not if these companies – and their apprentices – have anything to do with it.
Cole & Son's Couture Carousel
FROM ABOVE: Renowned French crystal house Lalique; Edward Bulmer Natural Paint; summer perfect umbrellas and shades from the East London Parasol Co
Iwriting up the winning entries, which I am sure you will agree is a fantastic showcase of beautifully crafted spaces.
Our features include a look at apprenticeships in the furniture and craft industry, which – hurrah – are on the rise (p12). We sent Claudia Baillie to Castle Howard to preview the extensive restoration of the 300-year-old stately home (open until October if you want to see for yourself, see page 18). We’ve put together pages of design ideas and for a nale, Eva Sonaike, the visionary whose eponymous African interiors brand celebrates vibrancy and pattern, compiles a list of her favourite things (p124).
As ever, huge thanks to Cole & Son for supporting us and allowing us to take a snippet of its new Couture Carousel wallpaper design (a collaboration with Harrods) for the cover – I hope you love it as much as we do. And congratulations to this year’s Country & Town Interiors 50 Finest. You make the book what it is.
Editor’s LETTER
’m delighted to share this year’s Country & Town Interiors and our ‘ ta-da’ moment announcing this year’s UK-based 50 Finest Interior Designers. It’s always a pleasure to showcase the industry’s rich array of talent and there was plenty of choice as always. e big reveal starts on page 99. In addition, we are celebrating ten trailblazers, those instantly recognisable names, such as Katharine Pooley and Nina Campbell, OBE, whose work is consistently referred to and who inspire so many (p43).
Interior design is in uenced by personal feeling, taste and opinion, which is why at C&TH we feel it is so important to have voices on our judging panel who are not in the profession but who have a passion for home and an eye for design. Our judges this year are actor and presenter Richard E Grant, Henrietta Rix, co-founder of Rixo, and Sarah Laming whose instagram @ahometomakeyousmile has been showcasing her home and love of interior styling for six years, amassing over a million followers. We are indebted to them for their time and enthusiasm for what was, I hope, an enjoyable project. Tessa Dunthorne and Emma Love have done an immaculate job of sifting through the scoring sheets and
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Collectible art is central to Spinocchia Freund's design process; swatches at the Fermoie showroom; Hästens Vividus bed; Lladró's lamp collaboration with designer Lee Broom
CONTRIBUTORS
THE 50 FINEST JUDGING PANEL
Henrietta Rix is CEO and co-founder of vintage-inspired fashion label Rixo, which she started from her university bedroom with best friend Orlagh McCloskey. In 2024, the brand debuted its first homeware collection – Casa RIXO – as an extension of the pair’s personal style. Inspired by their love of antique and vintage fairs, you’ll find the brand’s penchant for pattern and colour translated to cushions, napkins and tablecloths. Rix and McCloskey were listed as Sunday Times Ones to Watch in 2019 and Forbes 30 Under 30 winners in 2020
rixolondon.com
Tessa Dunthorne
Material Gains, p76
Where do you go for design inspiration?
I am a sucker for Instagram reels that show me tiny homes in Seoul. Do you have a favourite craft? Anything yarnbased.
A piece you’re coveting right now? I am desperate for a 70s telephone seat table but to sit a vinyl player. Your biggest furniture coup? A sofa from Facebook Marketplace for £100 which, if new, would have cost £2,000. A designer you admire? Luke Edward Hall’s work is extraordinary in its breadth – from T-shirts to plates to paintings. He’s nailed something really modern while drawing from classical sculptural figures. How do we make our homes more sustainable? Don’t buy from fast fashion homeware brands. Vote with your wallet.
Richard E Grant
Richard E. Grant is a celebrated British actor, writer and presenter known for his distinctive charm and theatrical flair. He rose to fame in the cult classic Withnail & I and went on to earn an Oscar nomination for Can You Ever Forgive Me?. Recent projects include Saltburn and Disney series Loki. Beyond the screen, Grant is passionate about design and interiors. He lives in Richmond in a picture-perfect Georgian home, whose interiors are a reflection of his –and his late wife Joan Washington’s –eclectic taste and style. He even painted the walls himself.
richard-e-grant.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Eva Sonaike
Designer’s Edit, p124
Where do you go for design inspo? West Africa, always. The colours, patterns, architecture... Everything is layered with meaning. What’s your favourite craft? Weaving. It’s an ancient craft that feels so modern. And it connects so many people. A piece you’re coveting? I’ve been dreaming of owning a hand-carved Bamileke stool from Cameroon. A designer you particularly admire? Chief Dr Nike Davies-Okundaye – a Nigerian artist and cultural leader whose work is so inspiring. Her Lagos gallery is one of the best for African art, and she’s done so much to preserve indigenous textile crafts. How do we make our homes more sustainable? Repurpose and reuse. Buy preloved. Turn offcuts into napkins. Donate.
Sarah Laming
Sarah Laming is an interior designer who trained at the Chelsea College of Art. Her interior styling work today reaches a community of over 1.3 million followers under the Instagram handle @ahome tomakeyousmile. Her posts capture the changing of seasons from the view of her window seat, and are typified by a style she calls ‘relaxed maximalism’. Her small dog Twiglet appears in many of these photos – often found sleeping on her beloved floral sofa. She has collaborated with brands like Piglet In Bed, Cath Kidston, and Laura Ashley.
instagram.com/ahometomakeyousmile
Claudia Baillie
Hang Pretty, p18
A piece you’re coveting right now? I don’t really covet things, but if I could it would be a painting from McCully & Crane in Rye. All the work is beautiful but ideally a piece by Marc Taylor, Ben Wakeling or Mary Norden, who used to be an interior stylist and art director. Your biggest furniture coup? Not so much furniture but finding my apartment with original 1930s features still intact. Although the yellow bathroom tiles with black edges weren’t salvageable, I do have a fabulous Art Deco fire surround and slim timber floorboards, which I love. How do we make our homes more sustainable? Use vintage and antique pieces – it also makes your interiors more unique. If I could shop anywhere it’d be at 8 Holland Street. The owner, Tobias Vernon, curates the most brilliant selection of furniture.
Henrietta Rix
COUNTRY & TOWN INTERIORS
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LUCY CLELAND
DEPUTY EDITOR LUCINDA BARING
EDITOR-AT-LARGE ALICE B-B
ASSOCIATE EDITOR CHARLOTTE METCALF
MANAGING EDITOR TESSA DUNTHORNE
CAROLE ANNETT EDITOR
JUNIOR SUB EDITOR & PRODUCTION ASSISTANT EVIE CALVER
SUB EDITORS KATIE BAMBER, ANDREW BRASSLEAY
FASHION DIRECTOR NICOLE SMALLWOOD
BEAUTY DIRECTOR NATHALIE ELENI
INTERIORS DIRECTOR CAROLE ANNETT
CULTURE EDITOR ED VAIZEY
EXECUTIVE RETAIL EDITOR JULIET HERD
MEN’S STYLE EDITOR SHANE C. KURUP
TRAVEL EDITOR-AT-LARGE FRANCISCA KELLETT
EDITOR-AT-WILD FEE DRUMMOND
WELLNESS EDITOR CAMILLA HEWITT
SUSTAINABILITY EDITOR LISA GRAINGER
PROPERTY EDITOR ANNA TYZACK
MOTORING EDITOR JEREMY TAYLOR
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SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER MCKENZIE MULLANY
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THE EDITOR editorial@countryandtownhouse.co.uk FASHION fashion@countryandtownhouse.co.uk
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CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
BELINDA BAMBER, STEPHEN BAYLEY, OLIVIA COLE, TIFFANIE DARKE, FIONA DUNCAN, OLIVIA FALCON, DAISY FINER, AVRIL GROOM, MICHAEL HAYMAN, LAUREN HO, EMMA LOVE, MARY LUSSIANA, CAROLINE PHILLIPS, JAMES WALLACE
Ideally, we’d love you to pass it on to a friend or a community place which might enjoy it (doctor or dentist surgery, community centre etc), but you can also rest assured that your issue (including cover) can be disposed of in your paper waste recycling bin.
‘Our goal is to INSPIRE CREATIVITY to thrive within the individual, so they DISCOVER their own artistic EXPRESSION and fall in LOVE with the materiality of MAKING’
Patination is one of many pathways for apprentices at Cox London
THE NURTURERS
CAROLE ANNETT champions those investing in the next generation of makers
The decline of heritage crafts has been slow and steady; like random objects being toppled by hits at a coconut shy, it’s hard to predict the next victim. In the last ten years, the art of creating mouth-blown at glass, cricket ball making and gold beating have all hit the deck. Causes are varied, including an ageing workforce, as well as lack of interest and demand due to an unwillingness to pay for something handmade when a similar product, usually mass-produced abroad, can be bought very much more cheaply. But there are rays of hope, particularly in the area of apprenticeships. In an industry where ‘handmade’ and ‘bespoke’ are muchused lexicons of luxury interior design language, there are companies and individuals who deserve recognition for putting their time and money into a passion for hand-made and hand- nished.
One of the loudest rallying cries is from Lulu Lytle of Soane Britain, who is under no illusion as to what the craft industry needs: ‘Our support,’ she urged in a rousing presentation to the audience at last year’s Design Leadership Summit in Edinburgh. ‘To ensure that traditional craftsmanship – true, local, honest craftsmanship –survives into the next generation.’
Not one to incite fervour and sit on the sidelines, Lytle in 2010 heard that the Leicestershire-based rattan workshop Angraves, which had made Soane’s iconic rattan designs for the previous eight years, was going into
administration. She was aghast that this highly skilled, labourintensive craft was about to vanish after 150 years, so she bought the machinery, re-employed the only remaining practitioners of traditional rattan weaving in England and initiated an apprenticeship programme. So far, four craftspeople have completed the course and ten more are in training.
Another business with a potentially rocky future was the rushseat chair maker. e most recognised design – Bedales – originally known as the Mission chair when conceived by English furniture designer and architect Ernest Gimson in 1906, got the a ectionate namechange after a commission for the Bedales school library. Its production is now in rude health thanks in part to Richard Platt and Sam Cooper, who each answered an advertisement for apprenticeships with furniture maker Lawrence Neal in 2018. e rush-seat chair making opportunity was funded by businessman Hugo Burge, whose passion for the Bedales design and the ‘grounding values of the Arts and Crafts movement’ brought him in contact with Neal.
‘Hugo started commissioning a lm about Lawrence Neal called e Last Chair Maker, wanting to capture the craft before it was lost forever,’ Richard Platt explains. ‘I think Hugo realised we have the resources here to make sure it doesn’t die out at all, let alone just capture it. So halfway through lming, Hugo o ered to fund two apprenticeships.’ Sam Cooper, who had dropped out of an engineering
Furniture apprentices Sam Cooper and Richard Platt founded The Marchmont Workshop
degree and then became a scuba-diving instructor, explains what drew him to apply: ‘ ey weren’t looking for a particular skill. What they wanted was passion. I’ve always done woodwork as a hobby. About 50 or so people applied and 11 of us were invited for an interview. Me and Rich got the job, starting with Lawrence Neil, our mentor, at his workshop in Warwickshire.’ Burge is still very much involved as Cooper and Platt’s business, e Marchmont Workshop, is now located in the Scottish Borders as part of Marchmont Ventures, a home for makers and creators set up by Burge, who also spent six years renovating nearby Marchmont House. And this year, to neatly complete the circle, Cooper and Platt advertised for their own apprentice.
Cox London, founded by Chris and Nicola Cox in 2015 and muchadmired for its sculptural lighting and furniture is also launching its rst scheme. ‘Our goal for the craft apprenticeship is to inspire creativity to thrive within the individual, so they discover their own artistic expression and fall in love with the materiality of making,’ says Nicola. Her own journey into craft was like an apprenticeship –she paid for half of her own degree course at Wimbledon School of Art as, hailing from New Zealand, she was classed as a foreign student. She went on to work in a ne art foundry, while Chris, who she met while studying, worked for an antique restorer. ‘I worked through university to pay my own way,’ she says. ’Working alongside learning is what’s normal for me and it was the most incredible experience. What a privilege. So I knew it was possible and that we could o er that in our own workshop environment.’
own portfolio. One of the things that the young people were telling us was that they want to come out at the end of it with a quali cation that has meaning in the outer world.’ Cox London will take a maximum of two in the rst year and then every year there will be three more vacancies so the number of apprentices will grow year on year.
As with Cooper and Platt, Cox London is looking for candidates with a love of handicraft. ‘We are hoping to nd young people who like making and materials. ey don’t have to be fantastic at drawing – they may just have a natural ability. We’re also looking for natural curiosity, how they might react to the environment, how open they are to learning and absorbing. I realise I was very lucky going to art school and I’m so excited about o ering this opportunity.’
‘We’re the safety net in learning and EXPERIMENTING and sometimes FAILING. By getting things wrong you’re going to LEARN a lot more and you’ll GROW with CONFIDENCE as well’
Last year, Cox London acquired a metalworks business in Hampshire that was run by a team whose average age was 65. ‘We realised all their skill and knowledge would retire with them and that’s why we decided to invest,’ she says. Having always o ered opportunities on a casual basis to Fine Art students (Cox London was awarded a Princess Royal Training Award), the Coxs have been considering an o cial apprenticeship programme for some time. ‘Our apprenticeship is for three years, o ering a foundation rst year where a candidate gets a 360-experience of business from design to production, sales to operations, which is a great opportunity to learn about every aspect of Cox London,’ Nicola explains. ‘In the next two years, apprentices specialise in one area – fabrication, foundry or forging skills, including patination or nishing. ey also have the opportunity to create their
While it’s heartening to hear about new opportunities, there are companies who have been o ering earn-while-you-learn opportunities for years. English furniture manufacturer Ercol, established in 1920 and still manufacturing in Buckinghamshire, is renowned for its design and craftsmanship. Eighty one people work in its factory in Princes Risborough, including 16 who entered via the apprentice scheme and have stayed at Ercol for over 30 years. Technical support manager Roy Graves, once an apprentice himself, works with the current crop of 15 apprentices and still refers back to his hand-written training manual he wrote 45 years ago. e most important thing, he tells students, is ‘believe in yourself to try. You may not know how to do something but we will teach you and guide you. We’re the safety net in learning and experimenting and sometimes failing. By getting things wrong you’re going to learn a lot more and you’ll grow with con dence as well’. Ercol has already o ered ve apprenticeships for next year, three of them to young women. All have been snapped up.
Samuel Heath, the Birminghambased British tap manufacturer, has been running programmes for over 25 years. It currently has four apprentices in manufacturing processes, including polishing and plating. I’ll leave the last word to Harry, one of Samuel Heath’s young polishers: ‘When I got the apprenticeship, I was really excited. I enjoy going to college but prefer coming here to work. It’s more motivating, and earning money while you’re learning is pretty cool.’
Fingers crossed more companies decide to invest in fostering young talent through similar schemes. Wouldn’t it be satisfying if we were seeing the seeds of a craft revolution. n
Rattan weaving for Soane Britain
ACCESSORIES BATHROOMS BEDS
CARPETS, RUGS & FLOORING
CHINA & GLASS CURTAINS, POLES & FINIALS FABRICS FURNITURE HARDWARE
KITCHENS LIGHTING OUTDOOR FABRICS
OUTDOOR FURNITURE PAINT TILES
TRIMMINGS & LEATHER WALLCOVERINGS
ABI INTERIORS ALEXANDER LAMONT + MILES ALTFIELD ALTONBROOKE AND OBJECTS ANDREW MARTIN ARTE ARTERIORS
AUGUST + CO BAKER LIFESTYLE BELLA FIGURA BRUNSCHWIG & FILS C & C MILANO CA’ PIETRA ARTISANS CASAMANCE CECCOTTI COLLEZIONI CHASE ERWIN CHRISTOPHER HYDE LIGHTING COLE & SON COLEFAX AND FOWLER COLONY BY CASA LUIZA CRUCIAL TRADING DAVID HUNT LIGHTING DAVID SEYFRIED LTD D E LE CUONA DEDAR DONGHIA AT GP & J BAKER ECCOTRADING DESIGN LONDON ED ELMAN EGGERSMANN DESIGN ELITIS ESPRESSO DESIGN FABRICUT LONDON FLEXFORM FORBES & LOMAX FOX LINTON F RATO GALLOTTI&RADICE GASTÓN Y DANIELA GEORGE SPENCER DESIGNS G LADEE LIGHTING GP & J BAKER HAMILTON
HARLEQUIN HEATHFIELD & CO HECTOR FINCH HOLLAND & SHERRY HOULÈS HOUSE OF ROHL HUMA INTERIORS IKSEL
DECORATIVE ARTS INTERDESIGN UK JACARANDA CARPETS & RUGS JAIPUR RUGS JASON D’SOUZA JEAN MONRO JENNIFER MANNERS DESIGN JENSEN BEDS JULIAN CHICHESTER KINGCOME KRAVET LEE JOFA LELIÈVRE PARIS LEWIS & WOOD LINCRUSTA
LIZZO LONDON BASIN COMPANY LONDONART WALLPAPER
LOOM FURNITURE MARVIC TEXTILES MCKINNON AND HARRIS
MINDTHEGAP MODERN BRITISH KITCHENS MORRIS & CO MULBERRY HOME THE NANZ COMPANY NOBILIS OF ICINA INGLESA FURNITURE ORIGINAL BTC OSBORNE & LITTLE PAOLO M OSCHINO LTD PAVONI PERENNIALS SUTHERLAND STUDIO
PHILIPPE HUREL PHILLIP JEFFRIES PIERRE FREY PORADA PORTA ROMANA QUOTE & CURATE RALPH LAUREN HOME RESTED ROBERT LANGFORD ROMO RUBELLI THE RUG COMPANY SA BAXTER ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE S ACCO CARPET SAMUEL & SONS SAMUEL HEATH S ANDERSON SAVOIR BEDS
SCHUMACHER SHEPEL’ SIMPSONS SOURCE AT PERSONAL SHOPPING THE SPECIFIED STARK CARPET STUDIO FRANCHI STUDIOTEX SUMMIT FURNITURE THG PARIS THREADS AT GP & J BAKER TIGERMOTH LIGHTING TIM PAGE CARPETS TISSUS D’HÉLÈNE TOLLGARD TOM RAFFIELD TOPFLOOR BY ESTI
Product shown sourced from Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. See www.dcch.co.uk/advertising-credits
FOCUS/25 15 – 19 SEPTEMBER
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HANG PRETTY
CLAUDIA BAILLIE visits Castle Howard, where a
meticulous
restoration is breathing new life into the English Baroque masterpiece
Set among 1,000 acres of picturesque Yorkshire parkland, Castle Howard is one of Britain’s most magical country houses. Recognised as the location for the triumphant 1981 television adaptation of Brideshead Revisited and, more recently as Clyvedon Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Hastings in the extravagant, Regency-era period drama Bridgerton, with its statues, temples, lakes and fountains, the historically signi cant property has also been home to nine generations of the Howard family over the last 300 years.
Each generation has contributed to the evolution of the remarkable building, including George Howard, who having returned home from the Second World War restored parts of the house after a re ripped through its grand dome and more than 20 rooms in 1940. It was that same George, Baron Howard of Henderskelfe, who opened the English Baroque-style castle to the public in 1952 and now the extraordinary architecture and gardens, originally conceived by Sir John Vanbrugh and Nicholas Hawksmoor for Charles Howard, 3rd Earl of Carlisle in 1699, draw almost 300,000 eager visitors every year.
More recently, current custodians Nicholas and Victoria Howard have picked up the baton, instigating the renovation of the Tapestry Drawing Room, which has been returned to its former glory after the devastating blaze. Led by architect Francis Terry and designers Remy Renzullo and Alec Cobbe, the project relied heavily on a roster of specialist craftspeople, whose unique skills and dedication have brought the space back to life.
‘ e conversation began in 2018 and progressed just as Covid happened, so things were on hiatus until 2022 while the world weathered the storm,’ says Curator of
Collections and Archives Eleanor Brooke-Peat. ‘Before work began the room was still on our visitor route, so you would move through beautiful spaces, but this one was boarded up. erefore restoration was key from a guest experience point of view, as well as in terms of the family’s use of the house beyond the East Wing, which is where they live for most of the year.’
Working with written records documenting how the room was once arranged alongside imagery from the late 19th century, the space is a new interpretation based on that early evidence. ‘We have a huge archive that we’re able to mine, including visitors’ accounts from not long after the completion of the house, journal entries and letters guests sent to friends,’ she explains. ‘A number of those reference the “four seasons tapestries”, woven in 1706 by John Vanderbank, a fashionable artist who created work for the crown, and it’s those exceptional pieces we’re reinstating here.’
Following the construction of the room’s frame, the next step was to recreate the ornate plasterwork that would have once adorned the walls. ‘We worked with master plasterer Philip Gaches, who produced all the elaborate detail including the frieze at the top of the room and the scallop shells over the replace. We didn’t know exactly what would have been there but took inspiration from the rest of the house so that it would be true to the period,’ says Brooke-Peat. Individually moulded o -site and then meticulously pieced together, the hand-gilded plaster also forms a frame for a painting set in the overmantel.
