Specialist Finishes and Exquisite Details
FROM THE DELICATE INLAYS HIDDEN WITHIN BESPOKE JOINERY TO THE RICHNESS OF LIQUID METAL AND BAS-RELIEF, IT’S THESE TACTILE ELEMENTS THAT CAN TRULY TRANSFORM A SPACE. FOR THIS MONTH’S THEME, SPECIALIST FINISHES AND EXQUISITE DETAILS, WE CELEBRATE SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE ARTISTIC FINISHES.
MARQUETRY
For us, marquetry isa way to bring our design narrative to life, subtly weaving it through the space. Through skilled craftsmanship, veneers can be meticulously arranged to enhance furniture, panelling, decorative objets, and even bespoke pianos, creating delicate patterns that echo our overarching story. By designing with this technique, we connect our contemporary designs to a timeless legacy, honouring the skill and patience that have defined marquetry through the ages.
BAS-RELIEF
Bas-relief brings depth and sculptural intrigue to our designs. This technique involves carving or moulding a raised pattern that emerges gently from the surface, creating an interplay of shadow and light. We collaborate with specialist artisans who shape these textural elements by hand, ensuring each piece feels unique. Whether featured as a statement wall panel, a headboard detail, or an accent within bespoke joinery, we choose bas-relief for its ability to invite touch and draw visual interest.
DECORATIVE INLAY
Inlay work introduces a subtle contrast of materials. Elements such as mother-of-pearl, brass, leather, or stone can be incorporated into a piece to softly capture light and movement. When designing something like a console table, we might opt for mother-of-pearl to reflect the lighting and echo the shine of marble. Its quiet detail is only noticeable as you move closer, gently revealing its intricacy. The beauty of inlay lies in these hidden and unexpected moments, such as the reveal of a pattern when a drawer is opened, or the way a surface shimmers as the light shifts with your movement.
PLASTER WORK
Having witnessed many specialist sculptors and decorative plasterers work their magic, we hold huge admiration for the skill and patience required to create wonderfully detailed decorative plaster. Whether working on large-scale installations or meticulously delicate details, the possibilities with plaster are limitless. We’ve chosen to collaborate with artisans to create bespoke decorative plaster that enhance staircases, echo design narratives, and introduce understated yet elegant details.
FABRIC AND EMBROIDERY
We have a number of wonderful textile artists that we work with on our special projects, creating bespoke pieces crafted from fabrics and finished with stunning embroidery. Their inherent softness allows our designs to express layered details that gently build the narrative. From striking headboards to subtle details within cushions and throws, these elements can be thoughtfully composed to add depth, warmth, and a sense of handcrafted elegance to the space.
When it comes to embroidery, we are always struck by how a touch of metallic thread or a hint of colour can introduce a sense of timeless glamour. These understated details not only elevate the piece but also offer subtle nods to the design narrative, weaving meaning into the fabric with quiet elegance.
As we reflect on these specialist finishes, it’s clear that what truly elevates a space is the thoughtful layering of these exquisite details, each one carrying a story. Whether it’s the narrative woven through marquetry, the textures of bas-relief, or the subtle shimmer of inlay and liquid metal, these exquisite elements invite us to slow down and appreciate the beauty in craftsmanship.
One of our greatest assets is our little black book of trusted artisans and makers who believe in championing hand crafted techniques and are as passionate about delivering the world’s finest, as we are. It was at Walpole’s launch of ‘luxury in the making’ that we had the pleasure of hearing Richard Brendon speak passionately about British heritage craftsmanship and what needs to be done to ensure it survives. Here we talk to Richard about his beautifully crafted tableware that perfectly bridges the gap between traditional craft and contemporary design and the passion he has for all things food and drink.
One of our greatest assets is our little black book of trusted artisans and makers who believe in championing hand crafted techniques and are as passionate about delivering the world’s finest, as we are. It was at Walpole’s launch of ‘luxury in the making’ that we had the pleasure of hearing Richard Brendon speak passionately about British heritage craftsmanship and what needs to be done to ensure it survives. Here we talk to Richard about his beautifully crafted tableware that perfectly bridges the gap between traditional craft and contemporary design and the passion he has for all things food and drink.
It was a pleasure to attend this year’s Walpole British Luxury Summit, a truly unmissable event in our calendar, we were delighted to hear from a diverse range of exceptional speakers, all exploring the future trajectory of British luxury. Here, we share some of our key takeaways from the day, along with reflections and impacts on our own work here at Oliver Burns Studio.
It was a pleasure to attend this year’s Walpole British Luxury Summit, a truly unmissable event in our calendar, we were delighted to hear from a diverse range of exceptional speakers, all exploring the future trajectory of British luxury. Here, we share some of our key takeaways from the day, along with reflections and impacts on our own work here at Oliver Burns Studio.
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With Pantone announcing the colour of the year for 2025 as Mocha Mousse, we take a closer look at how this warm, rich shade can influence our homes and gather some inspiration to spark creativity for your space.
With Pantone announcing the colour of the year for 2025 as Mocha Mousse, we take a closer look at how this warm, rich shade can influence our homes and gather some inspiration to spark creativity for your space.