London Design Week 2025: A Designer's Diary

Just returned from an exhilarating two-day adventure at London Design Week 2025, where Chelsea Harbour was absolutely buzzing with creative energy! Let me share the highlights that caught my Devon-based designer's eye...

The Design Avenue came alive with an exclusive lineup of pop-up House Guests, showcasing the best in luxury design. These carefully selected exhibitors brought their unique collections to an eager audience of industry professionals. From bespoke furniture to artisanal textiles, each House Guest offered innovative designs and masterful craftsmanship that kept visitors inspired throughout the week.

Bertioli by Thyme • Birdie Fortescue • Carlos Garcia x Nicole Fabre Designs • Clock House Furniture • Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp • Deirdre Dyson • DeMuro Das • Dominic Schuster • Fiona McDonald • Fitzroy & Finch • Gingerlily • Henry Blake • Holmes Bespoke • Hyde House • Ian Sanderson • Joro • Martin Huxford • MG&Co. • Milola Design • Minoli • Molly Mahon • Naturalmat • Plia Parasols •  Rose Uniacke • SketchTwenty3 • Sophie Harpley • The Tagli •Tatiana Tafur • Teyssier • The Design Archives • Titley and Marr • Trowbridge • Unnatural Flooring • Wall&deco • Warwick

Central Domes & Restaurant Areas

Visual Comfort & Co.'s 'Garden of Light' installation in the Centre Dome - their 'Nyra' pendants suspended among Schumacher fabrics created an ethereal spring garden that had everyone looking up in wonder.

One of the highlights was visiting Sanderson's newly relocated showroom, where I was captivated by their display of historical wallpaper wooden moulds and rollers. The Zoffany showroom windows also featured some impressive examples. It reminded me of spotting vintage rollers cleverly repurposed as lamp bases over 20 years ago in Ilminster - a missed opportunity I still regret! These architectural pieces would make fascinating decorative elements in modern interiors.

Sanderson|Ground Floor, Centre Dome

GEOFFROY PITHON X CASAMANCE

Casamance's 25th anniversary collaboration with Geoffroy Pithon.

I was excited to explore Casamance's latest collections as they celebrate their milestone 25th anniversary. The collaboration with artist Geoffroy Pithon has produced an exceptional range of fabrics and wallcoverings that perfectly embody Casamance's signature French elegance and modernity. Though I unfortunately missed Monday's exclusive event with the artist, the new collections in their showroom are truly inspiring, featuring stunning wall panels, fabrics, and cushions. Their other ranges span from oceanic themes to American West influences, showcasing beautiful implementations of linen, tapestries, and wood marquetry. Located on the First Floor of the South Dome, the showroom demonstrates why Casamance remains one of our most valued partners for luxury home accessories.

First Floor|South Dome

ISSE: A new range under Casamance's umbrella

Key Trend Alert: Pattern-on-pattern is making a bold comeback, beautifully demonstrated in Romo's showroom where Laura Stephens created a dreamy bedroom setting mixing delicate prints in sugar-sweet pastels.

Romo|First Floor, North Dome

Kirkby|First Floor, North Dome

I had a wonderful chance to explore Julian Chichester's showroom on Thursday afternoon when the crowds had died down. What a treat to see their exquisite pieces up close! Their dedication to classic English furniture-making shines through in every detail, but with such clever modern twists.

The new SS25 collection absolutely wowed me - I spent ages admiring the 'Orca' storage unit with its gorgeous oiled light African walnut finish. The storage unit with a beautiful new vellum. The craftsmanship and unusual finishes on every piece were just outstanding.

Julian Chichester|Ground Floor, Centre Dome

A highlight of my visit was catching up on Stark's latest offerings, though sadly missed seeing the wonderful Ella this time. Their new collection absolutely captivated me with its sophisticated range of textural rugs in warm beiges, taupes, and rich browns. I've selected several samples for my current project - can't wait to see how the neutral, layered aesthetic will complement the scheme. These pieces truly showcase exceptional artistry.

