The Orkney Islands

>WW< was delighted to be invited to the Orkney Islands by the Orkney Crafts Association this year. A wonderful gathering of interesting and interested journalists, buyers and organisations all supporting contemporary craftsmanship.

The Orkney Islands tell a compelling and continuing story of human creativity and innovation. Important within the Scottish design landscape today, as it has been historically, Orkney showcases a wealth of craftsmanship.

A good year. Straw from the island is harvested and cleaned before transforming the material into iconic Orkney chairs. The outer husk of the straw is removed to reveal the glossy and golden interior of the plant. These images from our visit to the Orkney Furniture Maker.

Contemporary designers and manufacturers combine traditional materials and techniques with a fresh approach offering pieces full of originality, ingenuity and quality. 

From masterful Orkney chairs to vibrant textiles, elemental ceramics to distinguished whiskies, Orkney provides a unique opportunity to source and commission work across a variety of disciplines.  

Stone age. The Neolithic site of Skara Brae. Nestled in the ground, a settlement occupied some 5,000 years ago.

Neolithic Interior | Box beds, mantlepieces and indoor pools for keeping fresh catch, an interior designed around human behaviour and necessity.

Northern Knit | Hilary Grant textile design studio specialise in knitted pattern. All their textiles are made from luxury grade, cruelty-free 100% lambswool.

Here are a few of my favourite makers from the trip: Hilary Grant , Scapa Crafts, Orkney Hand-crafted Furniture and Highland Park.

X Alison