/ 18 May 2020

Interiors Little Black Book: Lucy Barlow

A rising star in the world of interior design, Lucy Barlow studied fashion before attending the Inchbald School of Design and founding her London-based studio Barlow & Barlow in 2013. Her fearless approach is marked by her riotous sense of colour and pattern, resulting in dynamic, luxurious and instantly recognisable interiors. Here, she reveals the names she relies on time and again to create her eclectic schemes…

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Ceramics

Good quality ceramics can really elevate a table. For classic dinner services in fabulous colours, I rely on Richard Ginori. For more whimsical and decorative pieces, I like to use Polly Fern or Rachel Cocker from The New Craftsmen. For something more fun I love Laetitia Rouget of Shoopy Studio. I also enjoy incorporating ceramic art work; Fenella Elms makes beautiful pieces, both wall mounted and free standing.

Glassware

Depending on the look, try either Campbell Rey for elegant modern Murano pieces with a trendy edge, or William Yeoward for classic and timeless cut crystal.

Textiles

Textiles are such a huge element in every scheme. For timeless and traditional fabrics with an English country house feel, head to Soane, Guy Goodfellow and Lewis & Wood. I always like to include something unexpected and Pierre Frey are great for quirky and bright fabrics. Tissus d’Helene also have a fabulous collection of talented textile designers.

Paolo Moschino For Nicholas Haslam

William Yeoward

Rachael Cocker

Furniture

Antique and vintage furniture add warmth and character to a room; Ebury Trading and AU Bespoke always have a wonderful range and The Invisible Collection is brilliant for collector pieces by famous architects and designers. When adding new life to old furniture or bringing my own designs to life, I use both Peter Dudgeon and George Smith for high quality, UK-made upholstery.

Mirrors

For something different, Aldgate Home refurbish architectural windows into industrial style mirrors, all of which have fantastic impact. Also, Reid & Wright’s range of bespoke finishes make it easy to find the perfect piece. I love using antiques and would rarely finish a room without one – Vinterior’s edit of vintage mirrors saves you endless time trawling online when you need something with more character.

Lights

Lighting is one of the most important considerations in any room, it has such an effect on your mood. Pooky is an affordable option with endless fun designs, as is Penny Morrison – I love her bright silk shades – and Vaughan has a huge range of decorative lighting. For inspiration and something unique, go to Christopher Butterworth for an Aladdin’s cave of period lamps and vases.

Mosaic Factory

Penny Morrison

Decorative Items

For the perfect finishing touch, Pentreath & Hall has a wonderful array of objects with Georgian flair. I also love Matilda Goad’s pretty and uplifting pieces, and the beautiful edit by Paolo Moschino for Nicholas Haslam.

Rugs

Rugs are a fantastic way to add colour and pattern – both Christopher Farr and The Rug Company collaborate with artists and designers to create iconic and fun designs. If I already have an idea of colours and pattern in mind, Holmes Bespoke are very easy to work with and offer a made-to-order service.

Art

Art is integral to a space, and I always recommend buying what you love. Purchase what speaks to you and what you think you will enjoy looking at for years to come. Try not to be too trend led, otherwise it can look a little clichéd. Partnership Editions has an inspiring selection of work from young artists, all at affordable prices. Projects on Walls can help with all of your sourcing and curating needs, while those with an unlimited budget should explore the huge online gallery at Saatchi Art.

Pooky

Marche Aux Puces

Reid & Wright

Unusual Objects

I’m always inspired by the wonderful collection of artists and makers at The New Craftsmen and the good news is they are all UK-based. Similarly, L’objet have brilliantly designed and high quality, quirky pieces.

Tiling

Balineum has the finest selection of handmade tiles in a variety of bespoke designs, while Artisans of Devizes offers a great selection of architectural and decorative tiles. Mosaic Factory is the best place for Moroccan made Zellige, cement and terrazzo tiles in a huge colour palette, and Fired Earth also has a wide variety of dependable options.

Where To Shop Abroad

I love visiting Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen – a huge flea Parisian market. It’s made up of several smaller markets, and it’s amazing what you can find. Also, when I was in Puglia, in Italy, I discovered their fabulous splatter-ware ceramics. I also find huge inspiration at 10 Corso Como in Milan, Colette in Paris and KRB in New York.

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