The founder of London Interiors Studio Fentiman Design spotlights 9 head-turning vintage designs

After studying Art History and Spanish, Ciara Ephson shifted her focus to interior design and went on to graduate from the KLC School of Design. Following successful stints at various design firms, she struck out on her own in 2016 and founded her design studio, Fentiman Design. In just a few years, the London-based studio has built a growing reputation for creating sophisticated yet down-to-earth residential spaces that harmoniously blend art, antiques, and contemporary design pieces.

We invited Ciara to share with us her dream holiday wishlist after her eye for style captured our attention on Instagram. And we weren't disappointed! Her unique selection of vintage designs showcases this design talent's aptitude for balancing sculptural, architectural forms with head-turning decorative flourishes.

 

Large Wall Light from Stilnovo, 1950s

“I love design that combines slick engineering with classic elegance. This Stilnovo wall light provides a practical lighting solution where there isn’t hard wiring installed.”

 

Seal Easy Chair by Ib Kofod-Larsen for OPE, 1950s

"I use a pair of midcentury armchairs in almost every project I do. They are elegant, streamlined, and comfortable. To me, the Seal Easy Chair  by Ib Kofod-Larsen is the ultimate example of midcentury sty.e. And this pair looks immaculate."

 

Swedish Hand Mirror, 1950s

"I am always on the hunt for elegant dressing table accessories and love to find objects that actually serve a purpose. This exceptionally fine Swedish hand mirror is so stylish!"

 

Vintage Clam Chair by Philip Arctander for Nordisk Staal & Møbel Central

"Design should make you happy and Philip Arctander’s Clam Chair always makes me smile. It's charming and amusing in equal measure."

 

Italian Smoking Set by Joe Colombo for Arnolfo Di Cambio, 1970s

I don’t smoke, in fact I hate smoking, but I would be very tempted to take it up if it meant I could use this gloriously kitsch Italian smoking set by Joe Colombo!"

 

French Ceramic Mirror by Giraud, 1960s

"I love everything about this, but I find the flow of that chunky ceramic ribbon so satisfying. It must look gorgeous with candles lit in the evening and would be perfect for a character-filled little guest bathroom!"

 

Italian Brass and Glass Wall Mounted Coat Hooks, 1950s

"I do a lot of work in London where, no matter what you do, storage space is typically limited. An elegant set of coat hooks is a great hallway solution but can be hard to come by. I love the combination of circular glass teamed with the quirky brass form of this set."

 

Oval Backlit Mirror with Crystal Flowers from Palwa, 1960s

"Every home needs a backlit, crystal, floral mirror... right?!"

 

Brass Bookends by Carl Auböck, 1950s 

"I have always Coveted Carl Auböck’s door handles and he also designed these beautiful bookends, which would look so chic in most settings. This particular pair don’t have the signature wicker handles but I love them nonetheless."