This month I chatted to the lovely Brooke Copp-Barton about why she loves vintage textiles and how she uses them to such great affect in her work. Brooke Copp-Barton Interiors was set up in 2017 and is based in Chiswick, West London. Brooke’s interior design philosophy is rooted in simplicity and practicality, with a passion for bringing colour, pattern and vintage finds to each interior.
How do you go about incorporating them into your work?
We always love to include all manner of vintage in our schemes as we love the idea of having pre-loved items in a home; both in terms of giving them a new lease of life and the sustainability aspect, but also in terms of the warmth and personality they bring to a home. This takes the form of not only of vintage textiles but also furniture, reclaimed tiles, worktops, sanitary ware etc.
How best to display them?
That’s what is great about them - so many usage opportunities! When it comes to suzanis and kanthas we have used them loose as bed or sofa throws, but have also hung them on walls as a cost-effective way of adding colour and interest to a room. We’ve also turned old kilim rugs into ottomans and used vintage sacking cloth on reclaimed chairs. We like to use rugs/kilims as wall hangings too - not only from a noise reduction point of view but also because it is great to have different textures on walls to make a room feel more eclectic, warm and enveloping.
Where to start when using vintage textiles? Can they inspire a whole scheme?
For sure. In a recent project we hung a large suzani behind a bed as a cost-effective alternative to an upholstered headboard - it provided instant impact and we were then able to layer the colours and soft furnishings around it.
Unique creative ways of working with vintage textiles?
As above really - using them for upholstery allows you to create a truly memorable piece that is totally unique.
Why do you love working with vintage textiles?
I love that no two items are the same and that every piece has it’s own story to tell. It’s the imperfections of a piece that gives authenticity and I like the idea that we can give new life to something beautiful and allow it to be loved and appreciated for years to come. I also marvel at the craftsmanship of some of the pieces - you really can get some absolute bargains, that would simply cost a fortune if they were being made today.
Why would you recommend for others to work with vintage textiles?
Again, as above really. Mainly for the uniqueness, charm and personality they bring to a home.
What would your top 3 tips be for anyone looking to start using vintage textiles?
If you’re just dipping your toe in, then cushions and throws are a good way to start. They are inexpensive and you can drape them over beds/sofas/chairs and start to get a feel for what works in the space.
Layering is always a good look - patterns don’t need to be the same, but I’d try to ensure there is a unifying colour that works across all of the items.
If using for upholstery, then always check with your upholsterer that what you are suggesting is robust enough to be used on a piece of furniture. There will be no rub tests with vintage textiles so together you will have to assess whether the piece you want to use is fit for purpose!
How has the fabric and textile industry evolved since you became a part of it and what do you see and hope for the future of it?
Oh gosh, not sure I’m qualified to answer this one - we’ve not been going that long! What I hope is that there will always be room for young creative talent to emerge and a space for small fabric houses to grow. I love some of the more hand finished artisan pieces and block printed fabrics. Again, for me it is the imperfections and craftsmanship that add to the charm, plus I’d like to see more of these types of product come through the market.
https://brookecoppbarton.com/