It’s human instinct to wish to collect – from stickers and cards, badges, dolls and figures obsessed over in childhood, to vintage books, vinyl records, prints by a particular artist and dinnerware by a certain pottery in adulthood.
For antiques lovers, the passion for collecting inevitably pulls us in the direction of pieces handcrafted with thought and care, using skills that have been passed down through generations.
In this issue, our heritage special, we are championing the British brands keeping age-old skills alive, from rattan weaving to paper marbling, and Lincrusta wallpaper to Welsh blankets.
We also take a close look at the exquisite intricacy of shellwork and round up a handful of shell-encrusted grottoes to visit.
We discover the unmatchable beauty of antique terracotta and learn why it’s always better to choose old over the ubiquitous ‘orange’ pots in garden centres.
Plus, as always, our houses this month are filled with personal treasures and decorating ideas to steal...
...while our style editor selects her favourite Arts and Crafts-inspired fabrics and wallpapers to adorn your home with thoughtful character and timeless charm.
Enjoy a glimpse of what to look forward to in our August 2026 issue!
