Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
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Home
Spotlight On
Beautiful Homes
Meet The Team
Behind the Name
Our Showrooms
Visit Jim Lawrence Website
Made By Us
  • Home
  • Spotlight On
  • Beautiful Homes
  • Meet The Team
  • Behind the Name
  • Our Showrooms
  • Visit Jim Lawrence Website
  • Made By Us
Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
Behind the Name

The Jim Lawrence Story

The story of Jim Lawrence began in 1994 at his Suffolk farm. Jim was busy rearing pigs and cows but it was clear that stock farming on such a small scale was not going to be profitable and Jim needed to find something else to do. He decided to set up a forge in one of the farm buildings and experimented by making specialist pieces for friends and neighbours.

From this modest beginning, Jim began producing a small range of candlesticks and chandeliers and selling them at fairs and markets. He then moved on to gates, railings and curtain poles and from the reaction of his customers he realised there was a demand for stylish, designer quality fixtures and fittings for the home, made with natural materials.

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Meet The Team

Meet The Jim Lawrence Lampshade Makers

Naturally we like to showcase the finished product as a brand, but what about what goes on behind the scenes? Because, if we’re honest… a great amount does! We’ve met several makers on the blog, but think it’s high time we introduce our own. We want to start with our talented Soft Furnishings team who make your Jim Lawrence lampshades in our Suffolk workshop.

All Jim Lawrence lampshades that you see online are individually handmade, including any ready made designs and made to order styles. This means every one that we lovingly send out to you is that bit more personal, which is why we want to introduce you to the lovely people behind them. We catch up with Supervisor Julie to ask a few questions…


Firstly, can you tell us who makes up the team?

I’m Julie, the one who manages the team, checks stock in and out and allocates the production orders as well as helping the others to make whatever soft furnishings are required. We have Shaun, who is based in the workshop, and makes all our wire frames. There’s Tony who cuts out and laminates the card panels we use for our different stocked shade shapes. Emma, Charlene, Vikkie and Jackie are our shade makers and Gill and Vonny who make our curtains, blinds and cushions as well as shades.

What does a typical work day look like in the soft furnishings department?

I’m generally in at 7.30 with the rest of the team starting at 8.30. I’ll have a daily production meeting where we prioritise the day’s jobs with any urgent orders first and the Made to Order and standard stocked items to follow. The team will come in and pick up their production order sheets and start making their shades straight away.

How many shades do you make a week?

On average I’d say about 300 to 500. When I first started working at Jim Lawrence it was a lot less because we used to have to do every single stage by hand, from measuring out and cutting the wire frame to cutting and laminating the card, whereas now we have machines to help us.

In an age where many of us are sat behind computer screens, it must be rewarding to be making something creative with your hands. Do you all have a background in sewing and crafting?

Funnily enough, with the exception of Vonny who has worked as a seamstress previously, and Tony who had his own lampshade business, none of us have a background in sewing and crafting, although we all enjoyed doing a bit as a past time. I like crafting things, Gill used to make her children’s clothes, Charlene customises a lot of her clothes and Becca made her own curtains.

Jim was one of Tony’s customers and loved his shades so much that when there was an opportunity Jim bought the business and Tony came with it! I was a self-employed landscape gardener before I came to Jim Lawrence, Gill and Vonny were dinner ladies, June worked in catering and then stone carving while Emma was a playground assistant.

Do you notice certain trends coming through with the soft furnishings orders? What is the most popular style you tend to make?

Candle shades are always the most popular because you generally need a few of them for your wall lights. The run up to Christmas is our busiest time of year for all shades, but particularly for candles. We notice trends in fabric more. Soft furnishing fashions usually follow trends in paint colours so neutrals have been popular for ages, along with grey and plain fabrics. Our tweeds and velvet’s are more popular in winter with lighter linens and cotton coming into their own during the summer. As for prints, our Honey Bees fabric is popular at the moment, along with our other Ratty Golightly country collection.

With over a thousand shade and fabric combinations available, what is your favourite Jim Lawrence material to work with?

I love the Hunstanton velvets as they are a beautiful fabric to work with, not only because they are so nice to handle but because they also cut and glue well. They make amazing shades. I also like our Featherdown because it is basically a neutral but with soft, subtle colours that look particularly good on a shade or cushion.

Other than lampshades, what bespoke soft furnishing orders come through your department?

We don’t make as many bespoke soft furnishings as we used to because of time constraints, but I remember one order we had to make a shade out of horsehair! We also had a request for a shade using antique napkins with initials on and once had a large order for waterproof, canvas shades for a house in Barbados that were shipped over on a private jet. We’ve also made shades for the Duchy of Cornwall and Clarence House among some of our more famous clients.

Finally, many of our employees have been here long term, including most of you! What’s the best part of working for a family business like Jim Lawrence?

