Dealers & Designers: In the Know
Welcome to a new series from The Gallery at 200 Lex powered by Incollect- Dealers & Designers: In the Know. Throughout the series we will be bringing experts from both the sides of the antiques trade together to give you the inside scoop. The dealers who source exceptional vintage and antique furnishings, and the designers who utilize their inventory in their designs will both provide their insights and expertise. Our first dealer is Lawton Mull and our first designer is Lizzie Bailey of Story Street Studio. We hope you enjoy their unique perspectives and please let us know if you have a burning question for a dealer or a designer!
Lizzie Bailey
What made you decide to go into decorating or becoming a designer?
I started out in magazines and my first job was as a market editor at a shelter magazine. While reporting on design trends and interviewing designers I realized I wanted to be on the other side, designing, so I left and went to design school.
What draws you to an antique or a piece of vintage design?
Often an antique or vintage piece is the thing we look for when we need to break up a scheme or bring in something unexpected that’s missing. That could be gravitas from a serious piece for a formal room that needs something old, it could be a bit of glamour (often easily found in a great vintage light fixture or mirror), or it might be a sculptural element from something with wonderful lines.
Do you try and follow the tastes of your clients, or do they largely hire you for your taste?
Both! All our projects should have a common thread, which is our taste. But each will reflect the particular leanings of our clients. I think ideally we take our client’s taste and expand it.
What is one of the biggest misconception’s clients have regarding working with antiques? I.e. the trials and tribulations of rewiring European lighting to preservation?
Some clients fear antiques aren’t durable or are too precious to hold up to daily use or the wear-and-tear of family life. Of course for certain fine pieces that can be true, but some items, wear even better than new pieces: like a dining table that already has decades (or centuries!) of patina or an antique rug.
What resources do you use to discover new dealers and products?
Antiques shows are a great way to find new dealers, especially now that a lot of established shows feature dealers specializing in a variety of styles and eras. There’s more of a mix. And Instagram is increasingly becoming a great way to see things, especially from international dealers – when designers tag their sources it can open up a new world of hunting!
What would your dream room to furnish with Lawton Mull be?
An entire, modernist mountain house full of Scandinavian antiques! Shearling upholstered chairs galore.
Which Lawton Mull pieces would be your dream piece for your home and why?
Can’t pick just one! I’ve always lusted after these Ole Wanscher armchairs. I love the insouciant, wavy back slats on an otherwise very simple chair. They’re so comfortable and perfectly proportioned. AND since I’ve been working from home, like everyone, I’m dreaming of a proper desk with a massive work surface. This Danish modern stunner is perfection.
Designer Picks: Shop Lizzie Bailey’s Picks!
Ole Wanscher Armchair Model No. 1755 for Fritz Hansen
Mahogany Desk by Bernt Petersen
Silver Decanter by Sylvia Stave
Swedish 1950s Iron and Leather Lounge Chair
Bergboms Brass Domed Floor Lamp
Moss Folly Maiden by Lawton Mull
Pair of Arne Norell “Scirocco” Safari Chairs
Edo Period Screen
Imperial Cut Silk Velvet and Metal-Thread Kang Carpet