Gemma Critchley & Zara Braganca

Gemma & Zara both studied Textile Design at the Birmingham Institute of Art & Design. Since graduating in 2005 and developng freelance contracts, they have exhibited work at New Designers (London), the Shrewsbury Drapers' Exhibition, Birmingham Central Library, the Beautiful Exhibition, the Light House Gallery (Wolverhampton), International Textiles Magazine, Premier Vision (Paris) and TrendStop Forecasting (London). Collaborations lead to the formation of Cabinet Studios in 2008.

Time honoured techniques are combined with innovative thinking, each piece individually created, layered and embellished to form an entirely unique piece. By mixing different styles and materials, each piece unites flavours from across the globe, producing creations that are beautiful, eclectic and entirely unique. Cabinet Studios represents a contemporary elegance that combines delicate Englishness with exotic bohemia. Emphasis is placed upon individuality and self expression, with pieces designed to be mixed and matched to achieve a uniquely personal signature.

Their style encompasses a subtle mix of identities, flavours reminiscent of quintessential Englishness, with inspirations from beautiful Parisian style fused with exotic colonial accents. Exploring the relationship between products that have both functional and luxury elements entwined has helped to accentuate the collections free spirited and individual feel. Sourcing from bygone eras to reveal precious findings, little pieces of luxury with intrinsic value, something with a past and now a new presence, provides an exciting platform for developing highly individual, sustainable creations. Hours are spent sourcing rare and unusual resources which form the roots of each piece. Exquisite detailing and careful execution of colour gives lead to the creation of tactile, comfortable pieces with a contemporary edge.

Test of time
Our pieces hold an intrinsic value from the initial concept through to the finished article. Each piece is entirely unique as they evolve from collected objects discovered on our travels

"We search for the perfect piece of inspiration and you instantly know when it’s right, we have to truly love what we find as these are the foundations upon which our designs will stand"