We love the fact that we work in relatively small teams at Jim Lawrence so it is easy to settle in and get to know everyone. Because most of us have worked here a long time. We’re good friends as well as colleagues and know what we need to do every day with very little direction which means we work productively in a relaxed, easy atmosphere. Our workspace is also fantastic, really light, bright and airy – even in winter – which makes it a pleasure to come to work. Also, Jim allows us to bring our dogs in, as long as they are well behaved, which is a huge bonus!

You can browse all the gorgeous Jim Lawrence lampshades Julie and the team make, as well as a wealth of sumptuous fabrics for curtains and blinds on our website or in our Suffolk and Bath Showrooms.

Don’t forget to tag us in your interior updates on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook – we love seeing our products in their new homes.

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Spotlight On

3 Ways To Create A Restful Space In Your Bedroom

As far as we’re concerned, a bedroom should embody beauty whilst maintaing a soothing and calming atmosphere. With the right balance of lighting, accessories and personal touches, you can transform any bedroom into somthing luxurious as well as comfortable. You might be familiar with this beautiful room after seeing our Suffolk Barn Renovation. We thought you might like a closer look, and to learn our three best tips for creating a restful space in your own bedroom at home…



Whilst our Harleston Lamps add a soothing glow to snooze by, useful task lighting from our carefully positioned  Edgeware Spotlights and Holt Wall Lights offer stronger directional light for those evenings curled up with a good book or magazine. Finding a balance with different layers of light is crucial when developing a relaxed space, so that you can alter the light outputs depending on your mood and the time of day. These Antiqued Brass designs bring a warmth to an otherwise cool-toned room. Again, finding a balance in the colour scheme is also key…


Another way to balance lighting and enjoy a sense of calm is with candles. If you don’t want the hassle of wax and want to opt for something longer lasting, our Samworth Oil Lamp will do the trick. Hand blown here in Suffolk, the fluted glass lamp catches light and reflections while the antique brass topper gives it an elegant finish.


That’s right. If more gaudy tones make you feel relaxed, we’re all for it! But personally gentler natural hues are what does it for us. Here we’ve paired deep blue-greys like the Pewter Satin French Drum Shades, with lighter tones to soften the presence of the beams and create a sense of serenity and calm. We’ve chosen deeper grey fabrics on the bed to add depth and a sense of cosiness to an otherwise light space. The curtains are a bespoke cottage pleat design by us, made with the Stirling Lovat Wool fabric. These help the small window still feel light and open, but they can be lined or even interlined to keep out the morning sun. Using colours from a similar palette gives you a timeless and classic feel, ensuring a consistent look when you start building up with accessories like cushions and throws.


Sometimes less is more. Soft furnishings and home accessories are what you will actually use in the room, so it’s important you get these spot on. A bedside table is just what you need to hold a morning cup of something to ease you ino your day, as well as a platform for your essential bedside lighting. When it comes to soft furnishings, pairing cushions and blankets adds texture and of course comfort. Try the Hunstanton Velvet in Navy…


Subtle accessorising can also apply to your hardware. Matching sockets and switches to lighting creates a cohesive and considered look. Details do matter, and often it’s the smaller things in a room that ensure the overall space looks its best. All Jim Lawrence products are made using traditional metal working techniques and are hand finished to the very highest standards here at our Suffolk workshop, so every part of your room will exude quality no matter how big or small.

We would love to see how you translate these ideas into your own home, so don’t forget to tag us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. For a wealth of home décor and interior inspiration, view our Pinterest page. To find out even more about Scotland Barn and how you can book a stay, visit here.

 

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Spotlight On

How To Refresh Your Interior For Summer

We’ve been enjoying some bursts of gorgeous sunshine in the UK lately, and with longer days and lighter nights sometimes we feel the need to shed our home décor skin and brighten up what’s indoors too. We thought we would share our favourite ‘quick fix’ tips for turning your home into a stylish and seasonal utopia, Jim Lawrence style…


When you’re so in love with your Jim Lawrence light but feel the need for a change, a new shade will do the trick. Linen is a summer fabric go-to for clothes, duvets, cushions…you name it! It is sometimes overlooked as a lampshade fabric – but not by us. Shown on our Double Shell Wall Light in Antiqued Brass, two Candle Shades in Cream Killowen Linen contrasts with the ages brass, updating the light to a more contemporary style.


Pictured above is our 40cm Empire Shade in Pale Green Faux Silk, another soft pastel alternative with a little pop of colour for your modern country lighting.

For a little pattern, our Longford Gingham Cushion Covers (above) will bring in some cool country charm. For a plain colour but with added texture, the Waterford Pure Linen Cushions would look stunning in an Off White or Vintage Pink.


If you’re not ready to let go of your soft, plush velvets from the winter then don’t fear, our Dusky Pink and Mole cushion covers in Hunstanton Velvet will satisfy your craving for something with more volume.

We imagine you’re doing this already, but we don’t mean literally. We believe in embracing your windows and window accessories, letting even more light flow in by using lightweight pale fabrics. Open up your space with white or lighter toned colours to lift the room and highlight your poles and finials. With curtains like these you can enjoy the lighter days for longer, and they look ever so pretty in a gentle breeze!