Stark Carpet|Third Floor, South Dome

Arte's showroom on the Second Floor of Design Centre East showcases their exceptional range of innovative wallcoverings. Their latest spring collections masterfully combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, featuring striking materials from wood veneers to 3D textiles. Particularly impressive are their textured rope designs and capiz shell applications, which create dramatic visual impact. A standout piece is their new Alata design, which beautifully incorporates woven sisal with hessian embroidery - its name and pattern cleverly reference Icarus's wings, demonstrating Arte's attention to both aesthetics and storytelling in their designs.

GP & J Baker unveiled an intriguing roomset featuring their latest collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces. While the fabrics and wallpapers were stunning, what caught my eye were several fashion mannequins arranged throughout the space - they looked incredibly striking fashion creations, though I couldn't quite figure out their connection to their collections.

My visit to Samuel & Sons was a rare opportunity to explore - their exceptional collection of trimmings continues to set the standard for luxury passementerie. Walking through their showroom, I was immediately drawn to their vast selection of crafted trims. The new spring collections are absolutely breathtaking: the 'Kaleidoscope' collaboration with Elizabeth Ashdown showcases extraordinary craftsmanship (who I saw at Decorex last year in the makers section). A game-changing addition for 2025 is their new range of semi-custom performance yarns suitable for both indoor and outdoor use - perfect for our Devon coastal projects!

The revival of trimmings was evident throughout the show, particularly at Colefax and Fowler where a stunning central bench display featured cushions adorned with exquisite bullion fringe. Cole & Sons also embraced this trend, presenting elegantly tassel-trimmed cushions that perfectly complemented their wallpaper collections.

Samuel & Sons

Third Floor|Centre Dome

Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp's collection on display in their mobile studio - such a creative way to showcase new patterns!

Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp's collection

Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp's collection Hut

Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp's collection Hut 2

Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp's collection Hut 3

Christopher Farr x Kit Kemp's mannequin

Heading back to Devon with a fresh perspective, numerous fabric samples, and endless inspiration to share with my clients. Can't wait to start bringing these new ideas to life in our local projects!

Exploring Brunswick Street: A Canvas of Urban Creativity

Just wandered through the vibrant heart of Fitzroy's Brunswick Street, where art isn't just displayed – it's woven into the very fabric of the neighbourhood. The street has been a cultural hub since the mid-1980s, alive with galleries, music venues, bookshops, and restaurants.

What caught my eye were the beautiful public art installations from 1992, particularly the ceramic works that pay homage to Mirka Mora's style. The mosaic benches by Giuseppe Roneri are true street treasures – there are three of them strategically placed, with two at Victoria Street corner and another at Westgarth Street. They're not just art pieces but have become popular gathering spots for locals and visitors alike.

The area's commitment to public art is evident in every corner, from pavement mosaics to street sculptures. Even the housing commission flats area has been brightened up with the playful Matryoshka Dolls sculpture by Bronwen Gray, adding a splash of colour and whimsy to the urban landscape.

Brunswick Street perfectly embodies Melbourne's artistic spirit, where every bench, mosaic, and sculpture tells a story of community and creativity.

A Fizzy Affair at Decorex 2024: From Devon to Design Delights!

MEET UP

As an interior designer, there's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering both beloved suppliers and exciting new brands at Decorex. Walking through the exhibition, I was immediately drawn to the stunning wall coverings from Arte, whose innovative designs continue to push boundaries in luxury interiors. Their ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design never fails to impress.

FABRIC bRANDS

One cannot help but be captivated by Lewis and Wood's distinctive patterns and colourways. Their wide-width wallpapers, drawing inspiration from historical archives and natural elements, have graced many of my favourite projects. Similarly, Linwood's sophisticated collections of prints, weaves, and velvets have been a trusted go-to for both contemporary and traditional schemes.

