3 Interiors Boutiques We’re Loving
In this month’s column supporting independent businesses we discover three incredible homeware stores bringing us unique style and beautifully made products. They may be small, but their commitment to quality and community is something to be inspired by…
When I started this column, I knew it was going to have an impact. Talking to people who have had a plan and followed through; partners, friends or family who have joined together to create something brilliant is not just uplifting, it’s encouraging, too. There’s no denying that setting up a business can be a relentless challenge, but it can also be rewarding. In some cases, I have seen first hand the struggle and overwhelm, but also the sheer determination to continue. Even in an economic climate that seems so foreboding, these entrepreneurs are proving that you can still succeed.
This month I’ve been chatting to the founders of three independent interiors stores. In some cases these have been quick exchanges over Instagram while they juggle deliveries, family and even staff training. These small boutiques are located around the UK, with a huge and very loyal customer base. Unsurprisingly, they all sell the finest pieces sourced from around the globe, but also many that have been crafted in Britain. Expect cult brands like ferm Living, Gubi and Pols Potten, not to mention unique one-off designs you’re guaranteed to treasure. So prepare to be tempted with the next instalment from our Shop Small Series.
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Maison Curate
Before launching Maison Curate, founder Emma Sullam spent 20 years in the fashion industry as a buyer, eventually moving on to Head Of Buying at Topshop. “By the time my kids had started school, I had tired of working in my sector of the fashion industry,” admits Sullam. “With a growing love of interiors, having renovated my home, I came up with the idea of pulling together a small collection of homewares and lifestyle products, all presented in my home for private sales events. The reaction was so positive that I moved on to opening a pop-up shop on Northcote Road, Battersea to test the local market further.” The dedication paid off. Maison Curate became a permanent fixture and a second is to open imminently in South East London in the heart of Dulwich Village.
Sullam and her Creative Advisor, Sarah Holland source products from Scandinavia, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Egypt, Italy, but more and more the UK. “Our bestsellers show what an eclectic range of products we stock: candles still remain our number one best selling category, but in terms of individual items our handmade ceramic mugs from Brickett Davda are one of the most-wanted pieces and we sell out really quickly. Olverum Bath Oil is always up there on the list, as well as cushions.”
“Having followed trends and the next big thing for so many years in fashion, you can see the same thing happening in interiors which I believe is a bit dangerous. If we buy too much of the next big thing, it will end up in landfill within five years. I think sustainability is and should be at the heart of everything we are doing, including accessorising your home.” For inspiration on creating a more organic, personal home, Sullam looks to interior designers Emma Milne, Colin King and, for something a little braver, Studio Ashby, who’s team often shop with Maison Create for their projects.
As for top tips on launching a business, Emma advises, “start small; test the market before you plough in and don’t over commit on initial investments. Allow your business to grow over time organically and listen to your customers and what they want. Keeping a healthy balance sheet and watch the cash flow!”
Maison Curate is a treasure trove of globally sourced homewares and decor. The women-led team is constantly working and evolving to meet the needs of their loyal customers, serving up an array of high quality products.
Maven
Founded by sisters Catherine and Patricia McGinnis in 2013, award-winning Maven is a super chic furniture and homewares shop in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The name ‘Maven’ is a nod to Malcolm Gladwell’s book ‘The Tipping Point’, in this context a maven aptly being an innovator. Despite initial resistance to their plans, they persevered with a desire to introduce people to products they love and would want in their own homes. “We believe in a meaningful approach to shopping and that good design enhances lives,” they share. “We also pride ourselves on offering the care and attention that customers crave in these times.”
The store has become a go-to for design enthusiasts with its vast collection of both Scandinavian and Irish brands, including Hay, Menu, Gubi and ferm Living, but also local favourite Mourne Textiles. The sisters have noticed that most people are bored of the generic high street offering. “People are prepared to pay more for something if they understand where it’s come from. They want an experience and this is what independent shops excel at. Our team is small but passionate and you know you can rely on us when you’re making those important purchases for your home.”
The sister team behind Maven hand pick all items in the store and only select items they love and would happily have in their own homes.
Berdoulat
Named after the childhood home in south-west France of founder Patrick Williams, this design practice and independent interiors store embodies Williams commitment to restoration, skilled artisans and craftsmanship. Run by Williams and his wife, Neri, the actual store opened in 2021 following four years of restoration. Located in central Bath, the three storey Georgian building is now nothing short of beautiful.
The couple have filled the shelves with one-off pieces, many as a result of collaborations with local artisans. ‘We both had a respect for the soul of things and anything crafted by hand,’ explains Neri, who moved to England in her twenties from Istanbul. They have succeeded in creating a unique space that warrants time to peruse; to take in the period fixtures and fittings. The original mahogany, marble-topped display cabinets undoubtedly create the wow factor as you step inside.
Each product also feels like it comes with meaning and purpose. Patrick and Neri collaborated with Matt Passmore of Willow Pottery to create the Cassaigne range of cookware, named after the great kitchen at Château de Cassaigne, one of Patrick and Neri’s favourite places. While their collection of candlesticks, turned by hand in Norfolk, with brass candle holders are each painted in the couple’s favourite Edward Bulmer colours. One certainty is that this stunning collection of original pieces will add a sense of story and beauty to your own home. “It’s vital we think small and shop locally, but also that local shops serve local producers and local makers,” states Patrick. “The vast majority of our products are made within an hour’s drive from our shop. This all helps to tie together a local community.”
Each product in the collection is unique to Berdoulat: a collaboration with local artisans, the vast majority of whom are based within an hour’s drive of the studio. Most take inspiration from historic kitchens and traditions from the 18th & 19th century.
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.