New doors were given an authentic patinated nish by specialist Mark Fitzgerald, while additional bespoke furniture came courtesy of specialist carver and gilder Jeremy Rothman. ‘When considering which pieces may have been in the room, we looked to the rest of the collection and found two armchairs and four side
at
Specialists
Castle Howard reinstalling the autumn-themed tapestry, created in 1706 by the fashionable John Vanderbank as part of his tapestry series depicting the four seasons
chairs with fabulous cabriole legs,’ says Brooke-Peat. ‘ ere were no larger seats, so three reproduction settees – essentially longer versions of the chairs – were commissioned to accompany them. e original chairs needed attention too, to make them sturdy enough for use.’
Covered in historic but damaged fabrics, including a cut velvet dating from the 18th century, those chairs along with the new pieces all needed upholstering. ‘With some detective work, we discovered that the velvet was once part of the state bed hangings. e bed itself was dismantled and disposed of, so while not original to the chairs, the fabric is original to the house,’ explains Brooke-Peat. ‘It’s not widely made these days, so we’ve been working with a mill in France to reproduce it.’ Expertly handled by London-based upholsterer AT Cronin Workshop, who also made curtains for the project, the sumptuous cloth now covers both the original chairs and the replica seating.
Finally, the tapestries themselves were placed in the capable hands of independent conservator Alison Stanton. ‘ ey hung in the Tapestry Drawing Room for around 50 years, but by the middle of the 18th century they were moved, cut to t either side of a replace, then extended to t another space,’ says BrookePeat. ‘If they’d stayed there, they would have been burnt so in fact it was a lucky escape.’ Post- re, intact but smoke and water damaged, the tapestries were sent to a London restorer only to nd their trip cut short. ‘At this point the separated panels were sewn back together, slightly Frankenstein-style, and after that we assume that more work was intended but the restorer’s premises were bombed, so they were hastily sent back,’ she adds.
Having been unceremoniously moved countless more times, the precious textiles have now been painstakingly stabilised by Stanton and displayed in elegant, beaded frames by architectural joinery company Houghtons of York. ‘Gravity is the enemy, as if not hung properly a tapestry’s weight will lead to tiny tears,’ says Brooke-Peat. ‘In the past they would have been nailed to the wall, but now we hang them with Velcro. is means they can be removed very quickly, so if there was another disaster, heaven forbid, we could feasibly get them out.’
ough work is forever ongoing, the completion of this stage has created a domino e ect, whereby thanks to furniture and art being moved around, the Grand Staircase and the Long Hall – two other vital characters in the castle’s narrative – have also bene ted from a refresh. ‘It’s been a fabulously challenging and educational process, as it’s almost indescribable how many parts needed to dovetail together,’ concludes Brooke-Peat. ‘Alongside the design and curatorial teams, the contractors and craftspeople have all contributed to this special period in the castle’s history –there’s been a real sense of camaraderie. It’s a once in a lifetime moment, and the enthusiasm from everyone has been a truly wonderful thing.’ n
The restoration is creating a ripple effect through the castle (pictured top right), with other spaces undergoing a refresh
PHOTOS: SIAN NICHOL; TOM ARBER
Ornate plasterwork in the Tapestry Drawing Room has been recreated by specialists
This tapware and fixtures brand has evolved from family business to global renown ABI INTERIORS
ustralian-born brand ABI Interiors began in 2016 with a simple yet powerful vision: to make high-quality kitchen and bathroom products more accessible. What started as a small family business has since grown into a globally recognised brand. With a commitment to thoughtful and timeless design, we provide a complete solution that includes tapware, vanities, sinks, showers, hardware, and more – empowering homeowners and professionals to create cohesive and inspiring interiors.
United by a shared vision to redefine how people access premium interior products, the founding team brought together diverse experience across retail, architecture, and property development, each contributing a unique perspective and complementary skill set. Recognising a gap in the market, they set out to streamline the supply chain, making highquality, design-led fixtures more attainable without compromising on affordability. Their vision laid the foundation for ABI – a brand built on quality, innovation, trust, passion, and responsibility.
In 2021, we proudly became the first Australian brand to open a showroom in London’s prestigious Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. As ABI has grown, so has our vision. While accessibility remains a core focus, we are now driven by a greater purpose: to become the world’s most loved creator of thoughtfully designed products. This vision fuels our commitment to continuous innovation, inspiring us to develop solutions that enhance everyday living. ‘We believe that by enriching spaces, we
have the power to enrich lives,’ says co-founder Luli Farrell.
Most recently, the company unveiled its new bespoke, tumbled aged brass collection of tapware, showers, accessories and hardware. This raw, living material naturally evolves over time, forming a patina that balances beauty with functionality. Each product is crafted through an artisanal process where it is ‘tumbled’ in a specialised drum with abrasive stones, resulting in a unique, organic finish.
‘Our new tumbled aged brass range celebrates the beauty of imperfection and embraces the natural ageing process. It’s perfect for those who love our signature brushed brass finish but who are looking to add subtle texture and a touch of rustic, lived-in character,’ continues Farrell. ‘No two pieces will age the same, helping customers achieve individuality in their design.’ Looking ahead, future launches will include a new square-shaped range, as well as an expanded selection of tumbled aged brass and Sola stainless steel products to create the ultimate indoor and outdoor bathroom sanctuary.
ABI Interiors’ carefully considered designs span tapware, vanities, sinks, showers, hardware, and more
Our new tumbled aged brass range celebrates the beauty of imperfection and embraces the natural ageing process
1
We view product design as craft. Our team combines technical precision with creative thinking to design high-quality fixtures that balance durability, functionality, and timeless appeal. Every detail is considered and rigorously tested.
2
We collaborate closely with skilled artisans and manufacturers who specialise in materials that demand a high level of expert craftsmanship to shape, refine, and finish to our standards.
3
Craft extends beyond our own work. We’re proud to collaborate with designers, architects and builders who bring their own artistry to the spaces.
ABI INTERIORS Unit 316, Design Centre East London SW10 0XF +44 (0)20 4538 9222 abiinteriors.co.uk abiinteriors_uk
CATCHPOLE & RYE
Luxury British-made bathroom design that lasts
atchpole & Rye began in the early 1990s when founder Tony O’Donnell restored a forgotten Victorian bathtub in his Kent cottage – not out of necessity but out of admiration for how things used to be made. With a passion for architecture, antiques and craftsmanship, he soon realised there was a gap in the market for traditional bathroom restoration and design. This discovery led him across Europe in search of salvaged pieces and ultimately to the creation of the company, which is based at a converted dairy farm in Pluckley, Kent. From the start, it has had a reputation for making products of enduring quality, with every detail carefully considered – from materials to manufacturing methods.
‘We pursue the same goals as our predecessors: quality, durability, and beauty,’ says O’Donnell, whose philosophy is rooted in preserving heritage while embracing thoughtful innovation. The original pieces he has collected over time all share one defining trait: they were built to last. In today’s world of throwaway fixtures and built-in obsolescence, Catchpole & Rye stands apart. By designing and manufacturing products that echo the strength, integrity and elegance of 19th-century originals from the get-go, it pays tribute to a time when objects were made to serve generations, not just seasons, and taps into the growing demand for sustainable, bespoke bathroom solutions.
Heritage also guides its aesthetics and processes. Baths, basins, towel rails and fittings are all made by hand, using time-honoured techniques. For instance, items such as the Mercantile towel rail involve over 50 components and a 1,000 production steps, all carried out in-house to ensure exceptional craftsmanship. While the Chelsea showroom continues to serve as a design hub, later this year the company will open a museum at its Kent base to celebrate the history of bathroom design. It is also expanding its bespoke offering, continuing to invest in production, and developing partnerships across Europe to bring the collections to new audiences. At Catchpole & Rye, honouring the past isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about reclaiming the principles of lasting beauty, purposeful design, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
Baths, basins, towel rails, and ttings are all
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For decades, we’ve worked alongside one of the last remaining master patternmakers in Kent. This centuries-old skill is the foundation of our casting process. The patterns – carved by hand – are used to create everything from baths to the joints in our towel rails.
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Metal polishing has, in many ways, been undervalued over the decades, but we see it as one of the most vital and beautiful aspects of our work. Our head polisher has been at Catchpole & Rye for almost 20 years.
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Sand casting is an ancient technique that we proudly preserve and it allows for intricate, durable metalwork. By honouring this traditional craft and developing it with modern insights, we create the finest, most enduring bespoke products.
Catchpole & Rye’s elegant and enduring fittings are all made by hand using ancient techniques
Celebrating 175 years of heritage woven linens CHRISTY
When Henry Christy bought a sample of terry towelling to Britain in 1850 and pioneered the industrial terry loom, little did he realise how quickly the fabric would capture the attention of households in the UK – including the Royal Family – and around the world. That spirit of invention still drives the brand today: from the design studio in Manchester to the recent expansion into the US, it continues to produce exceptional linens that offer supreme comfort.
Christy is built on a philosophy of slow design, rooted in vintage British influences. In-house artists begin every pattern as a pencil sketch, before layering on the watercolour detail. Inspired by the natural world, these elements are captured with cutting-edge digital printing that preserves each brushstroke in clarity. The palette is just as considered. Since creating the world’s first coloured towels, the company has been committed to producing sophisticated hues. Modern collections echo nature-inspired tones, from tranquil sage and teal to blush and neutral oat – and over the years, these have been extended across bed linen, robes and of course, the signature Christy towels.
Now part of the international powerhouse Welspun Group, Christy continues to break boundaries with new technology and expand its global reach. Meticulous attention to detail and a sense of responsibility are woven throughout the company DNA and a commitment to sustainability is an important
Christy has been creating considered threads you can count on for 175 years
Christy is built on a philosophy of slow design, rooted in vintage British in uences
element of this. In 2022, for instance, Christy introduced its first collection that achieved ‘Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)’ certification.
This year marks a new chapter. To celebrate its 175th anniversary, Christy has launched a special archive collection, reimagining iconic designs with a modern lens. From a 1926 terrycloth beach wrap to a retro hammam-style towel inspired by the brand’s photoshoot with the late British model Barbara Goalen, each piece pays tribute to its legacy while also looking to the future and ensuring a dedication to enduring quality remains. Consistency will always matter across every item, with the company always upholding its promise to create threads that you can count on. As the world turns towards thoughtful living and timeless design, Christy stands ready to embrace the next 175 years.
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Our Victoria collection blends time-honoured techniques with a contemporary approach. Each throw has a vintage-style block print, a striped reverse and delicate scalloped edges. What elevates it is the allover quilted stitch, which adds texture and a crafted feel.
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Embroidery can add a quiet impact, transforming a beautiful piece into something unforgettable.
Our scallop premium cotton sateen bed linen is a testament to this.
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Our premium sateen flat sheet is expertly woven from specially selected cotton yarns, chosen for their ability to create a silky, luxury finish. Smooth and breathable, it brings optimum comfort all year round.
Celebrating 150 years of pioneering wallcovering design
Founded in 1875 by John Perry, Cole & Son has shaped the landscape of wallcovering design for 150 years. From pioneering flocked wallpaper and mica-infused finishes to establishing one of Europe’s first screen-printing studios, the brand has consistently led through innovation. Its iconic wallpapers grace historic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
Today, under the creative direction and leadership of Marie Karlsson, Cole & Son continues to honour its rich past while embracing contemporary vision. From its Chelsea-based studio – just steps from where some of the founders were trained – each design is hand-drawn and painted by the talented in-house team, with some taking months to perfect. They take inspiration from the vast archive which includes over 1,500 hand-carved blocks, original engravings, and a wealth of screen-printed designs, which together are a testament to a centuryand-a-half of artistry.
This year, Cole & Son celebrates its 150th anniversary with The Classics Collection Volume I, which launched in March 2025. A jubilee tribute to the brand’s most enduring designs, it captures the elegance of centuries past with modern sensibility. Volume II will follow in September at Focus/25. Other notable launches include Couture Carousel, an exclusive collaboration with Harrods in celebration of the store’s 175th anniversary that pays tribute to the world of haute couture. The inspiration for the signature design is vintage Harrods magazine covers, displaying exquisite fashion illustrations in both vibrant and muted watercolours.
WALLPAPERS FROM LEFT: Roseberry, Acquario, and Japanese Chinoiserie; creative and managing director Marie Karlsson with the Cole & Son x Ardmore Baobab Tree in the background, released at the end of summer
There is also a new collaboration with Ardmore Ceramic Art, a skilled group of artisans who capture the flora and fauna of the KwaZulu-Natal in magnificent ceramics. Cole & Son x Ardmore is a vibrant homage to South Africa’s baobab tree, which is launching for September design week, with a the Baobab panel at the end of summer. As design trends champion bold expression, layered storytelling and authenticity, Cole & Son continues to lead, expanding into new substrates such as silk and grasscloth, and upholding sustainable production methods. ‘It is such a privilege to be at the helm of an iconic heritage brand celebrating its 150 Year Anniversary,’ says Karlsson. ‘It is an extraordinary milestone, alongside being granted the Royal Warrant by His Majesty King Charles III.’
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At the heart of every Cole & Son collection lies a commitment to hand-painting. Our in-house artist team begins each wallpaper with sketches, watercolours, or gouache artworks, some of which take up to six months to develop.
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Craft is about preserving the past but also shaping the future. Through initiatives such as the New Designers programme and partnerships with leading design schools, we support and mentor the next generation of makers.
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Our collaboration with Ardmore Ceramics is a celebration of South African artistry. It translates sculptural storytelling into wallpaper, paying tribute to handmade traditions and the vibrant craft culture of KwaZulu-Natal.
COLE & SON
3 Jubilee Place London SW3 3TD +44(0)207 647 7717
cole-and-son.com
cole_and_son_wallpapers
e company focuses on creating timeless, elegant touchpoints to suit any style of space
Corston has expanded its lighting range and has new showrooms opening across Europe and
CORSTON ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL
Considered accessories with a signature minimal aesthetic and sustainability focus
Corston Architectural Detail was founded six years ago by an experienced creative team of designers and engineers with a shared vision: to make beautifully crafted architectural accessories that elevate the home, and feel as good as they look. Instead of following changing trends, the company focuses on timeless, elegant touchpoints to suit any style of space, from a contemporary new build to a listed Georgian townhouse.
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The collections comprise switches, sockets, hardware, interior and exterior lighting – all understated yet interesting. Thanks to the matching finishes and repeating design details, they create harmony and unity, meaning room-to-room and inside-to-outside coordination is effortless. Sustainability remains integral to the business. Not only does it manufacture from solid brass (a durable material that can be infinitely recycled), it uses post-consumer materials wherever possible and has never used plastic in its packaging. For instance, the UK plasterboard and EU switch and socket back boxes are made from a fully recycled and recyclable plastic that is formed from materials such as waste bottle lids and screw caps.
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From initial sketches to the testing of prototype products, nothing happens in the production process at Corston without the hands-on input of the design team. Hand-sketching allows them complete freedom during the conception process.
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Antique brass, a living finish, is one of three options that customers can choose. It ages over time in response to use and environmental factors, and that process is started by hand: by sanding, waxing and then putting each piece in the oven.
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The company has never used plastic in its packaging – instead, to be able to send delicate items to customers using only cardboard, it designs and manufactures its own protective structures in-house.
By blending the best of European design with Corston’s signature minimal aesthetic, and honing the engineering of its switches and sockets, the company has expanded into new markets – including Italy, Spain and Germany, and more recently, further into the UAE and US. In 2023, the doors to its flagship store opened in Paris, and the company has a space in the Zimmer + Rohde showroom at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. New showrooms are slated to open in London, New York, Nice, Madrid, Barcelona, Munich and Milan soon.
Corston’s customisable products include clear and primed, paintable switches and sockets and paintable spotlights, to help its customers achieve the exact look they want. The company’s lighting range has recently grown to include larger pendants such as Windsor, Brookfield and Hammersmith, with fluted and opal glass shades. These pendants were developed to help customers layer their lighting even more effectively while continuing to enjoy the coordinating Corston aesthetic they have come to expect. Meanwhile, new exterior ground and wall spotlights, floodlights and a mast light encourage taking its interior aesthetic outdoors.
Harper Sprung door handle in bronze, £96
Windsor medium pendant light in bronze, £336
1G two way toggle switch in paintable bronze, £36
GILDED TOUCHES
1DRIPPING WITH JEWELS
It was Gabrielle
‘Coco’ Chanel who –in 1953 – encouraged Parisian jeweller Robert Goossens to create his rst decorative pieces, which cemented the company’s move from couture jewellery to include furniture and ornate homeware. Robert Goossens x Harumi Klossowska de Rola Gold-plated brass and garnet Pomegranate box. £2,310. goossens-paris.com
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WELSH ARTISTRY
Jess Wheeler’s rst branch chandelier was a commission for Julie’s in Notting Hill, designed to echo the cherry tree outside the renowned restaurant. Chandeliers and other objets are wrought to order and adorned with hand-cut patinated brass leaves and nished with adjustable lamp holders in Wheeler’s Welsh workshop. From £85. jesswheeler.com
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LITTLE GEM e Bonadea shop in London’s Pimlico is a secret sourcebook for anyone looking to elevate their tablescape. Much loved among professional interior designers, among the ranges of handpainted china, glassware and beautiful home accessories is the Garland mother of pearl and silver plate napkin ring, evoking A Midsummer Night’s Dream. £380 for a set of four. bonadea.com
4ETHEREAL SPLENDOUR
Dior Maison’s Ode à la Nature collection includes three mouth-blown Italian-glass vases by French designer Sam Baron, each almost a metre tall and wrapped in delicate foliage. e pedestal is a reference to the iconic shape of a 1947 Miss Dior perfume bottle, while the designs are available in limited editions of eight, couturier Monsieur Dior’s lucky number. £POA. dior.com
5 E ARTHLY TREASURE
Lalique’s Terramina collection explores the earth’s landscaping, as shaped by the elements. e Caldera bowl blue is inspired by Iceland’s mineral-rich volcanic springs. Each is crafted in the Verrerie d’Alsace glassworks, founded by René Lalique himself in 1922 in the heart of this historic glassmaking region. £2,950. uk.lalique.com
CAROLE ANNETT singles out exquisite artistry featuring precious metals, fine marquetry and glass
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WORLD IN YOUR HANDS
is made-toorder Linley globe rests on three roller bearings, allowing a uid 360-degree rotation of the world. Available in four colours, each one is crafted in Stoke Newington using a range of specialist techniques. e orb, for instance, is handpainted using Sennelier watercolour pigment, with added honey to give the paint brilliance and smoothness. Tellus globe, £58,500. davidlinley.com
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PLAY TIME
Alexandra Llewellyn is known for her bespoke boardgames. An all-time favourite commission was this circular backgammon set celebrating a family’s love of Africa. e board was made from blue sycamore with Macassar ebony inlay; stars and the children’s star signs were individually inlaid to create a twinkling night sky; and the silver playing pieces were textured to resemble the cratered moon. £POA. alexandrallewellyn.com
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PRECIOUS VESSEL
L’Objet is the passion of founder and creative director Elad Yifrach, an interior designer based in New York. Yifrach designs decorative objects inspired by his love of travel and storytelling that perfectly suit the homes and style of his clientele. Each piece in the Fern collection is made in India, crafted from stainless steel with gold accents and adorned with hand-sculpted 24-carat gold ferns. Pitcher, £585. uk.l-objet.com
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ENGINEERING AND ARTISTRY
Silverlining has been the go-to for exceptional pieces of furniture for 40 years. Its Wrexham workshop is located close to an airstrip, which allows private clients to make ying visits, often from the US, to see their commissions come to life. is vivid red gloss lacquer In nity table is engineered from a single moulded composite for uidity and nished with a dyed sycamore veneer. £192,000. silverliningfurniture.com
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FLYING HIGH
Jewellery designers Buccellati creates a stunning array of decorative homeware in its silverware Maison in Milan, which dates from 1919. Its new Naturalia collection –presented during Milan Design Week – focusses on the intricate beauty of the natural world like this magni cent eagle about to take ight, its feathers replicated with tiny silver laments. £96,000. buccellati.com
DECOREX
Bringing together high-end original design for over 45 years
For nearly five decades, Decorex has been the UK’s most prestigious interior design event. Founded to unite the finest designers, architects, makers and brands in luxury interiors, it began as a curated showcase of excellence and has evolved into a premium annual event that inspires and innovates. Held at Olympia, London from 12 to 15 October, its mission remains rooted in connection: between people, ideas and the evolving language of design. At the heart of Decorex is a belief in the power of design to shape how we live and feel. A champion of quality, sustainability and originality, it is a platform for over 280 brands from 19 countries, across disciplines such as lighting, furniture, textiles and wall coverings. Each product is selected not only for its beauty, but for the story it tells and the values it upholds.
The event’s influences are as diverse as its exhibitors: from heritage craftsmanship to cuttingedge technology, and the grandeur of Olympia’s architecture to the quiet elegance of natural materials. This year, the branding has been created in collaboration with Natasha Mann, a decorative artist whose gilded geometric motif paintings are made using hand-ground pigments mixed with
Decorex’s mission remains rooted in connection: between people, ideas and the evolving language of design
egg tempera and 24 carat gold leaf. ‘Natasha’s bold, expressive style and deep understanding of decorative arts feels perfectly aligned with the spirit of the show,’ says event director Sam Fisher. ‘Natasha’s design will transform our creative journey for 2025 while honouring the craftsmanship and elegance at the heart of Decorex.’
