Reimagining the past at Vaughan

In September 2025, leading designers shared their views on creating interiors with the capacity to last forever.

Speakers gather at Vaughan Designs
From left: Country Life's Giles Kime introduces the panel: Alfred Newall, Beth Blakeman-Shead, Tess Newall and Max Rollitt.
(Image credit: Vaughan Designs)

Vaughan’s showroom at the Design Centre was the setting for a panel discussion at which its CEO Beth Blakeman-Shead was joined by decorative artist Tess Newall, furniture maker Alfred Newall and interior designer and antique dealer Max Rollitt.

Hosted by Country Life’s Giles Kime, the discussion explored the lessons from the past that inform our understanding of the techniques, materials and design required to stand the test of time.

Vaughan Designs panel discussion

Beth Blakeman-Shead, CEO of Vaughan.

(Image credit: Vaughan Designs)

Other subjects included the importance of creating designs driven less by trends and more by proportions that will endure.

The event took place during Focus/25, at which Vaughan launched new lighting designs celebrating its commitment to craft, timeless design and materials with a potential to last for generations.

To contact Vaughan, please visit vaughandesigns.com or telephone 020–7349 4600

Vaughan Designs panel discussion

Victoria Wren and Carys Lowry-Carter.

(Image credit: Vaughan Designs)

Secrets of timelessness at Vaughan's panel event

Craft

Vaughan’s team has been designing and making high-quality lighting, furniture and textiles for almost half a century

Engineering

However beautiful, lighting must be engineered to function perfectly

Materials

Traditional materials such as brass, bronze and marble not only perform beautifully, but have a capacity to improve with time

Design

Whether classic or contemporary, simple design has the potential for longevity

Look to the past

Traditional techniques and craft provide inspiration for the future

To contact Vaughan, please visit vaughandesigns.com or telephone 020–7349 4600