Insights & Inspiration

We spend a lot of time designing how an interior begins. Perhaps we should spend more time thinking about how it will age.

Cleanability has a direct bearing on how well a material performs, looks and lasts in use. Considering it early can prevent maintenance becoming a compromise later.

An upholstery sample gives valuable insight into a material's colour, texture and character, but it can't tell the whole story. We explore what samples reveal, what they don't, and why context is just as important as first impressions.

Healthcare design is becoming warmer, calmer and more considered. We look at the colours, textures and material choices helping to shape spaces that care for people as well as perform for them...   

The real test of upholstery happens months and years after installation, when a space still feels welcoming, comfortable and visually consistent despite the demands of everyday use. 

As supply chains become increasingly global, the value of manufacturing closer to home is often overlooked. We explore why British manufacturing continues to play an important role in commercial interiors.

When upholstery arrives on site, approvals are done, specifications are signed, orders are placed, and installation schedules are set. Confidence in these decisions is not just about how the material looks. It comes from knowing the material will perform as needed and that all supporting information is clear, accurate, and easy to access.

The most responsible material decisions are often the ones nobody notices. Not because they lack impact, but because years later they are still doing the job they were specified to do.

The two most common materials are PU (polyurethane) fabrics and vinyl-coated materials. Both are often called faux leather, which can sometimes cause confusion since the terms aren’t used the same way everywhere.

Upholstery on boats and ferries has to withstand salt, moisture, sunlight, and heavy wear. These conditions place significant stress on materials.

Vinyl-coated fabrics are widely used across sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and transport because they are durable and easy to clean. But not all coated fabrics handle installation the same way.

The term ‘British-made upholstery fabric’ is often used as a simple label, but it actually means the material is designed, manufactured, and quality-checked here in the UK.