This year, visitors can expect new features including Decorex On Demand – a digital platform for post-show content – and expanded sessions for deeper industry dialogue with over 85 speakers sharing insights, trends and expertise. New exhibitors include home accessories designer Birdie Fortescue, gallery Gabriel Fine Arts and rowing machine manufacturer Waterower UK. British-Nigerian designer Tolù Adẹ̀kọ is designing the VIP lounge, a five-room immersive experience inspired by the history of Olympia. Sustainability remains central, too: 100 percent renewable energy use, the Better Stands initiative (which promotes reusable structures for exhibitors) and the Decorex Sustainability Awards reflect the fair’s commitment to a greener future.
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Making Spaces returns for its fourth year, showcasing 14 artisans selected by a specialist committee. Visitors can watch, learn and engage with the exceptional makers across a range of specialised crafts.
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Bespoke paint finishes, hand-painted murals and artisanal furnishings from across Europe will be brought together for the VIP Lounge. Inspired by Olympia’s 1886 Paris Hippodrome and Bertram Mills’ legendary circus at Olympia Kensington, it merges storytelling with bold, immersive design.
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Soho Lighting will announce the winner of its Cleaner Ocean project, a competition in which primary school children design lighting using plastics salvaged from beach clean-ups. The winning young creative will see their design brought to life by Soho Lighting and the art of 3D printing.
DECOREX Olympia, London Hammersmith Road London W14 8UX decorex.com decorex_international
Decorex is a platform for over 280 design brands from 19 countries
A decade of crafting crowning glories for outdoor spaces EAST LONDON PARASOL COMPANY LTD
East London Parasol Company launched in 2015 with the goal of creating handcrafted parasols to bring joy and colour into gardens. Founder Lucy Ferguson previously lived in Kerala, where she fell in love with the temple umbrellas used in religious celebrations. She decorated her home in Kochi with them and, on her return to the UK, brought some back. Soon, no occasion was complete without a parasol and people would run across parks and parties to see them up-close. She realised that garden umbrellas could be something far more stylish and theatrical than the white, green and black designs that dominated the market at the time
The brand’s parasols and bases are produced by skilled artisans in India and Indonesia, using traditional materials of the highest quality to create unique and special pieces. It has been a decade-long pilgrimage in craft and the businesses of these craftspeople have grown alongside East London Parasol Company. The wooden parasol frames are made by experienced carpenters and the fittings are all brass. The bases are carved from sandstone by seventh-generation stone masons in Rajasthan. And the fabric canopies are either screen- printed or hand-painted, and adorned with handmade tassels for a sense of true luxury.
Each parasol design is made in limited quantities – with textiles made specifically for a production run, which results in minimal waste. The products are designed to last (the stone bases will outlive us all) and the octagonal parasols have replaceable canopies so customers can refresh their parasol to increase its lifespan.
Alongside chevron prints and scallop-edged designs, the 2025 collection took inspiration from beautiful gardens in Norfolk, with patterns featuring various florals such as orange marigold and calendula flowers, thickets of poppies, and snapdragons. Ferguson is also witnessing a trend for a more pared-back aesthetic. ‘High colour maximalism bloomed post lockdown and now tastes seem to have moved into a calmer realm,’ she says. ‘Cream, white and pops of colour have been popular, especially pink and teal.’ Whatever shade or pattern you choose, a parasol is an eye-catching way to elevate an outside sanctuary.
The 2025 collection features stripes, chevrons and scalloped edges, as well as florals inspired by the gardens of West Lexham in Norfolk
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Wood carving. The round bamboo parasols are carved by Balinese artisans with decorative motifs along the durian wood pole and on the top finial. The decoration is gilded by hand to beautiful effect.
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Stone carving. The stone bases are made by seventhgeneration stone carvers from Shekhawati, a region of Rajasthan famous for its craftspeople. The intricate designs are based on patterns found in the natural world or decorative column bases from different cultures.
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Hand painting. The floral design on many of the round bamboo parasols is a traditional lotus pattern, which is painted freehand in gold ink by a Balinese artist. It is highly skilled work to paint a canopy with no sketches or pattern and each parasol is unique.
EAST LONDON PARASOL COMPANY LTD
+44 (0)20 4571 0565
eastlondonparasols.com eastlondonparasolsco
East London Parasol Company launched with the goal of creating handcrafted parasols to bring joy and colour into gardens
EDWARD BULMER NATURAL PAINT
Colours created without compromise by a top designer
For over 35 years, interior designer and architectural historian Edward Bulmer has been on a mission to clean up the paint industry. ‘Edward Bulmer Natural Paint has been built from the ground up, driven by a belief that, by making it differently, paint need not be polluting, and that we can play our part in leaving a world where our children and grandchildren can thrive in balance with nature,’ Bulmer says of his B Corp-certified paints. Design and innovation come before cost, with years of scientific research going into finding the perfect combination of raw materials to make a top-quality paint that is durable, easy to use and does not cost the earth.
Modern paint is effectively made from plastic, with microplastics comprising up to 15 percent of some paints. In contrast, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint uses plant-based ingredients, including a groundbreaking biogenic binder. Harnessing the same mineral pigments as artists have for centuries guarantees a sophistication and complexity of colour which cannot be replicated by acrylic paint coloured with azo dyes. It also means all the shades work tonally together so customers can build their dream colour scheme with complete confidence
Harnessing the same mineral pigments as artists have for centuries guarantees a sophistication and complexity of colour
in their choices. Today, the range of award-winning, environmentally friendly natural paints is available in over 100 exquisite colours online and at the company’s flagship showroom in Pimlico.
New launches for 2025 include A5 colour swatches available online, each hand painted and accompanied with a historical key outlining which shade is suitable for which era. Alongside this is Forever Favourites, a set of A5 hand-painted swatches in 12 bestselling colours.
Bespoke by Bulmer is a new specialist, custom colour-matching service, starting at £25 for a bespoke colour creation and 250ml sample pot of paint.
Enjoy a lifetime of conscious colour with Edward Bulmer Natural Paint’s expert consultancy services: choose at-home, in-store or online and receive ten percent off all future paint orders. A company that believes in making truly natural paint, perfect for creating a space that’s as beautiful as it is kind to the planet.
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Edward Bulmer creates and crafts all colours from only 12 earth and mineral pigments, the same pigments used by artists for millennia. These create a ‘living’ finish which cannot be replicated by other paints and a softness and response to light, which literally lets walls dance.
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The company has teamed up with AURO, a pioneering German brand that has been making paint for over 30 years without affecting the environment. Both businesses are committed to developing sustainable products, which means finding plant-based alternatives to plastic binders, azo dyes and nasty chemicals.
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Eco-minded manufacturing that protects the planet’s biodiversity is a craft. Production is designed to minimise emissions and generates no toxic waste. Leftover wall paint can even be composted.
EDWARD BULMER NATURAL PAINT
London showroom
Pimlico Design District +44 (0)1544 388535
edwardbulmerpaint.co.uk edwardbulmerpaint
Edward Bulmer’s award-winning paints are now available in more than 100 colours
TITANS OF DESIGN
This year, C&TH is applauding ten British design studios revered by their contemporaries, who continue to inspire with every project
BY CAROLE ANNETT & TESSA DUNTHORNE
Gosling Ltd
Since founding his eponymous studio in 2005, Tim Gosling has become a leading voice in championing traditional techniques within contemporary design. His studio specialises in bespoke furniture and architectural interiors that celebrate heritage while embracing modern function. Whether it’s tattooing on vellum, combining straw marquetry with penning and ivory inlay or carbon bre with teak, Gosling takes great pride in creating exquisitie nishes, which are sought-after by his a-list client list. Signature projects include the painstaking restoration of a 50-room château in Normandy – and the transformation of spaces at e Goring hotel, alongside London townhouses and apartments and a 15th-century Venetian palazzo. tgosling.com n
PHOTO: RAY MAIN
A double-heighted library in a private residence in Greenwich, Connecticut
Sims Hilditch
Since launching her eponymous design studio from the kitchen table in 2009, Emma Sims-Hilditch’s reputation for interiors with an elegantly English aesthetic has continued on an upward trajectory. e main headquarters are located in a beautifully renovated former pub, e White Hart, in Gloucestershire, plus there is a second studio in Belgravia. Deeply inspired by the British countryside, the 40-strong studio team is a go-to for reimagining historic buildings for contemporary living, ensuring they remain timeless in the 21st century. e Sims Hilditch portfolio includes listed London townhouses, a Cotswolds party barn, country manors, rectories and estates, plus a three-bedroom apartment in e OWO and a villa in Porto no. simshilditch.com
@SIMSHILDITCH
A Victorian family home
PHOTO: RENEE KEMPS
Studio Ashby
@STUDIOASHBY
Sophie Ashby was just 25 when she founded her studio, based in the Grade I former Blewcoat School building near St James’s Park. Now in its 11th year, Studio Ashby is known for crafting warm, inviting spaces that blend authenticity and an eclectic sense of style. Ashby has a passion for antiques, contemporary art, modernist furniture and often uses global in uences in her schemes for projects including sprawling estates, listed Georgian houses, cosmopolitan boltholes, exclusive spas and fashion house headquarters. In July 2020, Ashby co-founded charitable initiative United in Design alongside interior designer Alex Dauley in response to the design industry’s lack of diversity. e charity places underrepresented graduates into work experience and placements. studioashby.com
Belgravia ‘jewel box’ apartment
Louise Bradley
Louise Bradley’s work epitomises quiet luxury. A self-confessed perfectionist, she often turns to her own collections of fabric, furniture and accessories to decorate projects her studio is working on around the globe. Clients love her passion for design and meticulous approach, which often means that when she revisits a project after a few years, the clients have rarely moved an object or piece of furniture. Where Bradley decrees it should sit, it stays. Her design and architecture studio in Knightsbridge comprises her agship showroom where visiting clients can immerse themselves in the Louise Bradley aesthetic alongside her furniture, fabric collections and decorative accessories. louisebradley.co.uk
@LOUISEBRADLEYINTERIORS
Grade I-listed Home, Regent’s Park
PHOTO: RAY MAIN
Exquisite Functionalism
The Cove hardware collection. Shaped by the sea, cast from brass, and waiting to be discovered.
josephgiles.com
Martin Hulbert Design
Martin Hulbert is the award-winning designer of e Grove Hotel, Coworth Park for the Dorchester Collection, the Treehouse suites at Chewton Glen and many other notable hospitality venues. Jay Grierson has worked alongside Hulbert since 2005 and in 2010 they created Martin Hulbert Design. Between them they maintain a exible approach and often build strong relationships with clients that sees them working on numerous projects for the same family. ey believe every part of a project should be coherent and work together, which often means involvement not only in interiors, but also architecture, garden landscaping and planting and even sta uniforms. martinhulbertdesign.com
PHOTO: DEAN HEARNE
Dower House
Katharine Pooley
@KATHARINEPOOLEYLTD
Katharine Pooley is celebrated for her exceptionally luxurious designs. Her Chelsea-based design studio, set up over 20 years ago, comprises 49 interior designers and architects but it is Pooley’s personal approach that ensures every detail and bespoke product is nished impeccably. She champions British craftsmanship, her projects marked by lavish layering and intricate details, ranging in scale and style, and spanning projects including a château in Cannes, traditional country residences, Scottish castles, beach villas and yachts. Katharine has been an ambassador for e Child’s Trust since 2019, which transforms the bedrooms of children living in poverty using fabric o cuts and unwanted stock from suppliers. katharinepooley.com
PHOTOS: JAMES MCDONALD
A study in a private residence in Notting Hill
promises
Most mattresses promise the perfect night’s sleep. But they can’t. Not when they’re made from synthetic materials that trap heat, restrict airflow and disrupt the very thing they promise.
At Naturalmat, we promise something different. All our beds, mattresses and bedding are made from natural, organic and sustainable materials. Handcrafted in our Devon workshop, offering you breathable, supportive, healthier rest that others try to imitate, but only we can deliver.
It’s a promise we’ve kept for over 25 years. And one we’ll continue to keep, because great sleep starts with what you’re sleeping on.
Knutsford
Nina Campbell
Celebrated as the ‘doyenne of design,’ Nina Campbell boasts an impressive global portfolio. Her journey into design began at 19 years old, when she honed her eye working with John Fowler at Colefax and Fowler. By her twenties she had launched her own studio and landed a project to design a castle in Scotland and Annabel’s private members’ club in its early years after – emboldened by the bravery of youth – she told owner Mark Birley that two vitrines either side of the bar were ‘awfully ugly’. He responded by saying, ‘If you’re so clever, why don’t you do them yourself’. Numerous private members’ spaces, homes for royalty, private houses and villas have followed. Campbell was awarded an OBE last year for her ‘services to the British Interior Design Industry and to Philanthropy’. ninacampbell.com
Bowling alley in private home in Maine
Sibyl Colefax and John Fowler
Sibyl Colefax and John Fowler’s reputation for interiors that exude sophisticated elegance was established in the 1930s when the design rm was launched by Lady Colefax, who was then joined by John Fowler in 1938. Colefax’s pioneering approach – e ortlessly mixing old with new, humble with precious, became synonymous with English country house interiors and is today interpreted by six designers and an architectural interior designer. Commissions range from some of Britain’s most notable stately homes to city apartments, American ranches, European ski chalets and tropical beach havens. e uber-discreet client list includes royalty and many notable names. sibylcolefax.com
Wimbledon project by Emma Burns of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler
Taylor Howes Designs
With a legacy spanning over three decades, Taylor Howes is renowned for creating soulful, elegant interiors that combine classical principles with contemporary air. Founded in 1993 by Karen Howes, later joined by Jane Landino, and headquartered in Knightsbridge, the practice has built an impressive portfolio of high-pro le projects, including a penthouse in Marylebone, a country house in Connecticut and villas in the South of France and Middle East. Taylor Howes is particularly known for its con dent use of colour and re ned, understated glamour, each project re ecting a deep understanding of the client's lifestyle and aspirations. e in-house design team o ers a full-service approach, combining architectural knowledge with an artistic sensibility to ensure each home is both beautiful and deeply personal. taylorhowes.co.uk
PHOTO: RENEE KEMPS
Apartment within One Grosvenor Square
MBDS
London-based Swedish designer Martin Brudnizski, creative director of MBDS, is renowned for pushing boundaries, creating interiors lled with charisma, beguiling a host of admirers including hospitality powerhouses like Soho House, e Birley Group and Rosewood hotels and resorts. ‘ e most important thing when you approach design is to be brave,’ he notes. Lampshades piped with ru es, owerstrewn upholstery, ashes of mirrored glass and joyful colour all nd their way into the MBDS portfolio. e studio’s impressive body of work includes La Fantaisie hotel in Paris, the Vesper Bar at e Dorchester and the maximalist revamp of Annabel’s nightclub in 2018. Based in London and New York, the studio employs over 100 interior designers, architects, lighting designers and art consultants. mbds.com
Brudnizski’s own home
Maison de parfums d’intérieur eu.baobabcollection.com
LIGHT & SHADE
Whether whimsical, art deco or country house chic, get the ambience just right
1 Fermoie Round linen lampshade, £135. fermoie.com. 2 Tom Dixon Bell portable lamp, £180. tomdixon.net. 3 OKA Triya wireless lamp, £125. oka.com. 4 House of Hackney Flora Fantasia lampshade, £395. houseofhackney.com. 5 Original BTC Blossom portable light, £499. originalbtc.com. 6 Pooky x GP & J Baker Magnolia Empire shade, from £56.50. pooky.com. 7 TM Lighting MasterLight Round LED picture light, £POA. tmlighting.com 8 Bert Frank Beran table lamp, £1,980. bertfrank. 9 Heals Flowerpot LED, £170. heals.com. 10 Lladró Palm re y wireless lamp, £380. lladro.com. 11 Heath eld & Co Eos x Pollyanna Wilkinson portable lamp, £695. heath eld.co.uk. 12 Soane Britain Bad Kitty rattan shade, £1,300. soane.co.uk.
FERMOIE
Fine fabrics, lampshades and accessories,
all designed and manufactured in-house
Fermoie creates beautiful fabrics, lampshades and accessories, all designed and manufactured entirely in-house in Marlborough using its own colour-mixing and production methods. ‘For us, drawing and painting are not just artistic disciplines and techniques, but an intrinsic aesthetic attitude to light and colour. We are artists first, and approach each new collection as a piece of art, unique in its conception, design and execution,’ explains Tom Helme, who co-founded the business in 2010 with Martin Ephson following their success at Farrow & Ball.
Two collections, launched this spring, perfectly exemplify this design philosophy. Whittle takes its name and design from the subtle, intricate interplay of angles, planes and notches in hand-carved wood – its irregular stripes and unstudied geometric shapes appear to ripple over the fabric’s surface as light falls upon it. Meanwhile, Carskiey – a longstanding Fermoie favourite, updated for this year – is inspired by a treasured heritage textile from Carskiey House in Scotland, beautifully interlacing line, colour, light and shade in its bold pattern of irregularly spaced hand-drawn stripes.
Fermoie represents the opposite of, and an antidote to, throwaway culture. The company makes its products using materials and processes that tread lightly on the earth and its resources, aligning with its founding environmental commitments that include working towards net zero. Pure linen is woven from sustainable flax grown locally to the mill; cottons, union cloths and linen sheers are produced in England; indoor-outdoor fabric is woven in Lancashire from 100 percent recycled bottles and printed in-house without PFCs, PFAS and other harmful chemicals.
Fabrics and cushions on display and the sample wall (pictured top right) in Fermoie’s Pimlico showroom
‘We are artists rst, and approach each new collection as a piece of art, unique in its conception’
‘For us as artists, beauty and purpose should go naturally together. The irreplaceable human dimension of the hand-drawn line, as well as material integrity, is instinctive and non-negotiable. Sustainability is a natural consequence of that approach, and thus inherent to our business and everything we design and make,’ continues Helme. ‘There is real creativity in exploring new materials and methods – as well as constantly refining existing ones. And there is joy, too, in creating things that are “right” not only in how they’re designed and made, but also in their wider purpose and legacy.’
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Fermoie fabrics are printed using time-honoured methods and natural, water-based pigments. Colours are individually created and edited in-house according to a carefully considered palette.
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Every Fermoie lampshade and cushion is made by hand at the home of Fermoie in Marlborough. Available in round and oval designs, all lampshades are made using cotton or light linen fabrics. These are hand-gathered around the metal frame, balloon-lined with cream cotton to match the frame colour and handfinished top and bottom with matching fabric.
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Every design begins with the hand-drawn line, with each full repeat meticulously crafted on paper before being translated to a screen engraving for printing.
David Seyfried Oakley chair in yellow Whittle fabric, and lampshades in various Whittle colourways
GOSLING LTD
Imaginative luxury interiors and furniture for land and sea
like to think I possess a distinctive sense of drama as well as an adventurous use of colour in my work, combining an understanding and passion for history, design and theatre,’ says Tim Gosling, founder of Gosling interior design studio. ‘I began my career with set designs for Miss Saigon, Starlight Express and a Las Vegas show for the late magician duo Siegfried & Roy. I was thrust straight into a magical craziness in my early 20s.’
Those set designs caught the eye of David Linley, Earl of Snowdon, who invited Gosling to join him as a director when he launched David Linley Ltd in the late 1980s. ‘I spent the next 18 years overseeing private clients and leading worldwide commissions,’ he recalls. ‘I was so lucky to create extraordinary pieces for prestigious locations such as Windsor Castle, The V&A Museum, Clarence House and Kensington Palace.’
In 2005, he founded Gosling Ltd to further his creative interiors style, which echoed his passion for theatre design while blending historical references with the modern to create bespoke design of exquisite beauty. Nearly a decade later, he launched an award-winning range of teak and carbon fibre superyacht furniture, Gosling Marine. With everything made in the UK, it combines traditional cabinet making techniques with state-of-the-art engineering to push the limits of the fibre’s use.
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Craft is my design DNA. The quality and skill required to make things is fundamental to any piece of furniture. For me, the inside of a drawer is as important as the outside.
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Learning about craft has led me to make friends with the curators and museum staff at The Wallace Collection and Sir John Soane’s Museum, two places that feel like a home-from-home and never cease to amaze me.
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It’s incredible to think of carbon fibre as craft but it truly is. The engineering and skill required to make the Formula One pieces led me to embrace this modern material. The next stage is to use more Graphene. The future is pure imagination: I love pushing boundaries of design that encompasses the historic and contemporary.
GOSLING LTD
5B Old Town London SW4 0JT
+44 (0)20 7498 8335
tgosling.com goslingdesignltd
Recent significant projects include interior and furniture designs for Jaeger Le-Coultre’s Bond Street flagship store; The Goring Hotel; The Apothecaries’ Hall in the City of London; and the prestigious Royal Society’s Fellows room in Carlton Terrace, as well as private residences worldwide. Together with his husband, Gosling has also been restoring a 22-bedroom chậteau in Normandy for a number of years. ‘We are uncovering its history and reinstating original pieces of sculpture, paintings and furniture commissioned for the space over a hundred years ago. The original family owners want to preserve its heritage as much as we do,’ he says.
