Bespoke Curtains, Roman Blinds, Plantation Shutters, House Tour, Decorating Tips, Interior Design, Devon Interior Designer
michelle sucksmith
The hardest project I've ever worked on? My own ...

A room-by-room tour of the curtains, blinds and shutters in my own Devon home, sharing the design decisions, mistakes, makeovers and lessons learned over the last 20 years.

The hardest project I've ever worked on? My own home
Art & Design Inspiration
michelle sucksmith
Another Place: Three 3D Design Graduates, a ...

Thirty-five years after graduating from De Montfort University, three former 3D Design students reunited for a creative road trip to Liverpool. From a fascinating printmaking studio in Ironbridge to Antony Gormley's iconic Another Placeinstallation at Crosby Beach, it was a day filled with art, design and inspiration.

Another Place: Three 3D Design Graduates, a Printing Press and Crosby Beach

A blooming marvellous day out at Chelsea flower show.

Yesterday, bathed in beautiful sunshine, I had the opportunity to explore the Chelsea Flower Show, an event known for its sprawling displays of horticultural excellence and innovative garden designs. The show, which spans an area equivalent to 500 double-decker buses, offers an incredible diversity of plants and a wealth of inspiration for anyone with a passion for gardening and outdoor spaces.

As an interior designer, you may wonder why I'd choose to visit such an event. The answer lies in a unique collaboration. Landscape designers Julia Hill & Sophie Knittel from MHLK Collective, in partnership with the fashion brand ME+EM, reached out to me for assistance. They were creating a garden that embodied “Timeless Expressionism,” and wanted to include a Vincent Sheppard Chair and some outdoor cushions from my brand, “Cushionbank.”

Thrilled at the prospect, I coordinated with Vincent Sheppard to supply the Kodo cocoon chair for their display. Meanwhile, my workroom produced stunning cushions from the outdoor fabrics from Misia Paris that beautifully contrasted with the soft, romantic plantings in their garden. The result was a stunning testament to the harmony of interior and exterior design.

KODO COCOON CHAIR

The Chelsea Flower Show was a garden of Eden, filled with an array of incredible exhibits. One of my favourites was Leon Kluge’s Cape Flora of South Africa, showcasing cut flowers of Proteaceae from the southern tip of Africa. The display demonstrated the stark contrast between the wet and dry seasons these flowers endure, adding a unique element of storytelling to their beauty.

Another exhibit that caught my eye was the "Jurassic World" by Hampshire Carnivorous Plants.

A modern and unusual take on a still life, an exhibit that truly inspired me was the work of Lucy Hutchings and Kate Cotterill, the founders of She Grows Veg, a company specialising in heirloom seeds. Their exhibit, 'Edimental – the beauty of vegetables,' provided a fresh and modern twist on classic Renaissance paintings by showcasing heirloom varieties in vibrant, colourful displays. The creativity and dedication to detail by these passionate growers was evident in every aspect of their exhibit, which was brought to life by floral designer Hazel Gardiner. This was their first exhibit at RHS Chelsea, and their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved gold medal.

Walking along the main avenue, I encountered a variety of gardens, each with a unique theme and design. The enchanting wild gardens, the Bridgerton-inspired garden, and the serene Japanese garden with its beautiful acer trees each told their own story, offering inspiration and a feast for the senses.

'Money Doesn't Grow On Trees’ Garden, designed by Baz Grainger and built by Landform Consultants. This scented haven was the epitome of relaxation, with a winding path leading to a central water well and a communal dining area sheltered by a pergola. The use of outdoor furniture, specifically the Oda lounge chairs and the Frida outdoor dining chairs from Vincent Sheppard, added an element of comfort and style to the garden, transforming it into a cosy outdoor living room. These exquisite pieces of furniture were not only visually appealing but also functional, creating a perfect spot for BBC interviews amidst the beauty of the garden.

Frida dining chair
Oda Lounge Chair

As an interior designer, I've been drawn to Vincent Sheppard's furniture for the past 19 years. Known for their timeless designs, Vincent Sheppard creates furniture suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, seamlessly blending interior and exterior design. These pieces add sophistication to any space, making them a wonderful addition to your home or garden. Even better, you can directly purchase Vincent Sheppard's furniture through my website, Cushionbank!

Cushionbank

The Chelsea Flower Show is not just a showcase of stunning plants and design; it's a testament to the limitless possibilities of outdoor spaces. From a Roman garden by The Newt to a garden designed specifically for autistic individuals, the show was a reminder of how gardens can be tailored to meet specific needs or mirror different eras and cultures.

