We are always eager to support those who practise handmade traditions. Whether it’s supporting local UK based artisans, or discovering makers from around the globe, we think it’s important to retain these cultural, time-honoured skills so that they can continue to be passed down through the generations.
Our trusted lampshade maker is one such partner dedicated to keeping their craft alive.
Tim, the company’s founder, created his family-run business in 1993 and, from the very beginning, was intent on bringing handmade lighting to a wider market. Over time, the appetite for Tim’s meticulously made lampshades grew, as did the business, but crafting by hand remained at its core.
Jennifer, who has been one of the company’s resident artisans for 14 years, reveals more about the business and how G&G’s shades are created. “We are a small yet mighty team who make lampshades in the coastal county of Dorset. Every one of the shades we craft for Graham and Green has a frame that’s powder coated in white first. Next, the fabric is cut to size before the edges of the material are rolled around the frame by hand to produce a precise, high-quality finish.”
It’s well-known in the design world that opting for a palette of neutrals and natural materials in the bedroom will have you feeling calm and relaxed – and, speaking from experience, we couldn’t agree more. Bring textures such as raffia, rattan and exposed timber into your room to create that outdoors-in feel, and blend them with cosy blankets, greenery and subtle pops of accent colours with home accessories such as candles and cushions.
Persuading the body and mind to sleep means calming all the senses, so tapping into the powers of aromatherapy is key. Invest in your downtime with favourite home fragrances and gently scented candles to really help you unwind.
Being mindful of ways to take the pressure off our planet is a key consideration at G&G. So, we aim to work alongside makers that are just as thoughtful when it comes to sustainability. Jennifer tells us more about their eco-friendly considerations: “We’re always reusing, recycling and keeping any leftover components, such as fabric off-cuts, as minimal as we can. We also source our components from the UK and Europe to keep our carbon footprint down as much as possible.”
