Last but certainly not the least, our Advent campaign concludes with the talented Martino Gamper. Educated all over Europe and skilled in cabinetmaking, sculpture and product design, Gamper eventually settled in London, becoming a student of the esteemed Ron Arad at the Royal College of Art.
Presenting an 'exploration, invention and collaboration' of idiosyncratic hooks at the Michael Lett Gallery in Auckland for his 2019 Hookaloti exhibition, today Gamper highlights Brût's Wrought Iron Round Coat Hook. Offering uncomplicated practicality for the home, each hook works perfectly on its own, as much as it does in a group.
Additionally, capturing Gamper's sentiment is the pinewood Vintage Les Arcs Pentagon Table by Charlotte Perriand for the Les Arcs Ski Resort. Gamper reveals that "this table reminds me of the modernist mountain architecture I grew up with in the Italian Alps. A very simple yet elegant table."
Focussed on 'manipulating, yet still celebrating, the inherent beauty of the materials he works with,' British designer Mac Collins is informed by his European and Caribbean heritage. As the penultimate guest of this year's Advent campaign, Collins praises our exclusive Bed Linen collection.
"I chose the linen mostly because of its vivid intensity. I imagine the bedding to be immersive and engulfing. Bedding that you can get lost in," Collins proclaims. "I imagine the colour would create a stimulating and thought-provoking atmosphere to submerge yourself in while contemplating and speculating," he so splendidly summarises.
Our intricately crafted, Conran Shop-exclusive Bed Linen provides the perfect base for a refreshing night's sleep. Each piece is hand-selected and woven in Europe from top-quality linen, for a naturally breathable finish that stays cool and crisp in the summer and warming in the winter.
Remaining at the forefront of the global interior design industry for over 30 years, Veere Grenney is a designer who certainly knows his tastes. Honoured by House & Garden's 'Directory of 100 Leading Interior Designers' for the last seven years, Grenney is also considered one of Architectural Digest's 'Top 100.'
Recognising the importance of a good coffee to start his day right, Grenney proclaims that the Nanopresso Portable Espresso Machine is "bliss" during a freezing day on-site; "there's nothing nicer!" Easily transportable and completely self-sufficient, the machine is perfect for those who are often on the go.
The Conran Shop’s coffee offering has grown this year to encompass a range of products, from artisanal brewers to the perfect French press, complete with an assortment of independent coffees from only the best roasteries in the industry.
Emilia Wickstead's internationally acclaimed eponymous fashion house has established itself as the 'epitome of modern femininity' and is loved by royalty and celebrities. The London-based designer not only imagines clothes which effortlessly meet tradition with contemporary aesthetics, but is also a master entertainer.
Admitting that she loves "entertaining at home and serving cocktails on arrival," Wickstead hand-picks our newly launched collection of Outline Barware for festive tipples. "I love how chic these barware pieces look and feel - incredibly clean, and they look old world to me with a modern twist which I love," Wickstead confesses.
Continuing her expert hosting tips, Wickstead informs us that "a successful dinner party must always feel comfortable above everything else." Wickstead commends our exclusive collection of Cassini Wine Glasses, averring that she enjoys "setting a minimal table for guests where the glassware, therefore, plays a big part in being very elegant and comfortable."
Emiliano Salci is the creative force behind Milan-based architecture and design firm Dimorestudio. Adopting a unique approach to its projects, the studio aims to tell a story in its works, building an immersive experience through rich and colour-saturated spatial design.
Salci considers "great design" to be "memorable, meaningful and qualitative." Hailing Anna Castelli Ferrieri as one of the great "Masters of Design," Salci picks out the Componibili Smile as one of his favourites. Initially designed in 1968, the storage unit is today re-imagined by the Italian design manufacturer Kartell.