Though more of a permanent fixture, ensuring your window accessories are up to scratch in the summer is important too. With curtains drawn and the fresh air coming in, a unique and personalised touch that comes from hand-made products ensures the view from your window will be beautifully enhanced, finishing the room off with style and sophistication.

Seasonal blooms are what makes the spring summer months so beautiful. There’s no better way to freshen up your interior than with the real deal: foliage! Our go-to plants and flowers are freshly cut from the garden at best, but at a close second you can turn to your local florist to spruce up the corners of your home lacking in colour. Whether you using tumbling philodendrons, delicate ferns or vibrant bunches and bouquets, layering with different heights and matching pots to your décor can be a really fun exercise. We love the faded terracotta against the timeworn walls and white-washed woodwork here, but the options are endless!

What other ways do you like to refresh your home? Let us know how you use Jim Lawrence products to update your décor! Don’t forget to tag us in your home updates on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Happy shopping!

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Beautiful Homes

Introducing The Thatched Cottage

The team behind Thatched Cottage Cotswolds have created a beautifully cool country holiday cottage with sophisticated brass details throughout. Quintessentially British complete with thatching, classic period features and located in the picturesque Cotswolds, it’s a perfect home away from home.

We spotted some beautifully styled Jim Lawrence products amongst the sweet wooden panelling and stone walls, and wanted to delve a little deeper into this stylish cottage décor. We spoke to owner Vicky about the quirks of period homes and how to stay in tune with a cottage feel without becoming twee…


The first room we spotted of yours was the perfectly quaint double bedroom with shutters, beams and our dainty Curtis Spotlights. What made you choose these lights over a pendant or other styles?

When we were designing thatched cottage I knew the look we wanted to create. The cottage walls are mostly sloped so having the chance to add some panelling was very exciting too as I adore panelling. It has totally transformed that room. The tongue and groove in the kitchen actually slopes with the wall which I love!

I chose the Single Curtis Spot Lights because they perfectly fitted in with the beautiful panelling as a backdrop.
I particularly liked the traditional twist of the fabric covered wire, and they also can be angled to work perfectly as a bedside lamp.

The cottage is a 17th century property, how does the history of the building effect your interior design choices?

To be the custodian of these beautiful buildings as we are, it’s always the feeling of the building as well as the look: a quintessentially cottage feel but not twee. I think if a house looks good naked you’ve done well. A focus on floors, walls, windows and doors etc. I wanted to keep it light, timeless and uncluttered but cosy. A serene colour palette. I’m a huge fan of light white interiors adding colour with picture, cushions and throws.

Period homes have their quirks, so which room was the most challenging to style and why?

Probably the sitting room. The quirk here is the shape. Originally there would have only been one room up and down, with a ladder to reach the room upstairs. With the addition of stairs some years ago, this narrowed the room somewhat, so positioning furniture was key. Having a sofa and a separate reading nook works really well here, as the inglenook dominates the room that end which is a feature in itself. We added some old tin buckets re-purposed for wood and kindling, plus our gorgeous Harrods box found in an antique shop fits perfectly for a cosy coffee table. It’s a great place to sit in the evening enjoying the fire and a glass of wine, or to cuddle up on the sofa and watch a film.

What are the main perks of your charming Cotswolds location?

We are in Whichford, a small village famous for its pottery so have regular visitors attracted to the area. There is a classic car meeting every third Thursday of the month too, and fortunately still a thriving village pub which is a rarity now in lots of villages. It’s perfect if you like peace and quiet: no street lights and no traffic! The dulcet tones of the nearby St Michaels church are very soothing and feel classically English countryside.

Was it always your intention to set up the cottage as a holiday destination?

Yes, we love the area so much and will be using it ourselves more as our children grow up and we have more spare time.

In your opinion, what are the three key ingredients for creating the perfect home away from home?

A great bed, great bedlinen and a great shower. And bath… That’s four! Having travelled extensively in my time at BA these were the most important aspects of creating a home from home feel and this is where we started.

And you definitely chose a good bath! Talk us through the design process for that heavenly bathroom of yours.

I have always loved the idea of a bath in the bedroom so having the opportunity when we renovated the cottage was a dream come true. It is not for everyone, but when you are on holiday it’s perfect. A bit different. A lovely little luxury. The single Barbican Pendant Light by the entrance is perfect too, we hooked it over to the side and it gives the perfect glow while relaxing in the roll top bath. A great spot to relax after a days exploring!

Of course we love your lighting choices, but where do you find inspiration for the rest of the décor?

My inspiration comes from the looks that I love on Pinterest and Instagram. There’s some incredible talented people out there and these platforms have transformed the way we all live and design houses. For me personally I think stay away from trends, traditional and timeless elegance is key. Less is more.

Thatched Cottage looks ideal for a cosy getaway in the autumn and winter months with its gorgeous fireplace. How do you recommend refreshing home interiors for the lighter summer months?

