Mood Board: A Bar Cabinet, and More Pieces That British Interior Designer Katharine Pooley Admires

February 04, 2021

Cover British interior designer Katherine Pooley

Tatler Design Awards jury member Katharine Pooley picks out the art and design pieces that have caught her eye

Known for crafting impeccably elegant interiors, the British designer Katharine Pooley has a knack for finding pieces to treasure; she is also participating as a jury member of the upcoming Tatler Design Awards, and will play a hand in the selection of winners.

Here, she picks out her recent favourite furniture collections and art pieces that she admires:

1. Lapis Lazuli sculpture from Katharine Pooley

Besides retailing custom-made pieces, Pooley’s namesake brand offers an inspiring selection of sculptures and decor accessories. “I particularly love this Lapis Lazuli sculpture and recently specified it for a client’s property in Singapore,” she says.

Available at Katharine Pooley

2. Double Lowther vanity basin from Drummonds

“When I wish to elevate a bathroom design from ordinary to extraordinary, I look to British supplier Drummonds,” says Pooley. “Their fittings and sanitaryware have a classic feel and the detailing and finishes evoke an old-world glamour.”

Available at Drummonds

3. Birth of Trazamite table from Based Upon

Pooley continues to be inspired by the impressive work of the design ateliers and art collectives in London; including creations from UK studio Based Upon. “For incredibly luxurious, beautiful statement pieces, I often turn to Based Upon. Their workmanship and imaginative designs are peerless.”

Available at Based Upon

4. Galaxy side table from Gallery Kifu

Pooley loves shopping at Kifu Paris, a gallery in the French capital. “I love this side table; we recently included this piece in a living room in London, the shellwork and shagreen detailing is exemplary,” she says.

Available at Gallery Kifu

5. Bespoke bar cabinet from Katharine Pooley

The designer’s namesake furnishings brand also offers customised pieces, such as this bar cabinet. “This geometric straw marquetry and bronze bespoke bar we created last year is beautifully detailed; it inspires conversation and admiration in equal measure,” says Pooley.

Available at Katharine Pooley

6. Carlsbad cabinet, from Atelier Viollet

The designer also admires the workmanship on this exquisite piece from the French maker Atelier Viollett. “Gypsum, also known as selenite, has a wonderful eye-catching crystalline beauty,” explains Pooley. “Like rock crystal, I often use this finish to add a unique 'wow' piece to a special interior. This gypsum cabinet is beautifully made and can be constructed to bespoke dimensions to fit any space.”

Available at Atelier Viollet

7. Hardware from Nanz

As every meticulous interior designer would know, the tiniest detail matter—ranging from the hardware selection to other personalised elements that help create a truly luxurious home. "Upgrading your door knobs and joinery will elevate the entire interior,” says Pooley. “A favourite supplier for 2021 is the American brand Nanz, who have a fabulous range of finishes and designs. I particularly like their bronze and lacquered brass finishes.”

Available from Nanz

This story is adapted from the February 2021 issue of Tatler Homes Singapore; read it online at Magzter