London-based interior designer Rosanna Bossom is celebrated for interiors that feel effortlessly layered and inviting - we are thrilled to have her in the ‘spotlight’ this week. A key ingredient in her signature style is her thoughtful incorporation of vintage textiles - fabrics that bring history, craftsmanship and a sense of lived-in comfort to contemporary spaces. Rather than using antique textiles as mere accents, she often reimagines these fabrics as statement upholstery, bespoke cushions or even framed art, giving them a fresh context while preserving their storied past. The result is a look that feels both personal and timeless, where each piece tells a quiet, well-traveled tale.
How do you go about incorporating vintage textiles into your work?
We start by treating vintage textiles and suzanis as both artistic and functional elements, and then figure out how to get it to work in the space. Whether it is a delicately embroidered piece or a French grain sack, they can become the star of the room or used much more subtly, as a cushion for example.
How best to display them?
We love wrapping them around headboards or upholstering an ottoman. You can frame them behind glass as artwork, drape them over sofas or the end of a bed - even on tabletops. It is best not to overcrowd the textile but to let it stand out on its own.
Where to start when using vintage textiles? Can they inspire a whole scheme?
Absolutely, they can inspire an entire scheme and in fact, often do. A single suzani can dictate the colour palette and mode of a space. Start by selecting a piece that has colours or motifs that you love, then build your room around it using complementary tones for a wall colour, upholstery or accessories.
Unique creative ways of working with vintage textiles?
- Making custom lampshades with antique saris
- Turning Suzanis into headboards or bed canopies
- Framing fragments as artwork
- Adding panels of vintage fabric to cabinet doors
Why do you love working with vintage textiles? Why would you recommend others to work with vintage textiles?
Apart from the fact that they are beautiful and unique, they are also sustainable and support traditional craftsmanship. In a world full of mass-produced things, it is refreshing to have something that is handmade and one-of-a-kind. They also bring warmth and layers to a space.
What would your top 3 tips be for anyone looking to start using vintage textiles?
- Start small - with cushions or a runner before committing to larger pieces like upholstery.
- Buy what you love - don’t get caught up in trends.
- Protect and preserve them - use linings when upholstering, avoid direct sunlight and only have them lightly, professionally cleaned.
