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There is a wonderful team of people behind the scenes at Lorfords, many of which you don't get to see. What better way to introduce them than with their top picks in our Lorfords Christmas Gift Guide! From thoughtful gifts to extra seating, we're getting you ready for the festivities.
Toby Lorford, Director
Toby's top picks include a striking 19th Century Italian enfilade of a bold architectural design and a beautiful pair of 19th Century Tuscan wall sconces, decorated in traditional cream and gilt.
19th Century Italian Painted Enfilade
Pair of 19th Century Tuscan Wall Sconces
Alice Hagues, General Manager
Alice's top picks include a classic 1930's design Lloyd Loom sofa in original French grey paintwork and a stylish Modernist textile screen in the manner of Edward Bawden.
Carly Watkins, Marketing Manager
Carly's top picks include a large black-and-white image of a Roman emperor in the style of Timney Fowler and a pair of Art Deco armchairs which have recently been reupholstered in an attractive monochrome colour palette.
Large Contemporary Image of a Roman Emperor
Pair of French Art Deco Armchairs
Heidi Hadfield, Sales Manager and Accounts
Heidi's top picks include an iconic wicker Harley Davidson motorcycle designed by Tom Dixon and a charming pair of carved oak cherubs dating to circa 1880.
20th Century Tom Dixon Wicker Motorcycle
Pair of 19th Century Carved Cherubs
Robert Evans, Logistics Manager
Rob's top picks include a luxurious blue velvet armchair paired with the perfect Christmas afternoon set-up; a fabulous brass drinks trolley and a Parisian-style silverplate cocktail shaker.
Late 19th Century Blue Velvet Armchair
20th Century French Brass Drinks Trolley
Large Parisian Style Silverplate Cocktail Shaker
Jane Body, Sales
Jane's top picks include a comfortable English Country House chaise longue with hidden storage and a charming 20th Century feather-filled carpet cushion.
20th Century English Country House Chaise Longue
20th Century Feather Field Carpet Cushion
Tom Valentine, Sales
Tom's top picks include a wonderful untouched George III secretaire estate cupboard and a superb English club fender of large proportions.
George III Oak Secretaire Estate Cabinet
Large 19th Century Club Fender
Hattie Icke, Logistics Coordinator
Hattie's top picks include an original 19th Century French carpet sofa from the Napoleon III period and a charming pair of silverplate Mr and Mrs napkin rings in their original box.
19th Century French Carpet Sofa
Pair of 20th Century Madame and Monsieur Napkin Rings
Kate Williams, Sales and Stylist
Kate's top picks include a wonderfully shaped two-seat sofa featuring a scalloped back, enclosed sides and sloping armrests and a fabulous pair of 20th Century clam shells.
Pair of 20th Century Clam Shells
Eleanor Buonaparte, Dealer Liaison and Stock Coordinator
Eleanor's top picks include a 20th Century lacquer and gilt Chinese screen, depicting cranes and gold-painted bamboo to the reverse, and a stunning 19th Century drop-end red Chesterfield sofa.
20th Century Chinese Lacquer Screen
Stephanie Ashby, Photographer
Steph's top picks include a fine early 19th Century complete circular tree seat from the Regency period, and a late 20th Century print of Liz Hurley by John Stoddart which rests on a stylish lucite and brass display tripod with adjustable blocks.
Regency Circular Wrought Iron Tree Seat
20th Century French Lucite Easel
Late 20th Century Liz Hurley Print by John Stoddart
Sophie Jones, Marketing Assistant
Sophie's top picks include a 19th Century French chaise longue in pink velvet and a beautiful framed black and white French scenic wallpaper depicting an attractive lakeside scene.
19th Century Upholstered Pink Banquette
Piers Ingall, Stock Vetter
Piers' top picks include a fabulous pair of Italian marquetry and ormolu bedside tables and a truly outstanding 19th Century folk art diorama model of Tower Bridge, London.
Pair of Italian Marquetry Bedside Tables
19th Century Model of Tower Bridge
Dave Jeens, Restorer
Dave's top picks include a 20th Century coffee table with a drawer and its original key, a lovely example of an early 20th Century Edwardian elbow chair and a stylish 20th Century opaline glass table lamp.
Small 20th Century Coffee Table
Giant Mid-Century Style Opaline Glass Table Lamp
Jordan Anderson, Logistics
Jordan's top picks include an elegant French Meridienne sofa and in the spirit of the World Cup, a pair of 19th Century medici lions.
19th Century French Meridienne Sofa
19th Century Carved Pair Medici Lions
Chris Butterworth, Logistics
Chris' top picks include a lovely buttoned and tufted sofa of small proportions and a wonderful large-scale French zinc clock face in its original iron frame.
