British designer and artist Alex Randall is best known for the use of taxidermy and other found objects in her original lighting designs. Her bespoke creations have appeared in hotels, restaurants, and residential and retail projects across the globe, and range from elaborate antler chandeliers, to single bulb table lamps. Alex has just launched Atelier Randall at London’s Sanderson hotel, where her latest pieces are on display, such as her Harp floor lamp, along with the continuing pieces in the collection.

When did you realise you wanted to work in design? While most children dream of being spacemen or ballerinas I had a slightly different idea. If you asked the five year old me what I wanted to be when I grew up I would have said ‘An artist or a designer and have my own business.’

Who, or what helped you shape your sense of style? I’ve been very influenced from both my time spent in the country and the city. To fit into my life things have to be practical while at the same time beautiful.

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Founder and ‘Head of Loafing’, Charlie Marshall launched Loaf in 2009 after shopping for a comfy bed one weekend left him rather frustrated. Now one of the fastest growing companies in the UK, Loaf’s relaxed and laid-back style has spread from the domain of the bedroom, to the living room and, as of this month, the whole of the home.

When did you realise that you were interested in furniture and design? I’ve always been interested in design and my whole family is obsessed as well. I grew up on building sites, developing one property at a time before moving on to the next.

What, where or who inspires you? I have three sisters, all of whom have lovely homes and very good taste. Everything Loafy has to be vetted by them before it makes the final cut. Other inspirations include Spanish Architectural Digest – a design bible –  and architect Vincent van Duysen who mixes old and new. His look is clean, calm and very ‘Belgian’!

What’s the best piece of advice for someone shopping for a large investment buy, such as a bed, or sofa? Number one, make sure it fits! It sounds simple but people often overlook measuring properly, especially checking that the new furniture will fit through any doorways or tight spaces. Luckily our delivery chaps are a dab hand at this sort of thing. Also ask yourself if your new sofa or bed is going to be really, really comfy? Is it well made? Will it fit in the next house?

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