Highlights of 21 exceptional artisans flourishing in Britain, according to top design and architectural professionals
In the realm of artisanal excellence, Britain continues to shine, with a plethora of talented individuals and companies contributing to the rich tapestry of decorative, architectural, and design work. Although the Telegraph Homes & Gardens' Top 100 list for 2021 remains unavailable, we delve into the works of some notable figures in related fields, as mentioned in various sources.
In the world of architecture and design, Frank Gehry stands out as a renowned innovator. Known for his groundbreaking designs such as the Guggenheim Bilbao and Walt Disney Concert Hall, Gehry's life and work are explored in depth by Paul Goldberger in his biography. Another notable entity is Mike & Maaike, an industrial design studio renowned for creating thoughtful experiences that have been featured at various design events and exhibitions.
The graphic design sphere is graced by the presence of Aaron James Draplin, whose work with Draplin Design Co. offers valuable insights into the creative process and graphic design philosophy, as detailed in his book "Pretty Much Everything."
Turning our attention to the realm of craftsmanship, Kevin Smith specializes in decorative and architectural pieces for conservation work, making him a go-to expert for those seeking an authentic touch. Alex Cottrell of Llangollen Joinery in the Welsh mountains is another master craftsman, producing immaculate joinery and cabinetry.
Furniture-maker Rupert Bevan and his team are known for their inspiring experimentation with new materials, pushing the boundaries of traditional design. The Weald & Downland Living Museum in West Sussex serves as a valuable resource for traditional crafts knowledge and inspiration, providing a glimpse into the past while fostering creativity for the future.
The Garden Trellis Co is a company of passionate craftspeople, delivering top-end products that grace many a garden with their beauty. Johanna Welsh, a third-generation Suffolk pargetter, brings a fresh, handmade element to freehand ornamental plasterwork, ensuring each piece is a unique work of art.
Katrin Moye and George Bronwin are ceramicists known for creating exceptional pieces that showcase their expertise in the medium. Barley Studio in York is renowned for its stained glass artistry and skill, producing pieces that add a touch of elegance and colour to any space.
Torc Pots are experts in grand-scale planters, primarily contemporary in design, suitable for period homes. Tom Kennedy excels in the unusual craft of scagliola, a 17th-century plasterwork technique, offering a unique and refined approach to interior design.
The Cotswold Decorative Ironworkers provide bespoke pieces, including garden gates and railings, for 30 years, demonstrating their commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Carpenter and joiner Tom Rennie is exceptionally skilled, specializing in ash woodwork that adds a touch of elegance to any project.
Clunie Fretton is a versatile sculptor and carver, with a diverse portfolio and a knack for both new work and restoration. Wood artist and arborist Robert George creates one-off vessels and expressive furniture pieces using carefully sourced timber, while decorative artist Tess Newall's work often becomes the stand-out element of a project, adding a touch of magic to any space.
Marshall Brass is a trusted source for traditional ironmongery, with an old-school catalogue that offers a glimpse into the past. Hot Metal Toby is a steelworker who can create various structures like steps, walls, ponds, and pergolas, demonstrating the versatility of this medium. Jay Davey specializes in woven willow work, while Oxford Planters creates the best wooden planters and furniture for gardens, ensuring that outdoor spaces are as beautiful as indoor ones.
Lastly, Francis Stacey is a master of finishing, using traditional materials and techniques to create pieces that are a joy to behold. Soane Britain's pieces are beautifully crafted and made in the UK, striking a rare balance of feeling both unique and utterly timeless. Martha Freud's ceramics are simple, beautiful, and difficult to create, with exquisite inscriptions on see-through porcelain, adding a touch of sophistication to any space.
Darek Dziedzic of Unique Construction (London) is an expert at cabinetry, ensuring that each piece is a work of art in its own right. Christopher Lawler, Johnston Cave, and Libby Russell, Mazzullo + Russell, all praise the work of these talented individuals and companies, highlighting the wealth of talent Britain has to offer in the fields of architecture, design, and art.
In the realm of home-and-garden design, one might find the Garden Trellis Co, a company that creates exquisite products for gardens that are a sight to behold. On the other hand, Johanna Welsh, a third-generation Suffolk pargetter, adds a unique handmade touch to freehand ornamental plasterwork, making her pieces a unique addition to any lifestyle.
