Unveiled is a fresh publication detailing transformative craftsmanship, showcasing how a designer's discarded items can be turned into valuable treasures by another.
In the world of interior design, the book "Retrouvius: Contemporary Salvage" stands out as more than just a collection of beautiful images. It is a manifesto, a call to action for a design philosophy that champions sustainability and the beauty of imperfection.
Founded in 1993 by Maria Speake and Adam Hills, Retrouvius is a London-based studio known for its unique approach to design. The studio, which operates a physical warehouse and an online shop, offers a curated selection of rare materials and pieces to clients, architects, and designers.
At the heart of Retrouvius' philosophy is the belief that nothing should be wasted, and everything has potential. This philosophy is beautifully illustrated in the interiors showcased in the book. Patina, scars, and wear are celebrated rather than concealed, transforming ordinary materials into works of art.
The book takes readers on a journey through various projects, including the renovation of a north London home. Here, pine boards once used for maturing cheese were used to clad the games room, vintage cigar moulds were incorporated into the kitchen joinery, and a bespoke bathroom washstand was crafted from the copper roof of a hen house.
Another project featured in the book is an Umbrian farmhouse dating back to the 16th century. The original features were painstakingly restored and enhanced, preserving the essence of history while bringing it into the modern age.
Retrouvius' inventory is in constant flux, shaped by demolitions, renovations, and serendipitous finds. This ever-changing inventory is showcased in the book, along with key residential and commercial projects led by Maria Speake and her team.
The book "Retrouvius: Contemporary Salvage" was written by Helena Bonham Carter and includes contributions from writers, designers, and the founders themselves. It is being released today by Thames & Hudson.
Helena Bonham Carter, in her foreword, praises Retrouvius for its commitment to reuse, stating that the studio "demonstrates that reuse is not only possible but elegant and desirable."
In a world where sustainability and design often feel at odds, Retrouvius offers a refreshing alternative. By embracing the beauty of imperfection and the potential in the discarded, they are not just creating beautiful spaces, but also contributing to a more sustainable future.
With "Retrouvius: Contemporary Salvage", the studio invites us to join them in this journey, to rethink our approach to design, and to celebrate the beauty in what others might consider waste.