The summer months are really about throwing open the shutters to a garden abundant with shrubs, jasmine, honeysuckle and roses, feeling like the outside is coming in. The scent of these plants is gorgeous. We have added some beautiful slightly bonkers flowery armchairs  (a collaboration with Joules) for the summer months. In winter we have lovely leather chairs for a more muted palette.

Last but not least…what’s the next step for the Thatched Cottage?

The next step for Thatched cottage is to continue to be an inspiration for others. The amazing feedback we have from a followers on Instagram is heart warming, having inspired many other home owners doing up similar properties. We’d love to be featured in a Homes magazine one day, but our intention was to offer a boutique hotel room in a whole cottage was our ultimate goal which I feel we have hopefully achieved.

We think it’s safe to say Thatched Cottage has exceeded this goal – but why not find out for yourself? Book a stay in this idyllic Cotswold’s location here. To follow their décor journey, take a peek at their Instagram @thatchedcottagecotswolds.

Single Curtis Spotlight, Monkey Tail Forged Window Latch, Barbican Pendant, Bletchley Roll Top Soap Basket

To stay up to date with Jim Lawrence, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. To view our full lighting collection, visit our website. Happy shopping!

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Our Showrooms

Introducing 114-116 Walcot Street

We’ve shared some teasers with you in the past few weeks, but are thrilled to finally be able to reveal more about our stunning new shop location. We have officially completed, got the keys, and are beavering away to renovate this elegant building as we speak. There’s a fair bit to do (as you can see!) but we hope Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home in Bath will be up and running early autumn. The adventure starts here…

Opening our first regional shop right in the middle of Bath like this is only possible thanks to everyone’s amazing work and commitment, helping grow the company to where it is today. This includes you, our lovely customers. There’s nothing more rewarding than meeting you face to face at shows and in our Suffolk showroom and headquarters, so we’re very much looking forward to meeting our dedicated audience in the West!


We love getting stuck into a project, particularly when it involves decorating a unique period setting with all of our lights and home furnishings. We promise to keep you up to date with the progress, but first we want to walk you through the history of this beautiful space. A grade II listed building built in the 1700’s, the new shop is located in Walcot Street, the traditional artisan quarter of Bath.

Walcot Street has always been a hub for creatives, and today is full of independent shops, restaurants, galleries, artists and makers. The amazing selection of interior shops and expertise on the street mean you really can get everything you need for a period home here from paints, carpets and antique mirrors, to upholsterers and interior designers. There is also a fab flea market on Saturdays, so if you love vintage interiors style there’s plenty to explore after popping in and saying hello to us!


The unique curve of the shop front is what initially drew us to this spot. Reputedly it was built as such to make space for the coaches turning from the Bell Coaching Inn opposite. We were also excited to learn that we would be following in historic footsteps at 114 – 116 Walcot Street. Previously owned by much loved Richard Hathaway Lighting, we are pleased to be carrying on the tradition for showcasing beautiful lighting in this iconic location.


Looking back a little further, we couldn’t help but share these remarkable shots from the 1930s – its hardly changed a bit! We are honoured to be taking charge of this listed building to continue to celebrate and preserve its historical and cultural significance to the area. We just can’t wait to get all our classic lighting and home furnishing designs on display in this beautiful space soon.


We look forward to opening our doors this autumn, so please stay tuned for more exterior and interior updates as we restore this beautiful building into our first shop in the West.

If you live in the Bath area and can’t wait until later in the year, why not get a taste for our brand and browse our online shop? In the meantime, you can sign up to our newsletter here, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest

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Spotlight On

On Trend With Aged Brass Lighting

We make our aged brass lighting the Jim Lawrence way because we love them, but it’s always a treat when interior trends line up with our designs. Of course trends ebb and flow, but our Antiqued Brass lighting is made to last, and once you choose our designs your love for them will last too.

“We are already seeing a bit of a trend toward new traditional interiors with classic lines and updated colors,” says Janet Lorusso of JRL Interiors. “This has already produced a return to real brass, not the fake lacquered shiny brass, in classic fixtures and chandeliers.” 

Of course you can opt for genuine vintage lighting for one-off designs, but with our specialist finish we offer you versatile new lighting made by hand using old techniques. So you get the best of both! When it comes to our brass lighting, we create our version of this traditional look by treating solid brass with an antiquing solution, which simply speeds up the natural tarnishing process. All Jim Lawrence lights are made using traditional metal working techniques and are hand finished to the very highest standards here at our Suffolk workshop, meaning the inside of our lights are as impeccable as their exterior.

Oversized lighting is growing in popularity as home décor gets bolder and braver. If your home has emphasised features (just like the exposed beams of our renovated Scotland Hall Barn) then ensure your ceiling lights don’t get lost in the room by choosing an upscaled statement design. These Leiston Pendants have a large, gently curved dome shade with a coordinating aged brass chain for a sturdy but chic industrial look.


Our Abercrombie Table Lamp has been designed with a heritage look that makes it as handsome when it is turned off as it does when it casts its pool of light across your countertop, bedside table or desk. It’s the perfect task light for further brightening areas that your pendants may not reach.

