Living colourfully
TWO FRIENDS have launched a business which is perfect for putting fresh colour into homes for those enjoying entertaining at home .
Winchester-based Katy Gardener ( left ) and Ronelle Kok first met through their mutual sister-in-law . Sharing a love of colourful design , they joined forces to create a brand that celebrates living colourfully , selling linen block printed homeware for the table .
“ I moved to Winchester three years ago from London , and it ’ s where my husband and I have had our two boys ,” said Katy , who lives at Western Road opposite the Fulflood Arms . “ We adore the Fulflood community and our Winchester life , and feel very lucky to have landed in such a great place and made brilliant friends .”
Katy ’ s background is in events and prior to having children she worked in the ticketing industry promoting West End shows and live concerts . “ Covid hit the live entertainment industry hard , so whilst I had time out on furlough last year I started a gardening blog , Becoming a Gardener , which led to Katy and Ro ,” she continued .
Ro is Dutch but lives in India where she has developed excellent relationships with suppliers and makers . By combining the ancient tradition of block printing with a bright colour palette , Katy and Ro offer unique beautiful products which cannot be found in massed produced factories . They work on the designs together but Ro undertakes liaising with the makers .
“ Our products are developed in Rajasthan and Bangalore with skilful masters of the block printing craft , and we only work with people who prioritise fair wages and fair treatment .”
Katy and Ro run small product lines to remain sustainable and ensure their online storefront retains a fresh look . New stock
also means customers can purchase original tablecloth and napkin designs season by season . Local customers are welcome to pick up items from Katy , but shipping to Europe and the rest of the world is available for gifts , broadening their reach .
Their latest launch comprises large tote bags and a winter collection of table linen .
Determined to make their mark – literally – Katy and Ro is sought
after by those who like to see original colour in the home . katyandro . com
Block or relief printing includes linocuts , lino prints , woodblock prints , rubber stamping , methods where an impression is made with ink after a design has been carved into the chosen surface . Patterns can be found on cards , wallpaper , cloth and illustration .
30 Resident www . residentmagazine . co . uk