Homegirl London pays homage to Annabel Perrin. She’s the surface pattern designer bringing bold mid century modern creations into your home. Annabel is inspired by British architecture – structures, patterns, features and light reflections. Her geometric designs are available on cotton fabrics which have been digitally printed to enhance the vibrant colours. These patterns also feature on cushions, tea towels, fine bone china mugs and upcycled furniture (footstools). Annabel’s products are not only inspired by Britain but they are also made in Britain. I caught up with her to find out more.
Fabric Selection
Meet Annabel Perrin
Annabel Perrin studied Textiles at Manchester School of Art. Following a couple of internships with independent design companies in London and Nottinghamshire, she returned to the same university to complete a Masters in Design. Starting up her own venture was always the plan after her Masters so during this time she got to work on her business plan and the all-important first collection.
Annabel Perrin
The business was officially born in February 2013 and she couldn’t be more delighted. Annabel tells me – “I’m proud to put my name to the textiles and homeware I create. The designs are eye-catching and cheerful. Because I have the final say over the manufacturing process, I can ensure that my products are made locally in Britain and not mass-produced.”
Lamp Shade
Annabel is lucky enough to work from home in her studio – “I’m located in Manchester and its perfect. I’m surrounded by an eclectic urban landscape that continually inspires me.” She works on her own and outsources fabric printing, cushion, and mug making to local companies.
Tea Towels
Being her own boss suits Annabel down to the ground – “I love the creative freedom of working for myself. I have so many different roles within the business (designing, making, marketing, admin and product development). Each day is totally different which is very exciting!”
Cushion
Annabel Perrin Collection
Annabel describes her design style – “My work is heavily influenced by mid-century design (in particular the 30s, 50s and 70s) but I add a contemporary twist. I still refer back to the great 1950s textile designers such as Marian Mahler and Lucienne Day. Their designs are the most inventive I’ve seen, with bold motifs and contrasting colours. I have a graphical, geometric style and I’m confident with colour. I often incorporate a vivid shade (or two) to make a design look particularly striking.”
Cushion Selection
There are three collections so far – Architecture, Spectrum and Promenade. You can buy these designs in 100% heavyweight cotton fabric which is ideal for curtains, blinds, light upholstery and soft furnishings. Annabel has already upcycled some footstools in the fabric and made cushions that are ready to purchase. You can also buy these designs on tea towels and Mugs.
Fine Bone China Mugs
Architecture: This was Annabel’s first collection and is named after its architectural influences. Annabel tells me – “I am generally inspired by British architecture and locations. The wealth of architectural styles in Britain means that I’m never short of inspiration. I love the patterns that can be seen in buildings, whether it’s in the structure or brickwork or the reflections and changing light in glass windows. Alongside this, I am keen to learn about the past histories of a landmark or its potential for the future. Often this influences a new strand in my design work.”
Architecture Design Cushion
Spectrum: This collection is a continuation of the architecture theme with slightly brighter colours.
Spectrum Design Cushion
Promenade: This is the newest collection, launching in March 2014. It’s inspired by the nostalgia of past British holidays, faded photographs and beach fun.
Promenade Design Cushion
Annabel also makes an upcycled collection – “I regularly visit antique centres, vintage markets and second-hand shops for further inspiration. Sometimes I’ll even come back with a chair to upcycle in my latest fabric.”
Upcycled Footstool
Buy Annabel Perrin Products
You can buy Annabel’s products from her website Annabel Perrin. Price guide: Fabrics £50-60, Floor Cushions £120, Cushions £40-45, Fine Bone China Mugs £10-15, Tea Towels £12 and Upcycled Seating £100-200.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Annabel Perrin and Brian Law Photography. Thanks: Annabel Perrin.
