What inspired you to start upcycling and why do you love it?
I love the transformation process, whether it is a caterpillar turning into a butterfly or an old cabinet into a beautiful, functional piece of art. I believe we all have a desire to transform the world around us, which in turn transforms us. My passion was to build a business centred on transformation, impacting both the objects I create and the people who use them. Furniture upcycling perfectly combines my passions for transformation, people, art, creativity, and vintage furniture.
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What is your favourite part of running your own design business?
There are no limitations or boundaries in creativity which gives me the licence to keep developing my art. I love that I get to choose the direction of the business and build it with the core values that are important to me. It gives me great contentment to use my creative gifts to help others explore and develop theirs through running community workshops and clubs.
Can you describe a typical day in your studio?
A typical day in my studio involves prepping furniture for transformation, designing bespoke artwork, packing and shipping, and handling email enquiries and orders. I also engage with the public about workshops and commissions, support club members, run workshops, photograph and stage finished pieces, and post on social media.
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What types of pieces do you usually work on, and why and what inspires your unique, geometric designs?
I work on various pieces mainly from the Mid-century era. I work on various pieces, drawing inspiration from nature's geometry and “Style Moderne” otherwise known as the Art Deco design movement. I believe my design ability is a God-given gift, and I take inspiration from the uniqueness in nature and the people I meet, which motivates me to create distinct designs in a world of mass-produced duplicates.
Could you share more about the featured piece? Including the colour choices, design patterns and the inspiration that influenced you to create this item?
This piece was challenging because it needed to complement an existing abstract artwork without competing with it. I had to adapt my signature style to be distinctive, yet not too busy. I allowed the size and style of the furniture to determine my choice in shapes, size and composition, while using a similar colour palette to the artwork. Fortunately, the jubilee range offered all the colours I needed. The acrylic handles and chrome feet were added to tie in with my client’s décor and add a contemporary look.
What do you enjoy about using Guild Lane products in your work?
I’m a colour junky and I’m always on the lookout for new and vibrant colours. This is what initially attracted me to Guild Lane paints. I find them a pleasure to use due to their smooth consistency and they give a good and even coverage. I also love that they come in the tiny 60ml glass bottles which are perfect when painting lots of small areas in many different colours. And last but not least, being a multipurpose paint means you can use them on all your creative projects.
Can you share what makes upcycled and repurposed goods a worthwhile investment and the unique benefits they offer?
Upcycled and repurposed goods create jobs, support the economy, and reduce landfill waste, all helping our environment. Painting and being creative is proven to be therapeutic, which relieves stress and encourages wellness. Purchasing a bespoke upcycled piece of furniture gives you something unique and personal for your home that can’t be bought on the high street Plus, it also allows the customer to be part of the design process, giving them more choice and a sense of achievement.
Where can people find your creations? Do you work on commission, sell online, in shops, or all of these?
I mainly work to commission and seldom have time to create stock pieces. I sell my work mainly through my website and open studio in Barnet, North London. I also sell my work through Etsy which has opened the door to many international sales.
Do you have any advice for aspiring upcyclers or makers?
For those who want to start a business, I would encourage you to develop your own signature style that will help you stand out from the crowd. Keep improving on the quality of your work, giving great attention to detail. This will help you to build a reputable and professional business.
Are there any exciting plans for the future you'd like to share?
I have so many different ideas of how I’d like to grow the business. I plan to create more wall art including murals and I’ve just been commissioned to create my first ever mural in a client’s bathroom. I’m in the very early stages of developing my homeware/interior range to include cushions, lampshades, wallpaper & possibly rugs but that’s something that will take time. I’ve also been asked by a previous client to create artwork that will be put onto the Hull of a Yacht. This is in the very early stages but I’m excited to see how it develops!
