Harmony of Tradition and Modernity: The Tamilla Collection at the London Design Festival

London Design Festival: A Hub for Creativity and Innovation

The London Design Festival takes place from September 13 to 21 and stands as one of the most prominent events attracting designers and enthusiasts in architecture and interior design from around the world. The festival provides a space for exchanging ideas and exploring the latest trends in design.

Returning to Artistic Roots

Among this year’s standout events is the presentation of a new furniture collection designed by Frances Sultana. The collection, named Tamilla, goes beyond mere aesthetics; it reflects an effort to return to the roots established by Sir Terence Conran, founder of the Conran Shop in 1973.

European Character in Contemporary Design

The significance of this initiative lies in reaffirming the refined European character that has defined the store’s identity since its inception. Here, design is viewed not merely as a commercial product but as part of a long cultural journey that balances function and beauty, evoking the legacy of early designers while integrating a contemporary vision.

Details of the Tamilla Collection

The Tamilla collection features three main pieces of furniture:

• Armchair
• Daybed
• Two-seater sofa

Natural Materials as a Core Element

All pieces are built on solid oak frames, symbolizing durability and warmth in interior design. Natural bamboo panels have been added to enhance the organic character, along with upholstery in high-quality Belgian linen known for its comfort and texture.

Color Variety

The pieces are available in three calm, nature-inspired shades:

• Oat: evokes simplicity and serenity.
• Sage: a grassy hue adding a sense of tranquility.
• Dahlia: a deeper tone providing a touch of warmth.

Marble Tables

To complement the seating options, marble side tables are offered in two distinctive colors:

• Bulgari Red: luxurious red shades.
• Verde Marl: natural green tones.

These tables rest on solid oak bases, creating visual harmony with the rest of the collection.

The Conran Shop Identity

Since its inception, the Conran Shop has been distinguished by offering products with simple, well-thought-out designs that are accessible yet carry a touch of global sophistication. This design philosophy has shaped the store’s visual identity, clearly reflected in the Tamilla collection.

European Influence

Designer Frances Sultana recounts that Sir Terence Conran, the store’s founder, was fascinated by European culture and sought to bring a piece of France and Italy to London. Among the most prominent elements reflecting this influence is woven bamboo, which makes a striking return in the details of the Tamilla collection.

Frances Sultana’s Signature Touch

While the collection preserves the spirit of the store, Sultana’s signature is unmistakable. Known for his ability to balance luxury with harmony, he has added a touch of refined drama that gives each piece a distinctive character. Additionally, hints of his Maltese heritage are evident in his choice of fine materials and his deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Harmony of Styles in Tamilla

The Tamilla collection blends multiple design approaches, yet the result is harmonious. This is due to Frances Sultana’s deep appreciation for the Conran Shop experience, tied to memories from his teenage years when he visited the store regularly to draw inspiration from its displays on Fulham Road, where the finest design and fashion shops were located.

The Aesthetic Character of Conran

Sultana describes the Conran Shop’s aesthetic as a reflection of a new modern outlook in British interior design. Sir Terence Conran’s creative choices helped bring his unique style into British homes, shaping a lifestyle that goes beyond merely purchasing furniture.

A Dialogue Between Tradition and Modernity

Although Sultana describes his own style as more avant-garde, he believes the Tamilla collection embodies the essence of Conran’s identity while presenting a contemporary vision. This fusion of classical heritage and personal innovation creates a new design language that preserves the roots while allowing room for renewal.

Tribute to Terence

Sultana concludes by emphasizing that Sir Terence Conran would have endorsed this vision, indicating that the collection represents a natural extension of the store’s philosophy rather than a departure from it.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

The Tamilla collection offers a glimpse of high craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, reflected in the choice of natural materials and harmonious colors, creating a sense of warmth and visual coherence. However, the influence of the classic European character remains strong, making the collection less adaptable to certain modern or culturally diverse interiors, while Sultana’s avant-garde touch may not appeal to all tastes. Overall, the collection represents a refined effort to preserve the Conran Shop legacy, yet it may face challenges in reaching a broader audience beyond enthusiasts of classic European style.

Prepared by the ArchUp Editorial Team

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