This will be lots of pictures, some history, and links for those who would like to know more.
On day one, we arrived in the afternoon so something close to the hotel was all we could think of. Liberty was at the top of my list and within an easy walk from our hotel.
The shop was founded in 1875 and moved to this Tudor building in 1885.
They sold beautifully designed fabrics for clothing and furnishings, and "decorative items" for the home. Famous members of the Pre-Raphaelite movement were among their customers.
In a renovation in the 1920's three light wells like this were built, and the customer was supposed to feel like walking in his/her own home as smaller rooms surround the well on each floor.
Old chandeliers have been replaced with more modern lighting.
The names of staff members who gave their lives for their country during the war 1914-1918.
They still sell "decorative items", and one room is a permanent Christmas exhibition. Crafty idea for your next Christmas' baubles!
I liked these red-chested birds. They came in different sizes.
In my mind Liberty means first of all beautiful floral prints. They were quite expensive, but also very good quality. Another delicious sight was the Rowan yarns:
If I had more space in my cupboards, I would have considered these plates for serving fish. As I don't, I didn't even need to look at the price tags! They had others with the fish just on the rim.
I think we are all a bit tired now, so the tour continues later with day 2. Make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes as it will be a long walk!
The Liberty fabrics are gorgeous. I remember the staff being confused that I was buying some for quilting and not clothing. It's a gorgeous building as is most of the architecture in London. Looking forward to more sightseeing.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the tour. Ayla lived there for two years and she never too photos of the place for me. I suppose she wasn't interested. It looks like a beautiful building.
ReplyDeleteLiberty is just grand, isn't it. I used to spend a lot of time in their top floor book departement, but that closed years ago.
ReplyDeleteHave fun, I am enjoying your London tour!
Oh, lucky you, Ulla! I haven't been to Liberty since the 80's and loved every step I took inside the building! Somehow I found my way in through not the main entrance and several floors up right into the fabric section! It still looks exactly the same. I can't wait for your next installment.
ReplyDeleteCheers!
Thanks for the tour, Ulla. I didn't go to Liberty when in London (about 15 years ago - boy, time does move quickly). We went to Harrods... quite an experience.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see the next installment. I'm suiting up now.
Hugs
Last time I was in London I passed just true this building, but now I know it is worth a visit.. Thanks for showing Ulla.
ReplyDeleteLovely to see; I have been there many times, always something new to discover! Looking forward to be with you on day 2 :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing Liberty. The fish plate is so cleverly thought out. The bright Rowan yarns look so pretty.
ReplyDelete