At this time of year with long nights and winter weather, many people look again at ways to introduce additional light in to their interiors, whether by adding to or changing their choices of lighting or by considering adding an additional mirror to their home. In the 18th century, girandoles were specific forms of mirrors with candle arms located in front of the mirror plates, the idea being to reflect the light back in to the room for maximum effect... read more

The Designs of Jean RoyèreContinuing our series of blog posts on important designers featured in our collection, this instalment concentrates on the work of Jean Royère (1902-1981). French-born Royère was an internationalist, studying classics at Cambridge and initially pursuing a career in banking and the import and export business. It was only at the age of 29, in 1931, that Royère began to work in the field that was to define the rest of his life, taking a job with... read more

With every new generation of antiques buyers comes a generation of interior decorators and designers who redefine the way that many people choose to furnish their homes. In the past, figures like John Fowler, of Colefax and Fowler, were hugely influential, creating interiors that are still talked about today. Fowlers Yellow Room, created for Nancy Lancaster in Brook Street, London, is perhaps the most famous of all of his interiors created for one of the most important clients of the... read more