Soane, Britannia!

Soane Britain is a brand that prides itself on its appreciation of British craftsmanship. Their timeless furniture pieces are handcrafted in workshops across the UK, ensuring a level of quality that is unparalleled, making them a worthy investment for any discerning collector or designer. The brand's founder, Lulu Lytle, has been the driving force behind this appreciation since its founding in 1997, demonstrating her love of traditional skills and techniques in every piece the brand produces.

It is not only the production of these pieces that is important to Soane, but also the preservation of the skills and techniques that are involved in their creation. In fact, Lulu's passion for preservation has even led her to save the last rattan workshop in Britain, ensuring that these traditional methods remain alive for generations to come. Rattan is a unique material known for its strength and flexibility, and it has a rich history in British design, having been used in furniture-making for centuries. This sustainable material is both durable and flexible, making it an ideal choice for furniture design.

The rattan Ripple console table, a 'Hero' of the collection, is a prime example of Soane's rattan work. Its elegant curves and subtle details are beautifully crafted and available in a number of in-house finishes or you may specify a custom colour. The table's organic form is inspired by the undulating ripples of a sumptuous fabric draped over a table, and it is a testament to the brand's commitment to creating pieces that are both functional and visually striking. Whether it's used as a statement piece in an entryway or as a functional surface in a sitting room, the Ripple console table is sure to be a conversation starter and a versatile addition to your space.

The Venus chair is another iconic piece of the collection that showcases the versatility and beauty of rattan. The chair is made of a complex cane frame with trussed joints and artistic accents at the feet to support the shell-like seat. It is available with a rattan or upholstered seat. The chair is not only visually stunning, but also incredibly comfortable, making it a perfect for any interior.

But Lulu's creativity and expertise extend beyond rattan. The Rivoli cabinet, leather-wrapped and featuring brass legs, is a spectacular example of Soane's commitment to excellence in materials and design. This piece is a true showstopper, perfect for a grand stately foyer or a contemporary bedroom. The cabinet, which is inspired by a 1950s design, is expertly crafted from wood and then wrapped in high-quality leather by workshops located in the heart of Suffolk. The resulting piece is not only stunning and visually impressive, but it is also incredibly durable and long-lasting. In fact, it is sure to become a cherished family heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation.

Soane Britain and Lulu Lytle are true pioneers in the world of bespoke interior design. The dedication to preserving traditional techniques and materials while embracing contemporary style is truly inspiring. In addition, Soane's commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices is exemplary, ensuring that their pieces not only look good but also do good for the environment.

Image sources:

Cover | FT

Ripple, Venus and Rivoli | Soane Britain

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