TALKING SHOP
A truly joyful shopping experience, Artisans & Adventurers sources products from around the globe
How does traditional, artisan and sustainable design for your home (and your pets) sound? We visit Artisans & Adventurers in east London
WHAT A one- stop- shop for sustainable and design-led products for your home (and animals), Artisans & Adventurers was dreamt up by co- owners Bee Friedmann and Amy Fleuriot while walking their dogs together in London Fields seven years ago. ‘In 2011, we went on a six-week product sourcing adventure to Kenya,’ explains Bee. ‘ We always knew that we wanted to design our own products and work one- on- one with artisans rather than just sending ideas o to a factory.’ On this trip, the two met such an array of talented craftsmen that they began to source jewellery and pet accessories to sell in their London shop (they now have a secondary base in Margate). Today, they track down and sell products from an array of di erent countries. ‘ We like to think of ourselves as a mini department store for handmade and ethically sourced goods,’ says Amy. FIND ‘Both of our stores have a rustic and textural feel about them,’ says Bee, ‘and we’re always searching at antiques fairs and car boot sales for interesting items to use in displays.’ The pair regularly source and design products, and they introduce new finds on a monthly basis. The Margate shop even has a workshop in the back, so customers can see fabric creations come to life. Plus (as is only fitting for a pair who met while walking their hounds) in both stores, you’ll find handmade canine accessories and organic pet food by Lily’s Kitchen. BUY ‘Our ‘ Swirl’ jewellery collection has been a big hit since launching,’ explains Amy. ‘ The pieces are cast from recycled brass in Kenya.’ Also find rugs and cushions from India, hand-woven baskets, artisan candles and stationery. ‘Prices range from £4 for a carved co ee scoop, to up to £120 for a rug. There’s something for everyone!’ laughs Bee.