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HOMES & INTERIORS
efficient alternative and neon, the siblings reveal, is increasingly desirable. ‘Neon is very fashionable at the moment’, agrees Rebecca, ‘originally I imagined it would be very bright but you can set it at a level you want, so it works in every space. You can replicate handwriting in neon: Initials are great for weddings. You can send us a scan of a signature and we can replicate it in neon.’ People’s inherent love of nostalgia coupled with a growing trend for personalisation is where Carousel Lights have found their niche. The villagey qualities of Chiswick has meant that word of mouth alone has been powerful enough to secure business. An early commission was the American diner style sign in Turnham Green delicatessens Hack & Veldt. ‘The owner has had lots of comments about it.’ Ben tells me, ‘If that was in Shoreditch it probably wouldn’t have stood out as much.’ But word of mouth, like a trend, is also a funny thing. Words spread like wildfire – even, it turns out, to the other side of the
world. ‘We’ve had quite a few quotes from Australia for some reason’ Ben says, ‘which has really surprised us. It’s all for neon too, but to fly it safely is more expensive than the product. In terms of a problem
we haven’t quite solved, it’s the fragility of neon.’ I suggest that the obvious solution is to open an Australian office, which is met with laughter and knowing looks. Apparently Rebecca has already volunteered to co-ordinate the Melbourne branch of Carousel Lights. But whether the company’s future lies in Chiswick or Down Under, it is, undeniably, looking bright. carousellights.com
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