Couturious
14a Downshire Hill
London
NW3 1NR
020 7209 1703
07900 212 499
www.couturious.co.uk
Debra@couturious.co.uk

Who: Debra Franses-Bean
“My designs are colourful, flamboyant, nostalgic and striking, and they’ve usually got a story behind them. I really love Andy Warhol and the way he transferred from being a commercial artist to a fine artist, it’s that line between the two that interests me.

I want to give people something of real quality and artistic integrity but also something that is useful. I rethink things in a practical but aesthetic way. I’m a very nostalgic person and a lot of my designs have a very 1950s feel to them, an ‘other’ quality you can’t quite put your finger on.

I come up with my concept and then think how the image can be applied to different types of things. I like to work with real masters of their craft. I don’t just see what I do as design and manufacturing, I see it as somewhere between art and craft and manufacturing.

One of my favourite products is the new wallpaper that’s black with gold hand-drawn birds multiplied all over. I get a lot of inspiration on Hampstead Heath – the ducks and birds and swans all became a fantasy fusion of birds. I’m trying to make designs people won’t get tired of. Since becoming pregnant I've been inspired to create magical spaces for kids rooms too.”

What: Curtains, cushions, wallpaper, foot stools and more. But we’re not talking mass-produced run-of-the-mill Ikea and Habitat designs. This is all limited edition, what you’re getting is pretty unique. Screen printed, you can have Debra’s striking pop-art inspired designs in any colour and size you want, or even mutiplied Andy Warhol style. Debra also kits out entire rooms, coming round to your home and advising on carpet, paint colour and furniture – see the Design House section on the website, as well as collaborating with master craftsmen to create one-off pieces of furniture.

Why: Every design is a work of art you can take home with you, each with its own story behind it. The fabulous chandelier design (on the cushions in the photo) was inspired by Debra’s house in Primrose Hill burning down. Rather than dwell on it Debra turned the experience into a piece of art. Debra works with master craftsmen to produce the wallpaper and furniture – the factory she uses is the old Laura Ashley factory in Wales. Yes, a bit more pricey than most, but this is a really upmarket product making fabulous gifts and adding something really special to your home. Look out for the forthcoming children’s range and Leigh Bowery collection, all nostalgic pop psychedelia!

Where: Visit Couturious online where you can view the Couturious products and email Debra with any questions. Cocoon in Westbourne Grove is a stockist and there are Couturious representatives in Manchester, Galway and Dublin.

When: Log on to the website anytime, otherwise ring to make an appointment.

Photograph: Lisa Marker