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Meet Andrew Tanner, Design Manager at Habitat

After graduating in ceramics, Andrew Tanner, Habitat Design Manager, has worked as an interiors consultant, designer and author for 23 years. He launched Andrew Tanner Design in 2002 to create a new partnership between manufacturers, retailers and authentic design. Now he leads a team of over 20 dedicated homeware and furniture designers at Habitat, and is a brand ambassador for Design Nation. Here, Andrew tells Good Homes about Habitat’s latest collections…

Tells us about Habitat’s SS22 collection…

Habitat’s SS22 Mediterranean range draws inspiration from the coastal towns across the Med with their white chalky walls, hidden alcoves and that pop of contrasting azure blue from the sea.

The Optimist collection delivers just that – a celebration of optimised colour, pattern and print that makes you smile. It’s a celebration of colour across forms and detailed, bold furniture.

Andrew Tanner, Design Manager at Habitat, on the habitat ss22 mediterranean collection

Habitat’s SS22 Mediterranean collection

And looking ahead to Habitat’s AW22 collection?

Habitat’s AW22 collection hones in on three key looks that encourage customers to invest in quality pieces that stand the test of time, complemented by a range of on-trend accessories for small-scale refreshes.

Afterglow is a nostalgic look back at the glamour and richness of 1970s style, with the quintessential brown and orange colour pairing reinvigorated for 2022 through earthier tones, textured wood finishes and rich, velvet upholstery with luxurious golden highlights.

habitat aw22 afterglow collection used in the bedroom

Habitat’s AW22 Afterglow collection has a 70s vibe

Curiosity combines various styles, prints and hues, from chintzy accessories to contemporary coloured glass. Saturated shades of plum, teal and indigo unite the collection, with uplifting pops of hot pink and mustard.

habitat aw22 curiosity collection used in the living room

Habitat’s AW22 Curiosity collection is full of character

Nurture is much more calming, featuring neutral colours to promote serenity and a sense of relaxation. It showcases rustic finishes and handcrafted, unrefined forms that celebrate the natural tactility of materials such as bamboo, jute and recycled cotton.

habitat aw22 nurture collection in the dining room

Habitat’s AW22 Nurture collection embraces natural, tactile materials

What are your hero pieces from the latest collections?

The bouclé sofa and armchair are new additions to Habitat this year, and the clean white lines, generous proportions and voluptuous upholstery make a huge tactile statement, while prioritising comfort.

I also love the soft, hand-tufted cushions and textiles from the Mediterranean collection, as well as the vibrant dinner set from the Optimist collection. We landed on a melting pot of five different shades for a multi-coloured effect, with the splatter design hand-applied by Portuguese ceramic artists.

andrew tanner habitat design manager

Andrew Tanner is Habitat’s Design Manager

What can we expect next from Habitat?

Customers are becoming more invested in the provenance of products, so more of our ranges are being designed in-house with hand-crafted techniques. We want to continue to create unique pieces that become exciting additions to their homes. Our talented in-house team are experts in everything from print and pattern creation to product design.

Who’s your design hero?

I have many, from ceramists Lucie Rie and Hans Coper to the work of French architect Charlotte Perriand – I absolutely love her Les Arcs chairs.

Where do you find inspiration?

I’m always looking up, as there’s so much to see beyond eye level! Brooklyn in New York is one of my favourite places.

What’s next on your own decorating to-do list?

My 12-year-old daughter Florence and I would love to upcycle a vintage caravan into a home art studio.


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