ADDISON ROSS ACCESSORIES

At Decorex, Addison Ross Accessories made a strong impression in the luxury home accessories category. Their collection masterfully combines functionality with sophisticated design, whilst their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail create pieces that enhance any luxurious interior. The vibrant colour range adds a playful touch to home accessories.

CUSHIONS

As someone deeply involved in the cushion industry through my website CushionBank, I was captivated by an exquisite cushion display featuring Nobilis fabrics. Each piece showcased their signature French elegance. I was particularly impressed by an embroidered cushion made with Casamance fabric, which offered exciting possibilities for future cushion collections at CushionBank.

WALLCOVERING

This renowned manufacturer transforms walls into artistic statements, masterfully blending traditional techniques with innovative design. From whisper-soft textures to bold, statement-making patterns, each wallcovering tells its own story of elegance and sophistication.

SANITARY WARE

KAST

A delightful discovery in the bathroom fixtures category was Kast's innovative concrete basins. Their bold colour palette and contemporary designs, ranging from deep terracotta to forest green, offer a fresh perspective on bathroom aesthetics. For those seeking timeless elegance, Samuel Heath's brass fittings, manufactured in their Birmingham factory, showcase British craftsmanship at its finest.

POOKY LIGHTING

Pooky Lighting's impressive exhibition stand caught my eye, showcasing creative designs that expertly balance style and accessibility.

In the lighting section, I was particularly impressed by Original BTC's craftsmanship. Their use of bone china, metalwork, and glass creates fixtures that are both functional and aesthetically striking - perfect for creating those memorable focal points we designers always seek.

LIGHTING

FLOORING

The flooring section was particularly exciting this year. Luxury Carpet Studio from Italy demonstrated why they're leaders in bespoke carpeting with their stunning stand featuring "The Eyescape of Amélié" rug as their masterpiece. On either side of the rug, carpet rolls displayed various textures and designs, showcasing the perfect blend of traditional artisanal techniques and contemporary design. A Rum Fellow's vibrant patterns and traditional Central and South American weaving methods tell cultural stories through design - something I'm eager to incorporate into future projects.

MAMOA

NIKI JONES HOME

A luxury homeware brand known for their contemporary take on traditional craftsmanship. I've incorporated several of their pieces in my own home and was delighted to visit their stand at Decorex. While I haven't had the perfect client project for their designs yet, their handcrafted textiles, cushions, and home accessories beautifully blend global artisanal techniques with modern design. Their signature collections feature intricate embroidery, detailed needlework, and geometric patterns inspired by diverse cultural motifs. Each piece is carefully crafted using premium materials like fine wool, linen, and silk, with particular attention to texture and detail. The brand is especially recognised for their distinctive cushion collections and throws that combine traditional craft techniques with contemporary colour palettes and patterns.

CHARLOTTE GAISFORD

I was intrigued by Charlotte Gaisford's stand, though I haven't had the perfect project yet to showcase their bold, maximalist patterns. Their vibrant textiles, which blend historical inspiration with contemporary flair, would be perfect for a client who isn't afraid to make a statement. I can already envision their expressive fabrics bringing life to a period property that needs a modern twist.

MATERIAL BANK

I was thrilled to see Material Bank making waves with their revolutionary sampling service. Their sustainable approach to sample delivery and returns is exactly what our industry needs as we move towards more environmentally conscious practices.

After years in this industry, it's refreshing to see how these brands continue to innovate while maintaining the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Each one brings something unique to the table, making our job as designers both challenging and endlessly inspiring.

CRAFT FESTIVAL AT BOVEY TRACEY

What a fantastic day at the 20th Craft Festival in Bovey Tracey! As a designer, I found it a great source of inspiration and creativity.

The festival was a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship, featuring a wide array of art forms. The variety of crafts, from delicate ceramics and intricate textiles to stunning jewellery and captivating glasswork, was extraordinary. Each stand was a testament to the artists' skill, creativity and passion.

