Bridge For Design Spring 2014 Bridge For Design Spring 2014 Issue | Page 151

A

t school Michael Reeves told his career adviser that he
wanted to be a fashion designer and years later he did just
that spending 20 successful years in the business.
His move into interior design came about when a
young couple who had bought his London apartment and loved his
style asked him to redesign their new home and this led to further
commissions: an appartment by John Pawson and projects in New
York and Connecticut.
It wasn’t long before Michael set up in New York and with his talent
quickly being recognised, his work frequently graced the pages of the
glossy magazines.
Michael returned to London in 1995 and opened up a modest
shop in Brompton Cross where he sold an amalgamation of furniture,
objects and art from new pieces to antiquities.
“I bought at auction and re-styled furniture to put my own stamp on it.
In 1998 I designed my first range of furniture, both upholstered pieces
and case goods. This collection was launched in the Joseph flagship
store on the Fulham Road, displayed with mannequins wearing Prada.
From there I moved into much larger premises to accommodate the
furniture.” This proved to be an exciting year as he also went on to win
the highly coveted Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of
the year award.
There are so many projects Michael is proud of and four years
ago, he undertook a refurbishment on a property he had bought for
himself. Based in a purpose built apartment building on the banks of
the Thames, it features beautiful uninterrupted views towards Chelsea.
The project took just six weeks to complete.
“I usually get a feeling of the completed refurbishment at the first
viewing of a property. Design always begins with any changes to ►
LEFT: ‘Madison’ one-and-a-half seat sofa and ‘Metropolitan’ daybed from Michael
Reeves, upholstered in De le Cuona linen. Black velvet frogged pillows and white
crocodile leather pillow from Ralph Lauren Home. Flowers throughout by John
Carter Flowers. Large painting by Diane Carl. All accessories from Michael Reeves.
TOP: Crocodile effect gesso screen from Michael Reeves. Bedhead custom
ordered from Michael Reeves in Abbott & Boyd stretch fabric. Chocolate cashmere throw Ralph Lauren Home. White cotton matelassé bedcover, Zara Home.
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