With her passion for design and artistry, from a single thread to a complete interior, Beverley Garrod injects her creativity into her business and ensures even the smallest details create the greatest impact.
Having founded House of Garrod in 2013, Beverley specialises in bespoke soft furnishings, upholstery, interior and furniture design but has also used her skills making wedding dresses, tailored suits, theatre curtains and re-upholstering a London bus.
Living in rural Essex, surrounded and inspired by the calming countryside, Beverley shares her story on how her love for sewing started as a child, her pride of working on ceremonial cloaks for Cambridge University as well as tips for creating a thoughtful interior theme for the home.
‘I’ve always loved anything hands-on and creative, and making things has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My journey began at senior school, where I was lucky enough to be taught by an exceptional textile teacher who recognised my talent and enthusiasm and encouraged me. That support gave me the confidence to pursue sewing seriously from a young age. By the age of 13, I was already making clothes and placing handwritten adverts in local shops.’
What services does House of Garrod provide?
We offer bespoke soft furnishings – including curtains, blinds, shutters, cushions, bed dressings, upholstery and full room schemes. I also undertake specialist and unusual commissions, as well as personal and ceremonial tailoring.
Everything we do is designed around the client and made to suit their space. Every project begins with a conversation. Whether tailoring a personal garment, dressing a single window, or designing a full room update, the focus remains the same: the detail makes the difference.
Brands you work with?
We work with a wide range of respected fabric houses – including the likes of Camengo, Linwood, Designers Guild, Romo, Ian Mankin, Wemyss, GP & J Baker, Prestigious Textiles and many others.
The choice always depends on what’s right for the project rather than following trends.
Favourite project?
Some of my favourite projects are the most personal, such as my Story Sofas, where clients’ memories, interests, or experiences are woven into the design. Every sofa we create is more than just a piece of furniture – it’s a canvas for your memories and one to treasure for years to come. One particular sofa, Bellissimo Lago di Garda was inspired by Gustav Klimt, the famed Austrian symbolist painter. The centrepiece of the sofa features the Malcesine on Lake Garda and originally belonged to a Sicilian family. finished with high-quality fabrics from Designers Guild, it has been completely restored while retaining its original period look. The Harry Potter chair was also a special project, as it allowed for creative freedom and collaboration with other makers. This one-of-a-kind chair is a tribute to my love of JK Rowling’s magical wizarding world and includes embroidered quotes and a hidden Marauder’s Map pocket.
Any high-profile commissions?
I’ve worked on projects for high-profile and public-facing clients, where discretion is always important. These have often been ceremonial or specialist commissions. One such project I’m proud to mention is the creation of six ceremonial cloaks for the Cambridge University Constables, which were made using traditional techniques and crafted to reflect the heritage and significance of their role.
Awards and acknowledgements you’re proud of?
Being invited to exhibit and showcase work at industry events and awards has been a real honour including my bespoke Harry Potter chair at the International Property Awards IPAX Europe and Africa Designer Awards. I’m particularly proud of recognition that celebrates craftsmanship and originality.
Your thoughts on sustainability in interiors?
Sustainability is essential for the future of interiors. Re-upholstering existing furniture, choosing quality materials, and creating pieces designed to last all make a real difference. I strongly believe in recycling and reworking where possible, it’s better for the environment and creates unique interiors with lasting value.
I would say I specialise in thoughtful recycling – transforming existing pieces to give them a personal, lasting second life.
Where you gather inspiration?
Inspiration comes from many places: art, music, architecture, nature, history, and conversations with clients. I’m particularly inspired by places with a strong sense of story and character.
Favourite part of your job?
The design stage, when ideas start to take shape and a client begins to see what’s possible. I also love the moment a project is completed and installed; seeing everything come together is very satisfying..
houseofgarrod.co.uk
@houseofgarrod
@houseofgarrod
@HouseofGarrod
More about Beverley
Her home is… Layered, comfortable, and personal rather than styled. It’s filled with pieces I love, many of which have been reworked or made over time.
Hobbies… I enjoy walking my dogs, the gym and marathon training and spending time with family and friends.
She’d take a peek around… Sir Elton John’s home. His love of music, art, and collecting is so evident, and I imagine his interiors reflect the same creativity and personality that define his work. I would love to make him a piano story sofa to showcase some of his amazing career.
Beverley’s top ten tips for thoughtful interiors
Buy once, buy well.
Don’t rush decisions.
Use colour with confidence.
Re-upholster rather than replace.
Choose materials that age well.
Work with skilled makers.
Think about how you use a room.
Layer textures for warmth.
Support local suppliers.
Create interiors that feel personal, not perfect.
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