Clerkenwell Notes: Light, Materials & Designing for Wellbeing
Insights from two design-focused visits and what they mean for my clients
Clerkenwell has long been a cornerstone of the interiors world — and last week I found myself there twice, immersed in materials, conversations and ideas that will directly shape the projects I’m currently working on for clients.
Whenever I’m selecting finishes, fabrics or lighting for a scheme, Clerkenwell is always high on my list. The concentration of design-led brands in one walkable neighbourhood makes it an invaluable resource.
Discovering New Inspiration at Material Source
My first visit was to meet Arte at their new space within Material Source. If you haven’t visited yet, it is such an inspiring environment — beautifully curated and thoughtfully laid out, making material sourcing feel both efficient and creative.
I’ll certainly be using it more as a base for project meetings and research going forward, so do let me know if you’d like to meet there for a coffee. With so many excellent suppliers now housed under one roof, it’s becoming a must-visit for anyone involved in interiors.
Arte showcased an array of truly stunning wallcoverings for a new interior project I’m currently developing. Their collections offer such depth — texture, pattern, tactility — and are always a reminder of how powerful walls can be in shaping atmosphere. There is also a fascinating sustainability exhibition on at the moment, which added another layer of inspiration and reflection to the visit.
Lighting That Elevates a Space: Bert Frank
During our conversation, Siobhan at Arte recommended a lighting showroom just around the corner — and I’m so glad she did. I went on to visit Bert Frank.
The lighting is absolutely stunning and UK-made — sculptural yet refined, with beautiful detailing. Lighting is one of the most transformative elements in any project. It defines mood, highlights materials and shapes how we experience a space at different times of day. Discovering new pieces that balance craftsmanship with contemporary design is always invaluable when refining a scheme.
The Science of Light & Wellbeing at Camira
Later in the week, I was back in Clerkenwell for a fascinating talk at Camira by Dr Shelley James on light and its impact on interiors and wellbeing.
It was genuinely eye-opening.
We explored the science behind natural light, circadian rhythms, and how exposure to daylight — ideally at least 20 minutes first thing in the morning — significantly influences mood, focus, sleep quality and overall wellbeing.
I hadn’t fully appreciated quite how important my morning run or outdoor swim is to how I feel — particularly in winter. It explains why I generally feel energised and positive even on darker days. My brain has quite literally been woken up properly — and in a very healthy way.
When I chose my home, my top three criteria were:
A large window filled with light and sky.
Proximity to a tube station — so I can move around easily and feel safe getting home at night.
Access to a park for running and somewhere I can swim outdoors.
Listening to the science behind natural sunlight — and the importance of seeing sky and trees soon after waking — reinforced why those instincts were so important. I understood the basics, but not the depth of research now supporting these decisions.
It also made me reflect on routine. My mornings usually involve waking, making tea, stretching, sketching, and then heading out for a run or swim as the sun rises (or, in summer, once it already has). Designing spaces that support these daily rituals — with light, outlook and connection to nature — feels more important than ever.
It’s a fascinating subject, and one I’m keen to continue exploring — both personally and within my work.
Sheers, Light Diffusion & the New Lumis Collection
While at Camira, it was also lovely to speak with the designer Rebecca, who created their new wide-width sheer collection, Lumis.
I have always loved a window dressed with both sheers and curtains. Sheers beautifully diffuse light during the day, softening a space and creating calm. At night, blackout and privacy become essential — whether in a domestic project or hospitality setting.
The Lumis collection is particularly interesting: made from recycled plastic and meeting the necessary flame-retardant standards required for hotels and offices. In a domestic setting, I will still always try to use natural fibres such as linen, wool or even cashmere where possible. However, visually and technically, these new sheers are a very strong alternative — especially for contract environments where performance is key.
What This Means for My Clients
These visits weren’t just inspirational — they directly inform how I approach projects:
Selecting wallcoverings that add depth and character while considering sustainability.
Sourcing UK-made lighting that enhances both form and function.
Designing schemes that prioritise natural light, circadian health and wellbeing.
Balancing aesthetic beauty with technical performance requirements.
Great design is not just about how a space looks — it’s about how it makes you feel at 7am on a winter morning and at 10pm after a long day.
If you’re planning a project and would like to discuss materials, lighting or how to better harness light in your space, I’d love to talk. And perhaps we can meet in Clerkenwell — coffee at Material Source included.
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