- Oct 23, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 2, 2024
First, I must mention my father, journalist and writer Henry Porter, and his new book, Enigma Girl. He’s an extraordinary thriller writer. If you—or someone you know—are in need of a truly gripping read, look no further. As Rory Stewart aptly put it, the book is 'enjoyable, beautifully written, surprising, and engrossing, with a blazing moral energy'; I think we could do with a little moral energy, so why not give it a little pre-order?
I didn't see this with my own eyes, but antique dealer Adam Bently did, so I have seen it, but only on the Instagram. But these pages are for inspiration no matter the route to the source. Palazzina Cines was built in 1799 by architect Giuseppe Venanzio Marvuglia at the request of King Ferdinand III of Sicily. Now, even we common folk can experience it, provided we find ourselves on the outskirts of Palermo.
Remy Renzullo certainly one of the finest decorators of my generation, tagged the construction company he uses. Knowing that he has exceptionally high standards, I thought we should keep a note of it - CC Construction Group.
God, this is quite embarrassing—another find discovered through the power of Meta. But I think it’s one for the little black book. twopoems, one of my favourite dealers, sources some of the most glorious art. He goes to Farang Wren Frames and Art in Hackney to frame such excellent pieces. As expected, antique frames can get quite costly, but they’re an investment well worth making.
From one esteemed dealer to another, Tyssen England's curation has always held a special allure for me. My admiration dates back to my first visit to his studio in Deal—compact yet flawlessly executed. His eye for detail and finish left me feeling not just a touch of jealousy but deep appreciation. So when I saw he had launched his first lighting collection, my heart (and my eyes) leapt with joy. It is a striking addition and a promising new chapter for the UK lighting scene.
Prices start from £220
In August, I spent three languid days in Lisbon, a city I adore. It's a city that rewards the returning visitor. Once you have ticked off the pilgrimages to the tourist-filled attractions, you are at your leisure to wander aimlessly, following nothing but whims and the scent of sardines. It is a shock to no one that I am easily taken in by a good-looking restaurant, and if it happens to be historic, then I’m doubly charmed. So, stumbling upon a website, Loja Com Historia, dedicated to Lisbon’s most alluringly beautiful shops, restaurants and other institutions, was the chef kiss to our ravishing trip.
I confess, I’m hesitant to share this artist with you—I haven’t yet invested in her talent, and the thought of being pipped to the post fills me with a certain artistic jealousy. But credit must be given where it’s due, and Jessica Swaffer’s bold abstract work deserves nothing less. Her pieces strike the eye with an exhilarating jolt, each canvas vibrating with the energy of pure expression. It’s only a matter of time before my wallet finds its way to her studio.
Heroes of Industry
We are blessed in the world of interiors, as it is filled to the brim with enjoyably kind, interesting, and joyful people. I would like to shine a light on three such people and their work -
Sarah has long been one of those women I can’t help but admire. Her company, Balineum, is built on a foundation of quality, with that commitment driving everything they do. She continually pushes the boundaries of creativity, and it’s no surprise that Balineum’s products find their way into some of the world’s most exquisite and imaginative projects.
Last week, I attended a breakfast at their studio—bacon butties and bloody marys (sadly, mine was a virgin)—to celebrate the latest Balineum collaboration with artist Louis Barthélemy. It was yet another display of their greatness, a joyful and compelling collection. The studio itself was something to be gawped at, each detail speaking of their eye for detail and beauty. It served as a much-needed reminder that in an industry so often driven by trends, there’s still a place for genuine delight in things being done
exceptionally well.
Anyone familiar with the name Guy Tobin will surely nod in agreement when I say this: his taste is the kind that makes the rest of us feel like we're just fumbling about. His eye for detail and depth of knowledge are rivalled by few in the UK, and it shows in everything he touches. He graciously hosted us at his studio in Derby, where we enjoyed an exceptional lunch by Kochie Kitchen, surrounded by his exquisite finds, each piece with its own story to tell.
Our conversation meandered through the oft-overlooked significance of manufacturing in the Midlands—something Guy champions with the sort of conviction that’s infectious—and naturally, my perennial favourite, Pinxton & Co. hardware, run by Guy's wife, Ceilia.
When it comes to Guy, everything he does is worth keeping an eye on. He’s a truly remarkable character in the industry, and his work isn’t just deserving of applause—it demands it.
Last Wednesday, I celebrated the raucous collaboration between Christine Vanderhurd and Jermaine Gallacher. It was an elegant evening spent within the walls of one of London's best Italian restaurants, Luca. We were surrounded by the woven fruits of Vanderhurds and Gallacher's labours. They were designs Christine had created in the 90s, reworked in Jermaine's off-beat but sought-after way.
It's easy to forget that, for all intents and purposes, these events are referred to as work. It's even easier when you are fortunate enough to be seated next to Christine, one of the coolest cards in the industry. Her mind and creations echo a rare purity (seen above), a quality that's often lost in today’s overcrowded market, where designs are churned out at breakneck speed. Christine is, above all, an artist, and her work embodies that with wholehearted authenticity.
A few shops I have come across lately -
I feel there is no better hat than this delicious beret made by Slow & Sow.
Besotted by these beaded beauties, one to keep in mind for Christmas.
I've been a lifelong devotee of the jumble shop's charm, and while Anthea's selection is a touch more sophisticated, it still evokes that unmistakable thrill. I bought a particularly good quilt from her early this year, and it is rather ravishing.
I dig these guys, and I think they might find a place in your heart, too!
Who knows if this might be helpful, but a friend recently quoted a shocking sum for some alcove cupboards. While I always recommend finding freestanding cupboards you love (and can take with you), sometimes built-ins are the only solution. That’s when this company popped up on my Instagram feed, and I must admit, I’m intrigued. I can’t personally vouch for them yet, as I haven’t used their services, but they might be worth exploring.
(Semi) New Releases
When two big names collaborate, the results are always eagerly anticipated. And in the case of Rita Konig's fabric collection with Schumacher, the outcome was nothing short of spectacular. I had the pleasure of seeing the collection firsthand over drinks at Rita's home in September, and I can attest that the fabrics are delicious.
Kate Hawkins and Sarah McClean, the founders of CommonRoom, never cease to amaze. Their collections consistently stand out for their fantastically unique designs and bold use of colour. True to form, their new Mochaware Collection transforms rooms with their unmistakable touch of whimsy. When I received a box of samples, I was delighted by the playful incorporation of traditional mochaware patterns onto fabrics and wallpaper. Only these two could pull it off.
Bernie de Le Cuona founded her eponymous company in 1992, with an unwavering commitment to quality. When I was invited to experience the debut collection, LIFE—a blend of fashion and interiors —I was eager to see and feel some terrifically tangible delights. I wasn’t disappointed. The collection is a testament to thoughtful craftsmanship, with each piece serving as a handwoven token of exceptional quality. Frankly, I can't think of a more beautiful gift for Christmas.
Books -
I’ve already given my father’s book a shameless plug above, but here’s what else I’ve recently acquired for the Tat Library. If you happen to be one of those Libras, Scorpios, or Sagittarius types with a birthday looming, any of these titles will make a cracking gift. They’ve earned their place on our Christmas Book List, and I’d wager they’re far better than yet another scented candle.
Last but by no means least, I came across the project Social Spaces by photographer Alexander Christie. I adore how he captures these places—the overlooked beauty in spaces we all share. With my biggest concern for the future being the complete and utter breakdown of community, I probably idealise these scenes. Yet, like Casa Italiana in Farringdon, they are such vital pieces of our history, places worth holding onto and honouring.
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