Softly does it

Ever wanted to give your home a revamp without the hassle (or, indeed, expense) of a full-scale interior designer-led makeover? The answer might be to simply spruce up your soft furnishings – after all it’s those all-important finishing touches that often make the most dramatic of differences. Enter Violet & George, a Notting Hill-based company whose focus is fabrics. Founded by local lady Nicky Mudie, theirs is a niche design service that sets about filling your abode with beautiful textiles – from curtains, cushions and throws to rugs, upholstery, blinds and lampshades. What’s special about V&G is their steadfast support of British craftsmanship, with a team of artisan makers and decorators fully signed up to the cause. Nicky tells us, “Many traditional British arts and skills in the textiles industry are declining as manufacturing moves overseas and a generation of craftspeople retires. We feel mass production can take the quality from a product and, thankfully, so do our clients.” We couldn’t agree more, and it just so happens that autumn is our favourite time of year for some luxury hibernating. Snuggle up! 57 St. Helens Gardens, W10 (020 8969 0654)