“Ships that pass in the night, and speak each other in passing, Only a signal shown and a distant voice in the darkness; So on the ocean of life, we pass and speak one another, Only a look and a voice, then darkness again and a silence.” ― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Tales of a Wayside Inn

There are many things that capture our imagination here at our Design studio. We are particularly fond of dogs and horses, but one mysterious motif that allures us again and again is ships. Follow along to see how ships have been used in our designs to create a sense of adventure.

The Drawing Room at Ham Yard Hotel

Hanging in our Drawing Room at Ham Yard Hotel, are elegant ship inspired chandeliers. Suspended above a games table, these pieces keep us in awe. In a group of three, the beaded chandeliers create a warm glow and also add some sparkle. Explore the space further here.

Constantinople Wallpaper

In room 110 at Charlotte Street Hotel, we have used Andrew Martin’s Constantinople wallpaper for this recent bedroom scheme. The scene takes you on an exploration around the ancient city via ship voyage. We are excited to share this space with you soon in our Sleeping Around blog series.

Colin Millington

A retired sailor himself, Colin lives on the Norfolk coast embroidering characters dancing across sandy beaches and ships sailing across whale filled seas. This beautiful modern needlepoint by Colin introduces a ‘stitched’ theme into this suite at Haymarket Hotel. Read more about the artist in our ‘Meet the Maker’ blog post here.

You can also find his artwork framed in colour coordinated frames in room 215 at Covent Garden Hotel.

Mimi de Biarritz

For a residential scheme, we called upon one of our dearest friends and artists, Mimi de Biarritz to create some magical artworks. We love the nautical homage this shell encrusted trinket box makes. Mimi’s handcrafted pieces always inspire us.

Also by Mimi is this picture window frame artwork, showing a stormy night with graphic details of waves beneath a boat. A flag flying high on the boat’s mast indicates the artist’s home country, France.

Sailor’s Farewell 

You will find our Sailor’s Farewell for Wedgwood bone china at Shop Kit Kemp as well as Ham Yard Hotel and The Whitby Hotel. The collection shows the story of a sailor’s loved-one as she waves goodbye on a rock with her scarf flying in the wind. The motifs around the china show the sailor’s adventures on the high seas both above and below the waterline.

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring how the wonderful nautical world can be celebrated through design!