Artisanal and Handcrafted in Interior Design:

Artisanal and Handcrafted Items in Interior Design:

In the world of interior design there is a growing interest, and therefore increase in requests from clients for unique, handcrafted decor pieces. These can range from large items such as bespoke furniture, custom made to fit your desired level of comfort, to smaller keepsakes like handmade ceramics, both of which add personality to a space and support traditional British practices. These artisanal curated pieces help anchor a room and offer a personal touch, making your interior design scheme truly unique. ​(Essential Home).

The Artisanal and Handcrafted Items Made in the UK: A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Tradition

As Mother and Daughter Interior Design duo, we’re known to celebrate handmade products, handed down through generations. Proudly the United Kingdom has a rich history of craftsmanship that spans centuries, with an eclectic mix of artisanal and handcrafted items being integral in our cultural heritage. From intricate pottery to bespoke furniture, these handcrafted goods showcase the creativity and tradition passed down through skilled generations. In an age of mass production, there has been a resurgence in the appreciation of handmade items and support of Made in Britain. So, we thought it was be apt to explore the unique world of UK-made artisanal products in this week’s blog.

Let’s look at why our clients, and ourselves, value them so much, and how by supporting modern artisans we can keep these age-old techniques alive.

The Rise of Artisanal and Handcrafted Goods in the UK

In recent years, there has been a marked shift toward supporting local craftsmanship, with many consumers opting for independent, artisanal and handmade items over mass-produced goods. Here in Devon, like other UK rural locations, we are fortunate to still have a community spirit where people take pride in supporting local businesses. The appeal lies not only in the quality and uniqueness of these products but also in their sustainability. Artisanal items are often made in small batches, with a focus on using natural materials and sustainable production practices sourced locally. With the crafter taking time and upmost care in the detail of the finished product.

Craftsmanship in the UK has always been respected in all levels of interior design, particularly in highly skilled crafts such as pottery, textiles, leatherwork, woodworking, and metalworking. Artisanal goods have long been part of British culture, from the world-famous Stoke-on-Trent pottery including Portmeirion, where Abi has previously worked, Wedgewood and Burleigh to the intricate Scottish tartans and the beautifully handcrafted Yorkshire wool textiles. However, in the modern age, these traditional crafts are not just limited to heritage industries—excitingly they are being reimagined for contemporary tastes and styles.

Iconic Artisanal Products from the UK

1. Pottery and Ceramics

The UK is home to some of the world’s most celebrated pottery traditions, with regions like Stoke-on-Trent in England gaining international recognition for their ceramic goods and groundbreaking copper plated print techniques. Known as the pottery capital of the world, Stoke-on-Trent has a rich legacy of ceramic manufacturing, dating back to the 17th century. Today, artisans in this region continue to create stunning handmade pieces, often blending traditional methods with modern aesthetics. Companies like Emma Bridgewater, a firm favourite of many of our Devon clients, are famous for their iconic hand-painted ceramics that celebrate British culture and heritage.

Slightly closer to home, in places like Cornwall, pottery-making remains a significant artisanal practice. Cornishware pottery, with its signature blue and white stripes, has been handcrafted in Cornwall for generations and although we’re just over the boarder we are big fans. We are currently working on an interior design scheme to feature a clients pre-existing collection – very exciting! The focus on craftsmanship, often done by hand, ensures each piece has a unique touch, making them highly coveted by collectors.

Wool and Textiles

Being based in Devon we are keen supporters of our farming community, the UK’s textile industry, particularly wool production, is another domain where craftsmanship thrives.

 Companies such as The Wool Company and Moorland Wool embrace sustainable practices, sourcing their wool locally and maintaining a focus on traditional skills in their production. Their beautiful throws make the perfect addition to any interiors, ideal for an added layer of texture and warm.

Additionally, British wool has a rich history tied to regions like Yorkshire and Cumbria, where local artisans create everything from handmade scarves and blankets to upholstery.

