The New Craftsmen started out as a pop-up shop two years ago, and now has a real home in a light and airy Arts & Crafts building at 34 North Row.

North Mayfair, once the neglected Cinderella of Mayfair, is having a real renaissance with Selfridge’s massive £300mm makeover,  the stunning new Beaumont Hotel and come spring British designer Erdem is opening its flagship shop on South Audley Street. Landlord Grosvenor Estates has big plans for this forgotten section of swanky Mayfair.

Leading the trend is The New Craftsmen which works exclusively with British crafts makers (75 at the moment) showcasing objects that are intrinsically tied to culture and place.

I spoke with Catherine Lock, one of the shops three founders, who explained to me that after working at Habitat and Sainsbury’s she felt there was a growing desire for shops with more provenance, meeting the makers.

“People are willing to pay a little more to get a little more, ” said the inspiring redhead.

Works can be bought off the shelf, ordered bespoke or individually commissioned.

I love these lights –  a collaboration between glasswares artist Michael Ruh  and mixed media embroidery designer Aimee Betts.

This cushion by textile designer Rose de Borman is fab. Lock thought de Borman would be happy to make a customised whimsical cushion for someone’s beloved pet. I started imagining my pug Antoinette having a new embroidered life as a unicorn.

These autumnal throws are made by Catarina Riccabona in her south London studio.

The perfect Christmas pressie for the culinary at heart – Potter Silvia K  uses the simple beauty of agrarian vessels as her starting point.

The fair lasts one day only. See you there.

November, 2014

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