Craft Classics: Celebrating craft and thoughtful design at Clerkenwell Design Week

I know, it’s late. Better late than never, right?

For the first official Shoes at the Door blog post, we’ll be taking it back to summer for my first interiors trade show of 2024. 

St James Church - Clerkenwell Design Week

Clerkenwell Design Week was held in (you guessed it) Clerkenwell, London.

Enthusiasts and professionals alike were able to explore a host of brands in the newly pedestrianised 'Clerkenwell Green' from May 21st to May 23rd.

For three days, the EC1 area became the hub to numerous exhibition venues, showcasing creativity and innovation from across the globe.

It was the place to find brands specialising in everything from furniture to lighting, to accessories, deocr and textiles.

The event was back in May, but there are a few products I can’t stop thinking about.

My time was limited and I wasn’t able to see all the exhibits. However, I did stumble upon two standout pieces that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the event; reigniting my desire to pursue interior design.

FLOW Bath by Anselm Fraser Design Group

Flow Bath by Anselm Fraser

The FLOW Bath by Anselm Fraser Design Group highlights the event’s celebration of craftsmanship and innovative design.

Proving that beauty and function can indeed walk hand in hand, this wooden bath reflects an eye for quality that is sure to upgrade the look and feel of any modern bathroom setting.

Unlike the traditional method of glueing small wooden blocks together to form the bath shape, this masterpiece adopts a technique that is much more impressive.

The steam bending technique is inspired by classic boat-building craftsmanship which isn’t commonplace in the industry. Not only does this method make the brand unique in its craft, but it allows the wood grain to flow seamlessly, creating a completely organic form.

Steam bending also means fewer glue joints within the bath, giving it robust and thinner walls, as well as a surprisingly lightweight structure.

We love a good bathroom at Shoes at the Door and this wooden masterpiece offers a unique blend of nature and industrial tranquility to your bathroom.

The Flow Baths are available in Ash/Walnut and a Fumed Oak Finish.

• FLOW Bath, Anselm Fraser

The Rowan Chair by DARE Studio

The Rowan Chair by Dare Studio

From the relaxing ambience of the bathroom, let's move over to the living area where another of my favourites takes centre stage.

The Rowan Chair by DARE Studio isn’t just a piece of furniture, but instead, an expertly crafted vessel, boasting sleek lines and geometric shapes, that you just so happens to be a super comfortable seat.

Its visually striking silhouette is what first drew me to the chair, quite literally, stopping me in my tracks to enquire about the boucle dream.

It promises maximum comfort with its low, supportive back and deeply cushioned seat perfect for snuggling into. The solid timber frame makes for a sturdy and reliable base.

The chair can be upholstered to your exact preference with a variety of fabrics and leathers available. You can even choose your own material to match the personal style of your home.

A larger sofa design and optional swivel base adds a playful twist to this sophisticated and thoughtful design.

Giving you the best of both worlds, the Rowan Chair invites you to kick your feet up and relax, while its elegant design effortlessly enhances any space.

• Rowan Chair, Dare Studio

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If you missed this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week, don’t worry. They’re back for another edition on May 20th - May 22nd for 2025.

Thanks for reading!

Bx