DE S IGN CENTRE
For Russell Whitehead and Jordan Cluroe, the duo
behind 2LG Studio, renowned for its dynamic and colourful schemes, taking the time to produce custom pieces goes even further than simply commissioning an item to suit a purpose. “It can be really playful – a way to explore your identity and make a mark, but also, and perhaps more importantly, a way to create human contact and build relationships,” says Whitehead. “For us, it’s about actively engaging with a designer, a maker or a manufacturer. That in turn can lead to a fulfilling experience that helps you to grow.” Advice from the pair is to begin with a piece that can arrive when it arrives. “If you’re new to commissioning, start with a side table, a lamp or an occasional chair – something contained that will be a wonderful addition rather than a vital element that could hold up your whole project. This takes the pressure off, so you can enjoy and learn from the process. As you feel more confident, you can move onto larger items.”
“WITH ARTISANS AND
MANUFACTURERS CONSTANTLY DEVELOPING NEW TECHNIQUES, PROCESSES AND FINISHES, THE POSSIBILITIES HAVE BECOME ALMOST ENDLESS”
Client liaison is key, and, says Karen Howes, it’s
important that customers are as involved as much as they would like to be. Generate renders, drawings and samples in order to keep them updated, and remember to manage expectations. Similarly, internationally renowned interior designer, Samantha Todhunter says, “don’t assume anything and listen to your gut. A mistake can be expensive, so if something doesn’t feel right, act on it. Taking time over things is a good idea. We work in such a detail-oriented business that specifics can never be overlooked.” A highly collaborative project with Stark Carpet
proved to be runaway success for Taylor Howes. “We produced more than 50 bespoke rugs for the living and bedroom spaces in a super-prime rental development at Knightsbridge Gardens,” explains Howes. “These were characterful schemes, the colours of which we wove into the designs. The layouts were quite quirky, but this gave us the opportunity to use irregular shapes, which played with the asymmetry to great effect. We’ve worked with Stark for many years, so we’re always confident they’ll bring their extensive know-how and develop stunning rugs. Our clients were thrilled, and the job was completed in record time.”
-32-
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72