My visit to the Chelsea Flower Show was a day filled with inspiration and admiration for the creativity and talent of garden designers. This delightful blend of my background in interior design and the outdoor world reminded me that the line between indoor and outdoor spaces is fluid and brimming with possibilities.

A Day at the Design Roadshow

Hello fellow design enthusiasts!

Last week, I had the chance to attend the Taste of Design 2024 Roadshow. Held at the American Museum & Gardens in Bath, this event was a fantastic opportunity to meet some of the leading names in interior design.

Even though it wasn't the largest show, the quality of the exhibitors made up for it. Two rooms packed full of suppliers showcasing furniture, fabrics, and accessories. It was an excellent opportunity to catch up with designers, agents and reps, and also to meet new suppliers.

Among the exhibitors, the Belgian editor, Designs of the Time, stood out. Their natural aesthetics and the authenticity of their linen blends left a lasting impression. Their collections, created using traditional techniques, combined casual and refined looks in a way that was quite appealing.

Another highlight was Fermoie's fabric designs. This brand, established by the original founders of Farrow and Ball, has taken their expertise in colour and light to a whole new level. With over 500 colourways in their collections, their fabrics are a beautiful testament to sustainable and innovative design.

Jacaranda's new rug collection, 'The Balearic Collection,' was also on display. The hand-tufted rugs, inspired by the diverse landscapes of Mallorca, were stunning. The collection's adaptability, with customisation in size and colour, was a definite plus.

In between browsing and networking, we took a break at the American Garden Deli. Over a delicious salmon quiche salad, we soaked in the panoramic views of the Limpley Stoke Valley - a delightful interlude in our busy day.

Unfortunately, we missed the Textile Tours at the museum. But there's always next time! The museum's collection of textiles, embroideries, weavings, and prints is something we look forward to exploring in the future.

All in all, the Taste of Design 2024 Roadshow was a day well spent. We left with a few new suppliers added to our list and a wealth of inspiration for our upcoming projects.

Stay tuned for more updates from our design adventures. And remember, keep exploring and stay inspired!

Time off in TEN

Dear readers, I recently embarked on an adventure that offered a refreshing break from my usual tasks, whether they were focused on interior projects or my new online venture, CushionBank. For ten delightful days, my family and I replaced our screens with scenic landscapes, providing us with great joy and memorable moments. Accompanying me on this journey were my brother Rich and niece Seren, who flew in from Melbourne, along with our parents, to join this family escapade.

Our first stop was the enchanting town of Hebden Bridge, nestled within a valley in Yorkshire. It's a hub of unique businesses and bustling markets, making every stroll up its hilly cobbled streets feel like a treasure hunt. Despite the muddy terrain due to the rain, the breathtaking views were worth every step. Hebden Bridge is a hidden gem, boasting distinctive shops and delightful eateries, a charming diversion from my typical décor discussions.

Next, we returned to my Devon home, a haven for relaxation and exploration. Our favourite activity was a picturesque walk from Budleigh Salterton beach to Otterton Mill. The journey began on the pebble-strewn beach, leading to tussled reeds swaying by the River Otter. The tranquil path offered a refreshing change. We saw a family of ducks paddling merrily in the water, their cheerful quacks guiding us to Otterton. After an ice cream stop, we returned to the beach, now bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

Our trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to my hometown in Pembrokeshire. We spent a wonderful weekend with day trip to the seaside town of Tenby, with its colourful houses and golden beaches. Our Sunday began with breakfast in the peaceful village of Lawrenny and ended with a reunion with old school friends.

After days filled with exploration, our evenings were spent in the cosy comfort of our childhood home, indulging in our favourite pastime - board games. The friendly competition, shared laughter, and playful banter were the perfect end to our days.

While the trip was about visiting new places, it was also about spending quality time with family, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying simple pleasures. As we all head back to our own homes either by car or by plane, we carry these precious memories in our hearts. Here's to more adventures away from the desk!

A Step Back in Time: Discovering A Roman Villa at The Newt

Over the Christmas break, I embarked on a journey that took me centuries back in time. I had the pleasure of visiting the Roman villa at The Newt in Somerset. Despite the torrential rain, the experience was nothing short of magical and I'm excited to share this adventure with you.

For those unfamiliar, The Newt is a remarkable estate in Somerset, England, which sits on grounds steeped in history. The estate houses the recently excavated Roman ruins dating back to 351 A.D. To celebrate this amazing discovery, The Newt has undertaken the ambitious project of recreating the historic Villa Ventorum, the Romano-British villa that once stood on its grounds. This recreation has made The Newt a must-visit historical site, putting it on the map alongside renowned British historical sites like Bath and Stonehenge.

