A new Manchester interiors store is bringing a fresh concept in retail to the region.
Department, which is inspired by concepts from Stockholm and Barcelona, is the first in the North West to offer both vintage and contemporary furniture and accessories styled within a modern home setting.
Department offers a carefully curated collection of furniture, rugs, lighting, art and accessories including brands such as G Plan, Verner Panton and George Nelson, as well as work by local designers and makers. There is also a selection of pre-owned clothing including designer labels such as Marni, Margaret Howell, Jaegar and Jill Sander.
The store, which is based in the bohemian suburb of Chorlton, has been set up by Heather Linnitt, who founded the former Blackbird home store in Leeds and has also run a successful upholstery business for 20 years. It aims to provide an alternative to mass-produced homewares by offering unique pieces at accessible prices and meet the growing demand for more sustainable products.
Heather says: “With limited choice on the high street, consumers are increasingly looking for ways to bring a sense of individuality to their homes and for products that are more sustainable. Department offers a different approach, by showcasing the work of local makers and upholsterers and encouraging the use of vintage furniture.
“Vintage not only makes sense from a recycling point of view, it is often better value. These items may cost little more than a flatpack piece yet are better quality and built to last. Department aims to inspire people to mix old and new to create a look that is more stylish and sustainable. It also makes for a more interesting shopping experience!”
