SPOTLIGHT ON NEWTON PAISLEY

Founder Susy Paisley shares the brand’s story

Seasoned traveller and conservationist Susy Paisley always enjoyed drawing flora and fauna when working on location, but it wasn’t until three years ago that she set up her business producing fabrics and wallpapers, Newton Paisley. ‘I lived for many years in South America, where textiles, colour and pattern are like the air you breathe, and I’ve always loved the work of early naturalist-illustrators,’ she says.

‘I am a maximalist; I love colour.

I create patterns involving endangered species and the sale of my products raises money for conservation through World Land Trust. I felt there was little out there celebrating animals that most need our love.’ Usually based in Whitstable, Kent, Paisley heads to northern France when designing. ‘All my fabrics and wallpapers tell stories – this is really the core of my business. I feel that the love in each design and the slow creation have a soothing effect on the viewer. I love the muted and vibrant hues of the pigment printing on natural linen, as it gives a gentle effect.’

Her latest collection, Paisley Paramecium, celebrates microscopic life forms. ‘My bestseller? It’s a dead heat between Mercia Vines or Carolina Parakeets,’ says Paisley. ‘But, for me, the Madidi Clouds design is the most special, as it includes the original illustrations I drew when I was studying bears in Bolivia.’

Paisley says she’s taking business slow and steady: ‘We prioritise longevity and sustainability, building on relationships with individuals and companies that share a similar ethos.’ The year ahead is looking busy. ‘We are planning a marine design, a Scottish Highlands design, a design for children, as well as some bespoke work.’

As for her own style, she says, ‘I love a home to be layered and full of personality – colour, flowers, candles, curiosities from my rambles, plus my children’s fabulous artwork. There are always a lot of cushions in my home. I enjoy refurbishing old furniture and making my own accessories. My favourite shops are places like Merchant & Mills, VV Rouleaux and Loop. I also adore Anthropologie, The Future Kept and The

Room Service.’

WALLPAPERS, £240 a roll, Newton Paisley LITTLE MIXING SPOONS, £24 each, The Room Service JUTE BAG, £45, The Future Kept CUSHIONS, from £75, Newton Paisley

END TABLE, £4,200, Faolchú This table is handmade by expert craftsmen in Glasgow

LAMBSWOOL BLANKET, £69, The Future Kept

BODY SERUM (in box illustrated by Susy), £108, Vanderohe

LAMPSHADE, £90, Inq at The Room Service YARD SHORTS, £30, Merchant & Mills at Liberty London

MUG, £24, The Room Service