In this episode of By The Furnace, Danielle Colliers sits down with Neil Thomas, Managing Director of Gainsborough, one of the UK’s last remaining craft weaving houses and a true powerhouse in the textile industry. With over 30 years experience in Jacquard woven textiles, all spent at Gainsborough, Neil brings unparalleled expertise to the conversation. Having worked in every department from manufacturing to design and sales, he has a deep understanding of how to turn client visions into reality.

Having held the Royal Warrant on behalf of Gainsborough since 2004, Neil shares fascinating insights into the world of woven textiles, touching on a number of prestigious projects, from Stately Homes and Royal Residences to Museums and Galleries. His passion for historical reproductions blends seamlessly with his interest in cutting-edge designs and innovative yarns, making Gainsborough a unique player in the industry.

In this episode, Neil and Danielle discuss the incredible versatility of textiles, exploring how Gainsborough’s craftsmanship has been featured in iconic interior projects, major media productions, fashion and even luxury automotives.

Tune in to discover how the intricate art of weaving continues to evolve, blending age-old techniques with modern innovation to create extraordinary textiles.

https://gainsborough.co.uk/

Captured by Alun Callender.

In this captivating episode of By the Furnace, host Danielle Collier welcomes Tim Butcher, Co-Founder of Fromental, a luxury wallpaper brand celebrated for its fusion of traditional art and modern innovation. Danielle dives into Tim’s journey to creating one-of-a-kind hand-painted wallcoverings, drawing from his background as a trained weaver and scholar of Decorative Art, particularly Chinoiserie.

Listeners will gain an inside look at Tim’s creative philosophy, where embracing constraints becomes a catalyst for innovation. With a unique approach to design that blends creativity with the rules of technology, Tim has been at the forefront of Fromental’s success, creating wallcoverings that push boundaries and evoke strong emotional reactions. He discusses his love for Chinese wallpaper, sharing how his time in China deepened his appreciation for the medium’s rich heritage and timeless appeal.

Tim also discusses running a business with his partner, Lizzie, offering insight into how they balance their professional and personal lives. He reflects on the art of collaboration, the inspiration behind Fromental’s bold business endeavours, and how traditional art forms like Chinoiserie continue to influence the brand’s evolving designs.

In addition, Tim provides inspirational advice for those entering the industry and shares the wisdom he would give to his younger self. With a hint to upcoming projects, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of luxury design and the creative forces driving Fromental’s continued innovation.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation between Danielle Collier and Tim Butcher, where art, craftsmanship, and creativity meet to bring a room to life.

Watch the full video podcast on Youtube: https://youtu.be/DfzN53p40Jw

https://fromental.co.uk/

Captured by Alun Callender.

In this engaging episode of By The Furnace, host Danielle Collier welcomes Neil Wesley, a talented designer at Collier Webb, is known for his innovative approach to lighting and furniture design, continuously working to carefully strike the balance of form and functionality. Forming an integral part of Collier Webb’s bespoke service, Neil works closely with clients to translate rough ideas and themes into tangible designs, as well as bring fully formed concepts to life. 

In this episode we dive into how to navigate the challenges of making each piece work seamlessly through a variety of traditional and cutting-edge craft processes. Listeners will gain insight into Neil’s creative process, which thrives on the fluidity of hand sketches, allowing ideas to flow and evolve. Beyond his role as a designer, he is a true innovator, consistently pushing the boundaries of design with each project he undertakes.

Neil recounts several meticulous projects that stand out in his career, highlighting the intricate problem-solving and multiple approaches the team employs to meet the high standards of some of the world’s most renowned interior designers. He also explores the integration of 3D printing alongside, and in some cases in place of, traditional craft methods, detailing how this technology can resolve technical difficulties and sometimes bridge the gap between a client’s vision and product creation.

Captured by Alun Callender.

In this illuminating episode of By The Furnace, Danielle Collier sits down with David Arratoon, the visionary Design Director of Collier Webb. David takes us through his generational journey into the world of design, sharing the moments and influences that shaped his career.

Listeners will get an exclusive look into Collier Webb’s innovative product development processes, where the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge techniques creates exceptional lighting and furniture pieces.

David discusses the importance of mastering the crafts, materials and intricate processes behind each design, shedding light on how a deep understanding of these elements elevates the final product. With captivating anecdotes, he shares his experience collaborating with clients to create bespoke pieces that reflect unique visions and functional needs.

Dive into the creative process behind the new Cedric Collection, as David reveals the inspirations, challenges, and processes that brought these designs to life. From initial discoveries to the final product, discover how David’s passion for design continues to drive Collier Webb’s success in the world of luxury interiors.

In this episode, Danielle delves into Adam’s journey into pattern making as he shares his lifelong passion for craftsmanship, from sculpting to pottery.

With a vast array of products, including bespoke and one-of-a-kind pieces, in his back catalogue, Adam explores the processes and skills involved in pattern making, as well as discussing what to expect when working with a Pattern Maker, particularly within the Luxury Lighting Industry for Interior Designers. He reflects on his favourite projects from his ten years at Collier Webb and offers advice for those aspiring to pursue a career in this specialised craft.

Join us to learn from Adam's wealth of experience and gain insight into the art of pattern making.

Captured by Alun Callender.