The journey began with a ride on a charming mini-bus, a quick remedy for the rain-soaked day. Upon reaching the villa, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the reconstructed Villa Ventorum. The fourth-century Roman villa was recreated by a team of archaeologists, architects, engineers, and craftsmen. They have painstakingly replicated every detail of the villa to offer an immersive experience into the life of upper-class Romans.

Walking through the Villa Ventorum is like stepping into a time machine. From the kitchens, accommodations to the working complex of Roman baths, every corner of the villa reveals a slice of Roman life. The villa is laid out in a t-shaped plan, featuring a vineyard garden, ponds, and surrounding fields spanning more than 10 acres. What's fascinating is that the experience goes beyond just the sights; it also captures the sounds and smells of daily Roman life, making it a truly multisensory experience.

The visit to Villa Ventorum starts at the new museum, where guests get to learn about the archaeological findings of the original site. The museum is a treasure trove of knowledge, illustrating how these findings inspired the recreated villa. With the use of technology and interactive exhibits, you genuinely feel as though you've been transported back to the fourth century.

The visit to the Roman villa at The Newt was essentially a journey back in time, adding a historical touch to my Christmas break. The Villa Ventorum stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman architecture and design, providing timeless inspiration. I look forward to incorporating the insights gained from this visit into my design projects. Here's to more design adventures in the future! I'll certainly return on a sunnier day, although I anticipate it will be busier. Perhaps visiting in the rain has its advantages.

Vincent Sheppard visits the South West - Let’s get comfortable

Hello design lovers!

Get ready for a story because today was a day to remember!

Our friends from Vincent Sheppard paid us a visit in the South West. And not just any visit - Bart Folens, their Export Manager, along with the lovely Tara & Emily, brought a taster of their outdoor collection to our doorstep. Talk about doorstep service!

The star of the day was undoubtedly the new Frida dining chair. A stunning piece made of untreated teak with polypropylene rope, it just screams 'come and sit down!'.

Next up was the Oda lounge chair, which boasts soft, bouncy cushions and an untreated teak frame. I must say, it was pretty much love at first sight.

Adding a dash of sophistication was the Cleo dining chair, a stylish black lightweight aluminium piece adorned with woven rope back. Its simplicity and form were a sight to behold.

The Koda lounge chair in dune white is one of my absolute favorites. Its curved oval back strung with woven rope is simply irresistible! This range, my favorite, is available in various pieces including dining chairs, sun-loungers, rocking chairs, and modular sofa systems.

We compared the Lena dining chair with its polyethylene wicker and teak base to the indoor Lily dining chair. A fascinating exercise, to say the least!

Stacked together, the Loop moss and terracotta chairs were a testament to amazing stackability.

We also got a glimpse of some indoor dining options, such as the Titus, available with and without arms in natural oak and tobacco beech.

And as if furniture wasn't enough, they also brought along some fabulous indoor and outdoor lights.

Despite the dark clouds looming in the sky, it stayed dry for our little display, making the day even more perfect.

As a parting gift, they left us with two new 2024 range brochures and a lovely box of outdoor samples along with some handmade Belgium Chocolates. Oh my, just opened the chocolates they are little chocolate loom chairs in a gold lined box, what a treat!

So, if you're in the market for some Vincent Sheppard Outdoor furniture, ready for all the sun, please get in touch!

I've been feeling the Vincent Sheppard vibes since 2005 - that's nearly 20 years! Their products never disappoint. They offer amazing quality, and the whole process from order to completion is second to none.

A significant portion of the range is listed on the Cushionbank website, so take a look at what we offer. For any questions or information regarding lead times and delivery costs, don't hesitate to get in touch. I am here to help.

Take a closer look

So, as we wrap up this design adventure, remember to embrace the outdoors with Vincent Sheppard's stunning outdoor range! Let's breathe life into our gardens, and create spaces that invite the sun and celebrate nature. Until next time, put on your gardening gloves, clean up your patio, and get ready for the sunshine!

London Design Week 2024

Hello, design devotees!

Hold on to your hats because I've got some thrilling news to share! I packed my bags, marked my calendar, and braced myself for my Spring inspiration - London Design Week! This design extravaganza unfolded spectacularly on the 11th and 12th of March in the stunning Chelsea Harbour, the heart of all things design. Showrooms were buzzing with activity, prepping for their product launches - it was like walking into a candy store for us design lovers!