I had the opportunity to meet the artisans behind these artworks. Their commitment to their craft was evident, and their stories added depth to their creations. Christian O’Reilly was there showcasing his handcrafted furniture. I also met Pippa Ryan, whose intriguing art transforms vintage objects and discarded keepsakes into three-dimensional pieces. Each item holds its own cultural significance, practical use, and fascinating history.

Pippa believes that every object has a story to tell, even after it's served its original purpose. She curates collections of vintage objects, giving them new life through her charming, quirky artwork, which serves as miniature museums of captivating stories. I hope to incorporate her work into one of my projects.

Another standout was wirework artist, Helaina Sharpley. The intricate elegance of her pieces was captivating, and her enthusiasm for her craft was truly contagious. She creates detailed and elegant wirework wall pieces that blur the lines between drawing and sculpture.

In addition to the visual feast of crafts, the festival offered a range of food stalls, serving delicious international and local cuisine. Enjoying these gourmet treats under the clear, sunny sky enhanced the overall experience.

The workshops and demonstrations provided unique insights into the creative process behind the crafts. The vintage mobile cinema, Audrey, showing various informative films, was fascinating.

The Craft Festival at Bovey Tracey was a day filled with inspiration, creativity, delicious food, and sunshine. I returned home with a wealth of new ideas, a heart full of inspiration, and contacts of creators of unique pieces that I'm excited to incorporate into my projects.

A blooming marvellous day out at Chelsea flower show.

Yesterday, bathed in beautiful sunshine, I had the opportunity to explore the Chelsea Flower Show, an event known for its sprawling displays of horticultural excellence and innovative garden designs. The show, which spans an area equivalent to 500 double-decker buses, offers an incredible diversity of plants and a wealth of inspiration for anyone with a passion for gardening and outdoor spaces.

As an interior designer, you may wonder why I'd choose to visit such an event. The answer lies in a unique collaboration. Landscape designers Julia Hill & Sophie Knittel from MHLK Collective, in partnership with the fashion brand ME+EM, reached out to me for assistance. They were creating a garden that embodied “Timeless Expressionism,” and wanted to include a Vincent Sheppard Chair and some outdoor cushions from my brand, “Cushionbank.”

Thrilled at the prospect, I coordinated with Vincent Sheppard to supply the Kodo cocoon chair for their display. Meanwhile, my workroom produced stunning cushions from the outdoor fabrics from Misia Paris that beautifully contrasted with the soft, romantic plantings in their garden. The result was a stunning testament to the harmony of interior and exterior design.

The Chelsea Flower Show was a garden of Eden, filled with an array of incredible exhibits. One of my favourites was Leon Kluge’s Cape Flora of South Africa, showcasing cut flowers of Proteaceae from the southern tip of Africa. The display demonstrated the stark contrast between the wet and dry seasons these flowers endure, adding a unique element of storytelling to their beauty.

Another exhibit that caught my eye was the "Jurassic World" by Hampshire Carnivorous Plants.

A modern and unusual take on a still life, an exhibit that truly inspired me was the work of Lucy Hutchings and Kate Cotterill, the founders of She Grows Veg, a company specialising in heirloom seeds. Their exhibit, 'Edimental – the beauty of vegetables,' provided a fresh and modern twist on classic Renaissance paintings by showcasing heirloom varieties in vibrant, colourful displays. The creativity and dedication to detail by these passionate growers was evident in every aspect of their exhibit, which was brought to life by floral designer Hazel Gardiner. This was their first exhibit at RHS Chelsea, and their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved gold medal.

Walking along the main avenue, I encountered a variety of gardens, each with a unique theme and design. The enchanting wild gardens, the Bridgerton-inspired garden, and the serene Japanese garden with its beautiful acer trees each told their own story, offering inspiration and a feast for the senses.