Incorporating a traditional spun brass shade and base with a contemporary steel stem, and featuring an exposed braided cable, the Abercrombie will sit as comfortably in a modern setting as it would a period one, while its Antiqued Brass finish works well with any colourway.


Where it might be difficult to install overhead lighting, wall lights are a fool proof go-to. The Club Wall Light is a neat, space-saving design with a period presence that produces a lovely pool of light for a subdued atmosphere in a large room. We do suggest layering both ceiling and wall lighting, ensuring you maintain a healthy balance of light. Our Antiqued Brass designs will bring a glowing warmth to your décor even when they’re switched off!



For a uniform look throughout your home, match your Antiqued Brass lighting with any of our stunning door and window furniture in the same finish, or with our range of matching electric switches and plug sockets. If you would prefer to create a contrast, see which other product finishes we offer.



Our Antiqued Brass products are created from natural, un-lacquered brass and will continue to age and develop a darker dull patina over time in your home. This is particularly hastened in harsh outdoor or damper environments. To decelerate this aging process we recommend regular polishing with a good quality brass polish and a soft cloth. Please note that chemical polishes can strip away the original antiquing solution too, so take care to use cleaning products sparingly to retain the aged look of the product.

Explore our full collection of lighting and homeware here. If you have any questions about fitting your lights, we are always happy to help, so give us a call or drop us an email and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Don’t forget to tag us in all your gorgeous Jim Lawrence home updates on Instagram @JimLawrenceMade. Happy shopping!

 

 

 

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Spotlight On

Elegant Pendant Lighting Ideas For The Dining Room

Using elegant glass pendants or natural linen lampshades is a great way to subtly add task lighting into a dining space. With many of our designs you can do this without blocking your line of vision through the room. The table is the central gathering point in your dining space, and much like a kitchen island benefits from task lighting, this area does too. Here are a few of our favourite elegant pendant lighting ideas for the dining room…

We are often asked about the rules of island or dining pendants. In our opinion… create your own! You might think that oversized lampshades can’t be elegant, but our styling in our Suffolk Barn Renovation above uses large shades without letting them overpower the room. Instead they create a gently translucent light over the table, softening the heavy, rustic beams.


You too can create lovely layers of light for a relaxed, easy atmosphere to share with friends and family by pairing generously sizes shades with the metallic hues of your light fittings. We supply 50cm of bronze braided cable with our Pendant Lampholders and a hand finished ceiling rose in natural brass that’s lightly antiqued, so you can be in charge of how high or low you suspend your shades.

Our Lovell Pendants hold their own and add character to the décor without looking clunky. They’re the perfect example of how to use lights that appear dainty and space saving, but say a lot more than an exposed bulb or single fitting. The glass shade fills your space without imposing on the rest of the room. We love that a small bit of Antiqued Brass is also exposed, and can be perfectly matched to other brass accessories like switches or sockets. Simple yet effective.


For a weightier, more industrial country style that still gives a more lightweight look than a full shade, the Foster is for you… A reeded, hand blown shade gives a softer touch, whilst the steadfastness of an Antiqued Brass chain ensures it makes a lasting statement in your room.


Architectural but slimline, the Barchester Double Pendant is a unique pendant that gives a little more than just installing two separate lights. The height of the cable is adjustable, making sure your get your pool of light to dine by just right. The natural candle shades and brass mimic the white walls and beams here, giving the décor that effortlessly cohesive feel.



For those will a smaller space to fill, the Bellingham Pendant is a nod to the ‘industrial luxe’ style whilst embracing simplicity. Its clear glass shade is cleverly suspended from three brass arms within its top, making a beautifully simple feature to fit over your dining area. Finish it off with a vintage-look LED Squirrel Bulb.


Last but not least…a Jim Lawrence favourite. The Greenwich Pendant features an oversized, hand blown fluted glass shade that plays with natural light in the most wonderful way, ensuring it catches your eye wherever it is hung. Pairing vintage style brass work with a modern glass shade gives the Greenwich a fabulous country modern feel without looking overbearing or out of place.

 

Like what you see? View our entire collection of Pendant Lights here. If you have any questions about fitting your lights, we are always happy to help, so give us a call or drop us an email and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Don’t forget to tag us in all your gorgeous Jim Lawrence home updates on Instagram @JimLawrenceMade. Happy shopping!

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Behind the Name

Brass Window Fittings For Period Homes: A Natural Choice

Using brass window fittings throughout a period home is an elegant way of complimenting certain features. For our recent Suffolk Barn Renovation, the warmth of our Antiqued Brass compliments the historic oak structure. Being a natural finish (much like the natural texture and tones of wood), the patina will continue to age and deepen over time – the perfect modern rustic finishing touch.