The designer also treasures the Eames House Bird by Charles and Ray Eames, Vico Magistretti's Carimate Chair, and the Tulip Chair by Eero Saarinen. Reflecting on his selection, Salci asserts, "I have an emotional bond with the chosen objects, for each holds a special place in my memory. They can be compared to long-time acquaintances, for I have 'known' them most of my life."
As one of the leading creative forces behind the 'cult' Parisian concept store Colette, Sarah Andelman refreshed and reformed contemporary retail for a good two decades. Since the destination shop closed its doors in 2017, Andelman has offered her creativity and curiosity to her consulting agency Just An Idea; and briefly to The Conran Shop's Advent campaign.
Finding happiness in Hoptimist's Bumble Figurine like many, Andelman announces, "I always loved this little figurine, I think it instantly makes you happy!" Alluding to Sir Terence's signature Conran Blue hue, she continues, "this special colour reminds me of something..."
Continuing her recommendations, Andelman also selects Trusco's Hip Roof Toolbox, adoring its "vivid touch of red" and rocking the boat slightly by concurring that "it's fun to use for something unexpected: anything but tools." Completing Andelman's list is D.S. & Durga's Coriander Eau de Parfum; "a beautiful bottle, and a perfume which makes you travel far, far away!"
Based in Amsterdam, Italian design duo Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin of Formafantasma explore experimental materials to investigate the relationship between tradition and culture. Using research-based practices, the studio bridges the gap between craft, industry, object and user, and has been represented across global institutions such as the MoMA, V&A and most recently, Serpentine Galleries with an important solo show.
As proud owners of the 685 Elmetto Table Lamp, Formafantasma is enamoured by the light's clean and sculptural 1976 design; "we have had this beautiful archetypal lamp for years, casting light every night on our daily supper. Everyone should have it!"
Another firm favourite with the duo is our Aēsop collection, in particular, the hand balms. Helping to get the designers through a cold winter "while playing snowball," each balm provides nourishment and hydration, boasting deliciously intoxicating aromas.
Characterised by her immense passion for materiality and colour, avant-garde designer Bethan Laura Wood's work has appeared in many esteemed locations across the globe. Often seeking to reflect the geographical or material context of her projects, Wood is drawn towards objects that might be considered cultural conduits.
This passion extends to Artek's iconic ColoRing Stool 60, a design that celebrates 100 years of strong diplomatic relations between Finland and Japan. Wood remarks that the stool offers "a fresh playful addition to the home, and celebrates the possibilities of combining traditions from different countries to make new and exciting works."
As a "big lover of folk art and folk craft," Wood is similarly taken by Alexander Girard's Wooden Dolls. Designed by Girard for his Santa Fe home, the collection is inspired by his extensive collections of folk art and artefacts, and was eventually transferred to the Vitra Design Museum alongside other pieces from the Girard estate.
Charles Zana, a graduate of the National School of Fine Arts in Paris, has offered his unique architectural vision to both private and public interiors over the past three decades. Materializing a concept where 'classicism is revisited and united with emotion,' Zana proves a trusted source for optimal gift-picking.
"I like the classic aesthetic fonts of these New Yorker products," Zana declares about our alluring and delightfully scented MALIN+GOETZ selection, perfect for the festive season and beyond. Founded in 2004, the brand is a fusion of Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz's corresponding passions for beauty and design.
Zana made the most of this year's lockdown through rediscovering his love for gardening, and remarks that Niwaki's Garden Tool collection is "both traditional and very contemporary." He also praises Vico Magistretti's sleek Carimate Chair, which fascinates him with its lacquered beech frame and beautifully handcrafted seat.
Established architect and designer India Mahdavi infuses 'happiness and colour' into each of her projects. The talent behind many a restaurant, hotel and retail concept, each of her ventures is defined by her signature colour palette and fulfilled using intricate, honed techniques.
Testing her abilities elsewhere during this tumultuous year, Mahdavi reflects that lockdown has allowed "such perfect time to make cakes." Noting that "we are all spending more time at home and learning to bake is soothing," she recommends the sleek yet powerful Hand Mixer from Dualit.
