Posted by
Emma Reddington
Thursday, August 9, 2012 10:58 AM EDT
Team GB is topping the medal chart at this year’s Olympics, proving that playing on home soil has its advantages. Of course, British interior designers have been wowing the world for some time now. From artistic dynasties like the Hicks family (father David and children Ashley and India) to legends like Terence Conran, the Brits have been influencing the design community for decades. Here is a quick look at five of the best British designers playing a part both at home and abroad.
1) Rose Uniacke
London Magazine, Rose Uniacke
Late last year, English designer Rose Uniacke finished a five-year renovation on her own residence in London (pictured above). It is by all accounts a masterpiece, from the simple muted colour palette to the exquisite period details to the unbelievable indoor garden. Her shop on Pimlico Road in London is home to her own bespoke furniture line and collection of fine antiques as well as her interior design studio. With her exquisite taste and eye for detail there is no doubting her influence on the current British design scene.
2) David Hicks
Circa Who, Stitch Drapery
Even though David Hicks died in 1998 his contribution to the international design world is undeniable. In recent years, we have seen contemporary designers like Kelly Wearstler and Jonathan Adler borrow from his repertoire. His signature style of mixing bold graphically printed wallpaper, fabric and carpets with sumptuous antiques and clean-lined furniture is easy to identify. Hicks is also credited with creating the tablescape, where he artfully curated everyday objects into an eye-catching display (as seen on the table above).
3) Kelly Hoppen
Parkdale Ave, London Telegraph
Kelly Hoppen, one of Britain’s most successful interior designers, is known for her East-meets-West style, where calming colour palettes meet modern streamlined interiors. Working with clients all over the world she has designed everything from high-end residential interiors to the insides of yachts and airplanes. Her simple yet opulent style has led to her own line of home accessories including furniture, lighting, fabrics and carpets.
4) Terence Conran
Remodelista, My Deco
While Terence Conran may have started his career in the world of design, his empire now extends well beyond and includes restaurants, products and even brand consultancy services. A quick look at his website reveals at least seven different divisions to his company. From his seminal design books like The House Book to his highly successful Habitat furniture stores, Sir Terence has been leading the way in modern British design for decades.
5) Collette van den Thillart
House and Home, Little Augury
Toronto-born Collette van den Thillart is the creative director at London-based interior design firm NH Design, founded by its namesake Nicky Haslam. Her stunning London home (pictured above) illustrates her creative genius and her knack for mixing high and low. Case in point: her charming living room where a Pottery Barn rug and Schumacher fabrics coexist beautifully together. It’s easy to see why Collette’s effortless style is in high demand all over the world.