Ultimately, whether Gosling is creating a piece of high-end luxury furniture or dreaming up a room scheme, everything comes down to craft. ‘I try my hardest to passionately preserve the language of furniture design and British craftsmanship,’ he concludes. ‘Collaborating to create something that reflects a part of a client’s story makes each piece truly unique, not just for the present, but for the generations to come. The idea that interiors and objects become part of a family’s story, passed down and cherished, speaks to the legacy we leave behind. It’s one of the most rewarding and fulfilling aspects of my work.’
I try my hardest to passionately preserve the language of furniture design and British craftsmanship
Tim Gosling masterminds prestigious interiors projects and furniture design, including an award-winning collection of teak and carbon fibre superyacht furniture
In every stitch and layer, Hästens embodies a philosophy of integrity, sustainability and sleep quality, fortifying its centuries-old heritage at the intersection of craft and wellness
HÄSTENS
Sweden’s oldest bedmaker, melding craft and modern innovation in all-natural mattresses
Since 1852, Hästens – Sweden’s premier luxury bedding brand – has built its legacy on a foundation of artisanal expertise. Originating as a saddle-maker under Pehr Adolf Janson with a royal decree, in the early 1900s the focus switched to horsehair mattresses, a material central to both saddles and bedding. By 1917, led by David and Per Thure Janson, Hästens committed fully to bed manufacturing. Three decades later, British architect Ralph Erskine was commissioned to design the factory in Köping.
A hallmark moment came in 1978 when Solveig Ryde and Jack Ryde, representing the fourth generation of owners, introduced the now iconic Blue Check® pattern, a trademark that defines the brand’s visual identity. Available in various colours, this design has featured on accessories such as bedlinen, pillows and pyjamas. Also launched was the visionary flagship 2000T® model that redefined sleep aesthetics. Exemplifying the tradition of combining century-old techniques with modern innovation, it featured multilayered horsehair and tiered spring systems designed for silent, personalised comfort.
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The skills of Hästens’ staff have been passed down through six generations, since 1852. This continuity ensures consistency, precision, and a deep respect for traditional techniques.
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Every Hästens bed is meticulously handcrafted in Köping, Sweden by skilled artisans. They each take many hours to produce, involving hand-layering the finest natural materials – hand selected horsehair, cotton, wool, flax and Swedish pine – which are sustainably produced and ethically sourced, and then carefully stitched together. The springs are also of the highest quality, made in Sweden, and carefully balanced to achieve optimal results.
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Each bed is rigorously tested and inspected, not by machines, but by experienced hands and eyes, to ensure perfect execution.
Today, the Köping factory remains the sole production site where all beds are handcrafted by multigenerational artisans. Each design is entirely composed of natural materials: handselected horsehair, cotton, wool, flax and Swedish pine, all layered to promote ventilation, moisture regulation and ergonomic support. In every stitch and layer, Hästens embodies a philosophy of integrity, natural sustainability and regenerative sleep quality, fortifying its centuries-old heritage at the intersection of craft and wellness. It also holds the prestigious designation ‘Purveyor to the Swedish Royal Court’, a title first granted in 1952 and reaffirmed in 1995.
Now in its sixth generation of family ownership, the company has over 300 stores in 45 countries, offering a 25-year warranty on bed frames that are designed to last a lifetime. In 2025, Hästens commemorates the 100th birthdays of Jack and Solveig Ryde with the Jack Ryde 100 Year Anniversary 2000T® bed. Limited to 2,000 pieces globally and with prices starting from £26,350, it features the iconic Blue Check pattern, blue saddle leather accents and a hand-embroidered signature. Made for optimal comfort and support, it embodies Hästens’ legacy of innovation and craftsmanship.
The Hästens Blue Check® pattern has come to define the brand’s visual identity
HELEN GREEN DESIGN
An interior design studio synonymous with beautifully
layered spaces
Helen Green Design has established itself as a premier interior design studio, renowned for its unwavering dedication to creating personalised spaces that seamlessly blend luxury, comfort and sophistication. With a passion-driven legacy, the company’s signature is rooted in tailored schemes that endure the test of time and embody the essence of British design, reimagined with a modern and captivating approach.
The studio’s inception can be credited to its late visionary founder Helen Green, who possessed a natural talent for transforming ordinary homes into extraordinary havens. Fuelled by a desire to create unique environments, Green founded her eponymous company over two decades ago with a firm belief in the power of exceptional, timeless design. This became the foundation of the studio’s philosophy, which remains.
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As a British design studio, we draw heavily on the heritage of British craft. From joinery to decorative plasterwork, we work with some of the UK’s finest artisans to bring bespoke details to life.
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We believe true luxury is found in the considered details, and those are often handmade. Our projects frequently feature customdesigned furniture, embroidered soft furnishings or specialist finishes created by skilled makers. These collaborations not only ensure our designs are unique but also celebrate the human touch that no machine can replicate.
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Designing a home is a deeply personal process. It begins with truly understanding clients’ lives, histories and aspirations. The craft lies in how we translate those stories into environments that feel intuitive, beautiful and completely bespoke.
HELEN GREEN DESIGN No. 29 Milner Street London SW3 2QD +44 (0)20 7352 3344
helengreendesign.com
hgdstudio
Today, Helen Green Design is led by Studio Director Alexandra Jurkiewicz, whose ethos centres around crafting schemes that not only reflect the unique taste and lifestyle of a client but also embrace sustainable practices. ‘We believe in the harmonious integration of beauty, functionality, and environmental responsibility,’ she says. ‘Current trends in interior design emphasise sustainability and we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement. Our designs incorporate eco-friendly materials and practices, setting a new standard for responsible luxury.’
Key products include custom joinery and bespoke furniture. Each piece is meticulously produced to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and design, serving as both a functional element and statement within a project. These products stand out for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and ability to elevate the overall aesthetic of any space. ‘We draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including classic London aesthetics, modern design trends, and our international clientele,’ continues Jurkiewicz.
What sets Helen Green Design apart is the studio’s holistic take on design, integrating interior architecture with the aesthetic elements of a project, ensuring a harmonious flow between structure and style, between functionality and beauty. This thoughtful integration bridges the gap between merely decorating a space and delivering a cohesive luxurious environment.
Schemes not only re ect the unique taste and lifestyle of a client but also embrace sustainable practices
The studio works with the UK’s finest artisans to bring bespoke details to life
HENRY PRIDEAUX INTERIOR DESIGN
An award-winning studio creating characterful interiors that fuse tradition and modernity
Fo unded in 2014, Henry Prideaux Interior Design is a small, independent practice offering professional design services for private residential and boutique commercial clients. Prideaux is supported by a small team of designers and his brand director partner, Amy Paice. The company recently relocated to a new studio near the River Thames in Twickenham. With a beautifully refurbished interior (think soft pink walls and an abundance of custom fitted joinery and elegant café style curtains) this new creative space not only provides an inspiring place for the team to work but also allows clients to experience the studio’s signature style firsthand.
‘Our aim is to create genuine homes that are both beautiful and practical, designed with a deep understanding of our clients’ lifestyle needs,’ says Prideaux. ‘Every project is an opportunity to craft something unique, whether that means preserving original features in a traditional scheme or embracing a more characterful approach for a contemporary space.’
The team has an impressive portfolio of innovative design ideas and creative solutions, and works with an enviable network of trusted suppliers, craftsmen, and specialist decorators to bring them to life. Every project is executed to the highest standard and clients are always offered the unexpected and extraordinary. Prideaux is known for creating elegant and authentic spaces that blend different design styles, and his vision typically combines timeless classics with a modern twist, resulting in interiors that feel fresh and enduring.
Current projects include enhancing the historic features of a Grade II-listed 17th-century gate lodge and Georgian family home in Richmond; the sympathetic restoration of a handsome sixbedroom former priory in Oxfordshire, which is being redesigned to suit family life; and a Balham family home for a repeat client, where the overall design style is loosely inspired by the 1970s while also largely focused on emphasising a considerable art collection. ‘The owner has been refreshingly open to ideas and fully invested in the project, allowing us to create something really cool and unlike anything we have done before,’ Prideaux says. ‘Interesting elements include a textured velvet wall, high gloss lacquered ceilings, and a wood veneer-lined snug. It’s a very special house.’
PHOTOS: TOM SULLAM
The studio works with trusted craftspeople and specialist suppliers to bring its interiors to life
‘Every project is an opportunity to craft something unique’
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Much of what we do is based around bespoke furniture, custom fitted joinery, and interesting detail. This means the suppliers and craftsmen we work with are crucial to the high level of quality we insist upon for our clients. For instance, British furniture maker Alfred Newall customised his Friston Cabinet for a recent London project.
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For a Grade II-listed former priory in Oxfordshire, we asked artist Jess Wheeler to create a whimsical botanical chandelier, and incorporated Carlos Garcia’s Georgian-inspired Gillows four-poster bed.
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Balineum are a favourite when it comes to tiles. We recently worked with Sarah Watson from Balineum to customise the colourway of her handmade earthenware ceramic Hanley Tube Line tiles for a stylish guest WC.
HENRY PRIDEAUX
INTERIOR DESIGN 57 Church Street Twickenham TW1 3NR henryprideaux.com henryprideauxinteriordesign
Whether it’s a Romanesque-inspired subterranean spa or a custom-lit study with concealed joinery that hides technology and clutter, every detail is shaped by how clients want to live
Crafting unparalleled spaces where function meets elegance JANINE STONE & CO
anine Stone & Co began in 1987 as an interior design studio with a clear vision: to bring creativity, craftsmanship and a highly personalised approach to private homes. Over the decades, it has evolved into one of the UK’s most respected and discreet multi-disciplinary practices, offering architecture, interior design and construction management as a seamless service.
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In collaboration with master glassblowers and digital fabricators, we recently designed a series of Murano-inspired lights. Each one is flecked with gold, bubbled like molten honey and held in place by 3D-printed clasps that appear to drip with liquid metal.
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The team works with a select number of clients each year, delivering bespoke design for their homes and lives. ‘Our philosophy is simple: exceptional design lies not in excess, but in the level of consideration behind every decision,’ says co-founder Janine Stone. Projects span from new-build country houses and London townhouses to the restoration of listed buildings. Whether it’s a Romanesque-inspired subterranean spa, a custom-lit study with concealed joinery that hides technology and clutter, or a reimagining of family spaces to suit the everyday rhythms of each household member, every detail is shaped by how clients want to live. Craft is also a key priority. ‘It is woven into everything we do – not just in the making, but in the imagining. It begins long before pen touches paper, in the careful thinking and decisionmaking that comes from decades of experience,’ continues Stone. ‘For us, craft means understanding when to pare back, when to elevate, and always tailoring the design to the client and context. It also means drawing on a vast, trusted network of artisans, from Paris to Tokyo, to ensure every detail is executed with precision, originality, and feeling.’
We recently designed a fully integrated home cocktail bar – complete with stools, custom designed optics, and mirrored detailing. French marquetry, Italian marble, and English stonemasonry converge in a refined setting. Behind the scenes, every detail is meticulously crafted, including concealed storage and soft-close joinery.
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In a Romanesque-inspired basement spa, we needed to create the illusion of sunlight. Inspired by James Turrell’s skyspaces, we designed a custom light set into a metallic dome. It’s so convincing it makes you squint – an effect achieved through a mix of refined engineering, metalwork and colour calibration.
JANINE STONE & CO
Unit C2, The Old Imperial Laundry 87 Warriner Gardens London SW11 4XW +44 (0)20 7349 8888 janinestone.com janinestone_co
This year, the studio is continuing to challenge what is possible in private residential design. Recent highlights include a 30,000 sq/ft home on the Wentworth Estate, and the architectural restoration of a Grade II-listed country manor that combines classical proportions with contemporary family requirements. ‘While much of our work remains private and can only be viewed by appointment, we’re known for our discretion, originality and calm precision in delivering complex briefs,’ Stone concludes. ‘As one client told us: “You didn’t just design our house, you shaped how we live.” That sentiment defines everything we do.’
Craft is key in projects spanning newbuild country houses, townhouses and the restoration of listed buildings
KATE BINGHAM INTERIOR DESIGN
An instinctive and considered approach to luxury residential and superyacht design
Kate Bingham Interior Design is celebrated for creating elegant, functional spaces that blend classic design with contemporary living. An architectural sensitivity and refined use of materials, as well as an intelligent approach, characterise her residential and yacht interiors. Operating from Sussex and central London, her work spans townhouses, country estates, beach villas, superyachts, and historic properties
Having studied Applied Interior Design and Architecture in Canada, Bingham returned to London where she trained first at George Spencer Designs before spending five years at John Stefanidis, latterly as a chief designer. She set up her eponymous studio in 1992. Since then, she has earned a reputation for interiors that reflect an instinctive grasp of light and space, seamlessly integrating modern technology and lifestyle needs without sacrificing beauty or comfort. Her structurally informed schemes enhance the lasting quality and coherence of the work.
Bingham is not guided by trends, preferring to trust her own design judgement when it comes to each individual commission. ‘I am not swayed by fashion. I
Interiors re ect an instinctive grasp of light and space, seamlessly integrating modern technology and lifestyle needs
work instinctively; it’s about what feels right for both the client’s brief and the architectural essence of a space.’ Ever the professional, Bingham and her team focus on delivering the highest standards, on time and on budget. ‘Quality and service are vital. Whatever the client requires, we want to make sure it’s just right,’ she says.
Notable past projects include London penthouses, superyachts, a suite in Claridge’s hotel and the neo-gothic, Category A-listed Taymouth Castle in the Scottish Highlands, which required a complete refurbishment. Working with her small team of architects and designers, and using her trusted craftsmen and suppliers, Bingham was able to completely transform the castle over a three-year period, ready for a new generation of visitors. Right now, the studio is mid-way through the renovation of a Grade II-listed Georgian home in Salisbury’s Cathedral Close, which is being designed with a soft, natural palette to complement its historic setting, and a land diversification project on a Winchester estate – both of which continue Bingham’s legacy of creating enduring, thoughtfully designed living and lifestyle interiors.
VALUED CRAFTS
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The studio regularly designs bespoke furniture in collaboration with master craftsmen. Examples of this, from tables and desks to chairs and lighting, can be seen across the studio’s portfolio.
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When working on Taymouth Castle, Bingham commissioned skilled craftspeople to restore ancient features including gold leaf, historic murals and paintwork. Additionally, the studio introduced new elements such as detailed mosaic work and glass etching.
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Bespoke joinery was also key to Taymouth Castle project and Bingham worked with carpenters to create fitted furniture that followed the guidelines of Historic Environment Scotland. For instance, curved shelving units and bathrooms for the interiors of the stone turrets, and library-style presentation shelves for displaying the whisky collection.
KATE BINGHAM INTERIOR DESIGN
The Granary, Gentils House Petworth, West Sussex GU28 9EY
+44 (0)7774 443467
kbidesign.co.uk
katebinghaminteriordesign
The studio’s projects span country estates and Scottish castles to yachts and townhouses
MATERIAL GAINS
Each year, the Future Fabrics Expo brings together the most exciting developments in sustainable materials – not just for our clothes and shoes, but also for the spaces we live in. From crops repurposed as bres for rugs, lampshades and blinds to plant-based alternatives to shearling amd fur, these innovations are reshaping what it means to furnish a home sustainably. We asked Nina Marenzi – founder of e Sustainable Angle and the driving force behind the Expo – to spotlight standout companies and materials changing the fabric of our homes.
1STRAW
Sometimes the smartest solutions are the oldest. Straw is lightweight, breathable and naturally regulates humidity – a boon for healthy homes. Ghana-based African Straw Enterprise elevates this materials, working with over 5,000 women who harvest wild grass and handweave it into baskets, statement lampshades, and more. Each piece comes with a traceability tag, listing the artisan’s name, village, and its production date –celebrating both transparency and craftsmanship. africanstraw.com
NINA MARENZI picks the eight standout textile initiatives weaving sustainability into our interiors. Words by TESSA DUNTHORNE
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: A centrepiece shade from African Straw; a collaboration between BioFluff and Aifunghi for 3DaysofDesign, Copenhagen; and a runner and artisan from Parali by Aarushi
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PLANT-BASED PLUSH
Flu y textures are back – but not the plastic kind. BioFlu , a biomaterials startup, has developed the world’s rst fully plant-based alternative to fur, shearling, and plush. Made without fossil fuels or animal inputs, their soft, luxurious material is already being used in toys and fashion, including by Stella McCartney. bio u .com
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BANANA SKINS
Developed by Swiss bag brand QWSTION, Bananatex® is the world’s rst durable, plastic-free fabric made entirely from banana plants. Using Abacá, a fast-growing species cultivated in regenerative forestry projects in the Philippines, the result is a breathable, long-lasting textile that outperforms cotton in durability and is entirely biodegradable. It is currently used for accessories like handbags and sofas. bananatex.info
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NETTLES
Swiss company Nettle Circle AG is behind HILAYA®, a pioneering bre made from Himalayan nettles. Unlike cotton, nettles require minimal water and no chemical inputs thanks to their natural pest resistance. e result? A strong, breathable, low-impact bre with surprising softness – ideal for upholstery or curtains. nettlecircle.com
5WOOL
Wool is making a quiet comeback even in today’s syntheticheavy world. British Wool, a farmer-owned cooperative, supports over 30,000 sheep farmers by grading and selling their wool in domestic and international markets. Naturally biodegradable, wool is an excellent choice for interiors: it regulates temperature, resists dust mites, and outlasts many synthetic alternatives in blankets, cushions, and rugs. britishwool.org.uk
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GRAPE LEATHER
Planet of the Grapes, founded by Samantha Mureau, turns vineyard waste into sustainable leather alternatives. Using leftover grape skins, seeds, and stems (known as grape marc), the brand’s Grapeskin Leather o ers a plant-based alternative to PVC and animal leather – with a smaller carbon footprint and a luxurious look and feel. Originally developed for fashion, this winebased material is making its way into our homes in seating and accessories. planetofthegrapes.co.uk
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RICE STRAW
Each year, millions of tonnes of rice straw are burned across Asia. Indian initiative Parali by Aarushi (PBA) is working to change that. is farm-to-fabric operation transforms agricultural waste into versatile materials for homeware and textiles – becoming incredible handwoven table runners and rugs. e biodegradable bre is water-e cient to produce and recyclable at the end of its life – o ering a circular solution to a widespread waste problem. parali.co
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INVASIVE WATER HYACINTH
In Nigeria, water hyacinth is an invasive species that clogs waterways and disrupts ecosystems. Social enterprise MitiMeth has found a way to turn this environmental hazard into a home solution. e company transforms the plant into durable bre rope, ready for use in handcrafted rugs, lampshades, baskets, and blinds – all while restoring aquatic ecosystems and generating jobs. MitiMeth also works with other upcycled resources like banana trunks, bamboo, and coconut shells. mitimeth.com
A leader in luxurious, sustainable bathroom products KALDEWEI
Established in 1918, fourth generation family-owned German business Kaldewei has grown from a small enterprise into a pioneering manufacturer of steel enamel bathroom products. Run by the founder’s great grandson, Franz Kaldewei, it is known as a leader in steel enamel construction, innovative designs and ground-breaking advances in manufacturing shower surfaces, washbasins and bathtubs. In the early 1970s, the company began collaborating with independent designers and this practice continues, most recently with industrial designer Stefan Diez and design studio e15
Although Kaldewei’s success is often attributed to its trailblazing approach to both design and manufacturing, this is not the only area in which the company is a pioneer. Its products are renowned for being both luxurious and 100 percent recyclable – and has led to the term ‘LUXSTAINABILITY®’.
Crucially, the focus on sustainability is not just hearsay, it is intrinsic to the brand. The owners are convinced that the industry will rely even more on Cradle to Cradle Certified® (C2C) products and materials in the future, as is evidenced by the increasing need for sustainable solutions: stricter
Kaldewei is known for its trailblazing design and innovative manufacturing; its NUIO DUO bathtub (bottom right) has – among other features – an inbuilt infrared heating system for relieving muscle tension
e company’s products are renowned for being both luxurious and 100 percent recyclable
regulatory requirements, economic advantages and the necessity to conserve our planet’s natural resources.
Change in Kaldewei’s manufacturing processes is ongoing and includes using bluemint steel, which has 70 percent lower CO 2 emissions to, for instance, create the limitededition premium ‘nature protect’ series. This heralds a new era in sustainable bathroom planning and benefits not only consumers but also the construction industry, as it lowers the CO 2 footprint of a project. By taking such steps towards climate neutrality and paving the way towards a circular economy, the company is the first manufacturer in its sector with the ability to offer C2C bathtubs, shower trays and washbasins.
As a brand, Kaldewei continues to innovate through style, substance and sustainability. Examples include improving key products, such as the new PURO NEXT bath with its elegant design and maximum comfort (a special feature is the flat bath rim), and the introduction of exciting new items, like the NUIO DUO, a bathtub with generous dimensions, ergonomic back sections and a built-in targeted infrared heating system that reduces muscle tension and aids holistic relaxation.
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The definition of craft is skill and experience, especially in relation to making an object.
That’s what it takes to produce a piece of Kaldewei steel enamel. For instance, each OYO DUO bathtub is unique, constructed with outer and inner forms joined at the rim by hand-welding.
