Home London is a small but perfectly edited design-led homewares and interior accessories show that traditionally happens in January. A September edition has now been added, enabling it to join the London Design Festival. I’ve been a big fan since its launch, so I was excited to see the new version.
Oscar Francis is run by a trained architect, resulting in surface pattern design on a housing theme – products even ship in a cardboard tube similar to those used for architectural blueprints. This grey tote with just one yellow house is lined in the same sunny hue.
Home London was Wiltshire-based designer makers Robin and Mould’s first ever trade show, so it was really lovely to see their friendly little hedgehogs, which are screen-printed by hand in their rural studio.
Windy Hill’s table linens are inspired by French holiday homes: “those warm and welcoming vacation homes, where hosts are so pleased to have you in a simple but gracious environment, where guests are honored and filled with wonder in such a warm and pleasant ambiance,” explained the designer.
There’s something very pleasing about something simple done very well – Iris Hantverk works with five visually impaired craftsmen from different cultures to make brushes according to the Swedish tradition in Sandsborgsvägen, Enskede.
Young designer Nancy Straughan was launching a new range of fabric across her range of home and fashion accessories such as cushions and purses.
Rhian McLaren’s yellow and grey mid-century-inspired patterns caught my eye. There is a lot of work around at the moment evoking that era, but these designs avoid the obvious references and are executed with genuine attention to detail.
Tori Murphy was launching a new collection of kitchenware, a first for the up-and-coming designer more known for her cushions, fabrics, and upholstery. The rustic chopping boards are by Joby Woodhouse.
Cornish brand Block was showing their new range of pegboard pin boards – perfect for those who like the idea but don’t want to commit to a whole wall – also available in a duck-egg blue and a bright orange.
Finally, I was really excited to discover new brand Otago (also pictured at the top) who are fusing contemporary design with African craftsmanship and doing so with great success – definitely one to watch.