Small 19th Century Swedish Buttoned Sofa
French 20th Century Zinc Turret Clock Face
Cody Roberts, Logistics
Cody's top picks include a lovely English golden oak occasional table with a single drawer and a superb pair of French 18th Century Louis XV bergéres.
19th Century English Golden Oak Occasional Table
Pair of French 18th Century Louis XV Bergeres
When the mercury hit 40 back in July, many of us wished our homes were better equipped to deal with extreme heat. While we can’t transform a country cottage or London townhouse into a Provençal chateau overnight, we can still learn some design lessons from Mediterranean interiors.
‘Mediterranean design’ can be difficult to pin down - in part because this style actually borrows from all over the world. And yet certain features make it instantly recognisable, like swathes of natural light, a heady mix of natural materials, and a total embrace of the surrounding landscape.
A common misconception is that it means whitewashed. While you will see plenty of white both inside and out of Mediterranean properties, the true essence of the approach is rooted in colour - a palette inspired by the natural world surrounding the property.
Mediterranean interiors are laid-back yet considered. They're rooted in nature yet they feel contemporary. Below, we discuss a few ways you can bring this look into your own home - whatever the season.
Preparing your canvas
Some are lucky enough to inherit a Mediterranean feel when they move into a property. Ever since the years of the ‘Grand Tour’, British architects have looked beyond our island confines for property inspiration. Archways connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, or courtyard gardens stemming seamlessly from bedrooms or living spaces, provide a natural starting point for Mediterranean-inspired living. It's not all luck of the draw, though, and you can lean into this style through renovating or just decorating.
Mediterranean design relies on organic textures, and this starts at the base level of a space. For example, raw plastered walls, stone flooring and plenty of tiles naturally create a villa feel. Sometimes this is in cool, neutral tones, but not always. Indeed, anyone who visited Portugal this summer will have seen plenty of ‘azujelos’; their iconic royal blue and saffron yellow patterned tiles. Terracotta, too, is at the heart of the Mediterranean look, with its warm earthy tones exuding depth and character.
Terracotta flooring instantly bestows rustic chic on a property, while marble floor and wall tiles bring timeless palatial luxury. However, like with any design device, you can go big or small. Use decorative tiles to create a statement washbasin splashback or to surround a garden fountain or statue, and get your terracotta fix from indoor and outdoor planters.
Throughout the Cotswolds, you’ll often spot sage green shutters in the windows of traditional stone houses. These serve the practical purposes of keeping onlookers and the weather out, but shutters are also synonymous with Mediterranean style. Look to these as a simple way to transform the feel of your home without making any major changes.
Tactile textures
As we’ve already mentioned, texture is the crux of Mediterranean design. It relies on natural materials to bring a living, evolving feel to indoor spaces.
Timber is a key ingredient in this, and the more rustic the better. Natural wood brings much-needed warmth to Mediterranean interiors, especially where you do have an abundance of white or neutral shades. Think live edge dining tables and driftwood sculpture, complete with every knot, burl and medallion that speak to their long life.
Similarly, rattan has always brought a sense of warmer shores to our homes. This versatile, strong material is synonymous with laid-back living, whether it's used for a chair or just a lampshade. Rattan and wicker offer a ready canvas for soft furnishings, providing just enough structure while imbuing a space with a welcoming feel.
On that note, linen is your go-to material for softening such a space. The flax plant is native to the eastern Mediterranean, and creates a fabric that’s at once soft and textured - characterised by its raised slubs and flecks. Use a sheer linen for drapes that let dappled light in, or stronger blends for bedding or scatter cushion covers.
Relics of land and sea
The eclectic range of antiques that survive from this corner of the world testify to its diverse history. From furniture to objets d’art, these relics infuse our homes with character and intrigue.
Vernacular Spanish timber tables and benches with heavy, simple joinery ground interiors with their primitive aesthetic and sense of craft. Italian and French armoires, complete with remains of old paint, bring relaxed, farmhouse charm to a bedroom. You can also nod to this style with smaller decorative pieces, like French confit pots with their dripping glaze frozen in time.
Lighting is key to keeping Mediterranean interiors cosy and welcoming in dark winter months. Look to weighty cast iron candelabras and towering candlesticks for magical, atmospheric lighting. For more practical task lighting, choose gilded sconces or table lamps crafted from marble, travertine or ceramic.
We’re fortunate to have a host of sunburst mirrors brightening up our showrooms at the moment. Most originate from Spain or France, and some are by Chaty Vallauris - the Provence-based design house that made the sunburst their iconic legacy. These statement mirrors, with their mesmerising rays and glittering gold leaf, guarantee sunshine on even the bleakest midwinter day.