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Creating a product suitable for manufacturing involves a blend of creativity, engineering and strategic thinking. Tools and skills are combined to ensure that the final product is functional, aesthetically appealing, sustainable and user-friendly.
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We might think of craft as cutting, sticking and glueing. Creating a new product is a similar process: it can start with a pencil sketch, clay model, cardboard cut-out, swatches of paint, varnish and glaze.
Building excellence delivered through craftsmanship and innovation KNOWLES
Afamily-owned company rooted in decades of experience, Knowles was established 15 years ago by Robin Knowles, group managing director. From the outset, the goal was to build a business that is dynamic, agile, and self-sufficient – delivering a seamless, client-focused service and construction excellence that consistently exceeds expectations. These values remain central to Knowles today. ‘Luxury is about more than high-end finishes – it’s about craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creating spaces that stand the test of time,’ says Robin Knowles.
Originally a basement specialist, over the years the company has evolved into a leading superprime principal contractor with a 250-person team, managing complex private residential projects from start to finish across London and the Home Counties. Having initially established a presence in the capital, today 40 percent of the portfolio is delivered through a country division, which works across prestigious locations such as the Wentworth Estate, the Crown Estate, the Cotswolds, Surrey and beyond. The upcoming opening of a dedicated country office will continue to strengthen this offering, not only expanding its regional presence but by boosting operational capacity, enhancing client engagement, and driving growth.
Whether reinvigorating London townhouses and Regency villas, restoring listed rural properties, or creating new private residences and country estates, Knowles is synonymous with a personal, detail-driven approach. The all-encompassing service includes specialist expertise in complex construction, structural, and heritage projects. Influenced by historic craftsmanship and inspired by modern innovation, the company continually invests in technology to streamline communication and operations. This enables the team to meet increasing demand for fast-tracked delivery without compromising on quality.
Current commissions include a spectacular new-build family residence in the Hampstead conservation area, an extensive transformation of a Grade II-listed period property in St John’s Wood and the construction of a Palladian-style family home on the Wentworth Estate. Knowles has also recently launched a Special Projects & Aftercare Division to deliver tailored, smaller-scale solutions (such as specialist room upgrades) and long-term property care. Most importantly though, it retains the family-run ethos that has always been so integral and remains a unique selling point.
Knowles works across London and the Home Counties on townhouses, country estates and new residences
e all-encompassing service includes specialist expertise in complex construction, structural, and heritage projects
VALUED CRAFTS
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We work with the finest artisans and craftspeople in the country, often at design level, to create one-of-a-kind solutions – from stone masons and expert joiners to master fabricants. Incorporating unique, handmade pieces with exceptional finishes adds unique character to a home.
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From our on-site staff to in-house designers, we provide opportunities for our teams to build the technical and creative expertise needed to deliver highly specialised work of the highest quality.
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We prioritise natural, locally sourced materials and working with artisans who use environmentally responsible methods, preserving both traditional skills and the planet. For instance, on a recent project, we utilised hand-cut Cotswold stone from a quarry 19 miles away, celebrating local vernacular and heritage techniques while also reducing environmental impact.
KNOWLES
12th Floor, Capital House
25 Chapel Street
London NW1 5DH
+44 (0)20 3988 7994
knowles.uk.com
knowles_construction
GO WILD
With pattern, colour and whimsy in wallpapers and fabrics
Zara fabric in green, blend of linen and cotton. £70.84 p/m, charlottegaisford.com
ZOFFANY
Tibetan tiger stripe fabric. £144 per roll, zoffany.sandersondesigngroup.com
COLE & SON
Leopard Walk wallpaper in burnt orange and charcoal. £144 per roll, cole-and-son.com
FERMOIE
Shell Grotto 008 cotton fabric in orange. £170 p/m, fermoie.com
SANDERSON
Rubus handprinted blackberry wallpaper. £98 per roll, sanderson.sandersondesigngroup.com
ARTEMEST
Uno, Nessuno Camouflage Scuro wallpaper by MaVoix. €120 p/m, artemest.com
HAINES COLLECTION
Juliet Travers Early Bird 03 wallpaper. £104 p/m, hainescollection.co.uk
CASA BRANCA
Animal Kingdom wallpaper in salmon. £118 per yard, casabranca.com
ELEGANT TIMELESS COUTURE
An award-winning Interior Design and Interior Architecture studio in London and Dubai with over 25 years’ experience creating beautiful homes across the world.
The renowned French crystal house elevating the everyday to the extraordinary LALIQUE
Founded in 1888 by visionary artist René Lalique, this prestigious French crystal glass house is synonymous with masterful craftsmanship, timeless design and unparalleled savoir faire. From the beginning, René Lalique’s desire to create something that had never been seen before earned him the accolade the ‘inventor of modern jewellery’. By the early 20th century, he was revolutionising jewellery styles of the period, using enamel and glass sideby-side with gold, opals, diamonds, pearls or amethysts as embellishments. Over the course of his lifetime, he became a master of his craft, creating everything from glass objects and perfume bottles to chandeliers, all from his glassworks in Alsace, where each Lalique work of art is still handmade today.
In the last few decades, the company has branched into other lifestyle areas, including a collection of furniture, home accessories and hospitality. In 2011, the new Lalique art division produced Yves Klein’s Victoire de Samothrace, a range of limited-edition blue crystal objets. Created in partnership with the Yves Klein Archives, the pieces draw on age-old skills required for the exceptional lost wax technique. Since then, Lalique has collaborated with many renowned artists and designers, including Zaha Hadid, Damien Hirst, Anish Kapoor, Arik Levy, Terry Rodgers and James Turrell, always working together to produce pieces that unite innovation and tradition. These exclusive partnerships bring bold artistic visions to life through Lalique’s exceptional craftsmanship.
Recent collections include 1er Cru glass, a natural extension of Lalique’s rich glassmaking heritage. Inspired by the timeless elegance of wine glasses, each piece is defined by refined lines and harmonious proportions. Meanwhile, the new Terramineral series of decorative objects – vases, bowls, decanters – features organic shapes and mineral tones inspired by the earth, such as volcanos and tectonic plates. For instance, the limited-edition Magnitude vase is adorned with 250 gold leaves, each delicately applied by hand. And in jewellery, the Larcade collection nods to René Lalique’s Art Deco roots with sleek, geometric silhouettes. With an instantly recognisable aesthetic, Lalique transforms everyday moments into extraordinary experiences. From decorative objects to interior design, jewellery, perfumes, art and hospitality, every creation is a symbol of artistic excellence.
Lalique has collaborated with renowned artists, including Zaha Hadid, Damien Hirst, Anish Kapoor and James Turrell
All Lalique products are made in Alsace, France in the same factory René Lalique founded over 100 years ago.
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It takes over seven years of training to become a Lalique glassmaker, and many of our craftsmen and women hold the title ‘finest craftsman in France’. Some pieces can take many weeks to create.
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The journey of a Lalique piece involves numerous steps and the artisan techniques have remained unchanged: material is worked by hand and moulded, then the molten crystal is gathered like honey and pressed or blown. Once cooled, it is cut, sanded and polished. This last stage – the famous satin-polished finish of the crystal, which generates an effect that combines light and shadow –is a Lalique trademark.
LALIQUE
47 Conduit Street London W1S 2YP +44 (0)20 7292 0444 uk.lalique.com lalique
Each Lalique piece is meticulously crafted at the original glassworks in Alsace using traditional artisanal techniques
Bespoke cabinetry and furniture made for exceptional residences LANGSTAFF
Set just outside the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Thame, Langstaff creates exceptional bespoke cabinetry and furniture for the whole house. The headquarters are home to the design studio and a worldclass workshop, where a skilled team of master craftsmen turn the finest materials into beautiful, custom-made British designs for clients all over the world.
Founded in 2009, Langstaff started life making small-scale pieces of furniture. Over the years, its scope and team has grown, and 2024 saw the opening of 10,000 sq/ft of new workshop space. Today, Langstaff has the capacity to take on large projects across multiple sites, while retaining its high-quality, artisanal roots. The design team and project managers have masterminded projects that range from listed buildings, former chapels and farmhouses to new builds and awardwinning homes.
With an extensive knowledge of kitchen and furniture design, they work with private clients, architects and interior designers to create superbly handcrafted storage solutions, uniquely tailored to the lifestyle and preferences of each individual – from a Shaker kitchen custom-made for a country house to sleek cabinetry for a contemporary walk-in dressing room. Wine rooms, libraries, pantries and boot rooms can all be transformed with bespoke furniture, made to stand the test of time.
Alongside the traditional techniques and skills being kept alive in the workshop, expert furniture makers also employ modern tools (such as a CNC machine, dedicated spray booth and drying room) to deliver complete precision and a flawless finish. Using intelligent 3D design and industry-leading rendering technology, Langstaff can help clients visualise their bespoke cabinetry and furniture before a single piece of wood has been cut. The design studio houses a vast library of samples to inspire and there is an almost infinite choice of materials and bespoke finishes, from burnished high glosses to specialist liquid metals. Every piece is handfinished and quality checked in house prior to installation, enabling a faster fit on site –something clients value enormously.
Langstaff’s handcrafted storage solutions are uniquely tailored to the lifestyle of each individual
Using intelligent 3D design, Langsta can help clients visualise their bespoke cabinetry before a single piece of wood has been cut
VALUED CRAFTS
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The Langstaff workshop houses a team of over 20 master craftspeople, each playing their part in turning the finest materials into stunning custom-made cabinetry and joinery for the whole home. They expertly combine traditional techniques and skills with modern tools to deliver complete precision.
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One of the oldest tools still used in the workshop today is a paring chisel, a favourite of our most experienced craftsmen. It is used to delicately shave wood, providing excellent control and a beautiful finish.
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For projects that need to be sympathetic to a building’s history, the team takes great care to hand patina materials in house, delivering a finish that completes a space perfectly.
Lawson Robb was founded with a vision to redefine luxury interior architecture through bold creativity, expert craftsmanship and timeless sophistication.
Established in London, the studio emerged from a desire to deliver curated, highly personal environments for a discerning global clientele. From the outset, the mission has been clear: to challenge conventions and craft interiors that are both intelligent and emotionally resonant.
Design for Lawson Robb means extracting the DNA of an idea and seeing what can be developed from it. At the heart of its philosophy is bespoke innovation: every project is a unique narrative shaped by the client’s lifestyle and aspirations. ‘We believe that exceptional design is born from a balance of form and function, artistry and architecture. Our multidisciplinary team brings together interior designers, architects, and artisans, all united by a shared commitment to excellence,’ says creative lead George Wolstenholme, who has a masters in yacht design and more than ten years of collective experience in superyachts, ultraprime residences and bespoke furniture design.
The studio collaborates with specialist artisans across disciplines – marquetry, leatherwork, metalwork, upholstery – to create pieces that are not only beautiful but deeply personal. These are not decorative gestures, but embedded expressions of identity, culture, and place. For instance, a leather inlaid panel, a handpatinated bronze edge or an intricately patterned marquetry detail can transform a surface into a story, one that speaks to the client as much as to the material itself. Often, these collaborations begin early in the design process, allowing the team to frame or even construct elements around a particular work.
Key projects include private residences, luxury developments, superyachts and boutique hospitality. Each one is defined by layered textures, sculptural detail and meticulous spatial planning. ‘What makes our work distinct is our ability to blend visionary creativity with technical precision, resulting in immersive environments that feel both effortless and iconic,’ Wolstenholme concludes. ‘Our influences and inspirations continue to be our clients: we have no house style. Instead, we are able to turn our hands to any individual’s taste and give them a home above and beyond what they could have imagined.’
We believe that exceptional design is born from a balance of form and function, artistry and architecture
VALUED CRAFTS
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At the heart of our practice lies a respect for craft, not just as a method of making but a way of thinking. It’s a dialogue between material, maker and idea that brings depth, texture and authenticity to every project, whether through bespoke joinery or handcrafted furniture.
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Artworks are treated as part of the architectural fabric rather than an afterthought. We work closely with artists, gallerists and collectors to ensure that each piece is contextually relevant and materially aligned with the surrounding space.
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We embrace the process of design as a craft, from sketch to prototype and installation. This allows us to bridge time-honoured techniques with contemporary sensibilities. Craft, ultimately, is how we instil soul and permanence into our work.
LAWSON ROBB 29 Milner Street London SW3 2QD +44 (0)20 7351 9383 lawsonrobb.com lawson_robb
Lawson Robb works with specialist artisans across mediums to create richly layered interiors
Founded in 1953 in Valencia, what began as a small family-run workshop is now an international brand recognised for its artistic porcelain creations. A creative universe, Lladró spans contemporary design, lighting, home accessories and collaborations with global artists and designers. The company’s philosophy is rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and reinvention. Every piece is handmade in its workshop in Valencia, where a skilled team of artisans combine age-old methods – live modelling, carving, etching – with innovative finishes and a 4,000strong palette of the brand’s own unmistakable colours. Liquid hues, enamels and lustres are just some of the varied decorative techniques applied.
Over the years, Lladró has continued to push the limits of what porcelain can be, from introducing the revolutionary single-firing method in the 1960s to working with grès a decade later. Around 20 years ago, it began exploring the creative potential of this noble material further through partnerships with prestigious designers and contemporary artists such as Jaime Hayon, Bodo Sperlein and Culdesac. It later diversified into functional homeware, reinforcing its position as a porcelain brand that offers practical elements for an elegant lifestyle. From the emblematic The Guest pieces to emotional sculptures like Soul Rider (the central character from the pictorial world of Spanish artist Dulk), Lladró creates objects that tell stories, resonate deeply and invite connection.
In lighting, the brand also continues to expand its presence with bold collections. Among the most recent highlights is A Bright Idea, developed with Italian designer Marcantonio. This essential everyday object was reborn in porcelain as a unique, creative, and sustainable design. This year’s focus is on Cascade, the first collaboration with renowned British designer Lee Broom. A poetic exploration of light and form, it marks a new milestone in the way Lladró interprets design through porcelain. It is also emblematic of the company’s commitment to creating pieces that connect tradition, emotion, and design in extraordinary ways. With a select network of boutiques and distributors in more than 120 countries, this is an international brand, proud of its heritage, and with Spanish soul.
Cascade, the rst collaboration with Lee Broom, is a poetic exploration of light and for m
VALUED CRAFTS
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Every piece by Lladró is handcrafted in its only workshop in Valencia. From mixing the porcelain formula to sculpting, assembling, and firing, all steps are carried out by a team of expert artisans.
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The porcelain circles and cylinders in Cascade lamps feature subtle geometric reliefs that are enhanced through meticulous hand-finishing. This process ensures a refined, tactile quality that brings warmth and individuality to every piece.
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Each component in Cascade is finished in matte porcelain, a choice that emphasizes the purity of form and enhances the sculptural quality of the surface –proof that craft is present not just in the making, but also in the final sensory experience of each lamp.
Lladró has joined forces with Lee Broom (top left) on a bold new lighting collection
LOOMAH
Custom-made carpets and rugs, handcrafted to any size, shape and colour
oomah is at the forefront of the design and supply of luxury bespoke carpets and rugs. With over 30 years of experience working with the best artisans and factories in the industry, husband-and-wife Andrew and Natalie Cotgrove set up the company in 2001. The vision, which remains today, was to create a brand focused on delivering a unique personal design service. For the couple, luxury is not about expense, but creating something carefully designed and beautifully crafted. Whether for a residential interior, commercial project, or private yacht, it can supply handmade carpets and rugs in any size, shape, and colour. All the custom-made carpets are designed in-house and expertly hand tufted to exacting standards by highly skilled craftspeople in the Far East.
Loomah has an eclectic portfolio of both modern and classic designs, the possibilities are endless due to the diversity of material, colours and shapes available – and a design service that allows customers to create something truly unique to their space.
‘When a customer approaches us to commission a bespoke carpet or rug, they are making an investment,’ says Andrew. ‘Loomah’s strength has always been our design integrity and originality. Whether you have a concept in mind or wish to utilise the expertise of our designers to draw inspiration from an existing interior, our team will help develop a rug that sits in harmony with the overall look and feel of your space.’
This autumn sees the launch of Avalon by Loomah, an organic response to the increasing demand for sustainable design.
Loomah’s Portland and Clarendon (right) bespoke rugs; its design service allows customers to create something truly unique for their space
‘Our London team are utilising their years of experience designing bespoke rugs for discerning clients across the world to curate a collection of eight rug designs made from sustainable yarns here in the UK,’ continues Andrew. Made to order in any size, each will be available in multiple colourways. ‘Avalon by Loomah will enable us to offer our renowned design capabilities to a new aspiring audience. Expect the same emphasis on quality and craftsmanship as Loomah’s tailormade design service but with easy customisation of size and colour to suit any interior.’
VALUED CRAFTS
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While technology is fundamental to our practice, many aspects of the design process are still done by hand. There are projects where hand drawing is imperative in fulfilling the brief, especially when designing traditional carpets and rugs.
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Early Loomah designs weren’t only hand drawn but hand painted with individual colours mixed to match the colour poms selected. We still celebrate the provenance of our craft and regularly utilise these skills.
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Loomah’s hand tufting workshops give a unique opportunity for design practices to visit our showroom and learn about the craft with live demonstrations and the chance to try hand tufting for themselves. Guests are often surprised at the level of skill needed, and how hard it is to produce a straight line.
LOOMAH
592 Kings Road, London SW6 2DX
+44 (0)20 7371 9955
loomah.com
loomahltd
PERCH & POSE
Pull up to the table, baby
1 Pure White Lines Hugo Travertine table, £995. purewhitelines.com. 2 Neptune Borough six seat kitchen table, £1,295. neptune.com. 3 Matthew Cox Socle table, £11,689. matthewcox.com. 4 Soho Home Wallace co ee table, £995. sohohome.com. 5 Vitra Heart cone chair, £3,640. vitra.com. 6 Darlings of Chelsea Payton three-seater in mustard, £2,845. darlingsofchelsea.co.uk. 7 Jamb Belton console, £POA. jamb.co.uk. 8 e Lacquer Company Martini table, £995. thelacquercompany.co.uk. 9 OKA Camaret Serigraph dining bench, £995. oka.com. 10 Nina Campbell Alice chair, £POA. ninacampbell.com.
