In search of the perfect stripe, Louisa Tratalos, founded Colours of Arley, producers of timeless fabrics
How would you describe yourself?
I like to try different things and have as many life experiences as I can, I will always agree to visit a new place or chat with a stranger.
Where is home? And work?
Home is in Manchester, although I’ve lived in London for over ten years, my family and childhood was all in and around Hale and it will always feel like coming home for me. Work is both home and London, I run the brand from London but our family workshop is in Cheshire.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
I used to always invite my friends over to redesign my bedroom. I once had a floor made up of lots of wooden panels and I offered each friend a different wooden panel to paint and decorate with whatever patterns or paintings they wanted. So in the end I had a huge patchwork-painted floor. So I’d definitely say something in interior design. I also really enjoyed watching documentaries, I’ve always loved storytelling.
What do you love most about the industry you are in?
I work in interiors and my favourite thing is visiting people’s homes. I recently shot a photography project on ‘women who live alone’ I’m fascinated by how people shape the environment that they live in, the objects they buy, and the things they are drawn to.
Name a few of your favourite places to be
Ibiza, got to be said, but only the quiet bits, up in the hills or on the quiet beaches. Also, Lake Annecy, I was travelling around Europe in my campervan with my boyfriend and dog last year when we found ourselves in real-life turquoise heaven. Oh and Wales where we have a tiny family cottage that is very basic and rural, but the perfect place to switch off.
What / who inspires you?
The real masters of design and colour like Le Corbusier. I love going to antique fairs and charity shops, the brocantes in France are a real treat. With Colours of Arley, we create bespoke striped fabric for interiors, so I look everywhere I can for colour combination inspiration whether it’s in nature or the work of a great fashion designer or architect.
What was the last gift you gave someone?
My boyfriend is a rare book dealer and helps me source great gifts, the last present was really great Ikebana book for my friend who is a florist.
Tell us a secret/fun fact?
My favourite musician is Celine Dion and I travelled all the way to Vegas to watch her perform live at Caesars Palace.
Who or what would you put into room 101?
I think it has to be printed words in the home. From quotation plaques like “live laugh love” to a doormat with the words “welcome”.
What’s been your biggest life lesson?
To just keep learning new things always. Keep moving and keep learning.
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