The Mediterranean embrace of the natural world extends to art and ornaments, too. From giant ammonite fossils to conch shells that whisper of the sea, nature’s sculptures bring a sense of the scale and history of our earth into our homes. They remind us of past travels and encounters and evoke the curiosity of our visitors.
The Mediterranean garden
When we think of the Mediterranean, the natural landscape is often the first thing that comes to mind - and not just the sea. From the vivid trails of Bourgainvillia that line Grecian streets, to French fields of lavender, each corner of the Mediterranean has its own chorus of mesmerising flora.
Mediterranean Sea Holly grows wild in this and other parts of the world, but you will also find the spiny plant in some British gardens. Recognisable for its blue, green and violet colours, this herbaceous perennial is as eye-catching as it is low-maintenance.
Olive and bay laurel trees are other staples of Mediterranean gardening, as are citrus trees - although these are better suited to an orangery during the British winter. Watching fruit grow from a mere seed is a rewarding antidote to seemingly endless grey days.
In the kitchen, keep rosemary, sage, or tarragon plants on your windowsill. If they don't spark culinary inspiration, they'll at least waft the scent of the Med your way.
Give your flowers and foliage a fitting home with bold planters. Whether you're drawn to classical stone urns or dramatic metal jardinières, the Mediterranean has plenty to offer in this area, too.
Soft touch
Some of us long for the warmth of a Mediterranean summer all year round, but British reality is… well, quite different.
While this style may feel more instinctive in the summer months, it's actually accommodating of all seasons. The trick is textiles - of every kind, in every room. These form a crucial layer in the make-up of any space, but especially in Mediterranean interiors.
Rugs and runners offer welcome respite from cool stone flooring, while window dressings will soften stone or tiled walls. Contrast is key for keeping your surroundings stimulating as well as comfortable; the coarse texture of a hemp rug softened by woollen throws or sheepskin, for instance.
Textiles offer an opportunity to satisfy our cravings for colour on grey days. The Mediterranean basin was once a vibrant trading ground for pigments, and these original colours offer a springboard for decorating. Blend jewel-like indigo blues and malachite greens with earthier tones of ochre and madder red to evoke Mediterranean interiors.
It can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to such a ubiquitous design style. Browse our lookbook to inspire your own Mediterranean journey.
Our in-house restorer Dave knows all there is to know about restoring antiques and repairing any damage. He plays a crucial role in sustaining the life of our stock and making sure it can survive for future generations. He shares his dos and don'ts for materials we often encounter in the antiques world.
Wicker
Dave says… ‘Caned seats and backs, as well as whole wicker pieces, gradually disintegrate over time with heavy use. If you have buttons on the back of a pair of trousers, for example, they will snag and aggravate the cane until one day – ping! The woven part will come loose. There are a few things you can do, however, to keep cane or wicker pieces in tip-top condition.’
DO: Treat the wicker to strengthen it. You can use a clear lacquer or shellac to do this, but be sure to read the specifications of your product carefully as not to affect the colour of the piece. A good quality clear shellac will put a sheen on the wicker without affecting the colour. This will help the cane to last longer and avoid fraying or breakages.
DON’T: Use a wicker piece to support heavy loads. You might think a very heavy box on a caned side chair works for a temporary storage solution, but this will gradually weaken the tautness of the cane.
DO: Use cushions. This will help to reduce the daily stress on a cane or wicker seat.
DON’T: Drag fully wicker pieces around, like a bamboo dressing table for instance. These pieces are usually only fixed with nails and pins, so a lot of dragging and heavy-handedness will weaken them. Lift the pieces up and move them instead.
Brown furniture
You might have inherited a lovely Georgian or Victorian piece, with stunning colour and patina. How do you keep it looking that good?
DO: Use a wax diluted with a little white spirit to treat the piece. Do this a couple of times a year to preserve the finish.
DON’T: Expose it to direct sunlight or a very warm part of the home. This is how antiques fade and lose their striking depth of colour.
DO: Use a lint-free cloth to dust your antiques. This way, you won’t scratch the polish.
DON’T: Surround a great piece of brown furniture with plant pots or other water hazards. Watermarks are the devil for brown furniture and must be avoided at all costs.
Not sure why it is worth restoring an old piece of wooden furniture? Read our case, 'In defence of brown furniture' here.
Upholstered furniture
In most cases, you want to consult a professional when it comes to upholstered furniture because there are considerable risks with it. However, Dave advises…
DO: Inspect the frame before you start taking anything off. Make sure the legs are intact and check for wobbles in the frame.
DON’T: Do anything in haste. In some cases, the upholstery will be keeping the whole thing together. This is where a risk assessment is very important.
Repairing veneers
Intricate veneers are often what makes a classic piece of antique furniture so beguiling. But after a long life this applied decoration can start to lift off. What can you do?
