We all know by now that I love anything vintage or retro. So yet again I’m pleased to showcase a designer who captures my interest with her retro and cheeky themes.
The founder of Dupenny modestly signs her emails: Emily Dupen-Hopkins, Wallpaper Extraordinaire (!) but her talents stretch further than that and she has recently launched a range of burlesque homewares – lampshades, cushions and art prints. A collaboration with upholsterer Emily Farncombe means Dupenny are also offering antique chairs with an uber modern twist.
The quirky wallpaper designs include ‘Time for tea’ which depicts 50’s style cheesecake images of homewives covering their modesty with cakes and other such domestic delights. ‘Call Girls’ features saucy, tongue in cheek interpretations of call cards you might find in an old fashioned red phone box.
When asked about her inspiration Emily explains she’s ‘On a mission to make the world smile’ and sense of humour is always priority. The inspiration for Dupenny’s designs comes from all things cheeky. ‘We like retro themes, curious humour, lovely ladies, and the simple impact of black & white.’
Every Dupenny product is carefully made by hand in their Brighton studio. Designs are initially hand drawn before being finalised on a computer. Hand screen-printing ensures that no two items are the same. They are each subject to variations in print, and even minor imperfections, but this is what makes them beautiful and unique. Dupenny call this ‘Imperfect Perfection’.
‘We spend our days thinking up curious themes, doodling pretty pictures, getting more ink on ourselves than on the paper, and above all loving what we do.’ – A statement from the website which I love!
Dupenny believe in sustainable design. Where possible they use 100% natural materials, right down to the packaging the products come in. They believe there is no excuse for unnecessary waste and recycle as much as they can.
Dupenny products can be bought directly via the website www.dupenny.com or locally from Bird & Rose in Hove or Pussy Home Boutique in Brighton.
