Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little bit about the journey that led you to where you are now.

Alice Palmer & Co began in 2019 when I was pregnant with my third child. At the time, I was searching for beautiful, characterful lampshades but struggled to find exactly what I had in mind—so I decided to make them myself. I taught myself to sew and started hand making the first lampshades at my kitchen table. What began as a creative outlet quickly gained momentum and before I knew it, demand was growing and the business took off. From there, it naturally evolved into a full homeware collection, bringing together my love for color, texture, and craftsmanship.

What inspires you? What factors have played roles in the development of your artistic style?

I’m inspired by homes that feel layered, collected, and full of personality. English interiors, with their mix of old and new, are a big influence, as well as global craftsmanship like Indian block printing, intricate embroidery, and artisanal ceramics. Color and texture play a huge role in everything I design; I love how a bold stripe or a perfectly pleated fabric can have such an impact.

Interior designer first, now product designer and business owner – How has your background shaped the creative direction of the brand?

I grew up in the restaurant industry so I saw first-hand how interiors, evolving styles, and especially lighting played a key role in creating an inviting experience. That understanding naturally influenced my approach to design—how pieces contribute to a space and the mood they create.

Travel has also been a huge source of inspiration. Many of my designs are inspired by places I have visited, such as Morocco, India, and the West Indies where I spent a lot of time when I was growing up. It could be a building, color, or ceramic that sparks a new idea or design. Those influences, combined with my background, have shaped the characterful, layered aesthetic of Alice Palmer & Co.

Alice Palmer & Co is known for its vibrant character, textures, and colors — box pleats, block-printed fabric, handmade ceramics, and delicate embroidery amongst other one-of-a-kind details. Can you elaborate a bit more on your design ethos?

Underpinning everything I do is a belief that color, pattern, and texture are life-enhancing. I always want my pieces to bring personality and warmth to people’s homes, whether they’re being used individually or en masse to create a more coordinated look where the walls, waste paper bin and cushions might all be in the same design. The thoughtful palette means that all of my designs sit beautifully alongside one another to create a layered interior.

Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.

Every day is different, but it usually starts with emails, checking in with suppliers, and managing production. Afternoons are often more creative — working on new designs, testing fabrics, or styling shoots. I still love the hands-on side of the business, whether it’s playing with color combinations or refining the smallest details of a product.

How do you seek to incorporate balance in your life?

Running a business while raising three children means balance is always a challenge! It helps that my studio is just around the corner from my house and the children’s school. I try to stick to office hours as much as possible, although sometimes this isn’t possible!

What advice would you offer to other artists looking to grow their business?

Building a brand takes time, and it’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing. Focus on what makes your work unique, invest in quality, and understand your customer. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help — whether it’s learning about the business side or collaborating with the right people to bring your ideas to life.

What’s next for you? How do you hope to see the impact of your work take form?

There’s lots in the works at the moment. I’ve just recently finished renovating my house so I’m really excited to share more of that and I’m focusing a lot on expanding and growing our current collections.

Your coffee or tea order?

An oat milk latte or a licorice tea.

It’s hard to choose one – but your current favorite piece from your line?

We have just launched our bed canopies which I’ve put up in my children’s room and the spaces have been instantly transformed. It’s such a playful addition and they absolutely love them.

One thing that’s always in your bag?

I generally don’t really carry a bag, I have a strap on my phone and it’s the only thing that comes everywhere with me.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Slightly cliche but definitely to trust the process and have confidence in your ideas and designs. For instance, our wallpapers naturally paved the way for our wallpaper wrapped waste paper bins because they were such a success. Each collection tends to expand and grow quite naturally now because of that trust.