The Moroto no IE garden

Designed by
Kazuyuki Ishihara

Sponsored by
G-Lion Group

Octavia Hill Garden

Designed by
Ann-Marie Powell with the Blue Diamond Team

Built by
The Landscaping Consultants

Sponsored by
Blue Diamond Garden Centres
National Trust

RHS Children’s Choice Award winner

The Water Aid garden

Designed by
Tom Massey and Je Ahn

Built by
Landscape Associates

Sponsored by
Project Giving Back
WaterAid

Terrence Higgins Trust Bridge to 2030 Garden

Designed by
Matthew Childs

Built by
Yoreland Design Ltd

Sponsored by
Project Giving Back
The Terrence Higgins Trust

Bridgerton-inspired garden

Designed by
Holly Johnston

Built by
Stewart Landscape Construction

Sponsored by
Netflix

'Money Doesn't Grow On Trees’ Garden, designed by Baz Grainger and built by Landform Consultants. This scented haven was the epitome of relaxation, with a winding path leading to a central water well and a communal dining area sheltered by a pergola. The use of outdoor furniture, specifically the Oda lounge chairs and the Frida outdoor dining chairs from Vincent Sheppard, added an element of comfort and style to the garden, transforming it into a cosy outdoor living room. These exquisite pieces of furniture were not only visually appealing but also functional, creating a perfect spot for BBC interviews amidst the beauty of the garden.

As an interior designer, I've been drawn to Vincent Sheppard's furniture for the past 19 years. Known for their timeless designs, Vincent Sheppard creates furniture suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, seamlessly blending interior and exterior design. These pieces add sophistication to any space, making them a wonderful addition to your home or garden. Even better, you can directly purchase Vincent Sheppard's furniture through my website, Cushionbank!

The Chelsea Flower Show is not just a showcase of stunning plants and design; it's a testament to the limitless possibilities of outdoor spaces. From a Roman garden by The Newt to a garden designed specifically for autistic individuals, the show was a reminder of how gardens can be tailored to meet specific needs or mirror different eras and cultures.

My visit to the Chelsea Flower Show was a day filled with inspiration and admiration for the creativity and talent of garden designers. This delightful blend of my background in interior design and the outdoor world reminded me that the line between indoor and outdoor spaces is fluid and brimming with possibilities.

A Day at the Design Roadshow

Hello fellow design enthusiasts!

Last week, I had the chance to attend the Taste of Design 2024 Roadshow. Held at the American Museum & Gardens in Bath, this event was a fantastic opportunity to meet some of the leading names in interior design.

Even though it wasn't the largest show, the quality of the exhibitors made up for it. Two rooms packed full of suppliers showcasing furniture, fabrics, and accessories. It was an excellent opportunity to catch up with designers, agents and reps, and also to meet new suppliers.

Among the exhibitors, the Belgian editor, Designs of the Time, stood out. Their natural aesthetics and the authenticity of their linen blends left a lasting impression. Their collections, created using traditional techniques, combined casual and refined looks in a way that was quite appealing.

Another highlight was Fermoie's fabric designs. This brand, established by the original founders of Farrow and Ball, has taken their expertise in colour and light to a whole new level. With over 500 colourways in their collections, their fabrics are a beautiful testament to sustainable and innovative design.

Jacaranda's new rug collection, 'The Balearic Collection,' was also on display. The hand-tufted rugs, inspired by the diverse landscapes of Mallorca, were stunning. The collection's adaptability, with customisation in size and colour, was a definite plus.

In between browsing and networking, we took a break at the American Garden Deli. Over a delicious salmon quiche salad, we soaked in the panoramic views of the Limpley Stoke Valley - a delightful interlude in our busy day.

Unfortunately, we missed the Textile Tours at the museum. But there's always next time! The museum's collection of textiles, embroideries, weavings, and prints is something we look forward to exploring in the future.

