In conversation with... Emma Britton
We talk to decorative glass designer Emma Britton about her unique splashbacks and exciting new collection for the RHS
From gorgeous splashbacks to her new collection for the RHS, this British designer is a glass act
When did you launch your brand?
I graduated in the 2008 recession when jobs were hard to come by, so I was spurred into setting up on my own. I launched Emma Britton Decorative Glass Designer right at the end of 2010 with a collection of hand-designed glass splashbacks and homewares. I’m into my tenth year in business now and celebrating my success as an independent British designer, of which I’m very proud. It’s hard work but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Did you study design?
I studied Printed Textiles at Loughborough University and initially worked in the glass industry. This is really where my niche approach to pattern on glass comes from.
Describe your working day…
There definitely isn’t a typical day, which is why I love being an entrepreneur. I’m often in the studio, working on bespoke projects for clients, making samples and splashbacks, helping fulfil orders or prototyping new glassware ranges. I could also be installing a splashback onsite, although this year I have managed to find ways of working remotely.
Describe your style…
Optimistic florals with a slightly retro aesthetic.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Mostly in suburbia, the style of the homes and their gardens. I really like domestic architecture from the 20th century, which influences the way I design and the themes for my collections – from my debut, ‘Up the Garden Path’, to 2020’s ‘HomeGrown’. All my products are practical, with everyday life in mind, and the designs work for traditional and contemporary interiors.
Who do you follow on Instagram?
As a novice gardener, and as someone who takes their inspiration from gardens, @ellenmarygardening is my Insta go to, along with the queen of small business, @hollytucker – a real role model for women in business.
What are your career highs so far?
The Royal Horticultural
Society asked me to design an exclusive glassware collection for them, which launched in February. It will be available at RHS Wisley and the other RHS gardens and online. This is a huge career high! For splashbacks, installing seven metres of my best-selling ‘ Watercolour in Grey’ design for 20 Air Street Offices, London, was pretty special.
What does the rest of the year hold?
I’m launching a new collection of glassware and splashbacks this spring, very much building on how much everyone loved ‘HomeGrown’.
Who would you like to collaborate with?
I’d love to design a range for the National Trust, the perfect partnership on every level.
See Emma’s designs at emmabritton.net and on Insta @emmabrittondecorativeglass