DO: Cut a small square or rectangle where the damage is and patch repair it, then match the colour after.
DON’T: Cut veneers in funny shapes! Matching it after will be a nightmare.
DO: If the lifting veneer is one piece, lift it up and glue underneath then put it back down. Run a flat knife along where it is lifting to see how extensive the problem is – there’s no point in patch repairing bit after bit, you may as well do it in one go!
DON’T: Attempt to patch repair if there are bits missing entirely or splintered. You will need to replace the whole thing.
Gilt antiques
Gilding gives anything from a commode to a mirror a majestic opulence. How do you keep it looking so good?
DO: Take care to match the exact colour of the gold leaf if you are going to touch up the gilding. Believe it or not, there are lots of shades of gold!
DON’T: Transport gilt antiques carelessly. Logistics is where most damage to gilding is done.
Restoring antiques
Dave's final piece of advice when it comes to tackling restoration:
‘If you are going to take up restoration or repair your own pieces, it is going to take a lot of patience. You need to juggle several skills. A risk assessment needs to be carried out for every piece, and you must think ahead.’
Restoring antiques and other furniture is key to an eco-friendly approach to interiors. Read our article 'Sustainable antiques for soulful homes'.
There is no denying that antiques elevate our interiors in more ways than one. They connect us to the past and create unique spaces full of character. The often forgotten but equally important point is just how sustainable antiques are.
The fast furniture crisis
We spend a lot of time showing off our beautiful antiques here at Lorfords and too little time sharing how good for the planet they are. This may seem like an obvious statement, as antiques are in essence sustainable. And yet, in an age of climate consciousness around food, clothes and single-use plastic, the fast furniture crisis is on the backburner.
This doesn’t mean the crisis is not there, nor that it hasn't been exposed. A study commissioned by Antiques are Green found that a new piece of furniture lasts for an average of 15 years. Meanwhile, an antique piece of furniture is resold once every 30 years. This study concludes that the environmental impact of an antique piece is six times less than that of a new piece of furniture. Stark statistics indeed.
What is fuelling this crisis? Throwaway culture has become the norm. In 2019, the North London Waste Authority found that 22 million pieces of furniture are binned in the UK each year, with much of that going straight to landfill. Super low prices and the flatpack revolution have simply made it too easy for us. We’re on a conveyor belt of buying a piece of furniture, getting bored of it or it breaks, throwing it away and then buying another to replace it.
Conscious interior design
It’s not all bad though. A younger generation, the same age group we have labelled the ‘flatpack generation’ in years past, are waking up when it comes to their interiors. This is partly because they want to live an eco-friendly life and understand that fast furniture has a big impact on their carbon footprint.
But it is also because they are seeking soulful interiors – and the same can increasingly be said for all of us. The fast furniture culture resulted from modern living demands, the rent revolution and constantly changing fashions. The result was minimalist, functional… uniform.
The theory that such interiors aid our busy lives started to show cracks in lockdown. The Marie Kondo approach felt stark when our homes acted as a permanent base and refuge. This generation is seeking interiors with personality, character and soul. They want novel furniture and decorative pieces that provide a talking point. Our interiors are a reflection of us, so looking the same as everyone else isn’t cutting it anymore.
Why are antiques sustainable?
Antiques create more sustainable interiors - that's a fact. But why, exactly?
By definition
Antiques are one of the most forgotten forms of recycling, and yet one of the most obvious. To classify as an antique proper, an object must have survived for over 100 years. This is no mean feat and often a credit to the original craftsmanship. We already mentioned the statistic that antiques are resold every 30 years on average. They were crafted to last and be passed down through generations and that trend continues today.
Through materials and craft
Before the industrial revolution, cabinet-makers did everything by hand with a limited range of tools and techniques to hand. There was no MDF, nor any laminated chipboard.
Makers had to be invested in their product; if a piece fell apart after a few weeks, they would be the talk of their community – and not in a good way. There was a personal responsibility for good craftsmanship, a sense of ownership. It can feel like eco-consciousness is a relatively new development, but this is not the case. Back in the 19th Century individuals were striving to counteract the excess and waste of the industrial revolution.
One such pioneer was William Morris. His enduring mantra ‘have nothing in your home you do not believe to be beautiful or know to be useful,’ is more relevant than ever. The Arts & Crafts movement put moral responsibility back into furniture and interior design. Ernest Gimson made his Windsor chairs from ash, beech and elm sourced from local woodland. Given the fact that antique Windsor chairs are still very popular today, it is hard to get more sustainable than that.
It wasn’t just wooden furniture, either. Bamboo and rattan, both rapidly renewing plants, boomed from the Mid Century onwards. Leading designers of the age transformed them into stylish wicker furniture and homeware. Sustainable production certainly didn’t sacrifice style then, and it doesn’t now.