All in all, the Taste of Design 2024 Roadshow was a day well spent. We left with a few new suppliers added to our list and a wealth of inspiration for our upcoming projects.

Stay tuned for more updates from our design adventures. And remember, keep exploring and stay inspired!

Time off in TEN

Dear readers, I recently embarked on an adventure that offered a refreshing break from my usual tasks, whether they were focused on interior projects or my new online venture, CushionBank. For ten delightful days, my family and I replaced our screens with scenic landscapes, providing us with great joy and memorable moments. Accompanying me on this journey were my brother Rich and niece Seren, who flew in from Melbourne, along with our parents, to join this family escapade.

Our first stop was the enchanting town of Hebden Bridge, nestled within a valley in Yorkshire. It's a hub of unique businesses and bustling markets, making every stroll up its hilly cobbled streets feel like a treasure hunt. Despite the muddy terrain due to the rain, the breathtaking views were worth every step. Hebden Bridge is a hidden gem, boasting distinctive shops and delightful eateries, a charming diversion from my typical décor discussions.

Next, we returned to my Devon home, a haven for relaxation and exploration. Our favourite activity was a picturesque walk from Budleigh Salterton beach to Otterton Mill. The journey began on the pebble-strewn beach, leading to tussled reeds swaying by the River Otter. The tranquil path offered a refreshing change. We saw a family of ducks paddling merrily in the water, their cheerful quacks guiding us to Otterton. After an ice cream stop, we returned to the beach, now bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

Our trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to my hometown in Pembrokeshire. We spent a wonderful weekend with day trip to the seaside town of Tenby, with its colourful houses and golden beaches. Our Sunday began with breakfast in the peaceful village of Lawrenny and ended with a reunion with old school friends.

After days filled with exploration, our evenings were spent in the cosy comfort of our childhood home, indulging in our favourite pastime - board games. The friendly competition, shared laughter, and playful banter were the perfect end to our days.

While the trip was about visiting new places, it was also about spending quality time with family, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying simple pleasures. As we all head back to our own homes either by car or by plane, we carry these precious memories in our hearts. Here's to more adventures away from the desk!

A Step Back in Time: Discovering A Roman Villa at The Newt

Over the Christmas break, I embarked on a journey that took me centuries back in time. I had the pleasure of visiting the Roman villa at The Newt in Somerset. Despite the torrential rain, the experience was nothing short of magical and I'm excited to share this adventure with you.

For those unfamiliar, The Newt is a remarkable estate in Somerset, England, which sits on grounds steeped in history. The estate houses the recently excavated Roman ruins dating back to 351 A.D. To celebrate this amazing discovery, The Newt has undertaken the ambitious project of recreating the historic Villa Ventorum, the Romano-British villa that once stood on its grounds. This recreation has made The Newt a must-visit historical site, putting it on the map alongside renowned British historical sites like Bath and Stonehenge.

The journey began with a ride on a charming mini-bus, a quick remedy for the rain-soaked day. Upon reaching the villa, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the reconstructed Villa Ventorum. The fourth-century Roman villa was recreated by a team of archaeologists, architects, engineers, and craftsmen. They have painstakingly replicated every detail of the villa to offer an immersive experience into the life of upper-class Romans.

Walking through the Villa Ventorum is like stepping into a time machine. From the kitchens, accommodations to the working complex of Roman baths, every corner of the villa reveals a slice of Roman life. The villa is laid out in a t-shaped plan, featuring a vineyard garden, ponds, and surrounding fields spanning more than 10 acres. What's fascinating is that the experience goes beyond just the sights; it also captures the sounds and smells of daily Roman life, making it a truly multisensory experience.

The visit to Villa Ventorum starts at the new museum, where guests get to learn about the archaeological findings of the original site. The museum is a treasure trove of knowledge, illustrating how these findings inspired the recreated villa. With the use of technology and interactive exhibits, you genuinely feel as though you've been transported back to the fourth century.