Like our other creative friends, Mahdavi also takes an interest in our "joyful and bright" Glassware collection, playfully remarking that it is "very useful these days to be able to recognize one's glass." Useful indeed, this fine assortment is available in a myriad of colourful finishes, each crafted using intricate techniques.
Ivorypress' treasured publisher and art collector Lady Elena Foster is a woman of many talents, having devoted her time to education while serving as a council and advisory board member for several esteemed organisations.
Lady Foster's matchless world view allows the most trusted recommendation for the festive season, which is Feldspar's Cobalt Bone China collection. Lady Foster avers that it is "ideal for big parties and informal lunches or dinners, inside and outside a house," declaring that "it is atemporal, a classic in any country house or beach house this Christmas."
Lady Foster also cherishes our exclusive collection of "subtle, cheerful and elegant" Glassware, equally ideal for "Christmas celebrations and beyond" as well as our assortments of Clocks. On the "terrific collection," Lady Foster concludes that "any of these clocks look cool and classic in a bedroom, office, living room or kitchen; a clock forever."
Saluted as the 'most influential designer of his generation,' London-based Marc Newson has worked across an array of fields, from technology to luxury goods. The recipient of countless design awards, Newson also received a CBE rank from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Selecting "an iconic Castiglioni design," Newson recalls his own take on the "whimsical and cheerful" Snoopy Table Lamp by the Castiglioni brothers, which Jony Ive and himself re-imagined in a red version for the 2013 (RED) auction they curated, asserting the design's timelessness and adaptability.
Dating back to 1967, the characterful Snoopy's creators were informed by Charles M. Schulz's beloved Peanuts cartoon. Offering direct light from a distinctively shaped shade, the lamp rests atop a stunning Carrara marble base, destined to delight all generations.
Founder of Milan-based womenswear brand La DoubleJ, JJ Martin sources the finest vintage fabrics to produce her exclusive fashion line. Seeking textiles with a history, the brand embraces modernisation, imposing JJ's distinctive style on every piece to create a vivacious homeware range that remains truthful to Martin’s enduring aesthetics.
JJ Martin hails The Conran Shop's remarkable collection of wooden chopping boards as "the fail-safe gift. There is not a single person who doesn't enjoy them." Evoking times of socialising with ease, JJ proclaims, "I love to serve my Italian aperitivo on a big cutting board, so everyone just goes to town; chopping all the cheese, olives and focaccia up as we drink our cocktails."
Another item featuring on Martin’s wish list this Christmas is Anna Castelli Ferrieri’s Componibili Smile storage module, "an Italian design classic." Originally designed in 1968, the bold and characterful drawer set is crafted from a moulded plastic cylinder with understated and functional lines, available with a variety of playful expressions.
London-based artist, illustrator, ceramist and designer Luke Edward Hall certainly isn't new to the role of a style guide. Writing for the Financial Times, Hall consults his readers on all things interiors. Known for his strong instincts with colour and playful, romantic work, he isn't afraid to make bold decisions, and help you to do the same.
It is no wonder, therefore, that Hall is drawn to the bright colours and graphic style of our Clock collection. Highlighting TWEMCO's yellow QT-30 Flip Clock, the artist appreciates "the minimal look of this clock very much! The bright yellow colour is fantastic."
Hall is similarly struck by our seasonal baubles. Handcrafted from glass and finished with painted detailing, our Christmas Tree Decorations offer intricate detail and an element of whimsy to any festive scheme. As Hall declares, "one's Christmas tree should never be too serious. I love the stick of butter in particular!"
Founding her eponymous label in 2015, Uruguayan designer Gabriela Hearst has rapidly grown the brand to become a globally recognised leading fashion house, with a strong commitment to environmentally conscious production. Recently, Hearst's fashion prowess has resulted in her being appointed Creative Director of Chloé.
