Founded in 2014, Jennifer Manners Design is a London-based studio that specializes in luxury rugs for residential and commercial projects. Its eponymous founder, Jennifer, has extensive travel exposure largely gained from her former career as a foreign news journalist. As a result of the instinctual approach to observation and interpretation that comes with her former career, many of the designs are derived from cultures and destinations across the globe. The studio has won several awards for its innovation and collaboration, and it is based in London’s Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and will be opening in the New York Design Center in January 2023. Learn more about Jennifer Manners Design and its founder in today’s Maker Monday.
The Santa Fe rug is a part of the Pioneer collection and is named after the capital city of New Mexico. It reflects the blend of Hispanic, Anglo, and Native American cultures present in the city.
Andrew Joseph: How would you describe your personal style?
Jennifer Manners: I would describe my own style as fairly classic and un-fussy, celebrating artisanal items (think slightly bohemian) and often throwing in a little detail that feels distinctive.
AJ: What’s your current TV obsession?
JM: I am not a massive TV viewer but I have found myself obsessed with White Lotus this season. The Sicilian scenery and gorgeous interiors of the hotel are certainly seductive, but I find myself fascinated by the characters – none of whom are particularly likeable…but much like a train wreck, I can’t look away and find myself counting the moments until the next episode (which sadly just finished).
Sedona takes its name and color inspiration from the slice of lush tranquillity in the otherwise dry and dusty Southwest.
AJ: How would you define your work in three words?
JM: Authentic, Fresh and Timeless.
AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
JM: We are the only ones who get to create this life so go for any wish or dream that you may have! We can often be so self-limiting but time flies and squeezing as much joy from life should absolutely be the goal.
Let your Californian dreams come true with the Laguna rug – one of six rugs included in the Pioneer collection. The wild cerulean surf, prehistoric coastlines and secluded beaches on the southern coast inspired this swirly blue Himalayan Wool rug.
AJ: What about your design style has shifted post-quarantine?
JM: We have started to really dedicate our focus to performance rugs – creating timeless rugs in design but in fibers that clean well and withstand the ‘hard-wear’ of life. We find people are expecting more from and spending more time in their homes and want to feel they can relax and not be too precious.
AJ: What might the design world look like in 10 years?
JM: Many family spaces are designed for common activities (cinema rooms, games rooms, etc) but I think the challenge for designers in 10 years (and probably sooner) will be to plan spaces for everyone to be in the same space but doing their own form of technology. There is the classic image of the family all sitting on their devices separately but together (phones, iPads, Nintendos). Creating spaces that accommodate that will likely be a big focus.
About the Maker | Since its founding in 2014, Jennifer Manners Design has worked collaboratively and creatively with some of the most celebrated design professionals around the world providing luxury rugs for both residential and commercial projects. With a commitment to the handmade heritage and a uniquely sustainable approach, Jennifer Manners has become synonymous with timeless, elegance, sustainable luxury and British design.
With its passion for innovation and collaboration, the studio has won several awards
including Best Sustainable Product (Decorex International), “Best British Brands” (Country & Townhouse Magazine) and “Best Accessory” (Homes & Garden UK) amongst others.
Now based at London’s premier Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and opening January 2023 at the New York Design Center, Jennifer Manners Design continues to push the boundaries of weaving, materials and design and are passionate about delivering sustainable options to luxury interiors. After eight years, the studio feels they are only at the beginning of the journey. Many exciting collaborations are in the pipeline and continued material innovation.
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