Winchester’s Top Five Shops for Interiors
One of the main reasons my partner and I moved to Winchester was the range of amenities the city offers whilst still feeling more like a village with cobbled streets, friendly locals and quaint shops.
As architects, we knew Winchester was perfect for us as it is also a creative hub with local businesses catering for many of our design whims – and as it appears, many a Wintonian too!
Taking advantage of a clear, sunny day I took Millie – my little Cavachon – in tow to scout some of our favourite Winchester shops for interior ideas, all within walking distance from one another. Here’s our top 5:
The Consortium
Our first stop may not be very surprising as the shop’s prominent location and eclectic pavement displays lure you in even if you’re running a quick errand.
Head down to the cellar – the exposed timber beams and polished concrete floors are an inspiration alone and their regularly changing stock makes this a treat each time you go in.
This beautiful Ercol sideboard is £295 (sold out)
For beautiful rugs and pillows head upstairs. Selected pillows currently on sale in store!
Great for: Gifts, vintage furniture, industrial lighting, hardware, rugs, and pillows. Dog-friendly and sustainable.
Blu Bambu
Now if you were to twist my arm into choosing just one shop as my favourite this would be it – mostly because I love every single thing in there.
The shop specialises in exotic and sustainably sourced timber furniture from Indonesia without compromising on style. Venture in and you’ll find inspiration beyond furniture in every nook and cranny.
Stunning accessories start from £6 – also great gift ideas.
Their pillows and rugs are also sustainable and made from recycled plastic but feel and look like fabric. Shop here for £30.
Great for: tables (coffee, dining, side, console, you name it!), mirrors, tableware, accessories, and lampshades. Dog-friendly and sustainable.
Design House
Our next stop is a veteran in the list with a business spanning 30-years and an ode to grand, classic interiors.
Head downstairs and you will find yourself amongst the most amazing archive of fabrics, wallpapers and paints – a great source of inspiration if you are not sure where to start with your décor.
A wall of mirrors is an idea you can adopt to make your hallway feel bigger and pop.
These gorgeous plates from The Vintage Garden Room start from £15 each. Similar ones here.
Great for: Fabrics, paint, wallpaper, accessories, and statement lighting.
The Hambledon
A casual stop worth mentioning for its beautiful open-plan layout, tall ceilings, bright windows and of-course, its homeware section.
For a lesson on how to add subtle colour to a white room look no further than their main room. A large white open space curated with unique accessories and tableware.
For a touch of rustic why not have an assortment of baskets. These start at £49
Tableware in their current Delftware inspired display.
Great for: Gifts, statement accessories and crockery.
The White Company
Whether you like a clean, modern yet cosy look or refined farmhouse chic – this store knows exactly how to blend comfort and luxury.
From the beautiful minimal furnishings, coupled up with cosy natural textures and aromas – this store just brings me to a place of bliss.
For a lesson in how to make your bed – just head upstairs.
We love this console table and bench – both rustic and modern.
Great for: Bed linens, kitchenware and smellies (candles, diffusers, soaps, etc). Dog-friendly.