As a consequence of her love of the outdoors growing up on her family's ranch in Paysandú, Hearst still loves to stay connected to nature, even from her New York base. Recommending Niwaki's Garden Tool collection, Hearst proclaims "they would be a great gift for my husband, who likes all sorts of tools."
A lover of music, Hearst is also a fan of Bang & Olufsen's Limited Edition Beoplay H9 Wireless Headphones, for their "impeccable sound and great design." Innovatively designed by Jakob Wagner, the superior headphones are covered in soft lambskin, memory foam and cowhide leather for superior comfort.
Educated at the National School of Fine Arts in Paris, designer Hervé van der Straeten is a man of refined tastes. Offering his aptitude for furniture, lighting and accessory design, he now shines a light on our exclusive and limited-edition Tulip Table in Sequoia.
"I actually have one at home! I like its timeless design by Eero Saarinen that matches every style," van der Straeten declares. It is clear to see how "this table became iconic," maturing into an emblem of the mid-century and establishing the future of table design.
The Conran Shop premiered the Tulip in the extraordinary Brazilian granite earlier this year, in close collaboration with Knoll. The natural stone's fusion of brown, black and white hues presents mesmerising striations like those of a canyon, furthering the allure of this matchless piece.
As Editor-in-chief of the renowned House & Garden magazine, Hatta Byng understands what goes into the styling of a considered home. Working for the publication for nearly 15 years, Byng embodies a wealth of knowledge and expertise, further informed by her background in History of Art and Architecture.
Casting her experienced eye over our offering, Byng champions The Conran Shop's exceptional mouth-blown Glassware collection, of which "you can never have too many to choose from." Available in a range of hues, including a bold colour-block collection, the "beautiful glass tumblers" offer the perfect finishing touch to a festive table.
Amongst Byng's other Conran Shop favourites are our exclusive Christmas Tree Decorations. Tasked with decorating a tree "three times the size" of anything she's ever had before for the first Christmas at her country house, we are positive that our eclectic assortment perfectly meets Byng's need for baubles which are "fun, quirky or beautiful."
Having offered his words of wisdom to distinguished publications such as Vogue and The Sunday Times Style, today Raven Smith extends his expert opinion to us. Proclaimed as the 'tastemaker's tastemaker,' London-based Smith is a best-selling author and cultural commentator.
"When I was younger, I was obsessed with my Michael Jackson VHS, a compilation of his greatest videos," Smith states. Selecting GPO's Brooklyn Boombox, he confesses "in Black or White, Jackson and Macaulay Culkin rap on the steps of a New York brownstone with this exact boombox. I need it, and so do you."
Bringing you the nostalgia of eighties sound with an enhanced modern take, the portable speaker boasts Bluetooth connectivity and a top-loading CD player, as well as DAB and DAB+ radio. Keeping in touch with its retro roots, an integrated cassette player offers recording functionality and a digital tape counter.
Martina Mondadori founded Cabana magazine in 2014 to inspire the world through rich colours, fabrics, patterns and design. Informed by the 'living museum' of European aesthetics, the renowned publication seeks to celebrate intimacy and warmth in interior design and decorative arts, with exclusive photography and imagery.
Thus, Mondadori is a big fan of the Bellhop Table Lamp, perfect for lighting up cosy corners of the home this Christmas. Initially commissioned for the opening of London's new Design Museum, Mondadori is drawn to the portable lamp's sumptuous shape and texture, offering a glare-free and warm light across five colourful finishes.
Additionally, Mondadori, who "re-discovered the pleasures of baking" during this year's lockdown, recommends the Portable Blenders by BlendJet. Perfect for making your favourite desserts, shakes and toppings on the go, the six-blade self-cleaning machine allows for ultimate convenience and a truly fresh taste, wherever you are this festive season.
There is nobody better to lift our spirits on the weekend than the beloved Claudia Winkleman. One of Britain's most respected television presenters, Winkleman has also devoted her time to charity and radio work, film critiquing and journalism.
