In the heart of modern British design, The House of Hackney has emerged as a bold, distinctive voice known for its maximalist aesthetic and heritage-inspired patterns. Founded in London, this interior and fashion house reimagines traditional motifs with a contemporary twist, drawing from Victorian grandeur, the natural world, and rich historical influences. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship, sustainability, and storytelling, House of Hackney stands apart as a brand that invites people to embrace color, texture, and a fearless sense of style in their homes and wardrobes.
Origins and Vision of The House of Hackney
From Shoreditch to Global Recognition
The House of Hackney was established in 2011 by husband-and-wife duo Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Royle. Their vision stemmed from a frustration with the minimalist trends dominating the market at the time. Wanting to revive the rich traditions of British design, they launched the brand from their home in East London’s Hackney neighborhood, infusing it with an unapologetically maximalist philosophy. What began as a local design studio quickly gained attention for its bold prints and commitment to quality, growing into a globally recognized name in interior fashion.
Design Ethos and Aesthetic
The House of Hackney is characterized by its opulent yet grounded style. Drawing inspiration from Victorian architecture, British folklore, and the natural world, the brand’s prints often feature motifs such as blooming florals, wild animals, and mythical creatures. These elements are layered with deep jewel tones and intricate details, resulting in collections that feel both classic and contemporary. The brand’s mantra is to create spaces that tell stories spaces that spark curiosity, conversation, and emotion.
Collections and Signature Pieces
Iconic Prints
Among the most recognizable features of the House of Hackney are its iconic prints. Designs like Artemis, inspired by William Morris, and Palmeral, with its vibrant palm leaf patterns, have become hallmarks of the brand. These prints appear across various product lines, including wallpaper, fabric, furniture, and fashion, allowing for cohesive yet bold interiors.
Furniture and Decor
House of Hackney offers a full range of interior products from plush velvet sofas and statement armchairs to handcrafted lampshades and intricately detailed rugs. Each piece is made in the UK using traditional methods and high-quality materials. The emphasis on craftsmanship ensures longevity and a luxurious feel. Their furniture often acts as a canvas for their signature prints, transforming everyday items into pieces of art.
Home Accessories
In addition to large statement pieces, the brand also designs home accessories such as cushions, throws, candles, and ceramics. These items allow customers to infuse their spaces with Hackney flair without committing to a full redesign. The attention to detail in even the smallest item showcases the brand’s dedication to beauty and authenticity.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
Conscious Manufacturing
Sustainability is at the core of the House of Hackney’s mission. All of their products are manufactured in Britain, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting local artisans. They use eco-friendly inks and responsibly sourced materials, ensuring their environmental impact is kept to a minimum. The brand has also pledged to become a carbon-negative company, planting trees and supporting biodiversity through strategic partnerships.
Timeless over Trendy
Unlike fast-fashion or fleeting interior trends, House of Hackney embraces timeless design. By creating pieces meant to last a lifetime, they encourage mindful consumption and reduce waste. Customers are invited to view their purchases not just as decor, but as heirlooms artistic investments that grow more meaningful over time.
Retail Experience and Flagship Stores
Immersive Interiors
Visiting a House of Hackney store is an experience in itself. Their flagship showroom in London is designed as a sanctuary of color and pattern, where every room tells a different story. Customers can browse collections in a setting that feels more like an enchanted manor house than a retail space. The brand’s immersive retail environments have helped them connect deeply with design enthusiasts, offering inspiration at every turn.
Global Reach
Though rooted in British heritage, House of Hackney has expanded internationally. Their products are now available through select global stockists and online, making their designs accessible to a wider audience. They have collaborated with luxury retailers and design houses, including Bergdorf Goodman, Liberty London, and Anthropologie, helping them reach design lovers worldwide.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Creative Collaborations
The brand has collaborated with iconic institutions such as the William Morris Gallery and Liberty, bringing together the old and the new in fresh, unexpected ways. These partnerships reinforce the brand’s connection to British design history while breathing new life into timeless styles. Their fashion collaborations, including clothing and accessories, have also gained a cult following.
Pop Culture and Design Influence
House of Hackney’s influence can be seen in editorial spreads, celebrity homes, and design showcases across the globe. Their bold patterns have graced the interiors of hotels, boutique stores, and private residences, often featured in magazines like Elle Decor, Vogue Living, and Architectural Digest. The brand’s fearless embrace of maximalism has contributed to a broader resurgence of pattern-rich interiors in the design world.
Why House of Hackney Stands Out
Philosophy of Beauty and Individuality
What sets the House of Hackney apart is its rejection of mass-market design in favor of individuality and expression. They believe that a home should be as unique as the person living in it reflecting personality, passions, and history. In an age where minimalism often dominates, their work is a celebration of complexity, storytelling, and the joy of design.
Customer Connection
Beyond aesthetics, the House of Hackney cultivates a deep connection with its community. Through events, storytelling, and a strong social media presence, they invite customers into their world. This relationship extends beyond the transaction, fostering a sense of belonging and shared values around art, design, and conscious living.
The House of Hackney is more than a design brand; it is a philosophy, a lifestyle, and a movement. With roots in British heritage and eyes set on the future, it encourages us to embrace boldness, beauty, and meaning in every corner of our lives. From luxurious wallpaper to statement furniture and timeless prints, House of Hackney offers not just decor, but an invitation to live more vibrantly. As the brand continues to grow, its dedication to storytelling, sustainability, and artistry remains its guiding force making it a true icon in the world of modern design.