Through timeless appeal
Antiques are not bound by style, however. They are sustainable because they are not subject to the whims of fashion. Modern furniture companies jump on emerging trends and overhaul their collections when they are no longer fashionable. Antique and vintage designs, on the other hand, have a very enduring appeal. Take the iconic Chesterfield sofa, for example. Since its conception in mid 18th Century, the mighty button back has never been considered passé.
Likewise, a 17th Century oak refectory table has survived for over 300 years and lived to tell the tale. Such a piece may have characterful grooves and a deep aged patina, but its solid construction means it will likely go on for hundreds more. Aside from anything else, these are investment pieces. An antique dining table will serve you and probably your children and grandchildren too. It won't ask for much in return other than an occasional polish or reinforcement. A small price to pay, we think.
You need only flick through this month’s interiors magazines to see that we are moving in the right direction. Ethical sourcing and a ‘period meets contemporary' aesthetic are top of the agenda for an increasing number of interior designers. This sway is not only good for the planet, but for the end result. When you hire an interior designer, you don’t want them to present you with something akin to a department store showroom. You want something layered and lived in; this is what antiques provide in spades.
Making antiques work for you
For some, antiques feel too special, too majestic, for their lifestyle. But respecting antiques doesn't mean having no relationship with them. You can still be careful whilst making bold choices. We are seeing something of a ‘recovering revolution,’ whereby contemporary fabrics breathe new life into period pieces. This is a great way to adapt antiques to your taste. You might love the imposing proportions and design of a Victorian armchair, but the faded and dated covering? Not so much.
Part of the reason for the current throwaway culture is our reluctance to put a bit of work in. Less than 1 in 10 people are willing to repair an item to extend its life – a fact I’m sure would horrify our ancestors. Restoration and upcycling are not only satisfying, but they also connect you to your interiors in a personal way. If DIY is not for you, many talented experts are on hand to help. Read some tips for the amateur restorer from our in-house professional Dave.
The truth is there is a vast spectrum of antique and vintage pieces out there. Our collection offers something for every soul, from traditional Georgian furniture to cool vintage memorabilia. Not only are our pieces an antidote for flat interiors, but they are also an ethical choice. The best thing? There is no flatpack assembly involved.
Get inspired with our latest lookbook, 'The conscious interior.'
Over the last year or so, we have all looked at our own four walls differently. Many of us have longed for more – more space, more freedom. Combined with the rise in home working, garden rooms have flourished out of this desire for change. For creatives, a garden studio offers a space for refuge and inspiration.
Why invest in a garden studio?
We have learned the hard way how difficult it can be to find some solace within our own homes. Whether it’s working from home or pursuing new hobbies, it is always more difficult than you think to escape from domestic demands. Garden rooms offer a perfect balance; we are at home and in familiar surroundings, yet we feel we have left the house. They offer a space for productivity, whilst enjoying the peace and serenity of the great outdoors.
For as long as we have created art, we have embraced the concept of working in blissful peace. The garden studio may feel like a relatively modern luxury, but these swanky spaces were cropping up in Chelsea as early as the 19th Century. Chelsea was one of the first places in England to see a real concentration of artists, who chose to live near their consumers and each other. It was also an area with plenty of ready building space, and so bespoke studios flourished.
Indeed, ‘shed working' has always appealed to creatives. Roald Dahl wrote his beloved children’s books from his garden studio. Cunningly, he told his own children that wolves lived in it so he wouldn’t be disturbed. Genius, no? Unsurprisingly, today's successful creatives are also looking to the garden studio, including block-printing extraordinaire and textile designer Molly Mahon.
The attraction is obvious. Natural light, a space designed just for you, and all the inspiration of the great outdoors close at hand. Whether your art revolves around writing, textile production, painting, or printing, these spaces are adaptable to any need. If this sounds like the stuff of your dreams, we are here to guide you in creating the perfect garden studio.
Choosing the right garden room for you
Alongside this blossoming demand for garden rooms, we have a growing number of options at our disposal. Choosing the right structure for you depends on various factors. Permanent bespoke builds can really add value to your home, whilst you can take a charming shepherd’s hut on wheels with you wherever you may go next. Companies can tailor a whole design to your needs, or you can get creative with the old shed that has gone untouched for decades. Perhaps you even fancy tackling your own project from scratch.
DIY garden studios
Consider using architectural salvage if you are renovating an existing building or building a bespoke design from the ground up. Not only are they much more eco-friendly, but salvaged pieces will also inject character and uniqueness into your studio. Build around antique doors and windows to avoid the structure looking too brand new, as time-worn architectural features often blend more seamlessly with the garden than a modern design. If you’d rather just add a few adornments to a building, then decorative panels, over-door frames, and finials are sure to make it feel special.
