ethical bed range.

Expertly handcrafted mattresses with 100% British Wool from Red Tractor assured farms. hypnosbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral

Handmade in Britain and 100% recyclable

ROYAL WARRANTS

Pure Grand Luxe 3000

Regal touch

Sleepeezee first held a royal warrant in 1963 Established in 1924, Sleepeezee is now one of the most well-known bed manufacturers, its beds and mattresses to be found in some of the finest homes and palaces around the world.

Sleepeezee first received a royal warrant to the Queen in 1963 and went on to receive another to the Prince of Wales in 1985 – an accolade that it has held ever since.

Sleepeezee beds are handmade in the UK by a team of 300 expert craftspeople who diligently check every detail for consistency and quality. Its royal warrant represents the very best

in British design.

In addition to its Royal Warrant holder status, Sleepeezee also has a longstanding relationship with the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST), the charity set up to sustain excellence in British craftsmanship. Established in 1990, QEST is the brainchild of the Royal Warrant Holders Association, of which Sleepeezee is a member, and provides British artisans with funding for college courses, apprenticeships and one-to-one training. Sleepeezee is the only bed manufacturer in the world which is authorised to make mattresses and

Perfectly British Mayfair

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divans with the QEST mark of distinction and every QEST product that it sells generates a contribution to the charity.

It is this heritage and dedication to British craftsmanship, combined with innovative designs and luxury materials that has enabled Sleepeezee to perfect the formula of a good night’s sleep.

Customers can sleep soundly knowing that the bed that they are investing in not only comes royally recommended, but will ensure that they are able to get the best night’s sleep possible.

The company also takes great pride in its sustainable approach to business and is the first bed manufacturer to receive the Planet accreditation. This has seen the company drastically reduce carbon emissions, energy and water consumption – an endeavour that has led to recognition by the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme.

No waste has gone to landfill since 2012 and the brand went fully carbonneutral in 2017. All timber used in Sleepeezee products is sustainably sourced under EU timber regulations and is FSC certified.

Sleepeezee is committed to supporting hotels in adopting sustainable practices, providing the ideal solution for hospitality businesses looking for environmentally responsible suppliers.

Visit: www.sleepeezee.com

BRAND

BASSADO

R

JESSICA ENNIS HILL

A

M

Introducing the

AWA R D W I N N I N G M AT T R E S S

Sleepeezee will donate £20 for every mattress sold to the Sheffield Children’s Hospital

“Sleep matters to our everyday performance. That’s why I’m proud to work as ambassador for Sleepeezee, one of Britain’s leading mattress makers.”

E V E R Y T H I N G’S E A S Y W H E N YO U S L E E P E E Z E E

www.sleepeezee.com

1800 SPRINGS

EDGE TO EDGE SUPPORT

STAYCOOL™ GEL

HYPO-ALLERGENIC

NATURAL BERBER TWIST Cormar’s popular, flecked wool twist range - Natural Berber Twist, is being re-launched.

Made from 80% Pure New Wool, this classic range has been updated with an additional ten new natural tones and the yarn has been re-engineered to improve the look and pile surface of the carpet.

Available in two qualities Elite and Deluxe, Natural Berber Twist is moth resistant and now also comes with a 10-year Wear Guarantee, making it ideal for high traffic areas of the home.

Like all Cormar’s award winning carpet qualities, Natural Berber Twist is delivered nationwide by our own delivery fleet and manufactured in Great Britain at our mills in Lancashire.

www.cormarcarpets.co.uk portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Good bed, better mornings Whether you’re a duvet hogger, a sleep talker, or an ‘out when your head hits the pillow’ kind of person, we’ve got the beds to make your sleep, and your dreams, just that little bit sweeter. www.slumberland.co.uk

Year Guarantee

Made in the UK

NEW FOR 2020

INTRODUCING H AC K N E Y An unique collection made using a variety

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of materials including reclaimed elm, metal and glass. Intricate stepped detailing on the side, coffee and console tables are delicately shown off under a glass cover, while the large 4 door sideboard showcases an aged finish with protruding stepped detail to give this collection a individuality like no other.

Hannagan Floor Lamp, 5055999252508.

Overall W115 D115 H1320mm Shades sold separately

Raven Ceramic Vase, available in two sizes Overall W200/160 D200/160 H310/210mm

Hackney 4 Door Sideboard, 5059413114366.

Overall W1850 D485 H850mm

GD Interiors Monthly - 1803.indd 1

Tue 17/03/2020 16:01:15

IMAGES: JORDAN ASHLEY BRETT

OUTDOOR

A place to chill

Gandiablasco’s latest project was in Beverly Hills

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OUTDOOR

For more than 20 years, the essence of Gandiablasco has been linked to the Mediterranean: its outdoor furniture collections sit in harmony with the characteristic landscape of the region.

Even so, far from its roots, there are other places in the world that share the lifestyle, and these are where Gandiablasco integrates perfectly with the nature of its urban and rural landscapes. The

Californian coast is one such place.

