Shop Small: 5 Boutique Interiors Stores We’re Obsessed With
As we prepare to hunker down, we’re all keen to cosy up our homes. We want blankets on our beds, cushions on our sofas and lamps in every corner. The high street is awash with snuggly accessories, but if you’re after something a little different, check out these independent homeware shops. So beautiful, you’ll want more than a fluffy throw…
These days we are spoilt for choice when it comes to interiors inspiration. To be honest, it can be completely overwhelming. As someone who loves to support small businesses, I’ve selected some of my favourite stores to ease that overwhelm. I’ve spent the last seven years – yes, seven – slowly renovating my home and nothing gives me more joy (from a decorating perspective) than finding unique homeware pieces in brilliant independently owned boutiques.
While H&M, Zara and even supermarkets offer affordable options, it’s inspiring to look to artisans and designers for more one-off creations. Depending on your budget, I would always encourage the shop small route to support up-and-coming creatives. Trouva is a fantastic online marketplace to find the best independent shops not just in the UK, but Europe, too. However, before you get lost in a rabbit hole of hand-painted vases, candle holders and wall art, here are the five stores that I love to shop at.
Lamp/LDN
Not just a gorgeous haven of goodness, but run by two fabulous women, with generosity and creativity at their core. Anna McGregor and Lotte Martin, both from design backgrounds, have created an incredible store full to the brim with colourful ceramics and bold furnishings. Every piece has been carefully selected to enhance our homes, while supporting independent artisans. From the splatterware tableware to the handmade glassware, we want it all.
The Small Home
If you’re after cosy, then look no further. The Small Home aesthetic is pared-back and understated. Ultimately it’s a dreamy antidote to those cold, wintry days. Founded by former fashion buyer, Ayshea McCormack, every item, from the sheepskin throws to the bestselling slippers, is an ode to natural, timeless style. By taking inspiration from the Japanese Wabi Sabi concept – seeing the beauty in imperfections – The Small Home hails the handmade and the unique.
Maison Flâneur
As it sits here in an edit of top five homeware stores, there’s no surprise that I regularly revisit this boutique. Eclectic and joyful, design conscious with a touch of the flamboyant – everything I adore – it is a wondrous collection of original interiors and exciting collaborations. Founded in 2019 by Dionas Sotiriou and Marie Winckler, the team work with world-renowned interior designers, top hoteliers, and local artisans to deliver a brilliant collection of the most covetable interiors.
Haygen
Irish born Jenny Hughes opened the doors to Haygen back in 2011. It has gone on to become a local institution in Islington. It draws in the style conscious shopper wishing to upgrade their homes, discover new labels or simply find the ideal gift. Stocking desirable names in interiors, such as Addison Ross, Amuse La Bouche and Anna + Nina, is a winning concept, but Hughes selection of prints is also undeniably seductive for the house proud.
Mon Pote
Focusing on the idea that accessories make a home your own, this Bristol-based store is a go-to for everything from lighting and tableware to artworks and soft furnishings. Selling numerous Scandinavian homeware brands such as House Doctor, IB Laursen, Bungalow, and Wikholm Form, Mon Pote (my friend in French), offers up a gorgeous array of pieces in a far from intimidating environment. Hygge at its best, you can expect plenty of colourful cosiness.
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.