Lighting and Lights is thrilled to become part of the recent history of Laura Ashley lights, an icon in British design. Easily recognised as one of the world’s most loved home furnishing brands. With over 65 years of design excellence, the Laura Ashley’s lighting range represents quality and tradition.
Although fashions, style and the business model have changed over the decades, the Laura Ashley’s Lighting collection still harks back to her love of the countryside and tradition.
Who was the woman behind the lighting range?
Laura Ashley was a modern woman, quite ahead of her time. Whilst working at the Women’s Institution, she became further interested in quilting and design. After visiting the Victoria & Albert Museum, she realised there was a gap in the market for Victorian fabrics. Her entrepreneurial spirit was sparked! She started to design and hand-print headscarves, napkins and tea towels in her small flat in Pimlico, London.
The brand of Laura Ashley UK
In 1953, the Laura Ashley brand was established. Laura Ashley provided the designs, while her husband, Bernard handled the operational side. As the business grew in popularity and strength, the family and business moved to Wales. You can still visit their first ever shop, which now operates as an interior design business.
By 1966, the first clothing store opened in Kensington, London. Towards the end of the 70’s there were over 70 shops open worldwide. During the 80’s the business launched home furnishings, including their Laura Ashely lighting range, and The Laura Ashley Book of Home Decorating was published.
Tragically in 1985, Laura Ashley died in an accident at her daughters home. The business was at the pinnacle of its success, valued at £200 million. Sir Bernard, as he had become, carried on running the business until his retirement in 1993.
However the success was not to last. Problems arose from the overexpansion of its retail stores, and issues with its large network of manufacturers. The company had survived, until only very recently when it gone into administration. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, investors were not able to save the retail stores.
The future…
All is not lost! The full range of Laura Ashley lights is available here!
Laura Ashley said “Decorating isn’t about colours, carpets and textiles. It’s about expressing your personality”. This is what we love about the lighting range by Laura Ashley. You will be sure to find the right light to fit your personality and bring Laura Ashley‘s timeless glamour into your home.
The Vienna collection is a stunning range of lights. With bevelled glass crystal rods, square-cut faceted crystal droplets and finished in polished chrome. These design are also available as Laura Ashley chandeliers, semi-flush ceiling lights and wall lights.
The Willow ceiling pendant makes a real statement. With crystal droplets that hangs beautifully from each textured champagne gold branch. It is perfect for adding contemporary country style and character to your home.
Feeling fruity? This quirky table lamp by Laura Ashley features a champagne glass and resin pineapple design. It has been paired with a cotton taupe shade to create a delightful look for your home.
An elegant and contemporary 5 light ceiling pendant. The Southwell is finished in polished nickel, with opal glass inner and clear glass outer drum shades. This is available as a smaller or larger ceiling light pendant and has matching wall lights.
Make a statement! The Mulroy antler double wall light, has been finished in champagne gold and includes two natural sheened shades. This will add country character to a contemporary home.
The full range of Laura Ashley’s lighting designs will span the test of time. Bring some of the brand’s contemporary, country style home with you.