Creating a new space outside gives you the freedom to express your style beyond the four walls of your home. We have a large selection of architectural elements to help you start planning your project.
Furnishing your garden studio
Once the basics are established, it’s time to get creative with your studio. It is worth putting time and effort into the interior, as you are likely to spend lots of time here. Investing in your workspace is proven to pay off in efficiency and results. The first priority is having everything you need close at hand, depending on what you will use the studio for. Shelving and storage, a desk or an easel, and craft supplies are likely to be essential.
But nobody wants all work and no play, of course. The most effective garden studio should mean you don’t need to traipse back and forth to get things from the house. Avoid interruptions with a bar cart for refreshments and a storage chest with blankets and candles in for a rainy day.
Consider a range of furniture to meet your working and relaxing needs. Rattan never fails to capture that blend between our home and garden. Wicker furniture suits a garden room because it is sturdy yet light and moveable. You want to be able to pull up a chair for a guest or repurpose your work table for lunch, so choose versatile pieces. We often fear upholstered furniture anywhere near the garden, but a comfy armchair, a small sofa, or a daybed will be protected in a garden room and offer some much-needed respite.
Mirrors will make a smaller space feel bigger, especially with light streaming in through the windows during the day. But don’t forget about lighting – natural daylight can only go so far! Desk lamps and specialist lighting for up-close work are essential, whilst candles and table lamps for dark evenings will add an atmosphere. Make room for a few of your favourite decorative pieces and art; nothing will get the inspiration flowing quite like some wonderful sculpture and glassware.
The room outside
The garden room is a versatile concept. Many of these principles can apply to an entertaining space, a home office, or just a room for reading and relaxing. Garden rooms of all sorts offer the opportunity to extend your living area and create a bespoke room all of your own. The only danger is you may never want to go back into the house!
Get started on your own garden studio design with our lookbook, 'Your garden room oasis.'
As rattan enjoys another heyday, we explore the appeal of wicker furniture and how to style it in your home. Indoors or out, in small doses or entire schemes, this versatile material continues to permeate our interiors for good reason.
The rattan advantage
Rattan has been harvested throughout history in the tropical jungles of Australia, Africa, and Asia because it is both strong and malleable. A member of the palm family, this trailing vine plant takes the form of a long and thin stem that grows tall. In fact, it is very sustainable, being the quickest developing tropical wood and taking only 5-7 years to renew.
Rattan is similar to bamboo, but crucial differences make the former easier to work with. Whist the bamboo stem is hollow, rattan stems are dense through to their core. Bamboo is certainly strong, but it is more likely to crack and split under pressure. The outer core of the rattan stem is one of the hardest plant materials in the world, yet it is soft and porous inside. The ecological prowess of this plant and its pliant qualities help to explain its popularity throughout history.
Wicker throughout the ages
Rattan and steel drinks trolley, designed by Raoul Guys.
Talking about rattan and wicker can cause confusion. Wicker refers to the process of weaving raw materials to create an object, and it is one of the oldest methods of furniture-making. Wickerwork was integral to the formation of civilisation, from China to Egypt. Basketware was the main outlet, and beautiful examples survive from ancient communities. The Egyptian craft inspired the Romans, who adopted wicker as their own and spread it throughout their Empire. In these early stages, wickerwork in lots of countries often relied on weaker materials like rush and palm. It wasn't until the 'Age of Exploration' in the 15th Century that a far more suitable material began to spread around the world.
By the 17th Century, wickerwork in Northern Europe increasingly began to resemble what we see today. Wicker was particularly popular for cribs, bassinets, and other such baby items. Over the next two centuries, rising trade with Asia brought rattan to the West. This brought Europe and America a new, stronger material for wickerwork and the desire for a tropical look and feel became more popular. The Victorians were particularly enamoured with this material, considering it exotic but just about civilised and refined enough for their tastes. Rattan furniture was then imported from Britain's colonies in the Far East during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. It boomed considerably in America, with the Wakefield Company and Haywood Brothers & Company offering large-scale manufacture of rattan furniture. Our love affair with woven furnishings was in full swing.
Mid Century meets rattan
Pair of French Mid Century rattan and wrought-iron armchairs.
Like other 70s trends, rattan has resurged with a vengeance in the 21st Century. We see its prevalence on the antiques and vintage market, but also in modern homeware and garden stores. Rattan use has varied greatly depending on periods and styles, proving its adaptability. We owe much to Mid Century designers for redefining the use of the material in design. In the late 40s and 50s, the world was still reeling from war and there was a desire for furnishings that reflected a more casual lifestyle.