The visit to the Roman villa at The Newt was essentially a journey back in time, adding a historical touch to my Christmas break. The Villa Ventorum stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman architecture and design, providing timeless inspiration. I look forward to incorporating the insights gained from this visit into my design projects. Here's to more design adventures in the future! I'll certainly return on a sunnier day, although I anticipate it will be busier. Perhaps visiting in the rain has its advantages.

Vincent Sheppard visits the South West - Let’s get comfortable

Hello design lovers!

Get ready for a story because today was a day to remember!

Our friends from Vincent Sheppard paid us a visit in the South West. And not just any visit - Bart Folens, their Export Manager, along with the lovely Tara & Emily, brought a taster of their outdoor collection to our doorstep. Talk about doorstep service!

The star of the day was undoubtedly the new Frida dining chair. A stunning piece made of untreated teak with polypropylene rope, it just screams 'come and sit down!'.

Next up was the Oda lounge chair, which boasts soft, bouncy cushions and an untreated teak frame. I must say, it was pretty much love at first sight.

Adding a dash of sophistication was the Cleo dining chair, a stylish black lightweight aluminium piece adorned with woven rope back. Its simplicity and form were a sight to behold.

The Koda lounge chair in dune white is one of my absolute favorites. Its curved oval back strung with woven rope is simply irresistible! This range, my favorite, is available in various pieces including dining chairs, sun-loungers, rocking chairs, and modular sofa systems.

We compared the Lena dining chair with its polyethylene wicker and teak base to the indoor Lily dining chair. A fascinating exercise, to say the least!

Stacked together, the Loop moss and terracotta chairs were a testament to amazing stackability.

We also got a glimpse of some indoor dining options, such as the Titus, available with and without arms in natural oak and tobacco beech.

And as if furniture wasn't enough, they also brought along some fabulous indoor and outdoor lights.

Despite the dark clouds looming in the sky, it stayed dry for our little display, making the day even more perfect.

As a parting gift, they left us with two new 2024 range brochures and a lovely box of outdoor samples along with some handmade Belgium Chocolates. Oh my, just opened the chocolates they are little chocolate loom chairs in a gold lined box, what a treat!

So, if you're in the market for some Vincent Sheppard Outdoor furniture, ready for all the sun, please get in touch!

I've been feeling the Vincent Sheppard vibes since 2005 - that's nearly 20 years! Their products never disappoint. They offer amazing quality, and the whole process from order to completion is second to none.

A significant portion of the range is listed on the Cushionbank website, so take a look at what we offer. For any questions or information regarding lead times and delivery costs, don't hesitate to get in touch. I am here to help.

So, as we wrap up this design adventure, remember to embrace the outdoors with Vincent Sheppard's stunning outdoor range! Let's breathe life into our gardens, and create spaces that invite the sun and celebrate nature. Until next time, put on your gardening gloves, clean up your patio, and get ready for the sunshine!

London Design Week 2024

Hello, design devotees!

Hold on to your hats because I've got some thrilling news to share! I packed my bags, marked my calendar, and braced myself for my Spring inspiration - London Design Week! This design extravaganza unfolded spectacularly on the 11th and 12th of March in the stunning Chelsea Harbour, the heart of all things design. Showrooms were buzzing with activity, prepping for their product launches - it was like walking into a candy store for us design lovers!

London Design Week, a global carnival of design, attracted the who's who of the design world from every nook and cranny. It was a vibrant hotpot of ideas and inspiration. This year boasted a jam-packed schedule of hands-on workshops and exclusive product reveals - talk about being spoilt for choice!

I soaked in all the inspiration during my two-day venture at the Design show at Chelsea Harbour. I was on a mission to absorb inspiration, keep up with brand launches, and reconnect with old friends and professional contacts from my past escapades.

The show was a treasure chest overflowing with the greatest brands, the newest collections, and a whopping 130 showrooms. It was like diving into a design wonderland!

