Exclusive: Abigail Ahern on her new lighting collection

As designer Abigail Ahern launches her playful new animalia-inspired lighting collection, we find out what inspired her and what she thinks are the next big trends for Autumn / Winter.

What was your main source of inspiration for the collection?

I have a deep affinity for the animal kingdom and in designing our first collection I wanted to bring a tongue-in-cheek twist to lighting, which in my mind often times feels a little bland. The lack of quirky lighting in the market place led me to produce this very first collection.

I gravitate towards rooms in the fast lane, that thrill, surprise and delight, and our animal inspired lights do just that. They are fun, frisky, and playful; but also glamorous. After all, good taste is a little pointless without a sense of fun!

What does the collection represent to you?

Our very first collection marries craft with kitsch so it’s idiosyncratic but also beautiful. It’s finishing touches like lighting that add the wow factor to any room, and I think I have created a collection that mixes the quirky with the fun. It’s also all produced in the UK which was hugely important to me.

What is on your Autumn / Winter wishlist?

I love the change in seasons and the cozying up of my space; so big slubby merino wool throws are at the top of the list, plus tons of scented candles.

What do you think the next big trend is for the home?

There are a number of key trends, the biggest probably being comfort in the home, layering items in an almost fairy tale manner to create enchanting, enticing interiors. Also (and this is especially exciting for me) a big trend that emerged at Maison Objet in Paris this September was for design-led products that are chic but also have an element of levity and irreverence.