Gandiablasco’s passion for the outside has reached the Mediterranean climate of Beverly Hills, at the foot of the Santa Monica mountains. A place where, they say, dreams are fulfilled and from where, a few kilometres away, you can see the sinuous hills of Los Angeles crowned by the emblematic Hollywood sign.

In this idyllic location is Carla Ridge,

a luxury home designed in 2019 by the prestigious architect Noah Walker of the Walker Workshop studio, located atop one of the hills, with attractive views over the pine valley.

Carla Ridge is a mansion of minimalist aesthetics: its architecture, open to the outside, aims to maximise the potential of the spectacular views by means of extensive terraces that merge with 

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OUTDOOR

the natural richness of the surroundings.

The residence comprises two levels overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with a connective section covered with red cedar. On the ground floor are communal areas such as the kitchen, the dining room and a large entrance hall.

The interior spaces of Carla Ridge are designed by the avant-garde design company MASS Beverly and stand out for their elegance and contemporaneity. The design makes use of the wonderful natural light that enters through the

sliding glass doors in each room, giving access on to the spacious terraces of the mansion.

The extensive terraces form a continuous esplanade that, as a wraparound balcony, overlooks the stunning views of Beverly Hills. Here Gandiablasco has used the armchairs, sofas and coffee tables of one of its most emblematic collections: Solanas, in a special golden edition designed by Daniel Germani. These complement the iconic black Ensombra umbrellas, designed by Odosdesign,

creating the perfect island setting to share open-air evenings with friends and family.

In another area of the terrace, beside windows open to the natural landscape, Gandiablasco has created a space of rest and contemplation through the Flattextil dining armchairs and Flat round chill bed, both designs by Mario Ruiz for Gandiablasco. The blend of grey, turquoise blue and gold details adapts to the aesthetics of the mansion and reinforces its appeal.

Visit: www.gandiablasco.com

Strain

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ALPHA D E S I G N S Elegant upholstery, handmade in the UK by a family company with passion, dedication and care

Vangard extra large sofa

ALPHA DESIGNS UPHOLSTERY LIMITED T: 01902 492937 F: 01902 493700 E: sales@alpha-designs.co.uk Unit 1, Stag Industrial Estate, Oxford Street, Bilston, Wolverhampton WV14 7HZ

AlphaJan18.indd 1

07/12/2017 16:43

CURTAINS AND BLINDS

Simta’s Diamante gives Art Deco a contemporary key with dip-dyed fabrics, ombre effects and metallic yarns. Visit: www.simtaspa.com

Prestigious Textiles’ Belvadere is one of eight designs in the Icon collection, with sheers suitable for curtains combining with overprinted velvet designs.

Visit: www.prestigious.co.uk

Open sesame

The latest collections from the blinds and curtains sector introduce exciting new trends into the home for SS20

JAB’s Soft Ribbon from the Twilight collection is suitable for all rooms including bathrooms, spas and pools and is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and suitable for allergy sufferers.

Visit: www.jab.de

Gardisette’s sheer Network blind uses subtle contrast to display its embroidered honeycomb pattern to best effect. Björn juxtaposes finely structured, transparent curtain fabric with an open, opaque structure that gives the impression of coarse knitwear but is soft in look and feel. Visit: www.gardisette.jab.de

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Comfort

and

Style

at

the

touch

of

a

button!

Valencia in Lisbon Wheat

VALENCIA The Valencia range comprises of an electric reclining sofa, electric swivel reclining chair and a dual motor riser recliner.

Upholstered in supple Pebble plush and stylish Lisbon Grey and Lisbon Wheat fabric, the Valencia does everything you require from Ă ĐŚĂŝƌ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƵĐŚ ŽĨ Ă ďƵƩŽŶ͘

Valencia in Lisbon Grey

It features a waterfall style back for extra support and the riser recliners dual motor allows the user to operate the foot and back ƌĞƐƚ ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚůLJ ĨŽƌ ƵůƟŵĂƚĞ ĐŽŵĨŽƌƚ͘

*Available in matching Electric 2 Seater and Swivel Recliner in Pebble plush only.

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T: 01291 645080 | F: 01291 645099 SALES@GFA.UK.COM | W: WWW.GFA.UK.COM

CURTAINS AND BLINDS

Iliv’s Conservatory fabric collection is suitable for blinds, including the Maidenhair Fennel design in Amber. Visit: www.i-liv.co.uk

Vintage Angel is from a collection of bespoke roller blinds in sizes from 600mm to 2,500mm from Artylicious Home & Gifts.

Visit: www.artylicious.co.uk

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Loom & Last’s Koala Roman blind, one of 15 designs available, is a viscose and linen mix with a soft vintage feel.

Visit: www.loomandlast.com

Chivasso’s offer includes a number of products suitable for use outdoors.

