This week’s Friday Folks contributor is Lucy Ryder Richardson of Midcentury Modern show fame.
As regular readers know, we’re huge fans of Midcentury modern, and much of our business is based around this period – so it’s great to feature one of the leading lights in events showcasing the era.
The next Midcentury.Modern show at Dulwich College, London takes place on 20 March 2011. The last show received an unprecedented number of visitors, with over 3,000 through the door in just 6 hours!
In testament to the popularity and success of Mid.Mod, Lucy & Petra will host their first ever show at Lord’s Cricket Ground which will be held on 15 May.
Who are you & what do you do?
Hi, I am Lucy Ryder Richardson, one half of the female powerhouse behind Midcentury Modern. I say that tongue in cheek but Petra Curtis, my business partner should get a mention.
How did you get into the business?
Love of the era and lack of shops in Dulwich doing the kind of furniture and design we love.
Who or what inspires you?
Our children, our 60s homes, Scandinavian and American modernism.
What has been your greatest success?
The latest show last Sunday at Midcentury.Modern was so packed we had to stop people at the door to let others out. We had one lady screaming to a friend, “My God, this show has become THE destination!” and all sorts of great feedback afterwards. But our most exciting moment was when Time Out made us one of their top ten attractions for the whole of 2009 with no other design show mentioned. They now regularly make us a top pick and we are very very grateful to them and Elle Decoration (our main media backer) for all their support.
Have you got any advice for someone wanting to break into the business?
Never listen when people say it can’t be done and always follow your heart rather than trends. Upcycling is currently the way to go. Look at Styling and Salvage, Higher Market Studio and Zoe Murphy but essentially, do your own thing.