This season, we had the pleasure of working with our friends at 1882 Ltd- a design driven ceramic company. Where we collaborated on an exciting new line of ceramics. Discover more about the collaboration in our guest blog below with Director Emily Johnson.

Tell us how 1882 Ltd started?

I had come back from LA where I had been living for 8 years selling television advertising and completed a masters in Architectural Interior design, where we looked a material in more detail - I chose fine bone china and realised that I knew a lot more than I thought about the inherent qualities and in particular the translucency. I then designed a series of lights that I showed to my Dad who had recently retired from being Head of Manufacturing at Waterford Wedgwood and he said they were impossible to make! 6 months later they were made. Having formed in 2011 we are a young company but with a long heritage - Five generations later! And I am so very proud to say EVERYTHING we make is from Stoke-on-Trent, England, the home of the Potteries and where my family business was started in 1882 Ltd. That is where we started.

What is your philosophy about ceramics and having them in the home?

Ceramics should be used, loved and cherished. There are ceramics that you can use on a daily basis and love - name me one person who doesn’t have a favourite mug? - and then there are works of art such a jug made by Bruce McLean that is a sculpture and not to be used but to be loved and cherished. Ceramics should feature in every room in one way or another but I think I am slightly biased. As long as you love them that is all that matters. Ooh, one more thing, if you have a special dinner service - use it! Chances are it will be better quality than your everyday ceramics so will wear much better and I tell you what, it will certainly lift meal times on a cold Monday night in January!

How did the collaboration with DG come about?

I have been selling our collections to DG for years. I love what you do and in talks over the years I suggested that we make something for you. Tricia presented us with a number of patterns and we reached a design to work, which although was a challenge due to the colour shade, but worth the wait. It is stunning and I am so thrilled with this collaboration.

What’s next for 1882 Ltd?

We are working on a new tableware collection and scented candle collection with Paul Smith, a candle range with Martyn Thompson for Jo Malone and an extension of our Lustre collection with Bethan Gray. Oh, but first a holiday….can’t wait.

This tableware is available in-store and online.