5 MINUTES WITH… Heal’s head of buying Sabina Miller on interior trends and the future of this iconic brand
HEAL’S HEAD OF BUYING
A champion of craftsmanship and design for two centuries, this iconic brand is as inspired by the future as it is influenced by its past, says Sabina Miller
HOW DOES THE WAY WE LIVE IN OUR HOMES IMPACT ON YOUR WORK?
I think we all want our homes to be a sanctuary and a place that expresses our personality. This is true whether we’re renting a small city flat or live in a converted barn in the countryside. Products that have an enduring style are more likely to stand the test of time. The longevity of our pieces is always at the back of my mind – our furniture is built to last.
WHAT ARE THE THREE MOST IMPORTANT TRENDS TODAY? Probably curved shapes, bold prints and opulent fabrics, and sustainability. Curved shapes were a big trend at all the design shows, moving from upholstery pieces to cabinetry, with curved edges giving a softer feel to dining tables and occasional pieces. Vibrant prints and luxe fabrics are a response to customers making more daring choices with their interiors. And there’s a conscious move towards more sustainable products, such as items made from recycled plastics, or textiles woven using recycled yarns from the fashion industry. TELL US WHAT HEAL’S STANDS FOR AS WE HEAD INTO 2020 Well 2020 will be Heal’s 210th year of trading, something we’re incredibly proud of. We’re recognised for our passion for considered design, great craftsmanship and quality, and bringing the most iconic furniture trends into the homes of our customers. We work hard to find new up-and-coming designers and, as head of buying, I feel a great responsibility to ensure that our products reflect our values. Design is at the heart of what we do and is what drives me daily.
WHICH NEW PRODUCTS CAN YOU EXCITE US ABOUT?
Our Autumn Winter collection includes five new sofa designs and a dark-stained version of our best-selling furniture range, Brunel.
I’m also proud that Heal’s is promoting the work of women in design, including Lucy Kurrein, who created the Isola sofa, and Genevieve Bennett, who designed the Deco Knot collection of lighting, mirrors and rugs. For myself, I’ve bought the Designed by You Madrid solid oak dining table – I wanted something honest and made with solid wood. It has an Italian country aesthetic that I like.
HAVE YOUR ITALIAN ROOTS PLAYED A PART IN THE DIRECTION OF YOUR CAREER?
Growing up in Italy, shopping for a fashion item or an interior piece was always a considered purchase. Items were chosen for their practicality and longevity – they had to be well made and have an enduring appeal. I’ve lived in the UK for 25 years and my style is influenced by where I come from as well as the places I’ve visited and people I’ve met. In this age of the internet and social media we’ve all become digital global nomads and develop our own personal style from a whole range of inspirations.