When it comes to crafting inspiring spaces inside and out, these are the designers raising the bar today
Judging Panel: Richard E Grant, Henrietta Rixo, Sarah Laming, Carole Annett
Words: Emma Love
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ADẸ̀KỌ́ & CO
With roots that lie in designing major hotels and luxury cruise ships, Tolù Adèkó is best known for his work in the hospitality sector but takes on a select number of residential commissions too. ‘Storytelling is at the heart of everything: I’m always exploring how space can communicate memory, heritage and identity, whether that’s through an unexpected material pairing or the quiet elegance of a considered detail,’ says the Nigerian-British designer. As part of the studio’s ten-year celebrations, he is creating a ‘dramatic and immersive’ VIP Lounge at Decorex in October. adeko.co
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ALBION NORD
e quartet behind Albion Nord – Ottalie Stride, Camilla Clarke, Anthony Kooperman and Ben Johnson – describe their most recent commission, e Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, as feeling ‘rooted in history yet undeniably modern.’ It’s a timeless aesthetic that sums up their ethos of blending classic in uences with the contemporary, whether working on a landmark hotel or a home in Holland Park. Creative directors Stride and Clarke are passionate about sourcing rare antiques and curiosities, many of which are sold through the studio’s online atelier Our Shop, alongside lighting and furniture designed in house. albion-nord.com
Amanda Meade Interior Design
Barclay Interiors
Albion Nord
Adẹ̀kọ́ & Co
PHOTOS: DARREN CHUNG OLLIE TOMLINSON
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AMANDA MEADE INTERIOR DESIGN
Although synonymous with renovating country estates and grand listed buildings, Amanda Meade’s Nottinghamshire studio has been delivering projects of all sizes for over three decades – from new-build family homes to single rooms. e team is small, and all schemes are overseen by Meade, who always begins by re-evaluating the oor space and looking at where the layout could be improved. An ongoing collaboration with architecture rm Daykin Marshall Studio ensures a tailored service from concept to completion. amandameadedesign.com
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ATELIER NM
Tactile textures, thoughtful colour stories and tailored details are woven together in Najwa Mroue’s spaces, which often also feature a conversation-starting statement piece: perhaps a bold artwork, jeweltoned upholstery or an intricately printed wallpaper across the ceiling. For one recent client, she lent a ‘more is more’ look to a Victorian mews house, perfectly blending maximalism with historical nods. Her design philosophy – that every home should tell a story – results in meaningful interiors, rich in materiality. atelier-nm.com
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BARCLAY INTERIORS
Set up by Sarah Barclay 25 years ago, this studio specialises in listed and heritage properties. e team has extensive experience in largescale commissions, navigating complex conservation regulations and collaborating with heritage consultants to ensure that a building’s original features are married with modern day functionality. at could mean, for instance, installing a custom lighting scheme to protect timber beams or repurposing old barns into a bar and gym, all of which she is doing as part of a current renovation in Berkshire. barclay-interiors.com
Atelier NM
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CAVE INTERIORS
Led by mother-daughter duo Georgina and Anoushka Cave, this Primrose Hill studio is known for its character-rich interiors that seamlessly integrate old and new. Anoushka’s background is in ne art and her eye for colour, form and composition has driven demand for their growing art consultancy service. e pair always work together and collaborate with architects on end-to-end design for both period restorations and contemporary homes. eir small shop sells antique furniture and vintage furnishings, alongside handmade eiderdowns designed by Anoushka and pieces by emerging craftspeople. caveinteriors.com
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CLARE GASKIN
For Clare Gaskin, ‘creating magical moments that speak to the owners’ is as important as ensuring that their practical needs are met. Her small Richmond studio predominantly focuses on residences in the capital and the Home Counties, recently refurbishing a Georgian home in Islington so that it’s adaptable for a growing family. Gaskin cites last year’s collaboration with Furnishing Futures (a charity dedicated to transforming spaces for those in need), for which she designed living rooms in a trio of women’s refuges, as a de ning project. claregaskin.com
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DE ROSEE SA
Founders Max de Roseé and Claire Sá take a holistic approach to architecture and interior design, creating environments that ‘have a lasting, positive impact’. Based in London and Lisbon, their focus is on luxury residences. Recently, this has involved recon guring the layout of an Edwardian property so it better connects to the garden, and adding character to an apartment in Hampstead. e studio is also working on its rst hotel in Portugal, and in 2024 launched the Seeker Collection – made-to-order furniture designed for those ‘in-between’ areas of a home. deroseesa.com
De Rosee Sa
Cave Interiors Clare Gaskin
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EADIE & CROLE
Hampshire-based Sophie Eadie and Fi Crole established their studio six years ago, pooling decades of experience running their own rms. eir vision stems from the principles of symmetry and balance, creating interiors that ‘prioritise comfort while maintaining a practical edge’. e result is calm, serene spaces, layered with details – from clever panelling that conceals hidden cupboards to contemporary art, antiques and soft lighting – that have the exibility to evolve alongside the lives of those who inhabit them. ey also have a collection of fabrics, wallpaper and furniture. eadieandcrole.com
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ELICYON
From a luxury apartment within the new 60 Curzon Street development in Mayfair to an opulent private penthouse in Dubai’s One Palm complex, architect-trained Charu Gandhi and her 35-strong team are renowned for producing exceptionally crafted, sophisticated interiors for clients around the world. e aim is to imbue spaces with ‘understated wonder’ and the level of attention to detail is always extraordinary: for one home owner, for instance, Gandhi commissioned a custom bamboo-silk carpet inspired by the family’s history. elicyon.com
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FANTOUSH
Eclectic spaces characterise the work of this Edinburgh practice, which was set up over a decade ago as an upholstery studio by Emily Smoor before evolving into commercial and residential interiors. Smoor’s talent for winkling out treasures, an innate love of colour and a tendency to mix pieces from various eras and places all adds up to texturally rich schemes. She has just completed a handful of holiday rentals on the Penicuik Estate in Scotland, including one which combines a Palladian style orangery with a gardener’s cottage above. fantoush.com
Fantoush
Eadie & Crole Elicyon
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HENRY PRIDEAUX INTERIOR DESIGN
Henry Prideaux has a clever knack for o ering clients something completely unexpected and extraordinary (a guest room with a tented ceiling, a fun shepherd’s hut hideout for children) in his sophisticated yet practical schemes. He set up his practice over a decade ago and recently relocated to a showroom-studio in Twickenham. His current roll-call of work includes an oast house in Sussex, a converted priory in Oxfordshire and a custom built four-berth racing yacht with an Art Deco theme. henryprideaux.com
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HILL HOUSE INTERIORS
Helmed by Jenny Weiss and Helen Bygraves for over 25 years, this Surrey studio also has a satellite o ce in Dubai to cater to its global client base. e duo’s design philosophy revolves around balancing function and air to create ‘luxurious yet e ortlessly liveable environments’ that layer sumptuous textiles and custom furnishings. Recent and ongoing work ranges from a villa in Lake Como to a residence in LA, a Middle Eastern superyacht, and a wow-factor entertaining space in a UK home inspired by Annabel’s. hillhouseinteriors.com
Hill House Interiors
Joanna Wood
Jo Hamilton Interiors
Henry Prideaux Interior Design
PHOTOS: JANINE STONE & CO; TOM SULLAM; NICK SMITH; BOZ GAGOVSKI
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JANINE STONE & CO
Founded by Janine Stone in 1987 – and run alongside her husband and business partner Gideon – this practice specialises in private residences. Taking on only a handful of homes a year, the team handles every stage of the process, from architecture and interior design to construction. Its portfolio features townhouses in Mayfair and Belgravia, lateral apartments in Kensington, and large-scale country pads, including a new-build on the Wentworth Estate with a subterranean spa, wine cellar, and custom-designed bar. Recent international commissions have extended to Dubai and Hong Kong too. janinestone.com
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JOANNA WOOD
Celebrating 40 years of her sought-after Belgravia interior design studio, Joanna Wood’s expertise runs the gamut from Provençal châteaux to Soho penthouses. Preserving architectural heritage is a priority and she has collaborated with the likes of e National Trust and Historic Houses on the restoration of prestigious private and public buildings. Her youngest daughter, Hattie Hansard, is part of the 15-strong team and recently led the renovation of a Chelsea apartment in a converted Victorian school, transforming the space into a coherent home for entertaining. joannawood.com
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JO HAMILTON INTERIORS
is year marks 30 years since Jo Hamilton founded her studio to focus on private residences, from listed country houses to contemporary city apartments. A clear design thread runs throughout: these are quietly sophisticated spaces with a re ned palette and tactile nishes. A hallmark of her approach is colour drenching across walls, woodwork and architectural detailing. She has recently nished renovating a six-room Georgian estate in Oxfordshire with a ballroom, drawing room, cinema and spa. johamilton.co.uk
Janine Stone & Co
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JULIETTE BYRNE
With Juliette Byrne at the helm for 37 years, this Chelsea studio has become known for its elegant interiors and full turn-key service. e team is also well versed in more complicated renovations such as listed buildings. Recent and ongoing projects include an apartment in Dresden that combines classical European architecture with contemporary touches; the full refurbishment and interior design of a villa in Saint Tropez; and residences in Westbourne Grove and Pimlico for a younger generation of homeowners. juliettebyrne.com
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KATE BINGHAM INTERIOR DESIGN LTD
Having a small team split between London and Petworth enables Kate Bingham to personally oversee every project. e focus is on designing high-end residences and superyachts in a classic-contemporary style. Bingham's greatest challenge to date in terms of scale and logistics, she says, was the renovation of dilapidated, listed, 28-room Taymouth Castle in Scotland. At the moment, she’s working on a new-build house in Farnham; a superyacht in Malta; and a farming estate near Winchester which will feature a wellness centre, yoga studio and farm shop. kbidesign.co.uk
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LAURA HAMMETT
Founded by wife-and-husband Laura and Aaron Hammett (she is the creative director, he manages the interior architecture team), this Fulham studio is renowned for understated yet e ortlessly sophisticated interiors (think re ned materials, custom-designed furnishing, sumptuous fabrics). Laura describes her aesthetic as ‘blending historic grandeur with contemporary comfort’ and believes the most important aspect of designing is to make a room ‘as useable as it is beautiful’. Residences span from villas in the Middle East and China to a family home in Sussex with a private nightclub. laurahammett.com
Laura Hammett
Lucinda Martin Interior Design
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LINDA BORONKAY DESIGN STUDIO
A former design director of Soho House, Budapest-born Linda Boronkay set up her multidisciplinary studio ve years ago. Since then, she has cemented her reputation for designing cool, contemporary residences and commercial spaces across the world (these include a Swiss chalet, a beach house in Sydney and a mansion in Notting Hill). Inspiration ranges from cinema to literature and art; the latter was the starting point for a recent Victorian home in Richmond where the existing collection grounded the scheme. lindaboronkay.com
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LITTLEMORE DESIGN
Sameena Singh’s interiors are a masterclass in meaningful storytelling and attention to detail. Take the stand-out Mayfair apartment she designed for one recent client where everything from the colour palette (white for the family’s sugar manufacturing business in Uganda, earthy tones that represent the landscape) to the custom rug hand-tufted in India was a nod to the owner’s dual heritage. She is currently working on a mixed-use development in Abu Dhabi, a penthouse in Mumbai and a Belgravia townhouse. littlemoredesign.com
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LUCINDA MARTIN INTERIOR DESIGN
Shropshire-based Lucinda Martin only branched out on her own in 2022 and has already established herself as a go-to for clients wanting to breathe new life into architecturally challenging buildings. Her largest undertaking has been the renovation of Berwick House near Shrewsbury, which hadn’t been updated for over a century (it involved installing an additional 13 bathrooms); current challenges include a listed Herefordshire mansion and a neo-Georgian house in Cheshire. lmid.co.uk
Kate Bingham Interior Design Ltd
Juliette Byrne
Linda Boronkay Design Studio
Littlemore Design
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LUCY CUNNINGHAM INTERIORS
Renowned for putting her own spin on the re ned English aesthetic, Lucy Cunningham typically takes on sprawling country estates, farm houses and characterful cottages. She is especially skilled at print and pattern, cohesively layering, for instance, ikats and suzanis with antique furniture, or fabric wallcoverings with unexpected bursts of colour. Current projects include redesigning a Georgian mansion in Scotland set in 300 acres, a chalet in Aspen and a property in New York – her rst in the US. lucycunningham.com
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MARTIN KEMP DESIGN
‘Inspirational interiors for those who seek the exceptional’ is how this studio describes its high-end luxury spaces. For over a decade, founder Martin Kemp has specialised in super-prime residences, as well as private jets, superyachts, and exclusive private o ces, and earnt himself a reputation as being a stickler for rigorous con dentiality. e team is currently splitting their time between projects in London (both a modern Chelsea home and a classical mansion), Monaco, Switzerland and China. ere is also a second o ce in New York. martinkempdesign.com
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MAX ROLLITT
An extensive knowledge of historical buildings – as well as textiles and antiques – is at the crux of Max Rollitt’s o ering. He has an exceptional eye for colour and texture, creating spaces that combine a sense of theatre with modern practicality, as well as ensuring that every part of the design works in harmony with the architecture. e antiques and upholstery teams are housed in a former grain store in Hampshire, where Rollitt is also growing his line of bespoke furniture, from nely carved four-poster beds to hand-turned lamps. maxrollitt.com
Natalia Miyar
Martin Kemp Design
Lucy Cunningham Interiors
PHOTOS: CHRISTOPHER HORWOOD; ANA LUI; MAX ROLLITT BY CHRIS HORWOOD
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MIMINAT DESIGNS
Since setting up her studio a decade ago while still at university, BritishNigerian Miminat Shodeinde has made her name with re ned, modernistinspired spaces. ese typically combine culture, craftsmanship and a distinct design language that often includes her own sculptural one-of-a-kind furniture and objects. A global portfolio spans Antigua, Africa, Kuwait and now India, where she is particularly excited about a commission dreaming up custom furniture and lighting that will be produced locally. miminat.com
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NATALIA MIYAR
Glamour and comfort go hand in hand in Natalia Miyar’s ‘emotionally resonant interiors’ that range from English country mansions and alpine chalets to an in-progress Cuban-inspired members’ club in Boston. Her architecture training means she has an innate understanding of space, materiality and proportion – all of which are the foundation for a con dent use of colour, pattern and texture. She has a capsule collection of furniture, wallcoverings, rugs and newly added Belgian linens. A second studio in Miami is a hub for expanding work across the US, Middle East and Caribbean. nataliamiyar.com
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NICOLA HARDING & CO
From e Cavendish on the Chatsworth Estate to Penmaenuchaf in Wales, Nicola Harding has long been on speed dial for UK hoteliers wanting to create colour-rich schemes for guests. She and her 15-strong team take on residential commissions too: what unites them is a desire to evoke a sense of belonging through English country-house cosiness. NIX by Nicola Harding is her shoppable collection of furniture, upholstery, lighting and fabrics. Her rst book, Nicola Harding: Homing Instinct, which showcases a selection of her projects, is released in September. nicolaharding.com
Nicola Harding & Co
Max Rollitt
Miminat Designs
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OCTAVIA DICKINSON
A fresh take on English country style that incorporates bold colour, layers of texture and antiques underpins Octavia Dickinson’s joyful, detail-driven schemes. Her art history background means she composes each room decoratively, like a painting – full of fabric trims, ample lighting and mixed furniture styles – yet never forgets the importance of comfort and practicality too. She has her own collection of fabrics and wallpapers, as well as a changing selection of antiques, which are sold online. octaviadickinson.com
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OLIVIA OUTRED STUDIO
Self-labelled colour enthusiast Olivia Outred heads up a team of ve at her busy East London studio, where traditional decorating techniques support her elegant, harmonious designs. She is primarily focused on residential interiors, truly leaning into how clients live in their homes, and often incorporating their treasured fabrics or artworks alongside antiques and custom-made furniture. Recently completed projects include a Georgian house in London, which was returned to its former glory by reintroducing original features while making it t for purpose. oliviaoutred.com
Orla Read Design Studio
Pandora Taylor
PHOTOS: HELEN CATHCART; DEAN HEARNE; HELEN CATHCART; SIMON BROWN; ASTRID TEMPLIER
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ORLA READ DESIGN STUDIO
Having set up her Notting Hill studio ve years ago, Orla Read leads a team of three and focuses primarily on residential interior design. From bespoke joinery to hand-painted tiles and specialist nishes, craftsmanship is integral to her vision, as is incorporating vintage furniture and fabrics, layering pattern and sustainability (repurposing an old kitchen island worktop into a bathroom vanity, for instance). Exciting projects on the roster include a river house in Marlow that leans into its nautical environment. orlaread.com
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OWN LONDON
Founded by Alex Labridis and Vaios Tsigas, this multidisciplinary studio covers architecture, interior design, construction and property development – meaning it can o er a seamless turn-key service across commercial and residential projects, the latest of which are in Rome and Paris. Considered spatial design is always at the core of the elegant layouts, as evidenced in a recently completed ve- oor listed Knightsbridge townhouse, where the team retained the historical integrity of the property while reimagining it for family living. ownlondon.co.uk
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PANDORA TAYLOR
Lively colour palettes, interesting furniture, and an exacting eye for detail all typify Pandora Taylor’s playful yet considered style – honed since setting up her studio in 2018 (prior to which she did a stint at Kitesgrove). Last year, for instance, she worked with Susi Bellamy, transforming the fabric designer’s Notting Hill pied-à-terre into a jewel box-like apartment that combines the atmosphere of an ageing Italian palazzo with English chintz and a riot of more-is-more fabrics and wallpapers. pandorataylor.co.uk
Olivia Outred Studio
OWN LONDON
Octavia Dickinson
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PORTIA FOX
Re ned, understated interiors are the hallmark of Portia Fox, who set up her studio in 2017 after a spell as an associate director at Katharine Pooley. Since then, she has built up a global portfolio with projects dotted across the US, Middle East and Asia. Right now, commissions such as a luxury private home in Switzerland and a series of branded residences for the Dorchester Collection are keeping the team of 16 interior designers and architects busy. portiafox.com
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RIGBY & RIGBY
Part of the Allect Design Group, this multi-disciplinary practice specialises in super-prime residences, from listed buildings and heritage properties to new developments. Bespoke craftsmanship and sustainability are both key, with schemes often incorporating cutting-edge materials and energye cient solutions, such as in the UK’s rst wellness-accredited and carbon-neutral private dwelling near Hyde Park. e team works with exceptional external architects (Kengo Kuma, Olson Kundig) and last year launched a Small Works Division dedicated to kitchens, cabinetry, lighting and decoration. rigbyandrigby.com
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SALVESEN GRAHAM
Nicole Salvesen and Mary Graham describe their take on quintessential English country house style as ‘future heritage’. In other words: classically beautiful spaces full of texture and colour, that are based on design principles such as preserving architectural detailing and juxtaposing antiques with contemporary pieces. One of the most interesting commissions the pair has completed was a Georgian family home featuring at least three aesthetically di erent phases of construction, which they brought together to create a sense of harmony. salvesengraham.com
Salvesen Graham
Rigby & Rigby Samantha Todhunter Design
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SAMANTHA TODHUNTER DESIGN
A relaxed yet vibrant informality – with ashes of wit and modern glamour – characterise Samantha Todhunter’s interiors, whether she’s working on a simple decorative refresh or a full interior overhaul. Projects range from Parisian pied-à-terres to villas in the South of France, a trullo in Puglia to beach houses in Tulum and, recently, the refurbishment of an historic penthouse in San Francisco. Todhunter’s vision for laidback living is also re ected in e Warborough Collection, her capsule of go-to furniture staples. samanthatodhunter.com
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SARA COSGROVE STUDIO
Irish designer Sara Cosgrove, who has studios in Dublin and London, labels her look ‘quiet luxury’. Re ned materials (natural stone, aged brass accents, and handwoven textiles) are a signature thread that runs from period properties to modern penthouses. Having previously worked for Allegra Hicks, Helen Green and Harrods (where she was head of design), Cosgrove branched out on her own over a decade ago. Sister company Grove & Co specialises in large-scale residential and hospitality projects. saracosgrove.com
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SHH ARCHITECTURE & INTERIORS
Super-prime residences and hospitality properties form the backbone of projects at this multidisciplinary practice, which is overseen by founding partner and managing director Graham Harris. e mission here is cohesive and holistic design which translates, most recently, to restoring 19th century Athlone House in Hampstead and a low-slung new-build summer pavilion that makes sense visually within its surrounding landscape. Although primarily focused on the UK, commissions also span China, Switzerland, the US and Azerbaijan. shh.co.uk
Sara Cosgrove Studio
Portia Fox
SHH Architecture & Interiors
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SOPHIE PATERSON INTERIORS
Whether designing a grand villa in the Middle East; meticulously restoring an apartment in west London with palatial proportions; or turning her hand to a contemporary new-build in Ireland, Sophie Paterson’s signature style is a blend of classic and contemporary. Her Surrey studio specialises in residential projects, often applying a predominantly restrained neutral palette as a backdrop and weaving in natural materials such as oak, marble and brass for warmth. She has just launched an online interior design academy, and her ever-expanding product collection encompasses fabrics, mirrors and handles. sophiepatersoninteriors.com
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STEPHANIE BARBA MENDOZA
is talented Mexican designer has had her own London studio for ve years (before that she spent a decade at Martin Brudnizki Design Studio) and in that time, has become synonymous with maximalist spaces that celebrate bold colour and pattern. e practice is growing slowly, organically, focusing on international projects that capture Mendoza’s imagination, from homes in Antwerp and Miami to hospitality ventures in Lisbon and Amsterdam. Expect a high-low mix, contemporary pieces peppered with antiques, and elements that surprise. barbamendoza.com
Studio Squire
Stephanie Barba Mendoza
Sophie Paterson Interiors
PHOTOS: TOM MANNION; KENSINGTON LEVERNE; CHRISTOPHER HORWOOD; DEAN HERNE
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STUDIO DUGGAN
e founder of this Notting Hill studio, Ti any Duggan, describes her design philosophy as wanting to create ‘liveable yet dramatic spaces’ that emphasise form and colour, and unite di erent eras and styles. She leads a deliberately small team of seven, overseeing the design of each project personally, and is also behind homeware brand TROVE by Studio Duggan. Until now, the focus has been on residential only – so news of the practice’s rst foray into the restaurant and bar scene, with a launch slated for autumn, is particularly exciting. studioduggan.com
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STUDIO HOLLOND
Having trained under Beata Heuman for many years where, she says, she ‘learnt a lot about creating layered homes which feel unexpected but also balanced’, Phoebe Hollond launched her own west London studio in 2023. e team of three only takes on a trio of projects at once, often in locations such as London, Sussex, Dorset and Somerset. She cites her design hero as the late French art dealer Madeleine Castaing; likes putting bespoke and unusual pieces of furniture together; and is inspired by the past to curate contemporary spaces. studiohollond.com
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STUDIO SQUIRE
Husband-and-wife Richard and Angelica Squire are behind this veyear-old practice: he has a background in construction so concentrates on the architecture and ow of a space; she cut her teeth working for Fran Hickman and spearheads the design. Pairing historical elements with contemporary functionality are key to the pair’s thoughtfully crafted spaces (such as an apartment in Chelsea Barracks or the renovation of a 19th-century railway cottage in the South Downs) that re ect their surroundings. ey also enjoy mixing pieces from di erent eras and sourcing antiques. studiosquire.co.uk
Studio Duggan
Studio Hollond
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STUDIO VERO
‘Our approach is about more than aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that tell a story,’ says Venetia Rudebeck, who co-founded this studio over a decade ago with her childhood friend, Romanos Brihi. Unexpected material pairings, an assured use of colour, and juxtaposing art and antiques are all integral to their wonderfully vibrant, in-depth schemes. e pair are currently working on a sustainably-built family home in west London alongside residences in Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Devon, Europe and the US. studio-vero.com
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SUZY HOODLESS STUDIO
Self-labelling her schemes as ‘a kind of alchemy’ feels entirely apt for Suzy Hoodless, who celebrates 25 years of her west London studio in 2025. Her approach, which seamlessly mixes styles and eras, colour and texture, to wonderful e ect, has won the former magazine interiors editor plenty of fans. ‘Nearly every client we work for – whatever their brief is – says they want a comfortable family home, so that informs a lot of what we do,’ Hoodless says. suzyhoodless.com
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TH2 DESIGNS
is is a milestone year for founders Gail Taylor and Sheila El-Hadery, who are celebrating two decades of 2 Designs. eir philosophy is ‘relaxed luxury’ – which translates to ‘beautifully designed interiors that maximise both space and light’ and can be adapted as home owners’ lives evolve. It’s an approach that spans a diverse portfolio of projects and appeals to their many repeat clients, who value comfort alongside practical elements like space planning and storage. e duo also has a collection of furniture, 2 Studio. th2designs.co.uk
Th2 Designs VSP Interiors
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THORP
Founded by Philippa orp 40 years ago, this multi-disciplinary design studio has a reputation for longevity among its HNWI clients (one even revealed that in the two decades since the completion of their home, the only item that they have replaced is a rug). e highly capable team of architects and interior designers take a holistic view and typically take care of every aspect of a project, including art curation and landscaping, to ensure harmonious, soulful spaces. thorp.co.uk
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VSP INTERIORS
With a background in antiques and decorative arts, creative director Henriette von Stockhausen has always prioritised craftsmanship, artisanmade bespoke furnishings and integrating historical elements into interiors. One of her standout projects over the past year was a home in Montecito that blends Renaissance grandeur with breezy Californian living and the client’s passion for Italian in uences (think antique Murano glass lanterns, a dramatic canopy bed, signature evocative tapestries and layered textiles). vspinteriors.com
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ZERVUDACHI, ROBERTS AND MACADAM
Although directors Tino Zervudachi, Jason Roberts and Laurence Macadam have been leading this studio’s roster of international projects for a while, it’s only recently, in its 60th anniversary year, that its name has been changed to re ect that (it was founded by David Mlinaric, and formerly called Mlinaric, Henry and Zervudachi). Private houses, yachts, commercial developments, retail and hospitality – this team does it all. e overall aesthetic is eclectic, modern and smart with an emphasis on colour and pattern. zervudachiinteriordesign.com n
Studio Vero
Suzy Hoodless Studio
Zervudachi, Roberts and Macadam
Thorp
RUGGED BEAUTY
Glorious floor coverings for softer pads
1 Jane Clayton Bohemian rug by GP & J Baker, £1,900. janeclayton.co.uk. 2 Wendy Morrison A Mughal Painting hand knotted rug, £13,978. wendymorrisondesign.com. 3 Farnham Antique Carpets Antique Heriz rug, £5,250. farnhamantiquecarpets.com. 4 Deirdre Dyson Angel sh, £1,320/m2. deirdredyson.com. 5 e Rug Company x Chihuly River Round, £12,205. uk.therugcompany.com. 6 Pelican House x Shrimps Murano, £2,736. pelican-house.com. 7 Jaipur Rugs Come Around, £1,480. jaipurrugs.com. 8 Andrew Martin Farva Persian style rug, £650. andrewmartin.co.uk.
