Introducing Granite + Smoke

Introducing homeware studio Granite + Smoke who design joyful luxury with a conscience. Founded in 2019 by two friends, Lindsey and Claire, Granite + Smoke offers playful and modern beautifully crafted and responsibly made rugs, quilts, throws, cushions and accessories all proudly manufactured in the UK.

Here we share their story so far..

Can you tell us the backstory of Granite + Smoke? When and why was it started?

We are life-long friends, we met at school in Aberdeen, Scotland and both went on to follow paths in design; Lindsey in Architecture and Claire in textiles and interiors. We began working together on interior projects over 10 years ago, during which time we realised a mutual love of colour, passion for contemporary well made design, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

That eventually led to us forming Granite + Smoke.  Our work draws from our multidisciplinary design backgrounds to create playful, graphic and modern products that are beautifully crafted and responsibly made in the UK and internationally. The name evokes The Granite City  (Aberdeen) +  The Big Smoke (London); mythical cities where we live and design – two elements in contrast and harmony.

What is unique about your brand and what influences your designs and creativity?

Our creative process begins by taking inspiration from art, architecture, fashion, contemporary design and nature. We are fascinated with form, structure, repetition, geometry, scale and colour – though we aren’t literal in our translations, more inspired, and develop this further in the creative process of pattern & print and mark making, using similar rhythms to evolve our work.

We are both interested in modernism and the Bauhaus movement and inspired by artists and designers like Anni and Joseph Albers & architect Le Corbusier as well as Charles & Ray Eames. Similarly, like many designers over recent years, The Memphis group from the ‘80s has influenced our preference for an optimistic palette & bold graphic designs, from architect Ettore Sottsass to designer Nathalie Du PasQuier. We’re also very much inspired by modern day artists and designers such as Yinka Iloria, Patricia Urquolia, Peter Haley, Bridgett Riley, David Hockney, Hella Jongerius… the list goes on!

How important is sustainability your brand and the products you make?

Sustainability and ethical manufacturing is integral to our brand and production process.

Our design process focuses on material reuse and waste minimisation through several strategies. Our recycled wool blankets are made from 100% recycled post-consumer textile waste, used wool garments are sorted by colour, broken down, and re-spun into new yarns, ensuring minimal waste and maximum reuse.

Our salvage wall hangings and cushions are created from blanket production waste, these items incorporate deadstock fabrics and wasted materials, which are quilted and hand-embroidered into unique pieces. This method reduces landfill waste and promotes a circular economy. Considering environmental manufacturing, our weaving mill has 175 solar panels, saving 375 tonnes of CO2 and generating 945,000 kWh of electricity over 25 years, enabling greener operations and contributing to the grid. Our packaging uses recycled and recyclable materials to minimise environmental impact.

Our new rug collection is 100% British, combining modern technology with traditional methods which optimises material use and reduces waste, while utilising efficient technology alongside traditional methods, helping lower energy consumption and waste. Using 100% natural materials and British wool offers numerous benefits: wool is renewable, biodegradable, and anti-allergenic. Buying British supports local farmers and the economy, reduces carbon footprint, and promotes sustainable agriculture. Commitment to high-quality materials ensures durability and sustainability.

Why should consumers support independent designers like yourself?

Supporting independent designers helps preserve diversity, rather than encouraging a homogenized marketplace. Many independent designers prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainable production methods. They often use sustainable materials, make smaller quantities, and have more transparent supply chains. By supporting them, customers can align their purchasing power with values that promote environmental responsibility and fair labour practices.

Independent designers are often small business owners, freelancers, or entrepreneurs. By supporting them, customers can contribute to local economies, helping these designers thrive in a competitive market. This, in turn, creates more jobs and supports a vibrant, diverse marketplace. Independent designers rely heavily on direct consumer support to continue their craft.

What’s next for Granite + Smoke?

Granite + Smoke has lots of exciting things coming up!……

We have recently launched a new hand tufted rug collection made in collaboration with British Rug makers Roger Oates Design, crafted sustainably in the UK. Made using a 100% British blended wool, a specially developed yarn spun and dyed in Yorkshire. Each rug has been sculpted by specialist hand techniques to create a 3D pile effect made in Devon. Rugs are made to order and can be purchase from our website graniteandsmoke.com or at [email protected]

This week and next we are part of an exciting group ‘Pop Up Shop’ in East London during the London Design Festival, celebrating the work of designers and makers from the outer boroughs of East London. “Collated” is a joyful selection of works by us, Amanda Barker, Daniel Heath, Good Wives and Warriors,  Manson Press, Pippa Ryan and Tamasyn Gambell.

‘Collated’ will be open at various times. Thursday 12th – Weds 18th of Sept – Private view: Friday 13th Sept 18.00-20.00.  Shop address: Number 1 Church Lane, Leytonstone, E11 1HG. Left hand exit from Leytonstone tube on the central line. 12 – 18 September

At the end of September we are exhibiting at Dundee Design Festival in Scotland as part of a specially commissioned collection of 20 bookends designed and made in Scotland. Inspired by the adventures of pioneering Dundonian journalists Marie Imandt and Bessie Maxwell in 1894, 20 of Scotland’s most exciting contemporary designers were briefed to create a daring and unique pair of bookends.

We are also exhibiting pieces from our current collection of wall hangings and rugs as part of the main ‘Framework‘ exhibition between  23-29 September 2024.

For more information and to view all collections and products please visit graniteandsmoke.com

DISCOVER ANOTHER SUSTAINABLE BRAND HERE.