Barbara Hulanicki gives Chesney’s fireplaces an Art Deco makeover

Art deco style is back with a vengence at the moment and who better to add her inimitable fashionista touch to this trend than Barbara Hulanicki.

Barbara created the hugely successful Biba brand in the 60s and went on to design for Cacherel, Fiorucci and Topshop. Now the fashion legend has created a gorgeous range of fire surrounds for Chesney's of London.

We caught up with Barbara at the launch of Chesney's new A/W 2012-2013 range to find out what lights her fire...

How did the collaboration with Chesney's come about?

I met the team from Chesney's during London Design Week, we got chatting and then they later approached me about designing for them. I was already a fan of their work, so this seemed like a fantastic opportunity.

How different is designing a fire surround to designing a dress or a bag?

Designing a fireplace with Chesney's was much easier than working with fabric as the design, obviously, does not move. Fabric can also shrink and natural materials such as leather vary so much. Chesney's are extremely experienced in their field so they knew exactly what materials would work and what wouldn't.

Regarding materials and interior design, what are your home fashion predictions for A/W 2012?

For A/W 2012 I believe that interior design trends will move towards a more creative and personal look than the hotel look that is around at the moment. This is echoed in collaboration with Chesney's, as I'm such a big fan of Art Deco and Art Nouveau design it seemed appropriate to really channel that through into each surrounds' overall appearance.

When it comes to home decor are there any big no-nos or interiors trends that you're totally over?

WHITE SOFAS!

We're guessing you don't have a white sofa, then! So, what part of your home do you love the most?

I love my bedroom and sitting in front of my giant TV, it's like going to the cinema every night.

Do you have any non-expensive style tips to update a home in an easily?

Throw out your old cushions and replace them with something new. Perhaps try painting a wall with a strong colour, be daring and create a focal point for guests to be amazed by!

Check out the Hulanicki Collection at Chesney's

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