London Design Week, a global carnival of design, attracted the who's who of the design world from every nook and cranny. It was a vibrant hotpot of ideas and inspiration. This year boasted a jam-packed schedule of hands-on workshops and exclusive product reveals - talk about being spoilt for choice!

I soaked in all the inspiration during my two-day venture at the Design show at Chelsea Harbour. I was on a mission to absorb inspiration, keep up with brand launches, and reconnect with old friends and professional contacts from my past escapades.

The show was a treasure chest overflowing with the greatest brands, the newest collections, and a whopping 130 showrooms. It was like diving into a design wonderland!

GP & J Baker x Kit Kemp

Kit Kemp has worked with GP & J Baker for the first time on this collection of fabrics and wallcoverings that feature Kemp’s signature exuberant, art-led style.

My exploration journey was nothing short of a design treasure hunt. Every step revealed the latest marvels in wallcoverings, fabrics, and product design. It was like uncovering design gems at every turn!

I also caught up with our representatives to explore their brand's new collections. It felt like a design treasure hunt as we searched for the perfect fabrics and products for our ongoing projects.

One of the much-awaited highlights was the grand opening of Casamance's new flagship showroom in the Centre Dome. Imagine this - their latest collection presentation, all while sipping on cocktails. Now that's what I call a classy affair!

And to top off this design feast, we were invited to an evening of delightful food, refreshing drinks, and engaging conversation on Monday - the perfect way to unwind after a long day and an early start!

Ashley & Co

I also stumbled upon Ashley & Co, a modern day scent company, and their new scent collection for Home & Body. Their products, used in some of the world’s finest properties, are designed to enrich spaces and lives. I couldn't resist treating myself to some eco-friendly, plant-based washing up liquid and surface spray in Lotus Leaf & Lustre. Additionally, I purchased Mortar & Pestle Hand & Body wash and body cream. Their beautiful packaging and delightful scents were irresistible.

Sample boards by Villa Nova. Fabric displays by Colefax & Fowler.

Overall, London Design Week was more than just an event; it was a celebration of fresh ideas, inspiration, and design excellence. Stay tuned for more updates. I hope to keep you inspired with my design adventures, and now it's back to the drawing board to incorporate all this inspiration into my design projects. Until next time, stay inspired and keep creating!

Out & About early 2024

As an experienced interior designer with a passion for travel, I recently visited two remarkable exhibitions in Paris: Paris Deco Off and Maison Objet. It feels like just yesterday I was wandering the vibrant streets of Paris, immersing myself in its rich artistic culture, and discovering a wealth of exciting new products to share with you.

Deco Off is a captivating interior design event held annually in January. This prestigious event turns Paris into a vast showcase of the latest interior design trends and innovations. Design studios across the city's Left and Right Banks open their doors to the public, offering a unique glimpse into their creative spaces.

Industry brands seize this opportunity to rent art galleries and transform them into temporary pop-up shops. This allows visitors to explore their latest collections in a unique, artistic setting. The event acts as a hub of inspiration, offering a platform for networking, learning, and exploration for designers, brands, and design enthusiasts.

Deco Off not only offers insight into the world of interior design but also presents the charm and elegance of Paris itself, creating a truly unforgettable experience for all attendees.

At Paris Deco Off, the city morphed into a massive exhibition space, enabling designers to showcase their works in a more intimate environment. Strolling down the iconic Parisian streets, I was drawn to the creative window displays and pop-up showrooms. One brand that particularly stood out was Casamance. Their exquisite cushions and throws, with a wonderful blend of colours and textures, perfectly embodied Parisian chic. These will soon be available on our Cushionbank website, so don't miss out!

visit cushionbank

Maison Objet was a larger event held across nine expansive halls, attracting a global audience. Here, designers and brands from around the world showcased their latest collections. Vincent Sheppard, a brand renowned for its outstanding furniture pieces, was a standout. Their innovative combination of design and craftsmanship, exemplified in their Kodo Outdoor Lounge Sofa, was truly remarkable. We have chosen to sell many items from Vincent Sheppard's Indoor & Outdoor ranges on the Cushionbank website. With spring just around the corner, why not check out the Outdoor offerings?

At both exhibitions, I noticed a prevailing theme of sustainability and a renewed emphasis on artisanal craftsmanship. From handwoven textiles to sustainably sourced materials, it's heartening to see the design world making strides towards a more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for more insights from my design trips around the world. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a home decor lover, I hope my experiences inspire you to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also a reflection of your personal style.