Felice/James: Collaborative Craft

Collaboration between London based interior designer Rebecca James and artisan Andrea Felice, creating a collection of designs inspired by Art Deco and mid-century Italian design.

Having worked together on a series of collaborations since 2012, interior designer Rebecca James and artisan Andrea Felice set out to create Felice/James, a partnership born out of their mutual passion for Art Deco and mid-century Italian Design. Showcasing their first collection of designs in London last year, I take a look at the beautiful form and impressive craft that has gone into creating this wonderful collection. 

Goga Chaise Longue

Each piece of the collection has been handcrafted in Andrea's London studio, only signed and numbered once every detail has been inspected, like a work of art ready to be displayed to the world. The entire collection exhibits a strong identity with the use of smooth blackened oak set against elegant brass detailing to create depth to each design. The Goga chaise lounge is a stand-out piece in the collection, its use of rich blue velvet emphasising the soft and organic nature of the collection, inviting guests to relax and interact with the crafted materials.

Gaia Console 

There is such a grace to this console design, the smooth tapering legs capped with brass, lift the eyes up towards the subtle arching of the console top. The face of the console has been finished with a black verticle stripe Corian, framed with brass that emphasises the curves and ultra-slim design. The console is the perfect way to introduce a decorative display into the home without overwhelming a space with intrusive large furniture. Whether it is a vase of flowers, table lamp or photo frames that reside on top, Gaia enhances the overall display. 

Greta Side Table / Bisi Stool 

Echoing the tapered legs of the Gaia console and attached to a two-tier circular top, the Greta side table and Bisi stool are the beautiful twins of the collection. The side table has been finished with a striking sodalite table surface, containing mesmerising natural patterns that occur from the rich royal blue tectosilicate mineral, whilst the Bisi stool has been upholstered in a shimmering royal blue dyed hair on cowhide. Two beautiful designs that utilise very different natural materials. 

Iris Credenza 

The Iris credenza is definitely a statement piece. It's curved blackened oak sides have been framed with liquid brass edging, similar to that of the console table. Three central drawers, clad in horizontally striped Corian pop open to reveal interiors lined with blue Alcantara. Doors to either side have also been clad in Corian, this time with a verticle stripe to break up the design and define the three main areas of the unit.  

Oriette Dressing Table & Kookie Mirror 

Other pieces featured in the collection are the Oriette Dressing table and the freestanding floor-length Kookie Mirror. The Mirrors, floor-standing and desk, have been presented in a unique shape, similar to that of a traditional hand mirror. Using a liquid brass finish to create a contemporary and seamless form, both mirrors have been inset with three sodalite stones located on the protruding 'handle' of the design. On the back, the oval mirror section has been replaced with a sheet of verticle striped Corian, creating even more of a sculptural presence, perfect for a room where the back is easily visible. 

It was a pleasure to attend the launch of the collection and have the chance to meet with Rebecca James. It is wonderful to witness a design duo that has such an incredible passion and unique take on craft, creating pieces that explore material, texture and interaction. In a world that still heavily relies on mass-produced furniture and products, it is reassuring to know that there are designers out there not willing to compromise on quality and craft from the very beginning.

For further information on the designers and collection available, click to view the official Felice/James website via the link. 

Thank you for reading. If you liked this post, here are a few more recommendations relating to the post.

Interviewing Hans Hornemann / LINLEY: Silhouette Chair