Our fabulous collection of made to measure curtain poles are the ideal companion for your curtains, ensuring they will continue to look good for years, in whichever room you hang them. They are hand forged from high quality brass, and with a choice between Reeded or Plain Antiqued Brass, you can pair each design with a matching finial and brackets for a unified natural look for your period home. If your pole is over 200cm long you will require a centre bracket. Longer poles may be supplied in two halves, complete with joiner. Don’t forget to ensure there is room for your chosen accessories…


Our popular Antiqued Brass Ball Finials are the perfect companion for your brass curtain poles.  All of our finials are designed to slide into the end of our brass curtain poles and have a classic, weighty quality to enhance your authentic décor. Though a practical solution to keep everything in place, finials also frame your window and allow for decorative creativity. We offer traditional and modern styles to complement your home, ensuring each hand-crafted design is the most beautiful it can be.

These Brass Standard Brackets will lift your curtain poles and frame your windows with elegance. Hand finished like the rest of the accessories, these practical supports still look pretty. Because we make all our iron work in our Suffolk forge, we can adapt our brackets if necessary to suit your particular window: you may for instance need a deeper bracket for a deeper window so as not to spoil the hang of your curtains.  Whichever style you choose, we’ve forged these beautifully finished antiqued brass curtain rings to match. We generally recommend using 1 ring per 8 -10cm of pole but this will depend on the type of curtain heading you would like and the thickness of your curtains.

Our expert team of seamstresses create beautiful made-to-measure curtains & blinds from our collection of over 180 elegant country style fabrics. From sophisticated elegance to delightful country cottage styling, our range of handmade curtains and blinds are a stunning addition to any home. To view all of our fabrics, click here.

There are just a few simple steps to creating the perfect curtain or blind at Jim Lawrence: choose your heading, choose your favourite fabric and then select a lining option. Once you have chosen these options you simply measure up you window using our helpful guide below and call us for help, advice or a free quotation today on 01473 826685.

Our Antiqued Brass products are created from natural, un-lacquered brass and will continue to age and develop a darker dull patina over time in your home. This is particularly hastened in harsh outdoor or damper environments. To decelerate this aging process we recommend regular polishing with a good quality brass polish and a soft cloth. Please note that chemical polishes can strip away the original antiquing solution too, so take care to use cleaning products sparingly to retain the aged look of the product.

Feel like you still have some unanswered questions? We’ve written up a detailed guide to creating your made-to-measure curtain poles here. We are always happy to help, so give us a call or drop us an email and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Don’t forget to tag us in all your gorgeous Jim Lawrence home updates on Instagram @JimLawrenceMade. Happy shopping!

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Behind the Name

Rustic Outdoor Lighting For Period Homes

Our heritage outdoor lighting designs work beautifully when paired with rustic exteriors. All of our lights are skilfully made in our Suffolk based workshop, using traditional metal working techniques to create the quality product you take home.

Our outside lights will transform the look of your garden, entrance or outbuildings, making the most of architectural features and the natural beauty of your building materials. Choose from period splendour or simple country cottage styles to find your perfect outdoor light.


This is where we like to get industrial. Whether a shed, garage, workshop or barn, we trust our industrial-inspired favourites will suit your needs. Try our Brittania Ship’s light with its beautiful  brass top and cage. A small outdoor lantern that makes a big impact, this lantern is hand cast in solid brass which will enhance your home with its nautical good looks.


Your porch and front door is the first thing yourself and your guests will notice when arriving. The Peacock Lantern is a classic design with a Jim Lawrence twist. The Peacock lantern is all you need to define the entry to your home. Because solid brass does not rust, it will stay a gorgeous entrance for years to come, with subtle ageing for the perfect vintage look.


The shapely arch of the Stable Light adds a subtle countryside charm to your outdoor lighting scheme, which can be flat mounted like this, or corner mounted for hard to reach places. Hand finished in natural solid brass, the Stable Light has a lovely long, vintage-style swan neck that was originally designed to keep out of the way of stable doors and horses heads – now designed to be a stylish and practical statement in your outdoor space.




Something a little different for a central source of light and an authentic rustic feel… Our hand cast iron Fire Bowl creates a stylish focal point for outdoor entertaining, as well as a great source of warmth and light on those cooler evenings. A simple addition to your garden that you can easily move about according to your needs.

 

There are many solutions to lighting your outdoor spaces to make the most of the spring evenings as they roll into summer nights. To browse all of our outdoor lighting, click here. Now you’ve got the exterior lighting inspiration, take a look at our lighting guide for period properties for our indoor lighting solutions. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @JimLawrenceMade and tag us in your home updates – we love seeing our products in their new homes!

 

 

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Welcome to the Jim Lawrence Style Journal.

We are a British interiors company creating beautiful lighting, ironwork and home furnishings from our Suffolk workshop.

This is where we share ideas that we love, show sneak peeks behind the scenes of our brand and offer a unique insight into classic design.

jimlawrencemade

Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home
Swipe to ward off the chill during cooler months w Swipe to ward off the chill during cooler months with stylish, well-crafted door curtains and poles.⁠
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Our portiere rods are as beloved as our lighting, and for good reason. Slim yet strong, weighty yet seemingly weightless, they embody the balance only achieved through exceptional materials and skilled craftsmanship.⁠
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Tap this image via the link in our bio to find yours.
We’re absolutely in love with our new Pimlico sh We’re absolutely in love with our new Pimlico showroom, and if you’ve already made it to London and stepped through the doors…chances are you might be too💡 

Nestled between Westminster, Belgravia and Chelsea, our new Pimlico showroom sits in the heart of London’s iconic design district, renowned for its interiors, antiques, and craftsmanship.

