September Reclamation Special

It was a joy to be asked again if I would review the Arthur Swallows Decorative Home and Salvage Show at Ripley.  It was a beautiful serene Saturday morning when I arrived, the air slightly Autumnal.  Walking through the gates makes me feel like coming home, a familiar place that has a special place in my heart.  Seeing old friends and catching up, wandering around the perfectly styled stands full of new finds.  There is always such a warm friendly vibe at Ripley and definitely something for everyone, it’s simply a great day out and if you leave with that perfect item you’ve been looking for, even better.

You’d think that the exhibitors had all talked and compared notes about the look of their stands, they all flowed and coordinated so well: green tones, metals and neutrals.  These elements always catch my eye, it’s a look that I’m extremely inspired by at the moment.

As always Millington and Hope‘s careful arrangement made me gasp, tactile wooden bowls, rough hewn linen chairs and tactile ceramics.  I was also drawn as always to Chris Holmes display, Chris has such an eye for the unusual. He is the master of curation and is so knowledgeable of his stock.  Chris was also showcasing a body of work by Chloe Holt an artist who creates stunning contemporary paintings. I fell in love with them and I am seriously saving my pennies to own a piece of Chloe’s work that I can call my own.

This fair Matt Dixon of Tallboy Interiors in Aberford has taken his own stand. A qualified interior designer with a flair for the unique; I loved his stand and it’s curios but also thoroughly enjoyed talking to Matt who really knows his stuff.

I’m so pleased that this fair has taken place twice this year, you always find something new for your home. I was looking for something in particular this time that I didn’t find so the search goes on. Maybe it will appear in May next year when I next visit.  I did get seduced by a simple ceramic vessel to add to my collection as ceramics are a growing passion of mine so I left a happy customer.