For Lyn Harris, this compact storefront site needed to perform many functions: as a shop, a private consultation suite and a working laboratory: all while suggesting her completely individual approach to perfume. The central space was imagined as a ‘library’ of fragrance within which consultations happened on low seating at a central island.  The coloured velvets and raw linen backing the cabinets echo the tones of the blown glass perfume containers: as the fragrance collections change with the seasons, the coloured panels too can be removed and replaced.

A simple and confident backdrop to show of her striking collection of knitwear, clothing and homewares.

Adaption of residential motifs was a conscious reaction to corporate commercialism.

In 2011, Katie Clarke and Maria collaborated to fulfil the second phase of the George in Rye's growth, after a successful completion of the first phase of rooms back in August 2006. This expansion into adjoining buildings allowed for grander and more spatially unusual rooms including a twin hayloft and required us to be more ambitious and confident with our decisions. 

Each room developed an individual identity through texture and material (with an ongoing use of bright rubber flooring in all the bathrooms.) Both Katie and Maria really enjoy bold print and textiles so the scale and use of these tends to be striking. We had a lot of fun!

Why not go and experience a bit of Retrouvius design firsthand by booking a trip down to the south coast?