Bobbin into 2021

I’m not usually a follower of fashion and on-trend design, as I prefer my projects to be guided by the house, its location and the current owners’ dreams – fashions change so quickly, so it’s not advisable to spend a lot of money on something that can soon become so ‘last season’. However, there are some interior design treats which have been in production for many centuries and used frequently in properties, that every now and then have a little resurgence and for 2021 it seems to be Bobbin furniture!

First made in the 17th Century in America and Northern Europe, Bobbin furniture (or Spool furniture as its sometimes called) became very popular as a way of enhancing otherwise plain furniture, with a series of small knobs resembling spools or bobbins on chair legs, stretchers of tables or on the vertical posts of bed frames.

Nowadays it’s a wonderful way of combining antique appeal with a modern aesthetic, giving the opportunity to add an extra layer of texture and shape into your eclectic mix of furnishings. Traditionally made in dark wood and many pieces still look wonderful that way, it is instantly updated by adding a painted finish to a piece to give it a more whimsical feel. Chelsea Textiles have just launched this select range of items to include bedside tables, console tables and wonderful gently curved beds all with a nod to the Bobbin style. Finishing them an array of wonderful coloured hues, adds a contemporary spin on this old favourite. I simply adore these painted beds – what a perfect way to enhance a children’s or guest bedroom – so simple, so gentle, and oh so pretty, but not over feminine either.

Another favourite is this Bobbin chair from my friends at Clockhouse Furniture who have made this piece for many years. Shown here in an antique pink velvet it is wonderful as an accent chair in a library to draw up to a table when extra seating is required, but would also make a comfortable set of dining chairs for those conversations that continue long after dinner is finished. This is an extremely affordable and comfortable chair and can be made in many different finishes and any fabric of your choice.

Larger antique armchairs can be found quite inexpensively on Vintage sites and can easily be transformed into a comfortable accent chair with large plush seat and back cushions. The open backs and sides allows for fun and games to be had with mixing up fabrics and trimmings which can be enjoyed from all angles, looking as beautiful from behind as it does from the front.

On a lesser scale small Bobbin side tables make great bedside tables with just enough room for a lamp, book and glass or water or maybe tucked into a small corner with a simple flower arrangement to enhance its simplicity. Small Bobbin corner chairs, often with rush seats, can be easily sourced and will fit neatly into a small area such as an Entrance Hall or Guest Cloakroom – somewhere to drop your hat or handbag when your guests come to call.

Whatever your style of home, a little bit of Bobbin or Spool will add some shape and texture and a little bit of fun to your home, which will stand the test of time and bring both practicality and joy for many years to come.