Neptune began with a simple belief: that home should be a place of comfort, beauty and longevity
Enduring, beautifully-made kitchens, furniture and homewares
Neptune began with a simple belief: that the home should be a place of comfort, beauty and longevity. Born in Wiltshire in 1996 and inspired by the British way of living, the company’s first design was a re-imagined garden hammock. Today, it has grown into a lifestyle brand renowned for its crafted kitchens, timeless furniture and thoughtful homeware collections, with over 30 stores nationwide.
At the heart of Neptune’s philosophy is a dedication to quality, from the natural materials used to the way each piece is designed to stand the test of time. The lifetime guarantee that accompanies the timber-framed furniture and kitchen cabinetry reflects that promise: a commitment to pieces made with care, designed to be lived with and built to last.
In early 2025, Neptune launched a freestanding kitchen furniture collection as a response to the growing demand for flexibility in the heart of the home. With a more modern, streamlined aesthetic, the Borough island and chopping block, the Farlow larder, and the enlarged Suffolk dresser all introduced a fresh design direction, one that was later echoed in the Borough dining set.
VALUED CRAFTS
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Our furniture pieces are built using time-honoured joinery methods such as mortise-andtenon or dovetail joints, which are chosen not only for their strength but also their beauty.
2
At Neptune, we only use solid timbers and select natural materials – never MDF, chipboard, or fast-finish alternatives. Real wood offers longevity, and every grain, knot, and texture is part of its character. It’s something that no imitation can replicate.
3
Each piece of Neptune cabinetry is hand-finished, from hand-sanded wood to hand-painted colour, using our bespoke palette. This gives our pieces their unique character and tactility. Subtle variations in tone and brushstroke are a reminder that what we make is carefully crafted and personal.
The design team takes its cues from the natural world, which informs the colour palettes, textures and stories of the collections, while the studio’s timeless designs are underpinned with an appreciation for heritage craft techniques combined with modern technology.
The A/W 2025 collection will explore a rich, earthy palette with the launch of Saddle (a warm, velvety brown paint shade) and new furniture pieces such as the cocooning Cleo swivel chair, which celebrate warmth, hosting and the joy of coming home.
The Christmas collection will continue this sentiment with elegant wreaths, evocatively scented candles and decorative tree ornaments that create a sense of timeless beauty for the season’s special moments.
Lo oking ahead to next year, Neptune will be marking its 30th anniversary with various celebrations. This will be a significant moment to reflect on how far the brand has come, to launch exciting new kitchen designs and to reaffirm the brand’s purpose – to create considered, characterful pieces that quietly shape the way we live.
New designs this year include the Borough oak dining table and chairs (top left) and the Borough oak freestanding kitchen island (bottom right), alongside the classic Suffolk kitchen collection (bottom left) and the glassfronted Farlow cabinet (top right)
PORTIA FOX
An international interior design studio renowned for understated luxury and elegance
Founded in 2017 by creative director Portia Fox, this eponymous London-based interior design studio has a reputation for creating bespoke residential interiors that balance refined elegance with understated luxury. The philosophy centres on authenticity and timelessness, combining natural materials, rich textures, and thoughtful juxtapositions of style to create cohesive, light-filled spaces. With an expansive international portfolio, the studio has completed high-end residential projects across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia.
A collaborative team of interior designers and interior architects work closely to deliver a highly personalised offering, ensuring each project is a true reflection of the client’s vision. From full-scale renovations to final styling and dressing, Portia Fox provides a comprehensive service that encompasses architectural detailing, spatial planning, custom furniture design, and art curation. Equally integral to the process is a commitment to cultivating strong relationships with artisans and craftspeople from around the world – from painters and textile artists to glassblowers and ceramicists. These carefully selected experts not only add extra
From full-scale renovations to art curation, the studio provides a comprehensive service
layers to a scheme but, in championing their work, it helps preserve often ancient skills and ensures they are passed onto future generations.
International travel continues to shape the overall creative perspective for the studio, with inspiration gained through exposure to diverse cultural aesthetics and architectural traditions. London also remains a cornerstone of influence for Fox and the team. From its grand period properties to modern residences, the city’s architectural diversity allows the studio to work across a broad range of design narratives.
Several key milestones lie ahead this year and beyond. This year marks the completion of a 30,000-square-foot residence in Switzerland, five years in the making. The studio has also recently completed several homes in London, including the renovation of a four-storey townhouse in Chelsea. In 2026, a landmark project with the Dorchester Collection will unveil a set of super-exclusive branded residences. And by 2027, the studio will conclude its largest undertaking to date: an overseas development comprising private residences. With plans to establish satellite offices in Europe and the Middle East, and an in-house furniture collection in the pipeline, the next few years promise to be an exciting period of growth.
VALUED CRAFTS
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Craft in many forms is integral to our work: from potters, carvers, stonemasons, cabinetmakers, and muralists to unique metal workers creating exquisite unique light fittings. We value them all, and their talent and expertise adds new dimensions to our schemes.
2
I have a personal love for hand embroidery, which is experiencing a resurgence this year with beautiful contemporary work by the likes of Shinsuke Kawahara who exhibited at PAD Paris in the summer. Hand embroideries and exquisite woven fabrics, used sparingly, elevate a design.
3
I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with the talented Francis Russell of FRD, and his team, for nearly 20 years. Specialists in architectural metalwork, bespoke lighting, and custom furniture, they are true masters of their craft. Their attention to detail, technical expertise, and collaborative spirit make them an invaluable partner.
PORTIA FOX
Burlington House 184 New Kings Road London SW6 4NF +44 (0)20 8050 0184
portiafox.com portiafoxdesign
Portia Fox creates light-filled, highly personalised cohesive spaces
DESIGNER’S EDIT
1TRAVEL FROM HOME MINI CANDLE SET by A ssouline I travel a lot for work, and scent is how I remember places, people and moments. is candle set captures the enveloping warmth of Gstaad, the fresh notes of Ibiza and the spicy fragrance of Mykonos – and is a rainbow of mood and memory. £135, eu.assouline com
2
ALAFIA PURPLE CUSHION by Eva Sonaike Lilac calms me deeply, and I view it as my ‘soul colour’. Our Ala a cushion, with its bold West African pattern and soft purple tone, brings that same sense of serenity into a space. It’s a piece that does more than sit pretty on a sofa – it settles the spirit. £89, evasonaike.com
3
DANCE IN CEASELESS MOTION by Caroline Chinakwe ere’s power in bold colour. Caroline Chinakwe is a master of this; her work is unapologetically vibrant, and it speaks to my African identity and heritage. It makes me feel very seen (and inspired, and proud). I will be adding one to my African art collection soon. £POA, chinakwe.com
4BRIGHT BIRD NAPKIN RINGS by Kit Kemp
ese playful napkin rings just make me smile. I love their colour, their quirkiness and the way they add that unexpected dash of fun to a table setting. It’s about creating beauty with a wink – and they’re handwoven by Nariño artisans in Colombia. £65 for four, kitkemp.com
5
NOELLE MODULAR ARMCHAIR IN BOUCLÉ CORAL by Soho Home is curved armchair is so sculptural and the coral bouclé fabric is so elegant. It’s bold without being loud, stylish and incredibly cosy; a dream reading spot for a rainy Sunday afternoon. £4,795 (for non-members), sohohome.com
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SIGNATURE CASSEROLE DISH IN SHELL PINKby Le Creuset Pink in the kitchen? Absolutely. is Le Creuset casserole pot makes even a simple stew feel special. I love surrounding myself with colour in everyday rituals – this soft pink adds that warm, feminine energy that makes cooking feel like an act of love. £305, lecreuset.com
The visionary behind vibrant African interiors, EVA SONAIKE shares what’s on her moodboard
An architecture, design and delivery studio expanding across the globe RIGBY & RIGBY
Rigby & Rigby was founded to deliver luxury living through an ecosystem of architecture, interior design and project delivery. Originating as part of the Allect Design Group, the multiaward-winning studio has evolved into one of the UK’s leading names in ultra-prime design, known for its discretion, precision and exceptional service. The studio’s philosophy is rooted in research, development and technological innovation. The aesthetic: pared-back interiors that excite and enrich, with every project driven by the belief that the finest homes are those tailored entirely to the lives of those who experience them. From listed London townhouses and international developments to contemporary island villas, private aviation and superyachts, the aesthetic melds global sophistication with local sensitivity.
A notable trend being explored is sensory wellness: designing spaces that enhance wellbeing through light, air, materiality and mood. The company recently completed Project 089 in Knightsbridge, achieving the world’s first AirRated Platinum certification for
e studio’s philosophy is rooted in research, development and technological innovation
a residential building, and is soon to achieve the UK’s first WELLness-accredited private dwelling. Designed for family living and entertaining, the calm interior palette has been paired with custom cabinetry, silk wallpaper from Fromental and carefully curated furniture by the likes of Christian Liaigre and Holly Hunt.
The studio also recently launched the Allect ESG Lab, an in-house team focused on making conscientious decisions that have a positive impact beyond a project. Rigby & Rigby is considered a thought leader in this space, having won the C&TH Future Icons award for best sustainable design business and having achieved an ESG benchmark through the Butterfly Mark from Positive Luxury.
This year, Rigby & Rigby is proud to expand its footprint internationally with the design of 11 wellness-focused residences in New York’s NoHo district. In London, it continues to lead in the super-prime sector, delivering private residences and working within four of the world’s top 50 hotels.
VALUED CRAFTS
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Working with the finest craftspeople, whether a classic Italian furniture brand, a precision-driven Austrian joiner or a skilled British maker, we collaborate to create one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s about ergonomic solutions delivered through craft, detail and trust in expert hands.
2
We value natural materials for their tactility and imperfections. From hand-finished stone to bookmatched timber, the craft is often in how something is handled rather than simply how it’s made.
3
Our team creates personalised designs and presentations across architecture and interiors. Craft, for us, means custom solutions and using a wide range of skills to envision something unique. From telling a story to the final result, details are considered throughout and layered with depth to give a project longevity and feeling.
RIGBY & RIGBY
29 Milner Street London SW3 2QD +44 (0)20 3418 0446 rigbyandrigby.com rigbyandrigby
Rigby & Rigby designs private homes, developments, hotels and special commissions
SARA COSGROVE STUDIO
A multidisciplinary interior design practice creating beautiful spaces that bring joy
For Sara Cosgrove, true luxury lies in the details, from artisan craftsmanship and quality materials to architectural integrity. In other words, timeless bespoke design that elevates.
‘For me, great interiors lift someone’s mood and enhance their quality of life,’ explains Cosgrove, who founded her eponymous multidisciplinary interior design and interior architectural practice over a decade ago. The studio has a fluid house style and the team love to integrate the old and new, curating layered interiors with a freshness and vibrancy, and sourcing material finishes and furnishings from a select range of trusted suppliers.
Originally from County Mayo, Cosgrove studied at Trinity College Dublin and KLC School of Design in London. Early roles at design powerhouses Helen Green Design and Candy & Candy placed her at the heart of the capital’s luxury design industry. Then, as head of design at Harrods London, she delivered several award-winning show apartments, consulted on residential development master planning, and worked on private residential projects across the globe. Shortly after establishing her brand – which has always been synonymous with sophisticated, high-impact design – she was appointed design director for The Principal Hotel Company, where she oversaw extensive renovations such as The Fitzroy London, The Intercontinental Edinburgh George Street, and The Kimpton Clocktower Manchester.
Today, Cosgrove leads a select portfolio of residential commissions, from the full-scale refurbishment of heritage estates to extensive new builds and modern penthouses (a second multi-unit fit-out business, Grove & Co, specialises in hospitality and large-scale residential projects). Services also include bespoke furniture and lighting design, as well as space planning. Every project reflects her commitment to craft, storytelling, and commercial precision – a rare combination that distinguishes her work in an oversaturated market. Beyond her design practice, Cosgrove is a recognised industry voice (she was a judge on one of Ireland’s highestrated property shows, Home of the Year) and often speaks at global summits such as Decorex, Sleep, and Index Dubai. Her biggest goal is to create ‘welldesigned spaces that bring joy. That’s why, for us, leaving our clients with a home that feels truly theirs is the ultimate achievement.’
A fluid house style allows for layered vibrant, fresh interiors
VALUED CRAFTS
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I love working with marble and various types of stone. We appoint stonemasons such as Tuscan Stone to create our unique design elements within a project, whether a oneoff floor or a pink onyx fireplace.
2
Anka Bespoke are a team of skilled cabinetmakers and finishers who produce high-end furniture. For an upcoming commercial project, we took a map of the famous gardens opposite the building as inspiration and they created a poured-metal bas relief artwork for a feature wall in reception.
3
In the past year, I’ve designed a range of chairs and barstools for our private clients which can be customised for each project. Some items have a firm lumbar support and an upright back; others a softer, more generous feel.
SARA COSGROVE STUDIO
64 Mulgrave Street Dun Laoghaire Dublin A96 X8PO +353 (1) 561 2656 saracosgrove.com saracosgrovestudio
A global design practice rooted in British sensibility SIMS HILDITCH
Sims Hilditch is a leading design studio, known for creating elegant, timeless interiors that enhance the way people live. Founded by Emma SimsHilditch in 2009, the studio has grown from a small Cotswolds-based team into a global practice, blending traditional values with a modern approach to design. ‘We believe in crafting homes that are not only beautiful but built to last – layered, characterful spaces that feel both refined and relaxed,’ says Sims-Hilditch. ‘Our work is inspired by the British countryside, European travel, and a deep appreciation for antiques, natural materials, and craftsmanship. Our aesthetic is rooted in comfort, longevity, and a quiet kind of luxury.’
Although the foundation of Sims Hilditch lies in countryside estates and city townhouses, its portfolio continues to grow internationally and commercially. New projects in Portofino and Scotland join recent highlights such as a Grade I-listed London townhouse and a Victorian family home in West London. In 2025, the studio was proud to take part in WOW!house at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, transforming the courtyard room into its interpretation of a modern boot room. ‘The space celebrated the beauty of function, reflecting our
We believe in crafting homes that are not only beautiful but built to last
belief that back-of-house areas deserve the same design integrity as any other part of the home,’ continues Sims-Hilditch.
A collaboration with Chelsea Textiles marks the brand’s first foray into accessories: a refined collection of bamboo trays, waste paper baskets, and tissue boxes inspired by its iconic bamboo furniture. Other recent product launches include a collection rooted in antique Delft designs with Marlborough Tiles that pays tribute to traditional British ceramics, and handcrafted seating with George Smith, which reflects timeless British design and is made entirely by hand in Northumberland using age-old upholstery techniques.
This year also marks the introduction of a new partnership model, bringing together eight senior leaders across disciplines to drive the studio forward. This progressive structure fosters creative autonomy, deepens accountability and reflects a belief in collective leadership. The studio is also continuing its journey towards B Corp certification. At Sims Hilditch, the focus remains on creating thoughtful, enduring interiors – spaces that bring joy, reflect their owners, and stand the test of time.
VALUED CRAFTS
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Sims Hilditch is proud to collaborate with heritage British brands whose craftsmanship and values align with its own. Each partnership is deeply personal, carefully designed and built to last.
2
The studio curates character through layered interiors that feel storied and deeply personal. This often involves blending clients’ existing furniture and artwork with newly commissioned pieces and antiques from around the world. Great value is placed on the craftsmanship behind each item selected, whether a hand-thrown ceramic or an 18th-century chest.
3
Collaborating with expert craftspeople to restore original features of historic and listed buildings is central to the studio’s practice, from reinstating period plasterwork to reviving timber panelling. Restoration is a craft in itself: one that honours architectural legacy while allowing a building to evolve with sensitivity.
SIMS HILDITCH
The White Hart, Cotswolds Gloucestershire SN14 8JR
+44 (0)1249 783087
simshilditch.com
simshilditch
Sims Hilditch creates layered, characterful interiors and this year designed a boot room for WOW!house at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour (below left)
SPINOCCHIA FREUND
Curated, collaborative interiors intermixing collectibles and pieces crafted by emerging talents
Founded by Brigitta Spinocchia Freund, Spinocchia Freund is a London-based interior architecture and design studio renowned for its curatorial, collectible, and collaborative approach. With over 25 years of experience, Brigitta leads a multidisciplinary team across all stages of a project – from architectural interiors to detailed design – crafting emotionally resonant spaces with unique narratives for private clients, boutique hoteliers, and premium developers.
Brigitta’s passion for the arts shapes the studio’s creative direction, with inspiration drawn from art, fashion, and architectural history. Each interior becomes a conversation between people, place, and the objects within – designed to create emotional impact and enduring interest.
Brigitta’s commitment to championing emerging voices is reflected in recent collaborations with artists from Cockpit Studios and Sarabande Foundation, commissioning bespoke works that enrich the studio’s projects. This layered approach fosters a fusion of ideas and craftsmanship. Brigitta also supports the wider creative community through her sponsorship of the Collect Open prize, patronage of the British Fashion Council Foundation, and judging roles at PAD London and Women in Art.
Spinocchia Freund’s passion for the arts shapes the studio’s creative direction, with inspiration drawn from fashion to architectural history
Spinocchia Freund interiors balance collectible and iconic pieces, from Jean Prouvé and Charlotte Perriand to rising talents, creating spaces rich in character and meaning. Collaboration is central to the studio’s ethos, seen in their extensive sourcing network and projects such as the hand-painted ceiling at this year’s Wow!house, a translation of a textile design by Roksanda.
Craftsmanship is expressed using timehonoured techniques in materials including plaster panelling, bespoke stone & metalwork alongside hand applied finishes, ensuring every detail speaks to lasting quality and authenticity.
Recent projects include townhouses at Chelsea Barracks, The Curator’s Room installation at this year’s Wow!house at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and an art filled lobby at Palais de la Plage, Monaco. Above all, each space is designed to reflect the individuality of the client while honouring the architecture and context of the site.
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Spinocchia Freund proudly sponsors the Collect Open Prize, supporting pioneering, process-led craft installations at this leading international fair. We believe in platforming bold work that pushes the boundaries of contemporary craft.
