Maiden
9 Princess Road
Primrose Hill
London
NW1 8JR
020 7449 0770
www.maiden-uk.com
info@maiden-uk.com
Who: Anna Unwin
“I used to work as an interior stylist for magazines and enjoyed sorting things and putting things together. I enjoy collecting pieces and had always wanted to open a shop, so when such a pretty corner shop came up for rent in Primrose Hill I was really pleased. I used to live in Primrose Hill so I know the area really well. Of course the shop didn’t look like it does now. I laid re-claimed teak decking outside and a re-claimed oak floor inside.
I sell antique furniture and home accessories; giving new life to old pieces. Much of what I sell is unique. I source all the pieces globally, from antique fairs and so on and then re-work some of the pieces to make them more modern. I work with young designers to create individual pieces. For example, I sell sets of napkins, each set is different, made from old French linen. I hope that there is something for everyone, for their house or for gifts. I chose the muted and neutral theme as it is timeless and means that items will suit any colour scheme, as well as it being a favourite of mine.
I am creating a unique Maiden brand which I will then be able to sell wholesale to other shops. My favourite pieces are the Hungarian flour sacks that we have turned into large floor cushions. Each one is different. I also like the lamps that we have made from old glass wine vats which are then dipped in chrome and made into lamps. The most popular piece I sell is probably the glass droplets which come in a set of 25 and can be hung together or individually. The vintage furniture, ceramics and glass also sell well. I source the furniture when each piece sells, as this is all the space that I have. Most is unique although sometimes I am lucky enough to find a pair of armchairs.”
What: Maiden is an interior lifestyle shop which sells a mixture of old and new pieces. The shop is a peaceful blend of Scandinavian and British style; teak decking and dark floors combined with white walls and vintage furniture displaying a beautiful range of interior accessories. Prices vary from £3-£5 for bone hair accessories and handmade Moroccan Rose guest soaps to French scented candles in hand-blown Venetian glass holders (£33) right up to £1,250 for a vintage leather armchair. Each piece is different and encompasses style and function. I bought a beautiful pale pink feather duster (£10) and admired the vintage French linen tableware. Maiden is also available mail order through the website or catalogue. Delivery costs £5.95. Gift wrapping is also available.
Why: For elegant, stylish yet functional pieces for your home or for a loved one. Maiden has been featured in the Telegraph, Living etc and You magazine and the products are regularly used in interior design shoots. The neutral, muted colour scheme has wide appeal and there is something to suit any budget.
Where: Nearest tube is Chalk Farm. Turn right out of the tube and then cross over the bridge. Turn left onto Gloucester Avenue. Continue walking for about five minutes. When you reach the shops just before the Engineer Pub turn right onto Princess Road. Maiden is on the right hand side over the next small junction and has a pale green front with wooden decking outside.
When: Monday-Saturday 11am – 6pm. Sunday 12 pm – 5pm.