For photographing the festive season, Winkleman proposes "one of the greatest presents," the Polaroid Now Camera. Her characterful instructions are: "take a photo, flap it in the air (I'm not quite sure why we do this) and you have a fantastic moment from the night. Kids freak out over them, and this is deeply satisfying."
Comprising Winkleman's other festive essentials are the Aēsop Hand Wash, "genuinely the greatest on earth; every time I use it, I do a little star jump," and the Eames House Birds, "because there's nothing else like them." Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, "the answer in the run-up to Christmas can be summed up in one word: caffeine. A Coffee Maker is always excellent."
A 'master of form, material and space,' as hailed by Wallpaper*, Pierre Yovanovitch is a true arbiter of taste. Finding inspiration in the blending of historical architecture and contemporary furniture, Yovanovitch's coveted aesthetic is centred around his love of art and travel.
In a year when these two passions have been a little less present in all our lives, Yovanovitch turns to books instead. The esteemed designer is "always picking up books from various places." He declares that the "well-designed Assouline Books are a nice way to see the world from the comfort of home, especially in these times of confinement."
Additionally, Bang & Olufsen's Limited Edition Beoplay H9 Wireless Headphones are a must for the frequent-flying interior designer, particularly as music is a key source of inspiration. Yovanovitch is also a fan of "the striking yet refined shape" of Michele De Lucchi's Plissé Kettle. "As someone whose design career was informed by my former career in fashion, it's nice to see this crossover in form," he reminisces.
Guided by the principle 'classic with a twist,' Sir Paul Smith certainly knows how to pick the perfect gift. Revered for his services to fashion, his design expertise is limitless, as showcased in his collaborations with the likes of Anglepoise, Caran d'Ache and Land Rover.
Having crossed paths with both Vico Magistretti and Fritz Hansen over his illustrious career, it is no surprise that Sir Paul highlights the luscious Carimate Chair. "Anyone that's seen my office will tell you I absolutely do not need another chair, but I'd be very happy to have this one!" he reveals.
The Carimate celebrates a century of Magistretti's design prowess, re-launched in a limited and numbered edition of 999. First brought to the UK by our late founder Sir Terence Conran in 1962, this enhanced version combines a responsibly sourced beech frame with a handwoven flax linen seat.
Today we turn to the in-demand interior and furniture designer Francis Sultana for his festive recommendations. The idiosyncratic London-based designer seamlessly fuses art with design, evidenced throughout his eponymous studio, which is currently celebrating its 11th year.
Highlighting Sir Terence Conran's Brimstone Side Table, Sultana believes the piece epitomises our founder's taste; "classic, uncluttered with a love of craftsmanship and honest materials." Reflecting on the magnitude of our late founder, Sultana notes that "we were all so sad to hear of Sir Terence's passing. He was such a hugely influential figure for British design, retail and hospitality."
Sultana also compliments our Art Deco-informed Outline Barware, which makes an excellent gift, as well as our exclusive assortment of Christmas Tree Decorations. Sultana argues that "there is always room for colour and kitsch on a tree... you just need to know where to draw the line!"
We kick off our 2020 Advent campaign with none other than the esteemed British designer Anya Hindmarch. Founding her eponymous business in 1987, Hindmarch became the first accessories designer to hold an on-schedule show at London Fashion Week, and has also amassed multiple awards for her services to British fashion.
Enlisting Aman Khanna's Claymen to make her smile this season, Hindmarch picked the sculptures for their "craft and simplicity." This hand-shaped collection is inspired by human emotion, each piece leaving the studio with a unique expression.
Among Hindmarch's other favourites are Sir Terence Conran's Michelin-inspired Hector Bibendum Table Lamp, Tobar's playful Chattering Teeth, which sit on her office desk, and the Bellhop Table Lamp, whose portability illuminates her country escapes. Lastly, Hindmarch recommends the Conran-exclusive Original Peanut Butter from Jackpot; "like a work of art."