Shop spotlight on Barker and Stonehouse. I visited their Battersea branch in the iconic and historic Candle Factory on York Road. This is much more than a furniture shop; it’s a theatrical production that inspires your des res. Pull up a front-row seat from their offering of Ercol sofas, Italian leather sofas, which must have a distressed leather armchair. The dining room table and chairs are to be applauded, and the bedroom sets are real show-stoppers. With an eclectic mix of styles ranging from contemporary through to vintage, industrial, mid-century modern, folk, rustic and reclaimed, this store does have it all.
Battersea Shop Interiors
This Northern-born empire has been in business since 1946. It was founded by two RAF men – Charles Barker and Alex Stonehouse and is run today by Charles’ son James Barker. They are the largest independent family-run furniture retailer in the UK with nine stores and an extensive online offering. You’ll be safe because they’ve cultivated strong relationships with the prestigious designers and manufacturers they stock. This benefits you because they have extensive knowledge of the products they sell and can tell you every detail!
See Inside the Barker and Stonehouse Store
I’ll concentrate on the Battersea store, which is very impressive and worth a visit. The shop is set in the former Candle Factory on York Road, a stunning warehouse dating back to 1830. They’ve been sympathetic to the restoration of this building by retaining many of the original features. Take time to admire the expansive arched windows, exposed pipework, industrial fittings and bare brick walls. As you enter through the doors, you are greeted by a union jack decorated Morris Minor car piled high with furniture and home accessories, giving you a taste of what’s in-store.
Union Jack Morris Minor Display
The 25,000-square-foot store is located over two floors with inspirational room sets, so it’s a great place to pick up interior design ideas. On the ground level, you’ll find designer lights dangling from the ceiling, rolled-out rugs and bright cushions scattered on the sumptuous sofas. Make sure you visit the candle section, which is dedicated to the Farris Candle Studio, a subsidiary of the original owners of this building.
Ground Floor
If you’re a lover of vintage industrial pieces, head for the Timothy Oulton Studio, where you’ll find gym lockers, chests and battered brown leather sofas plush armchairs. Make sure you venture upstairs for the beds and bedroom furniture, the Natuzzi section and the Social Fuel Café.
Bedroom Furniture
With a car park, click-and-collect service, in-store refreshments and toilets, you can easily spend a few hours as you browse the extensive collections.
View the Barker and Stonehouse Collection Online
For those of you who don’t live in London or in the North, where their other eight stores are based, you’ll be pleased to know they have a comprehensive website. Some brands stocked include – Ercol, B&B Italia, Hulsta, Kartell, Ligne Roset and Parker Knoll, which sit alongside eco designers like Thomas Bina. James has selected five pieces to give you an idea of what’s available online.
The Lola Three Seater Sofa is super stylish and compact. With the blue and grey patchwork fabric, high buttoned back and tapered wooden legs, this is undoubtedly comfy plus very cool. The measurements are 95cm high, 182cm wide and 82cm deep – £999. This design also comes as a two-seater and armchair – £499-715.
Lola Three-Seater Sofa
The Hendricks Ginger Console has character and is full of rustic charm combined with eco credentials. This UK exclusive has been handcrafted by sustainable furniture designer – Thomas Bina. He’s used a combination of reclaimed and sustainably sourced timbers like peroba and walnut to create his unique pieces. The measurements are 67cm high, 200cm wide and 36cm deep – £1279.
Hendricks Ginger Console
This Jorge Workbench is certainly different if you’re after an exciting desk for your office. Crafted from bleached pine, it features two drawers for storage. This would also work as an additional countertop in a rustic kitchen setting; I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. The measurements are 67cm high, 200cm wide and 36cm in depth – £999.
Jorge Workbench
If you’re yearning for a slice of country chic for your dining room, this Salisbury Table and Bench will satisfy you. Made from solid European rustic oak, the dining table features natural cracks and splits, which adds to the character. Pair it with the bench so you can enjoy informal family gatherings with your patio doors slung wide open while pretending you’re in the South of France. The table comes in four size options – £929-1239. The bench comes in three sizes – £479-639.
Salisbury Table and Bench
Treat yourself to this dreamy Dakota Bed Frame. It’s beautiful and chunky with leather upholstery for a contemporary feel. If you lift the slats, you’ll find storage space which is a big bonus for those living in a small city apartment. It comes in double, king and super king sizes – £1999-2229.
Dakota Bed Frame
Do make time to visit the Battersea store, which is right by the river Thames. Alternatively, enjoy shopping online wherever you may be!
Visit the Barker and Stonehouse Shop
Battersea Shop Exterior
Website: Barker and Stonehouse
Address: 100 York Road, Battersea, London SW11 3RD
Near: The nearest station is Clapham Junction with a ten-minute walk. Bus routes 44 and 170 stop outside the store
Open: Check the website for current opening times
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London and B&S. Thanks: Lottie and Hannah.
