In Bloom: Things To Love This Spring
Catching up with our founder Karen Brotherton is always a treat—equal parts design inspiration and down-to-earth honesty. Karen has that rare ability to weave storytelling, style, and soul into every corner of a space, and chatting with her feels like slipping into a perfectly worn-in armchair: warm, thoughtful, and full of charm. This spring, we sat down with Karen to hear what’s been sparking her imagination lately—from atmospheric art discoveries to her favourite scent of the season—and, as always, she brought her signature blend of creativity and calm.
Must-visit Exhibition:
One exhibition I’m genuinely excited about is the upcoming show at Contemporary Six, featuring the work of Ben Macgregor. I first discovered Ben while watching Landscape Artist of the Year on Sky Atlantic, and his work instantly stood out—sensitive, atmospheric, and full of quiet power. It’s such a brilliant feeling to stumble across an artist on screen and then have the chance to see their work up close. I can’t wait for the private view—it’s not every day you get to meet someone whose work has genuinely moved and inspired you. Definitely feeling a bit fan-girly about this one!
Current Favourite Paint Colour and Wallpaper Combo:
Beetlenut by P&P and Empires. I designed this wallpaper as a kind of love letter to old maps and Mughal miniature paintings—two things I’ve always been obsessed with for their detail and storytelling. I wanted it to feel like you’re stepping into a quiet, imagined world, where rivers wind through endless hills and little villages sit tucked away, waiting to be discovered. The palette is intentionally soft and aged, like something that’s been around forever. But to bring in a bit of contrast and energy, I’ve paired it with Beetlenut by Paint & Paper Library—a rich, earthy terracotta that pulls straight from the rooftops. I’m using it on a piece of furniture nearby, just to ground the scene and give the whole space a bit of punch. It’s that balance I’m always chasing—something dreamy, with a little edge.
Favourite thing about Spring:
My favourite thing about spring is the smell—no question. That damp, earthy scent you get early in the morning walking the dog, when everything’s still quiet and the ground’s soaked from overnight rain—it’s the best. Add to that the way all the new leaves come in, this kind of electric, almost neon green. It’s intense, unapologetic, and feels like nature’s version of a reset. Spring’s definitely my favourite season.
What you are listening to:
Right now, I’ve got the new Loyle Carner on repeat. Somehow, he’s done it again—shifted his sound just enough to keep it fresh, but still unmistakably him. There’s a definite hint of King Krule in there too, which I’m really into. It’s chill, it’s layered, and it’s what I reach for when I’m stressed. I dunno if it’s something in their low voices—like some kind of vibration thing, almost a binaural BPM situation—but it genuinely calms me. Just hits the nervous system in the right way.
Favourite new discovery:
Favourite recent find: the Cascade Chair by Old Hickory with Max Humphrey. It’s got that rugged, vintage-camp feel but still feels fresh. The oversized gingham is a bold touch, and very much in the same world as what Ham Interiors are doing—textured, laid-back, and full of character. Kinda makes you want to build a whole room around it.