Pop in to say hello, explore our beautifully crafted lighting and accessories, or pick up our latest brochure to browse at home. If you’re yet to visit, we can’t wait to welcome you.

For opening hours and more details, simply tap the reel via the link in our bio to visit our website.
Whether you order online or visit one of our showr Whether you order online or visit one of our showrooms, we offer complimentary samples of our fabrics for you to take home if you need some more time to decide before you buy.⁠
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With a focus on natural fibres like silk, linen, wool, and pure cotton in a wide range of colours and patterns, there is plenty to choose from. If you'd like to browse our collections in person, find further information on locations and opening times at www.jim-lawrence.co.uk.⁠
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Thank you @charlotte.sje, for capturing this cosy moment - a perfect setting for choosing fabrics and comparing linen textures with beautiful paint swatches.
Our handcrafted shelf brackets are a quiet testame Our handcrafted shelf brackets are a quiet testament to timeless craftsmanship and refined functionality. ⁠
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Visually striking in their simplicity and elegance, the Brookland's come in two sizes and a choice of finishes, bringing varying levels of heritage style to the home.⁠
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The larger sizes were designed and made specifically for our new space in London, created in response to a specific brief: to support substantial weight without compromising on looks.⁠
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Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop.
A Jim Lawrence conduit kit offers a clever lightin A Jim Lawrence conduit kit offers a clever lighting solution for indoors and out.⁠
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Transform unsightly wiring into a stylish feature by connecting wall lights, pendants, sockets, and switches when internal wiring isn’t an option.⁠
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Its universal size is designed to work seamlessly with our full range of conduit components and a curated selection of Jim Lawrence lights. Tap these images via the link in our bio to discover all the components you need to create your own kit.
Whether you’re unwinding at home this bank holid Whether you’re unwinding at home this bank holiday or exploring new places over the weekend, it’s the perfect time to discover our latest brochure.⁠
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Packed with inspiring designs and innovative solutions, it’s your go-to guide for elevating any space. Browse the pages online from the comfort of your home, or visit us in person at our Suffolk, Bath, or London showrooms to experience our collections up close.⁠
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Kindly note, we will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday, but look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Step inside the beautiful home of @tanyaburr.⁠
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Featuring our lighting and accessories throughout, Tanya has masterfully crafted a relaxed yet lived-in look. Thoughtfully selected vintage-inspired pieces echo the property's era, while made-to-measure custom fittings and a soothing palette of calming colours come together to create a family home that feels both comfortable and effortlessly elegant.⁠
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Captured beautifully by @dean.hearne for @houseandgardenuk, Tanya's home is a lovely harmonisation of thoughtful design and personal style.
Outdoor wall lighting not only enhances the charac Outdoor wall lighting not only enhances the character of your home but also improves visibility and security after dark. It’s a vital addition that shouldn’t be an afterthought, but rather an extension of your interior style.⁠
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With its graceful swan neck arm and rich aged brass patina, the Granary makes a beautiful statement beside front doors, on exterior walls, or lighting up outbuildings. One of our most popular outdoor lights in Antiqued Brass, we've added a Matt Black version for those who prefer a more sleek, contemporary option for modern exteriors.⁠
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Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop the brand-new look.
With the opening of our new London showroom, we wa With the opening of our new London showroom, we wanted to highlight some of our other beautiful locations and the inspiration they’ve brought to our collections.⁠
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Our very first showroom sits beside our workshops in Hadleigh, an historic market town in Suffolk. Surrounded by the rolling countryside of the River Brett valley, Hadleigh is known for its rich heritage and character. The town is home to over 240 listed buildings, many of them timber-framed from the 15th century: the kind of architecture that has long influenced our period lighting designs.⁠
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It’s a fitting location for where our story began, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and enduring design. We’re proud of the places that shape our work, and we look forward to welcoming you to your nearest showroom.⁠
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Find us on Lady Lane just off the A1071 Ipswich Road. Visit our website for further details and opening times.
Your front door isn’t just an entryway, but an i Your front door isn’t just an entryway, but an introduction. ⁠
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Thank you Eilidh of @revamping_the_edwardian for sharing your magnificent home entrance, featuring antiqued brass details from us, and the rich Preference Red of @farrowandball. We love how the delicate florals soften the bold character of the stonework.⁠
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Create a lasting first impression with our beautifully crafted detailing - tap this image via the link in our bio to shop more Jim Lawrence door furniture.
Bedside lighting is an essential detail that blend Bedside lighting is an essential detail that blends comfort, utility, and beauty.

