Stephen Briars, The Conran Shop's Creative Director, shares his thoughts on building an enviable collection:
WHY START COLLECTING?
“Good design never expires. Collector’s pieces are timeless, comprising everything from larger furniture and lighting pieces to smaller home accessories that stand the test of time, complement all interior décors and can be passed down generations. We all want something to treasure now and, in the future, something that reminds us of a journey or a holiday.”
SPACE IS NO OBJECT
“You needn’t have much space to show off your favourite pieces; a collector’s theme works across all areas of the home, together and apart. If executed with thought, a collector’s assortment allows for unity between design eras and movements. Our own-brand vases can house the freshest blooms in kitchens and living rooms, while the Anglepoise and Lumio lamps can illuminate bedside tables. At the same time, smaller items such as the Hoptimist figurine or cork globe can entertain playrooms or offices.”
GET TO KNOW: THE BIG NAMES IN THE (BAU)HAUS
“Our visual [above] integrates designs from the past century, spanning the 1930s with cushion covers depicting the artworks of Pablo Picasso, mid-century aesthetics throughout the shelving and side table, all the way to the past decade with Magnus Long’s 2015 Cross Leg lounge chair. Colour-wise, a unity of signature Bauhaus hues informs the works of VOLTA’s mobiles, as well as the works of [artist] Alexander Calder, who is a source of inspiration for Anissa Kermiche, creator of the Love Handles vase. Works by contemporary designers such as Gabriel Tan and Lucy Kurrein showcase their championing of sustainability and bring owners closer to their products, forming sentiments that are meant to last and last.”