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At this year’s Wow!house, Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, our room honoured female creativity through a series of collaborations: a Luella Bartley ottoman, Roksanda ceiling, Louise Gray sofa, Kamilah Ahmed embroidery and a Darcey Fleming stool, set on a bespoke STARK rug featuring the names of 87 women artists.
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Craft is embedded in our interior language. We curate collectible design, favour hand-applied finishes, and commission bespoke pieces with artists and makers, bringing depth, individuality and meaning to each space.
SPINOCCHIA FREUND
Paddington Works, 8 Hermitage Street London W2 1BE +44 (0)20 7495 1624 info@spinocchiafreund.com spinocchiafreund.com brigitta_ spinocchia_freund
Spinocchia Freund interiors are designed to create emotional impact and enduring interest
THE SOHO LIGHTING COMPANY
Elegant handcrafted lighting backed by innovative technology
Born from exasperation at ever-failing dimming switches while renovating a historical building in London, and the desire for greater choice and quality in period property lighting, Lee Lovett co-founded The Soho Lighting Company in 2017. ‘Passionate about interior design and with a firm belief in the transformative power of lighting, I was frustrated at the consistent compatibility and buzzing issues found with dimming switches,’ she recalls. Tapping into a gap in the market, she set about creating lighting, switches and sockets that not only look beautiful, but work brilliantly. Today, the company – together with its award-winning engineering brand Enkin – combines cutting-edge technology with artisan craftsmanship to push the boundaries of exquisite, sustainable lighting
With a mix of handblown glass and solid brass, the lighting is the best of form and function. Standout pieces for those who love period design include the Dean pendant, the commanding Art Deco Hollen Globe, and classical Langdon Lantern. Exciting new technical innovations keep coming, too. From the award-winning Bespoke Engraved Toggle to the new Push Button Dimmer Switch, the brand’s state-of-the-art smart dimming now boasts voice and phone app-activation: a game-changing technology that brings the benefits of home automation without the costly and complex installation.
This year, the brand’s continued passion for period architecture has led to an extraordinary collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces – a prestigious partnership celebrating Britain’s iconic residences. Unveiled in the majestic setting of Kensington Palace, State Apartments, The Palaces collection invokes the past in a beautiful range of switches and sockets, inspired by the opulence, artistry, and heritage of royal interiors. Made from solid brass, each piece echoes the grandeur of the palaces that inspired it: timeless in design, rich in story and quietly concealing state-of-the-art technology within. It is available in three sumptuous brass and bronze finishes, with nickel and the first ever genuine liquid gold and silver finishes to follow later this year. ‘Each precious moment spent behind the scenes of the palaces has been poured into this collection to capture the beauty of the palaces in every handcrafted detail. Excitingly, this is the first of many collections to come,’ Lovett says.
e company pushes the boundaries of exquisite, sustainable lighting
Standout pieces such as the Dean pendant (left) sit alongside state-of-the-art dimming technology
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The Soho Lighting Company loves working with natural, sustainably sourced materials such as recyclable glass, brass, copper and bronze – handcrafting the finest finishes that celebrate the beauty and durability of these precious metals.
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The team of skilled engineers and artisans meld cuttingedge technology with traditional making techniques and, being predominantly based in the UK, have the ability to swiftly customise to the unique needs of each client. The result? Lighting that is as beautiful as it is advanced.
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Our pioneering, sustainable lighting ranges, the awardwinning Ocean and Linen Collections, work towards ridding the world of harmful plastics. Formed from recycled fishing nets, sea plastics and end of life clothing, each pendant is brought to life using 3D printing.
THE SOHO LIGHTING COMPANY
85 Great Portland Street London W1W 7LT +44 (0)20 8106 1221 soholighting.com thesoholightingco
ON THE SLATE
Spark joy in bathrooms and kitchens with tiles brimful of personality
HOUSE OF HACKNEY
Artemis Hibiscus relief tile in sage. £25 per tile, houseofhackney.com
BALINEUM
Egyptomania by Louis Barthelemy. From £28.40 per tile, balineum.co.uk
MAITLAND & POATE
Cake Stone & Deep Green by 2LG Studio. £175 per sq/m, maitlandandpoate.com
CLAYBROOK STUDIO
Bungalow 22 in Pink Palace. From 43p per tile, claybrookstudio.co.uk
MANDARIN STONE Kew fan tile in burgundy. From £239.81 per sq/m, mandarinstone.com
HOLLY & CO
Lemon tile by ceramicist Angela Evans. £28 per tile, holly.co
PETRA PALUMBO
Wild strawberries delft tile in green. £27.50 per tile, petrapalumbo.com
BERT & MAY x HENRY HOLLAND Pour purple brown block bar tile. £359.42 per sq/m, bertandmay.com
OTTO TILES
Moroccan Soleil zellige tiles. £288 per sq/m, ottotiles.co.uk
STONE WORLD LONDON
Over 30 years of hand-selecting extraordinary stone
Stone World London was founded in 1990 by Shekhar and Bina Agarwal. Despite venturing into unknown territory, their passion for stone was instant and long-lasting. The couple’s mission has always been to deliver superior quality and exceptional service. From the very beginning, their goal was not just to sell stone, but to curate an experience – one that brings together craftsmanship and beauty. They take immense pride in their long-standing relationships with clients who have trusted the company for decades.
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Today, Stone World London is at the forefront of setting new trends. The team curates an extensive selection of over 5,000 slabs from around the world in its two by-appointment north west London warehouses, ensuring clients can explore unique, cutting-edge options for their projects – no longer needing to travel to Italy or beyond to see the stone in person.
The process of stone curation is a craft in itself. We have a meticulous eye for unique pieces, which are brought in from all corners of the world to showcase at our showroom, Stone Atelier.
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We love the variety of textured surfaces that natural stone now comes in. Specialised finishing processes such as moonface, sandwaterjet, leather, and even honed, are carried out with great care and skill, enhancing the beauty of the stone.
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Machinery has played a huge part in the evolution of the stone industry, allowing for some spectacular finishes on the fabricated product and for incredible objects to be made. Whether it’s a solid Calacatta Viola bathtub, or a fluted marble bar, these are examples of how stonemasonry enhances nature’s art.
STONE WORLD LONDON
North Circular Road
London NW10 7SX
+44 (0)20 8838 3232
stoneworldlondon.co.uk
stoneworldlondon
‘We’ve always maintained that using luxury natural stone plays into sustainability, with the intention of maintaining it for the long term,’ says Shekhar Agarwal of the range, which includes onyx, travertine and slate. ‘Unique exotic blocks of stone evolve over time at the quarries, so there is always a possibility that a piece you have in your home is one in a million.’
Trends are fast changing so having a dynamic approach with an eye for the unusual is essential. ‘Our USP is our passion for curation.’ Says Bina Agarwal. ‘We travel around the world to find the most unique and interesting stone at various quarries, to introduce to the UK market. We also actively source specific stone for elite clients. Stone is nature’s art so why not unearth the unseen’.
Kitchens too have become more of a statement with bolder veined stone choices and textured details. The use of stone has also expanded beyond the kitchen and bathroom, and is now often seen everywhere from coffee tables to door frames and feature walls. ‘There is no such thing as too much,’ she concludes. ‘It’s such an honour and pleasure to supply the unique slabs of stone we source for architects, designers and homeowners. It’s a chance to see nature’s art come alive.’
Shekhar and Bina Agarwal with their daughter Urvashi, who has joined the family business
Stone evolves over time, so there is always a possibility that a piece you have in your home is one in a million
Plugs, switches and hardware with a spark of difference
1 Jim Lawrence Hammered brass plate switch, £75.60. jim-lawrence.co.uk. 2 1st Dibs Mid-century enamelled pharmacy door handles, £1,973.04. 1stdibs. com. 3 Luxonov Neva push button switch, €90. luxonov.com. 4 ABI Interiors Ziggy cabinetry pull, £59.99. abiinteriors.co.uk. 5 Corston Architectural Detail Digby xed door handle, £78. corston.com. 6 1st Dibs Enamel door handle by Paolo di Poli & Gio Ponti, £2,462.01. 1stdibs.com. 7 Nanz No. 1533, £490. nanz.com. 8 Soho Lighting e Sloane antique gold toggle switch, £77. soholighting.com. 9 SWTCH Jung LS990 in rouge, £79. swtch.co.uk. 10 Paolo Moschino Cocteau rail brackets, £1,350. paolomoschino.com. 11 Buster + Punch Extractor fan switch, £39. busterandpunch.com.
Balcoon
DESIGN BY
PATRICIA URQUIOLA
Every layer tells a story
Natural colour shades and the layering of materials and textures create a long-lasting, warm aesthetic.
duravit.co.uk
Its philosophy is simple: design should be as thoughtful as it is beautiful
A celebrated interior design studio crafting stories through space TAYLOR HOWES
For over three decades, Taylor Howes has been a global interior design studio synonymous with creativity and exceptional client service. Founded by Karen Howes and led creatively by Jane Landino, the studio sits at the pinnacle of the industry and at the heart of London’s dynamic design community. Its philosophy is simple: design should be as thoughtful as it is beautiful. Howes and Landino believe in the power of good interior design to elevate everyday life, creating not just homes, but meaningful experiences.
With a portfolio spanning residential, hospitality, commercial, yacht, and aviation, the studio’s work reflects the breadth of expertise among its 40-strong team who are based in Knightsbridge and beyond. A deep commitment to craftsmanship, storytelling, and long-standing partnerships with artisans ensures that every item in a Taylor Howes project is both functional and meaningful – and that every interior has a soulful touch that celebrates materiality, skill and heritage.
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Craftsmanship is at the core of our design philosophy. We regularly collaborate with British artisans to create one-ofa-kind pieces for our clients, from bespoke joiners to ceramicists and glassmakers.
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Whether it’s hand-stitched leather, hand-forged ironmongery or intricately marbled finishes, we integrate exceptional craftsmanship into every layer of our interiors. Not only does this elevate the aesthetic, but also tell stories of tradition, time, and place.
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Our London studio serves as an ever-changing exhibition and event space, regularly showcasing the work of talented craftspeople and makers. From curated gallerystyle displays to panel discussions and installations, we’re proud to champion the importance of craft in contemporary design and to connect our clients with the artisans shaping today’s creative landscape.
TAYLOR HOWES
49-51 Cheval Place London SW7 1EW taylorhowes.co.uk taylorhowesdesigns
Drawing inspiration from art, travel, architecture and – above all –people, the studio’s success is rooted in relationships, some spanning all three decades of its existence. In 2024, the duo launched Howes & Landino, a homeware brand born of their 20-year friendship. It offers a creative outlet and enables the studio to collaborate with British makers on a collection of exceptional pieces. A new partnership with sculptor and designer Adam Williams debuted in May.
Sustainability for Taylor Howes means longevity and responsible sourcing. The team begins designing by asking: will this last generations? As fast fashion influences creep into interiors, the studio champions provenance: understanding where an item is from, how it’s made, and its material integrity. Technology and AI will shape the future of design and, this year, Taylor Howes will begin exploring their adoption further. Yet no advancement will ever replace the human connection and creativity at the heart of every project. This year sees the studio complete a ski chalet in Switzerland, a family home in Kuwait and a yacht in Antibes. Closer to home, the studio is working on a hat trick of duplex penthouses across Mayfair, Belgravia and Knightsbridge.
Every Taylor Howes interior has a soulful touch that celebrates materiality, skill and heritage
With a deep understanding of how clients live and unwind, they transform each property to suit an individual’s lifestyle
Th2 DESIGNS
Renowned for relaxed luxury and timeless homes for two decades
Th2 Designs has been creating thoughtful, timeless homes for private clients in the UK and internationally for 20 years. Co-founders Gail Taylor and Sheila El-Hadery, who each bring over 30 years of experience in the design industry, have a shared vision: to create beautiful, functional homes alongside passionate, like-minded professionals. A signature, relaxed luxury design style has evolved naturally from their own personal design philosophies. Both draw creative inspiration from a wide range of sources – whether it’s noticing the beauty in everyday moments, travel, art or trade showcases.
The experienced and approachable team delivers beautifully crafted interiors that optimise space and light. With a keen eye and deep understanding of how clients live and unwind, they transform each property to suit an individual’s lifestyle. At the heart of every project is comfort, ensuring interiors not only look beautiful but are a true joy to live in for years to come.
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Craft is at the core of what we do. We collaborate with highly skilled specialists in joinery, cabinetry and furnituremaking, and these longstanding relationships allow us to design one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces.
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We love all genres of art. One highlight of our work is collaborating with clients to curate artwork, whether sculpture, photography or painting. Sourcing pieces, visiting studios and working closely with artists is an integral part of our design process.
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We visit our suppliers to better understand the craft behind our products, deepening our appreciation for the artistry involved and helping build lasting relationships with the skilled people who bring our designs to life.
Today, Th2 Designs is recognised as a leading interior design studio that puts people at the centre of everything. It has nurtured enduring relationships with architects, lighting designers and contractors as well as an ever-growing network of local artisans and craft specialists. These collaborations are integral to delivering results that consistently exceed expectations.
This year is particularly special, as the brand celebrates 20 years. From the very beginning, the vision has been to lead as an authentic, approachable and multi-talented design studio, and this is reflected not only in its diverse portfolio of commissions, but also in the many different talents of the team – half of whom have been with the company for over a decade. Project highlights include a Grade II-listed townhouse in Marylebone; a chalet in the Alps; a nine-bedroom family beach house in Cornwall; and penthouses in the South of France. Each is unique yet unified by thoughtful design and exceptional detail.
Ma ny clients return to Th2 Designs, building relationships that span many years. This speaks volumes about the value of timeless design, and how investing in an experienced interior design team can make a lasting impact.
The portfolio of Th2 Designs spans from listed London townhouses to luxury penthouses in the Riviera
THORP DESIGN
Globally renowned interior design and architecture studio celebrating 40 years
Thorp Design began in the guest bedroom of Philippa Thorp’s London home in 1985. When her first daughter arrived, the nursery took priority and the studio moved out – marking the first step in what would become a quietly iconic evolution. Four decades on, Thorp has grown into one of the most respected names in the industry, seamlessly blending interior design, architecture, and art curation under one roof.
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Built entirely through word of mouth, Thorp has cultivated a discreet yet influential legacy, trusted by a loyal international client base. The studio’s philosophy is anchored by three guiding principles: living in the details; invest well, once; and bespoke design. With a deep commitment to craftsmanship and thoughtful design, every project reflects an ethos of longevity, value and individuality. Each element is tailored specifically to the client, ensuring no two spaces are ever the same. ‘You don’t want to walk into your friend’s house and find they’ve got the same thing,’ says Thorp. ‘It’s like turning up at a party wearing the same dress.’
At Thorp, the involvement of artisans begins long before the interiors take shape. The studio often builds from the ground up, with craftsmanship informing every stage of the process and seamlessly woven into the fabric of the building.
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Craft is the foundation of how a home is shaped, felt and remembered. Traditional techniques run throughout Thorp’s projects, ensuring that subtle, oftenoverlooked details softly whisper luxury and elevate the everyday.
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Over the past four decades, Thorp has cultivated a trusted network of master artisans, fabricators and specialist makers who are chosen as much for their care as for their skill. ‘The people we work with aren’t just the best in their field,’ says Thorp. ‘They are the most thoughtful, reliable, and responsive.’
THORP DESIGN
190-192 Sloane Street
London SW1X 9QX
+44 (0)20 7235 7808
thorp.co.uk thorp_design
For Thorp, craft is never decorative; it is essential. It ensures quality, preserves tradition and anchors a home in time. This reverence for craft extends beyond the built form: the studio brought the first private installation by US glass artist Dale Chihuly to the UK, placing over 200 hand-blown glass works within a private woodland in London – an immersive experience where art, nature and design coexist in quiet harmony.
While best known for its refined residential work – from ski chalets in Yellowstone and a villa on the French Riviera to quintessential English countryside estates and a bespoke Oakley horsebox – the studio also brings its signature elegance to commercial projects such as KX, the private members’ club in South Kensington and Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey. Thorp continues to shape homes not just to live in, but to pass on. With current projects spanning a Connecticut lake house, a Knightsbridge family home and a skyline apartment in Manhattan, the studio’s future remains rooted in its founding values: timelessness, individuality and quiet luxury. In every space, Thorp crafts a world built to last.
PHOTOS: BROTHERTON LOCK
For orp, craft is never decorative; it is essential. It ensures quality, preserves tradition and anchors a home in time
Thorp is best known for its refined residential work, both here and across the globe
Danish bathroom manufacturer pairing functionality with elegant, linear design UNIDRAIN
Danish design has become a byword for refined interior style and functional simplicity. This ethos is at the heart of Unidrain’s clean lines and elegant design. Prior to 2003, all showers had a central drain – one that interrupted the aesthetic flow of a bathroom and was awkward underfoot. This all changed when architect Claus Dyre had a unique idea: to create the world’s first linear floor drain that could be placed against the back wall of a shower cubicle. Fast forward two decades and over a million of these drains have been installed globally.
Unidrain is no longer solely a manufacturer of floor drains. It has grown into an award-winning brand and expanded its range with additional products, colours and designs that provide customers with more opportunities to personalise their bathrooms. Collections include the GlassLine series of shower cubicles and the Reframe range – sophisticated, streamlined accessories grounded in Scandinavian style. This collection includes a pedal bin, shower shelves and other bathroom essentials, with all products available in brushed and polished steel as well as copper, brass and black PVD finishes. This enables colour coordination with other items such as Unidrain’s HighLine drain – an important factor when planning a bathroom.
Each Reframe product is designed with innovative and intelligent features to improve functionality. While the pedal bin can be placed against the wall without the lid hitting it, the toilet brush has an external handle so it can be emptied and cleaned hygienically. The Unidrain design team challenge standards and go beyond the ordinary, with creative design and smart solutions resulting in high-quality products ideal for a bathroom of any size. Part of this process now includes customisation; the company offers tailored drain solutions that adapt seamlessly to any space, allowing any design vision to be realised without compromise.
Elevating bathroom design by rethinking the humble shower drain
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At Unidrain, craft is imagination and the ability to think outside the box. It’s part of the design process, where inspiration, ideas, form and function are developed in an interaction between mind and hands.
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The company has its roots in Danish design tradition. It all began with rethinking a design element that had attracted little attention for years: the humble floor drain. To create stylish linear drains requires a firm focus on functionality paired with elegant simplicity.
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A key part of the Unidrain skill set is the ability to adapt. As such, the company has created two unique linear product systems that allow it to provide a customised service and help resolve design issues in both a practical and visually appealing way.
WEST ONE BATHROOMS
A leading authority in beautifully appointed bathrooms
An illustrious supplier of luxury bathrooms in Europe, West One Bathrooms offers an industry renowned, end-to-end sales and design service. Established in London’s Mayfair in 1978, the company began with a mission to bring the finest bathroom design to the UK. Family-run from the start, its ethos has always centred on craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to both quality and customer experience. Breaking the mould in the industry, it led the way in innovation, transforming the perception of bathrooms as merely functional and basic into an indulgent sanctuary. Today, it is recognised as a leading authority in luxury bathroom design, trusted by private clients and the design trade alike.
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We are proud to work with suppliers such as New Ravenna who produce artisan-made and one-of-a-kind products. Its beautiful customstone and glass mosaic tiles can be tumbled, honed or treated to create subtle shade variations and unique textures.
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The company’s philosophy is simple: a bathroom should be a beautifully curated space tailored to the individual. The team understands that planning a bathroom is a big decision: a fine balance driven by the desire for the finer things along with the practical considerations of who will be using the space. From artisan-crafted basins and statement brassware to exclusive tile collections and spa-inspired wellness solutions, every product in the portfolio is hand-selected for its design integrity, performance and aesthetic appeal. Inspiration is drawn from architecture, fashion, travel and –most importantly – the creative minds the team collaborates with. Partnering with leading designers and suppliers such as Ann Sacks, New Ravenna and Wall&Deco (whose products are available exclusively through West One Bathrooms), it offers clients a fresh perspective on bathroom design and helps them to imagine what’s possible in their space.
We celebrate the craftsmanship and level of detail that goes into making all the products in our extensive portfolio. For instance, Fantini manufactures entirely in Italy to closely monitor the quality of each piece and describes its taps as small masterpieces or jewels.
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As part of our one-stopshop approach to bathroom design, we have a curated material library and work with 750 global brands to supply the best and most exciting products to our customers and eight showrooms.
WEST ONE BATHROOMS
610 Kings Road
London SW6 2DX +44 (0)333 011 3333
westonebathrooms.com westonebathrooms
West One Bathrooms is passionate about providing a platform for discovery and inspiration both online and in-store.
This year marks two exciting milestones: the opening of a new showroom in Surrey, extending the brand’s reach while retaining the boutique service it’s known for; and the renovation of the flagship Mayfair showroom in partnership with celebrated interior designer Naomi Astley Clarke, reimagining luxury bathroom design for today’s discerning client. Looking ahead to 2025/26, trends centre around tactile materials, warm metallics and wellness-led design. Think integrated shower seats, steam and infrared sun showers – features once considered luxuries, now redefined for everyday living.
PHOTOS: CHRISTIAN BENINI
e company’s philosophy is simple: a bathroom should be a beautifully curated space tailored to the individual
West One Bathrooms works with 750 global brands to deliver the very best in bathroom design
