On The Sofa with Thornton & Blake
Discussing their Winmalee Project
Thornton & Blake are a team of creative, dedicated designers and interior specialists with over 25 years experience in creating living spaces that complement the personality of the people who love them.
What was your lightbulb moment that kick-started your Design career?
Moving from one creative career (performing arts) to another felt like a natural progression. Interior Design engages the same skills as choreography in that you are creating a composition with balance, harmony, scale, form and personality. Plus, there have been no injuries so far!
Thornton & Blake’s curated Trade & Design space offers Furniture, Flooring, Kitchens, Paint & Wallpaper services. Does this elevate your offer to clients?
It’s wonderful working in a beautiful space where clients can imagine their home as a complete entity connected through elements that inspire and delight. It makes the design process more accessible and enjoyable for our clients.
“I took a bit of a leap with the palette but felt such strong tones needed a rich base and depth of texture to present as sophisticated, moody and luxurious. Fortunately, the clients trusted this vision.”
There’s such a depth of texture and colour in this Winmalee space, was that lead by the client or a design direction you advocated for?
The client’s brief was for a characterful, evocative space highlighting jewel tones. I took a bit of a leap with the palette but felt such strong tones needed a rich base and depth of texture to present as sophisticated, moody and luxurious. Fortunately, the clients trusted this vision.
There is a sophisticated playfulness here, was it a fun and playful experience with the clients to achieve their aesthetic?
I enjoy a wonderful rapport with my clients who are a joy to design for. They are fearless, fun and dynamic which I hope is reflected in the design.
What piece in this portfolio are you most proud of?
Curating the fabric scheme was the most enjoyable aspect. The Molmic seating is definitely the most impactful element in the space.
What drew you to selecting Molmic for this project and how did the customisations help you achieve the outcome?
Molmic furniture fulfils the brief! It’s beautiful, it’s well made and durable and it’s customisable. Fabric makes the space, so having the freedom to put together a fabric story without constraints is key. Details like piping, cushioning and especially pattern matching are so important and with Molmic, I know everything will be created to the highest spec.
How do you approach balancing design choice with long term liveability for you clients?
Beautiful AND functional is a priority. Seating needs to be considered for purpose, comfort and style. In this interior we have the large modular Daydream with deliciously squishy cushioning so the whole family can snuggle up together and enjoy a movie or a nap. At the other end we have the Alfie sofa – so chic – and the Jasper chairs, providing comfort and support for get togethers, reading, or intimate conversations. Plus, both configurations can be changed if needed.
Interior Design: Thornton & Blake
Photography: Silversalt Photography