GP & J Baker x Kit Kemp

Kit Kemp has worked with GP & J Baker for the first time on this collection of fabrics and wallcoverings that feature Kemp’s signature exuberant, art-led style.

My exploration journey was nothing short of a design treasure hunt. Every step revealed the latest marvels in wallcoverings, fabrics, and product design. It was like uncovering design gems at every turn!

I also caught up with our representatives to explore their brand's new collections. It felt like a design treasure hunt as we searched for the perfect fabrics and products for our ongoing projects.

One of the much-awaited highlights was the grand opening of Casamance's new flagship showroom in the Centre Dome. Imagine this - their latest collection presentation, all while sipping on cocktails. Now that's what I call a classy affair!

And to top off this design feast, we were invited to an evening of delightful food, refreshing drinks, and engaging conversation on Monday - the perfect way to unwind after a long day and an early start!

Ashley & Co

I also stumbled upon Ashley & Co, a modern day scent company, and their new scent collection for Home & Body. Their products, used in some of the world’s finest properties, are designed to enrich spaces and lives. I couldn't resist treating myself to some eco-friendly, plant-based washing up liquid and surface spray in Lotus Leaf & Lustre. Additionally, I purchased Mortar & Pestle Hand & Body wash and body cream. Their beautiful packaging and delightful scents were irresistible.

Sample boards by Villa Nova. Fabric displays by Colefax & Fowler.

Overall, London Design Week was more than just an event; it was a celebration of fresh ideas, inspiration, and design excellence. Stay tuned for more updates. I hope to keep you inspired with my design adventures, and now it's back to the drawing board to incorporate all this inspiration into my design projects. Until next time, stay inspired and keep creating!

Out & About early 2024

As an experienced interior designer with a passion for travel, I recently visited two remarkable exhibitions in Paris: Paris Deco Off and Maison Objet. It feels like just yesterday I was wandering the vibrant streets of Paris, immersing myself in its rich artistic culture, and discovering a wealth of exciting new products to share with you.

Deco Off is a captivating interior design event held annually in January. This prestigious event turns Paris into a vast showcase of the latest interior design trends and innovations. Design studios across the city's Left and Right Banks open their doors to the public, offering a unique glimpse into their creative spaces.

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Industry brands seize this opportunity to rent art galleries and transform them into temporary pop-up shops. This allows visitors to explore their latest collections in a unique, artistic setting. The event acts as a hub of inspiration, offering a platform for networking, learning, and exploration for designers, brands, and design enthusiasts.

Deco Off not only offers insight into the world of interior design but also presents the charm and elegance of Paris itself, creating a truly unforgettable experience for all attendees.

At Paris Deco Off, the city morphed into a massive exhibition space, enabling designers to showcase their works in a more intimate environment. Strolling down the iconic Parisian streets, I was drawn to the creative window displays and pop-up showrooms. One brand that particularly stood out was Casamance. Their exquisite cushions and throws, with a wonderful blend of colours and textures, perfectly embodied Parisian chic. These will soon be available on our Cushionbank website, so don't miss out!

Maison Objet was a larger event held across nine expansive halls, attracting a global audience. Here, designers and brands from around the world showcased their latest collections. Vincent Sheppard, a brand renowned for its outstanding furniture pieces, was a standout. Their innovative combination of design and craftsmanship, exemplified in their Kodo Outdoor Lounge Sofa, was truly remarkable. We have chosen to sell many items from Vincent Sheppard's Indoor & Outdoor ranges on the Cushionbank website. With spring just around the corner, why not check out the Outdoor offerings?

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At both exhibitions, I noticed a prevailing theme of sustainability and a renewed emphasis on artisanal craftsmanship. From handwoven textiles to sustainably sourced materials, it's heartening to see the design world making strides towards a more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for more insights from my design trips around the world. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a home decor lover, I hope my experiences inspire you to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also a reflection of your personal style.