Welcome to Sharland England, a personal project I’ve been working on for almost two years, that has captured my heart entirely. Having worked in fashion and broadcasting my whole career, it’s thrilling to finally put into practice my greatest joy: interior design.
Sharland England is a collection of sustainably sourced hand-crafted rattan, lovingly re-upholstered antiques and hand-made cushions. The idea was actually inspired by my chic great-granny, Marjorie Sharland. She lived in Buenos Aires and had impeccable interiors taste. She was incredibly mischievous for a Victorian – she always ordered her pudding first at any restaurant, so my mum says! I wanted some of that relaxed attitude and nostalgia towards entertaining to transpire.
Growing up in the English countryside, our home was peppered with antique chintz, rattan, cane and patina’d wooden furniture. I was surrounded by the warmth, tradition and nostalgia these pieces evoked. They honestly made my eyes twinkle, even as a child, when I walked into a room. It was as if glamorous stories and scenes from the past, just floated up from them.
These childhood memories inspired the identity and aesthetic at the core of Sharland.
During the first lockdown, I began sketching. I designed each piece of rattan, and the fabric, which is printed in England. Watching the talented artisans and craftspeople bring each item to life, was transfixing. They use techniques and skills passed down through generations, which gives each piece a little history and soul. We’re actually making a video of it all, so you can watch the processes too.
From a practical standpoint, I wanted everything relatively small and versatile: perfect if you’re living in a flat. The console table can go in an entryway, or be used as a cocktail bar, or a dressing table…whatever you want really. The bench fits nicely at the end of your bed, or below the stairs, or works as a coffee table. Modern homes take on many roles now, so versatility was key. You can see more of the pieces on Sharland England’s Instagram here.
The items are all made by hand, and take time, so numbers are very limited. Do sign up to the Sharland England newsletter here, to be first to shop pre-orders. We will ship internationally too! I am extremely lucky and grateful to have such kind and loyal readers, I hope you like this new venture as much as I do.
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