Visit: https://chivasso.jab.de

Oak Hamburg Carver Jet Hopsack Seat

Oak Loire Chair Natural Hopsack

CHAIRS

A family affair

The Woodman family have been making chairs for decades Peter and Tom Woodman run Woodman Chairs, a family-owned business based in Devon. It designs, makes and imports solid wooden chairs and chair frames from Europe, both to its own designs and bespoke to customers’ own styles.

‘Some 25 years ago, fate shuffled me from finance to furniture, then more specially to solid wood chairs. My greatgrandfather was a master craftsman and made chairs for his community. Now, 150 years on, in a somewhat more global world and albeit in more modern form, we are proud to continue that tradition,’ says Peter, Woodman Chairs director.

‘The wooden chair, for me, is the ultimate art form in all furniture making, combining function with form. We can all be inspired by wooden chairs. The look, the style, the touch, the sensuality – even before we get to comfort and what it’s principally there for: to sit on, Think Mackintosh, Eames – think Keeler!

‘But it doesn’t have to be high-end design or dramatic: the simpler it is very often the better. The Windsor, the slat back – though not without demands in their making – are essentially simple by design. The challenge, as with most things, is to balance the aesthetics with the complexities of construction. And, of course, the wholly inconvenient but generally necessary constraint of cost.

‘The wooden chair is probably the most complex item of mainstream furniture to make, with so many components, joints, angles and multidirectional structural and load demands.

But, because we see it as such an everyday item – on average we sit on seven different “chairs” in a day – we can tend to undervalue. Making good, sustainable wooden chairs, with a good aesthetic, at affordable prices, is our aim.

‘Wood is good. True compatibility with the word “sustainable” is vital to us. All

our timbers come from sustainable forestry. Wood is the only renewable raw material used in large scale. However, in the fight to cut carbon emissions we cannot be complacent and we aim to be wholly carbon neutral by 2030. Simple measures, like inviting us all, as consumers, to join in putting pragmatic and practical timber selection and utilisation before vanity as part of the move towards no timber waste, will gain traction in the years ahead. Designing and making wooden chairs with a long or recyclable lifespan will be others.

‘Our chairs span a wide range of contemporary and traditional lines. They are also built to last. Fashions will always come and go, and whilst we must to some extent flow with that, the solid wood chair, well made, well designed, sensibly priced, sustainable, will remain very much at the core of our being.’

Visit: www. www.woodmanchairs.co.uk

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Interiors Monthly April 2020

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REVIEW

Multitude

Upholstery fabrics took centre stage at BFM Fabric Show London

A multitude of new designs in luxury upholstery fabrics took centre stage at the recent BFM Fabric Show London, which returned to Chelsea FC’s West Stand for two days in February.

As in previous years, the 2020 iteration of the event was regarded as a huge success by exhibitors and visitors.

‘This has been another great year for us at Chelsea. We see all the major UK furniture manufacturers and suppliers into retail. It’s always a busy show and we’re looking forward to 2021 already,’ says Tom Beacroft, Aydin Textiles UK agent.

BFM Fabric Show London gives UK upholstery and bed retailers and manufacturers, both BFM and non-BFM members, the unique opportunity to select from a wide variety of fabric types and designs from premium suppliers, in one place. Visitors, including the cream of UK furniture manufacturing and

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retail groups, were treated to choices in everything from heavy-duty jacquards to light cottons, along with the latest fabric technologies in stain, water and fire-resistant treatments.

From around the world, 38 high-end fabric producers and suppliers showed their latest designs and colourways.

Joining the regular line-up were six new exhibitors: Antiprima and Aurim Home Decor from Italy, Audejas from Lithuania, Edinburgh Weavers from Scotland, Kacar Textile from Turkey and Morgan Fabrics from the USA. This truly international event saw returning exhibitors from the UK, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Turkey.

Adding depth to the event for visitors were show sponsors Aqua Clean, Orbital Vision and LTS (Lancashire Testing Services), which gave demonstrations and outlined their systems and services.

They were joined by two fellow sponsors from Belgium: Flanders Investment & Trade and Fedustria, the Federation of the Belgian Textile Woodworking and Furniture Industry, which support and promote renowned Belgian fabric producers around the world.

‘I am delighted with the success of the show. Our exhibitors and visitors have praised the format, quality and presentation, and despite difficulties with dates, it has been very gratifying to see every space filled and plenty of BFM members through the door.

‘Everyone I spoke to appreciates this event as the best opportunity to select premium fabrics from premium suppliers in the UK. Planning for the 2021 event has already started and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year,’ says Nick Garratt, BFM md.

Visit: www.bfmfabricshow.uk

ECO Cushion The No1 base for artificial grass with moisture release and breathable properties

Home comforts come out to play Designed for Cushioning ArtiďŹ cal Grass areas.

Perfect combination every new installation should have Cloud 9 ECO Cushion When tested to BS EN 1177:2008 25mm of Cloud 9 ECO Cushion with ArtiďŹ cial Landscaping Turf attains Critical Fall Height (hic) value of 1.2 metres

The Brand Leader

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Proudly made in the UK.