Leather Goods

Leather working is another cherished craft in the UK, where artisans produce bespoke and handcrafted items like wallets, belts, bags, and shoes. One of the most iconic leather companies in the UK is Loake Shoemakers, which has been producing handcrafted leather shoes since 1880. We are particularly fond of the local shop we have here in Exeter, Devon. Not only are the handmade, tailored products exceptional the customer service is an immersive experience to remember.

In addition, smaller artisans like Sophie Hulme create luxurious leather goods with a contemporary twist, blending high-quality materials and British craftsmanship. Whether it’s a stylish bag, a pair of shoes, or a finely crafted wallet, UK-made leather products often carry a sense of timelessness and style, ideal for those seeking something unique and of exceptional quality. Leather is a wonderful material, especially as a by product of the UK farming industry.

Furniture and Woodworking

When it comes to bespoke furniture, the UK is home to some incredible artisans who design and craft unique pieces. We work with a variety of carpenters and joiners who bring our interior design and property solution ideas to life. In places like the Southwest, craftsmen use traditional joinery techniques to create everything from custom-made tables and chairs to intricate cabinetry.

The renowned Ercol furniture company, for instance, is celebrated for producing high-quality, handcrafted wooden furniture with a modern yet timeless appeal.

Similarly, Chesney’s, a British manufacturer of handmade fireplaces, uses the finest materials and techniques to produce statement pieces that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The bespoke nature of these items ensures that they are built to last and fit perfectly within a variety of interior design styles.

Jewellery and Metalwork

In the UK, there’s a strong tradition of silversmithing and jewellery making, with areas like Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter being particularly famous for its fine craftsmanship.

We’re very fortunate to have local jewellers such as Dobles in Exeter who still create Jewellery in-house. The family founded and run business span over generations, supplying families with keepsakes

Artisans create bespoke jewellery pieces, using gold, silver, and platinum, often with precious stones. Notable brands like Boodles and David Morris continue to uphold the tradition of British jewellery making, offering exclusive, high-end pieces that showcase intricate detailing and design innovation.

In addition to jewellery, the UK also has a long-standing history of metalworking. Artisans in Sheffield have been producing world-class cutlery and silverware for centuries, and companies like Dartington Crystal continue this tradition by creating handcrafted glassware and barware. The care that goes into these handcrafted metal and glass pieces ensures that each product is of the highest quality and often passed down as family heirlooms.

The Rise of Modern Artisanal Craftsmanship

While traditional crafts remain at the core of UK artistry, modern artisans are constantly evolving their techniques and pushing creative boundaries. Many contemporary artisans blend traditional methods with modern designs, resulting in stunning works that speak to both heritage and innovation.

Why Choose Artisanal and Handcrafted Items?

There is a growing appreciation for the quality and uniqueness of artisanal items. Unlike mass-produced goods, handcrafted items are made with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every piece is one-of-a-kind. These items often tell a story about the craftsperson’s techniques and background, creating a deeper connection between the consumer and the product.

Moreover, buying handmade products supports local artisans and encourages sustainable, ethical production. Many UK artisans use locally sourced materials, minimising environmental impact and promoting fair-trade practices. This is particularly important in a time when consumers are becoming more conscious of the ethical implications of their purchases.

Artisanal products also tend to be more durable and of higher quality, often becoming heirlooms passed down through generations. Whether it’s a handcrafted leather bag or a custom-made dining table, these items are designed to last, both in terms of functionality and style.

Summary: Celebrating UK Artisanal and Handcrafted Goods

The resurgence of interest in handcrafted, artisanal items in the UK highlights a shift towards more sustainable, ethical, and personalised consumption. From the pottery of Stoke-on-Trent to the bespoke furniture of the Cotswolds, the UK continues to produce some of the world’s finest handcrafted goods. These items are not just products—they are expressions of skill, tradition, and creativity, often with rich cultural histories attached to them.

As the world moves towards greater sustainability and individuality in design, artisanal and handcrafted goods will continue to be in high demand. For those looking to invest in unique, high-quality products, UK artisans offer an abundance of options, each piece telling a story of craftsmanship, passion, and dedication.

For more on British artisanal products, explore organizations like the Craft Council or check out platforms like Not On The High Street to discover more talented makers and creators.