We design and make a variety of adjustable wall lights that allow you to direct the light where you need it most, making the best of your bedroom space. The Salthouse is a small but mighty option. Packed with industrial charm, its dainty silhouette and thoughtful detailing make it a quiet statement piece, wonderful for enhancing small bedsides with a touch of rusticity and perfect paired with a vintage-inspired bulb.

Tap this reel via the link in our bio to explore more adjustable options 💡
Never underestimate the power of simple, elegant d Never underestimate the power of simple, elegant design.⁠
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A beautifully crafted fabric lampshade shade gently filters light, offers subtle texture, and allows for pops of colour or contrasting tones to suit your existing interior scheme.⁠
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Available in a selection of our most popular fabrics, our new 40cm Wide Cone Shades can be made in a lamp base fitting or pendant option to create the look you love.⁠ Swipe to enjoy our Porter Table Lamp, Pendant Lamp Holder, and Harleston Table Lamp, each paired with crisp Cream Killowen Linen.
With the opening of our new London showroom, we wa With the opening of our new London showroom, we wanted to shine a light on our other beautiful locations and the inspiration they've brought to our collection.⁠
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Our second showroom, situated on Bath’s famous Walcot Street, inspired the creation of our elegant Walcot Pendant. Bath’s iconic Georgian architecture is known for its graceful lines and balanced proportions which heavily influenced this bestselling design. The hand-blown, dome-shaped glass is our nod to the bell jars once found in Georgian entrance halls - perfect for complementing more decorative interiors with its refined simplicity.⁠
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Walcot Street itself, an historic artisan quarter, remains a vibrant hub of creativity, filled with independent shops, galleries, restaurants, and makers.⁠
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You’ll find everything from antique mirrors to paints and carpets. Don't miss the lively Saturday flea market just down the road, and be sure to stop by and see us at 112–114 Walcot Street.
Corners of our new London showroom.⁠ ⁠ Located Corners of our new London showroom.⁠
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Located in the thriving neighbourhood of Pimlico, nestled between Westminster, Belgravia and Chelsea, the showroom is in the heart of the Pimlico Road Design District - known for its rich concentration of antiques and interior design shops.⁠
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Find us at number 94 and drop by to say hello, browse our stunning collection of beautifully handcrafted lighting and home fittings, or simply pick up our latest brochure to delve into at home.
Drenched in deep burgundy, this kitchen balances b Drenched in deep burgundy, this kitchen balances bold design with everyday practicality. Our Club wall light proves time and time again that atmosphere and performance can harmonise in the home.⁠
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Thank you @ashmazzina for revealing your exquisite new space. The warm, focused glow of a solid brass light creates an inviting setting without losing the precision needed for tasking in a kitchen. To get the look, tap this image via the link our bio to shop our full Club collection.⁠
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The new Jim Lawrence London showroom is officially The new Jim Lawrence London showroom is officially OPEN.

We are proud to join London’s most iconic design district with a new showroom that celebrates manufacturing in England with our classic lighting and home design.

Visit us at 94 Pimlico Road, SW1W 8PL. We look forward to welcoming you through the doors!

For opening times and further information, please tap this reel via the link in our bio to visit our website.
Designer Sean Symington began his career in Toront Designer Sean Symington began his career in Toronto, completing a Bachelor of Arts from Ryerson University, School of Interior Design. Now living in Bath with a business based in the beautiful Cotswolds town of Tetbury, Sean’s style is influenced by classic architecture and proportions, bold colour combinations, and a playful whimsy which keeps every space interesting.⁠
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Tap the 'On the blog 🏡' button via the link in our bio to read our interview with Sean about how he has fostered this signature look and the places that inspire it.⁠
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Images from @chriswakefield.photography.
Sometimes it’s the little things that make a roo Sometimes it’s the little things that make a room feel like home, like a stack of books, a vase of garden stems, or a comfy cushion.⁠
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But the real impact - the element that truly defines a space - almost always comes from the lighting.⁠
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This cosy corner from @thedentalbarns makes their business feel as welcoming as a sitting room at home. Gently lit by our Brooke for a calm glow, this clever lighting choice softens the edges and leaves a lovely lasting impression for when you're just passing through.
Our Killarney and Galway linens translate beautifu Our Killarney and Galway linens translate beautifully into the inviting shape of a plump cushion cover. The natural weight and drape of these fabrics is perfect for offering both comfort and character in green or indigo blue - made for layering on sofas or adding colour to a neutral bedspread.

Discover our full range of designs and colours on our website or within our showroom, with a special focus on natural fibres like silk, linen, wool, and pure cotton.

Choose from our wide range of existing looks or fill out a bespoke cushion form to customise your own. If you need a little more time to decide, select a fabric swatch directly from our website or give us a call on 01473 826685 and we’ll send them straight to your door.
A perfect addition for the dining room, candleligh A perfect addition for the dining room, candlelight can help set the mood from dawn until dinnertime.⁠
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Swipe for @eliskasharp 's daytime look, proof the Hurricane Sconce holds it own even without a burning wick. Shop the sconce via the link in our bio.
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