Rattan was utilitarian, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. Suddenly, it was everywhere and it stood for stylish and understated sophistication. Designers and collectors realised that rattan, far from being dated, was actually very well-suited to modern life. Paul Frankl was one of the first major designers to experiment with the plant in modern design. Frankl used rattan for his sleek Art Deco designs, and it was a perfect complement to his ergonomic shapes.
In the later 20th Century, the likes of Gabriella Crespi proved that woven furniture could be both functional and glamorous. The iconic Italian designer drew her inspiration from the Far East and combined rattan and bamboo with everything from tubular steel to African red marble.
The 80s came and a demand for more high-tech design left rattan in the shadows again. But this certainly wouldn’t be the last time we saw it…
Styling wicker furniture
Wicker furniture is in the midst of another zenith, and this time it might just be here to stay. Indeed, following the latest hit BBC drama, The Serpent, searches for rattan furniture have surged along with other 1970s trends. As its popularity continues to endure, open-mindedness is key to styling rattan in your home.
Whenever wicker has fallen from favour, it has been unfairly associated with dated décor and clichéd garden furniture. But it is far from boring, and far from passé. On a practical level, rattan is breathable, comfortable, and easy to clean. But it is also a versatile visual treat. Woven furniture can be used in whole suites, or just use a couple of one-off pieces to bring texture and interest. Rattan is a natural partner for everything from dark wood, to bold modern light fittings, to polished brass. As a result, it looks at home in every room. Elegant wicker pieces are your trusty design saviour, whether you are looking for bathroom shelves or a drinks trolley for the home office.
There's also a presumption that rattan only suits a fresh white minimalist scheme. Not so; the natural patina of the wickerwork sings against punchy paint colours and vibrant accessories. It works wonderfully with bohemian or shabby chic styles, but there are also Mid Century examples that gave rattan a smart, sleek-lined facelift. From the sprawling country pile to the minimalist townhouse, a scattering of wicker is welcome in any style of interior. Of course, the qualities and look of wicker furniture make it well-suited to outdoor spaces too. Combine rattan with bright textiles in a conservatory or patio setting to welcome in the Spring.
To view our collection of rattan furniture and accessories, click here.
When the wine harvest draws to a close, vendange celebrations ripple through France. All the grapes have been picked, pressed and fermented and age old traditions see the French countryside come alive.
Millenia of tradition
Every autumn, the vineyards of France become a hive of activity as les vendanges takes place.
The Romans planted the majority of vineyards in the 6th Century BCE, when France was a Gallic region. Today, the main wine-producing regions include Bordeaux, Alsace, Loire, Provence and the Rhone Valley. Each region produces wine which reflects its climate and soil as well as the unique character of the region.
Wine tradition developed alongside the church because the Romans supported Christianity and Catholicism. Wine was used in the sacrament, so monasteries played a big role in viniculture. The drink was soon very fashionable and a natural compliment to rich French food, so noble houses filled their cellars with wine.
In1863, a disease called Phylloxera aphid decimated French vineyards and the wine industry suffered a major blow. Innovation solved the problem and France is renowned today for its premium wine standards.
Wine is deeply entrenched in French culture and the harvest is a huge occasion. Whilst the machine is prominent in modern wine production, many vineyards still complete the process using traditional methods. Thousands work or volunteer on the harvest each year and the labour is intense.
Vendange festivitie
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Next week, the Fête des Vendanges in Monmartre will mark the end of the harvest at Paris's only remaining vineyard, Clos Monmartre.
Similar grape harvest festivals take place in most towns throughout the country. For generations, the French people have celebrated the end of the harvest with parades, concerts, fancy dress and other festivities.
The vendange begins in August and can last until the end of October, it all depends on the ripeness of the grapes. This exhausting experience calls for relaxation and fun when all the collection vessels have been put down. Families and communities congregate to eat, toast to their success and of course drink lots of wine. After a few months of intense manual work, the vendange is time to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
French provincial furniture
Al fresco dining and many mouths to feed require trestle tables and comfortable chairs. Furniture associated with the vendange is the epitome of French country craftsmanship. French provincial furniture is charming and interior design increasingly celebrates simple yet effective pieces.
Circular vendange tables make charming dining and centre tables. These pieces often have a tilt-top and trestle supports because they are stored in cellars and brought out for wine tasting. Vendange tables can be moved around easily and the versatile furniture is perfect for modern living.
To create an entire French rustic scheme, consider some architectural elements. French shutters, doors and panelling look breathtaking in interiors old and new.
Relics of the vendange
There are plenty of antique pieces which capture the magic and history of the vendange. Practical objects that represent each stage of the wine harvest process make for wonderful decorative pieces.
Collecting vessels, such as grape hods and wicker baskets, present an opportunity for you to repurpose them into something beautiful. Antique orchard ladders are also stunning statement pieces which exude rustic charm.
