This months spotlight is with the wonderful Harriet of Ashton Interiors. Based in the Cotwolds and having cut her wings under th2 designs and Sam Hilditch, I follow Harriet very closely as we have a shared love of anything vintage. Harriet is very clever at up-cycling furniture and designing bespoke pieces that are brimming with character and her colour schemes are always so inspiring.
How do you go about incorporating vintage textiles into your work?
A million different ways! A client might come to me with an inherited piece, or they’ll ask for help sourcing a unique textile for a headboard. One client had a beautiful but fairly ancient pair of elephant tapestries sewn by a relation. We added a border and backing in a Fermoie fabric which gave them a new lease of life as cushions. They went from feeling like frumpy, old embroideries to total showstoppers! She was so happy to have them out on display again.
How best to display them?
With care and respect for their heritage. They may be fragile and work best in low traffic areas e.g. on the back of an armchair or displayed as a piece artwork. Make sure to use museum quality glass to help prevent them deteriorating.
Where to start when using vintage textiles? Can they inspire a whole scheme?
Oh absolutely. An antique suzani or piece of embroidery can be full of different colours which makes scheming a dream. It can be a great jumping off point to get the creative juices flowing!
Unique creative ways of working with vintage textiles?
If they are good quality and sturdy you might want to use them on a key piece of upholstery like a headboard or an ottoman. You need to make sure you have a lovely tray or coffee table book so that people don’t feel scarred to put down their drink! You can make a stunning piece of fabric go further by using it as a leading edge on a curtain - this can help with budget too. I love a silk Sari lampshade, they let the light through beautifully and you can use different parts of the fabric to make non-matching pairs of shades.
Why do you love working with vintage textiles?
They are fragments of history. Today we live in a ‘throw away’ culture where everything is machine made with a perfect factory finish. I love seeing handmade pieces that have lasted generations given a new lease of life.
Why would you recommend others to work with vintage textiles?
They don’t have to be expensive, but they are a great way to make your home distinctly unique. What a fantastic way to fill your home with memories from your travels, honour different cultures and skilled artisans all at the same time!
What would your top 3 tips be for anyone looking to start using vintage textiles?
- Keep your eyes peeled wherever you go and start a treasure box for all your finds even if you don’t have a spot in mind for them yet!
- You can be bolder and braver with accessories – lampshades, cushions etc. They aren’t as expensive and you have so much more flexibility over where you can put them. I am always rotating my lampshades to reinvigorate a space.
- Find a trusted supplier like Chloe who has the taste, knowledge and contacts to find good quality pieces at fair price.
