Industry Insights: Granite + Smoke

How did you get into the industry and what are your backgrounds? 

We both formed Granite + Smoke in 2019. We are lifelong friends and design professionals, and our backgrounds are multidisciplinary. Lindsey comes from architecture, while Claire specialises in interiors and textiles. Our shared love for design, materiality, and storytelling naturally led us to create a brand that blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship. The idea for Granite + Smoke stemmed from our desire to create timeless, beautifully crafted homeware that balances structure, colour and texture in a fresh, modern way. 

Can you talk me through your company? What are you best known for? 

We’re best known for our playful, graphic, and modern approach to homeware. We design and produce luxury rugs, blankets, and quilts that are responsibly made using sustainable and high-quality materials. Our work reflects a balance of contrasts; heritage and innovation, structure and softness, boldness and restraint. We take great pride in working with skilled UK manufacturers, including historical weaving experts and textile specialists, ensuring that every product carries a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity. Our best-known pieces are those that fuse contemporary design with traditional techniques, resulting in homeware that not only enhances a space but also tells a story. 

What was the idea behind The Brutalist Collection, which previously received a Design Guild Mark? 

The Brutalist Collection was inspired by our architectural and material-led approach to design. We were drawn to the bold geometry, raw textures and structural beauty of Brutalism, translating these ideas into a collection that feels both strong and tactile. The collection celebrates the interplay between form and function, where sharp lines and unexpected patterns soften into inviting, luxurious textiles. Receiving a Design Guild Mark for this collection was an incredible honour as it recognised our commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. The collection embodies our ethos; heritage techniques reimagined for contemporary living, with an emphasis on sustainability and longevity. 

How has being awarded a Design Guild Mark impacted your company? What has it meant to you? 

The Design Guild Mark is a prestigious recognition, and receiving it for The Brutalist Collection was a defining moment for Granite + Smoke. It validated our work whilst helping to introduce us to a wider audience. The award has also opened up exciting opportunities, from new collaborations to expanding our presence in the design industry. More importantly, it reaffirmed our belief in creating timeless, sustainable homeware that balances aesthetics with purpose. 

What advice would you give to a young British designer looking to make their mark on the industry? 

Our biggest advice would be to stay true to your design voice and values. The industry is competitive, but authenticity and a strong point of view will always stand out. Experiment, refine your craft and don’t be afraid to take risks; sometimes the most unexpected ideas lead to the most impactful designs. Sustainability is also a key consideration for today’s designers. Understanding materials, processes and responsible production is crucial. Seek out manufacturers who align with your values and consider how your designs can contribute to a more thoughtful, enduring approach to making. Finally, embrace collaboration. Some of the best ideas come from working with other creatives, whether in different disciplines or within the same field. Building a network and learning from others will help you grow as a designer. 

What are you currently working on and what are you excited for in 2025? 

We’re currently exploring new collections that continue to push our personal boundaries of colour, pattern, and materiality while staying true to our commitment to sustainability. We’re also interested in expanding our product range to include new forms of homeware that align with our ethos, we want to continue designing pieces that bring both beauty and function into the everyday.

For more information on Granite + Smoke, click here.