If you're more interested in the wine itself, we don't blame you. Our collection is full of stunning antique wine pieces to give your evening drink that sense of occasion. From statement pieces, such as large bottle racks, to the most delicate wine pourers, wine-related antiques are rare and beautiful pieces to own. You will find ice buckets, cellarettes, glass decanters and beautiful sets of French wine glasses here at Lorfords.
So if you want to enjoy the vendange this year, bring the festivities to you. Surround yourself with antique wine pieces and vendange furniture and you will soon be dreaming of French vineyards.
French antiques have a huge presence at our showroom in Tetbury as well as our two hangars at Babdown airfield. Come and visit us in person or browse our website to get the Lorfords experience.
Visit our lookbook 'Evenings at the vineyard' and discover a range of antiques to mark the end of the wine harvest.
Believe it or not, autumn is fast approaching. Summer has been a bit of a fleeting presence this year... but as the nights draw in, there's no need to abandon the garden.
The secret garden
Interior design increasingly blurs the boundary between interiors and exteriors, bringing more of the outdoors into our homes. Not only is it good for our wellbeing, but it can create a stunning look. Bringing the outside inside encourages an eclectic mix of shapes and colours which will set your interiors apart.
Being able to be somewhat outside, but within your private home, reflects Ancient Greek courtyards which were the centre of family life. Less rigid divides between outside and inside spaces is liberating. Enjoy long, relaxed evenings this autumn without being exposed to the elements.
Our decorative antiques will infuse a sense of escapism into your home, whether you are longing for Parisian cafés, the Greek islands, or the Amalfi Coast. The right combination of textures and colours in a conservatory, orangery or foyer will revolutionise your interiors.
Natural materials such as rattan and wicker are a winning choice for an al fresco inspired living space. Vanquish your end of summer blues with a natural colour palette of greens, blues and pastels.
Statuary grandeur
Statues are a bold but rewarding element in a large indoor space. Decorative and symbolic, they have been integral to interior and exterior design since Ancient Rome and Greece.
Statues which might typically be imagined in the garden can look equally majestic in an airy, open part of your home. Whether they are near pristine or very weathered, statues of any condition radiate splendour and loftiness. Representations of the human form look particularly striking with plenty of natural light, in amongst lots of indoor plants.
Statues and sculpture are a palpable talking point and should always be front and centre. If you are feeling a little weary of an interior after lockdown, they offer the key to transforming a space.
Think big to transform your interior into an earthy haven: French doors, wall panels and even large gates can look amazing indoors. Antique garden elements do not have to be used for their original purpose; this is an opportunity to abandon the rules and create a truly unique look.
If your taste is more subtle, smaller details can bring just as much charm and tranquillity. Consider fossils, cornucopia imagery and botanical or wildlife lithographs and engravings. Seashells are an attractive way to accessorise, enhancing interiors with their pearlescent colours.
Mediterranean escape
The vast majority of garden antiques are easily be repurposed for indoors. Planters are wonderfully decorative in their own right, and terracotta gives your home warm colour and a sense of abroad. A selection of pots in a similar colour palette, some indoors and some outdoors, create continuity between the spaces.
The garden furniture you relied upon to get through the last few months is often just as attractive indoors. Bistro style tables and chairs with cushions create a courtyard setting, perfect for relaxed hosting or enjoying some peace and quiet.
Of course, these styles are more common in warmer climates than Britain. Statues, terracotta, metal and wicker furniture... all beautiful furniture, but perhaps don't bring to mind the most comfortable living situation. Fear not, this style is about creating the illusion of being outdoors, as opposed to freezing your way through the winter.
Soft touch
Reconcile outdoor elements with an indoor setting by making good use of textiles. Go overboard on rugs, throws and cushions to soften the edges of your conservatory, orangery or summer house. Plenty of blankets and a Swedish flatweave rug will make sure you stay warm on autumnal evenings whilst enjoying interiors which prolong the summer.
Choose textiles in vibrant patterns and colours to compliment the muted tones of planters, architectural elements and statues. Warmth is also achieved through lighting and the right antique light fittings are guaranteed to give a sense of the outdoors. A few lanterns are perfect for a soft glow and will make you feel like you’re on a beachfront, not in your living room or conservatory.
At Lorfords we pride ourselves on the decorative and garden antiques which make up our collection. Our accessories and artwork allow you to take small steps towards interiors inspired by nature. Make more of a statement with our large scale pieces, which will transform your home into an Ancient Roman garden.
However much you want to embrace the outdoors, our showrooms and shop are guaranteed to provide the inspiration.
Visit our lookbook, 'Blur the divide,' to browse the selection of antiques featured.