A Q&A with Ella Richards, Head of Design at Linwood
October 16, 2025
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4m
We’re so excited to introduce our brand-new collaboration with Linwood Fabrics; a range of statement chairs and luxurious beds upholstered in some of Linwood’s most beautiful designs. Bringing together Barker and Stonehouse’s timeless craftsmanship with Linwood’s bold use of pattern and colour, this collection is all about personality, comfort and enduring style.
To celebrate its launch, we caught up with Ella Richards, Head of Design at Linwood, to chat about the inspiration behind their fabrics, the creative process, and how this partnership brings a fresh new dimension to classic Barker and Stonehouse pieces.
Q. Your designs are known for being bold, illustrative, and full of character. Where do you find your inspiration?
A. At Linwood, inspiration comes from many places – from the natural world and folk art to archival textiles and fine art. Our Hampshire design studio is filled with hand-painted artworks, sketches, and collected references, all of which are reimagined with a modern sensibility. We believe fabrics should tell a story, so each design begins with a narrative thread that brings it to life.
Q. Colour plays such a key role in your collections. How do you develop new palettes, and what inspires your choices?
A. Colour is at the heart of everything we do. Our palettes evolve through experimenting with combinations until we find the right balance of vibrancy and harmony. We’re inspired by fashion, nature, and British interiors – but ultimately, we look for colours that feel timeless while still offering a touch of surprise.
Q. What defines the typical Linwood customer, and what draws them to your fabrics?
A. Our customers are design-conscious individuals who value originality and quality. They want fabrics that not only perform well but also bring character to a space. Many are drawn to our bold use of pattern and colour, which allows them to create interiors that feel both personal and uplifting.
Q. Are there common mistakes people make when choosing fabrics for their homes?
A. One of the most common is being overly cautious with colour or scale. A patterned fabric might feel daring at first, but when used on a sofa or an armchair, it can transform a room. Another mistake is overlooking practicality. We always encourage people to think about durability and finish, particularly in busy family homes.
Q. Barker and Stonehouse has a long heritage as a family business, much like Linwood. Why else do you feel Linwood aligns so well with our brand?
A. Both brands share a passion for craftsmanship, heritage, and creating pieces that last. Barker and Stonehouse is renowned for its beautifully made furniture and pairing it with our fabrics feels like a natural extension of that ethos. Together, we create interiors that are timeless but never predictable.
Q. Barker and Stonehouse is known for timeless, quality furniture. What do you admire most about our style and approach to interiors?
A. We admire the way Barker and Stonehouse combines heritage with forward-thinking design. Your pieces are built to last but are also contemporary and relevant to how people live today. It’s that balance – respecting tradition while embracing innovation – that really resonates with us.
Q. What makes these fabrics in particular so special, and why were they a perfect fit for this collection?
A. We selected fabrics that showcase the breadth of Linwood’s design – from playful prints to richly textured weaves. Each fabric brings something unique, whether it’s colour, pattern, or tactile quality. They were a perfect fit because they complement the craftsmanship of Barker and Stonehouse furniture while adding personality and depth.
Q. What was your first impression when you saw our furniture pieces brought to life in Linwood fabrics?
A. It was a moment of delight. Seeing our fabrics upholstered onto your beautifully crafted furniture elevated both elements – the pattern and texture of the fabric took on a new dimension, while the furniture pieces themselves felt even more individual and characterful.
Q. Do you have a favourite piece in the collection?
A. It’s hard to choose, but the Runa armchair really stood out. The combination of form and fabric felt effortless, and it’s the kind of piece you could build a whole room around.
Q. What tips would you give to someone looking to bring more colour and pattern into their home?
A. Start with one piece – a sofa in a bold plain, a chair in a striking print, or even just a set of cushions. From there, you can layer in complementary tones and textures. The key is to be brave: colour and pattern bring joy and personality, and once you take that first step, you’ll find it transforms how you see your space.
The result of this collaboration is a collection that celebrates the best of both brands - timeless furniture, reimagined with expressive fabrics that bring colour, texture and character into every room. Whether you’re drawn to a statement armchair or a beautifully upholstered bed, each piece showcases the craftsmanship, creativity and quality that Barker and Stonehouse and Linwood are known for. Explore the Barker and Stonehouse x Linwood range online or visit your nearest store to see these stunning designs up close.