Designer Kit Kemp has partnered with the iconic Spode brand on a wide-ranging collection which is celebrating its global launch at the New York Tabletop Show, which opens today Tuesday 18 April and runs until Friday 21 April.
Kit Kemp, the British designer and founder of Firmdale Hotels has partnered with Spode on an exciting table and giftware collection. The all-encompassing range spans the entire tableware remit – think two dinnerware collections, glassware, cutlery, a giftware assortment including plates and mugs, silver-plated frames in several tactile finishes, plus Christmas ornaments. There are even some pieces designed by her talented daughter Willow Kemp.
“This is affordable luxury,” Lou Scala, CMO, Portmeirion Group, North America, (owner of the Spode brand), tells Tableware International. “We felt there was a need in the market for a contemporary collection from the Spode brand and this is an update on traditional tableware with a push towards gifting.”
“I have always loved the Spode name and its inspirational designs,” Kit Kemp adds. “To have the opportunity to bring a contemporary twist with a nod to the past is challenging but exciting. I feel very much at home with Spode’s ideas and aspirations to create comprehensive and colourfully crafted collections.”
For a collaboration which was a year in the making, the hero line is undoubtedly the reimagining of Kit Kemp’s famed Tall Trees design onto porcelain. Let’s take a closer look at some of the lines included in the Kit Kemp x Spode launch.
Tall Trees and Geo
The soft shades of nature in Kit Kemp’s Tall Trees woodland setting draw inspiration from the designer’s love of long walks through the British countryside. Applied across dinner plates, side plates and bowls, Tall Trees works on its own or in combination with the sleek graphics and contemporary colours of Geo for creating a myriad of modern and eclectic tablescapes.
Doodles Collection
Featuring sketches that celebrate uplifting everyday moments, the Doodles collection designed by Willow Kemp is the perfect tonic for bringing a little cheer to the every day. It promises to make you smile.
Alphabet Mugs
The Alphabet Mug collection features richly coloured letters, illustrated with an array of fantastical creatures and curiosities. Taking their cue from the illuminated letters that often decorate historic manuscripts, these beautiful mugs offer a contemporary Kit Kemp twist on this ancient art, showcasing bold colours and joyous embellishments.
Flow Glassware
The Kit Kemp Flow glass collection offers simple, classic shapes that are ideal for everyday use. Inspired by traditional Georgian Rummer glassware, the collection features soft, flowing lines and low stems which create silhouettes that are easy to hold and look charming on the table. Ideal for breakfast or lunch on the terrace, a relaxed dinner or cocktails with friends.
Cutlery
The Kit Kemp for Spode collection features two versatile cutlery designs: Scoop and Twist. Inspired by classic British styles the collections are perfectly balanced, easy to handle and a good weight.
Scoop is a modern design with a simple ‘scoop’ embossment on the handle, while Twist is a simple asymmetrical design with subtle sculptural details. Forged in 18/10 stainless steel, the cutlery designs are the perfect companion for all of Kit’s new tableware collections.
Silver-plated Frame Collection
Three timeless frames each feature an unexpected decorative twist. From Cabana, with its four enamel colours which evoke the magical vibrancy of the Caribbean, to Cabochon with its domed gold accents, these beautiful designs will brighten up many a mantel, shelf or dresser. Cabana, available in 4 x 6, 5 x 7, and 8 x 10 inches. Cabachon, available in 4 x 6 and 5 x 7 inches. Ribbed, available in 4 x 6 and 5 x 7 inches.
Kit Kemp Christmas Ornaments
The Kit Kemp ceramic ornament collection includes an array of animals including an elephant, turkey and, of course, a dog. The round ceramic baubles and mannequins make an unusual, elegant decoration at Yuletide – perfect for hanging on your tree.
Kit Kemp Doodles Christmas
The Kit Kemp ceramic ornament collection includes an array of animals including an elephant, turkey and, of course, a dog. The round ceramic baubles and mannequins make an unusual, elegant decoration at Yuletide – perfect for hanging on your tree.
See our full interview with Kit Kemp in the latest issue of Tableware International, below.
