Faded Glamour in the City, the latest book from Pearl Lowe, inspires interiors designed with salvaged pieces, both antique and reclaimed. 

The book gives a glimpse into her own city home and those of a few friends and designers, including the New York City home of supermodel and photographer, Helena Christensen. Pearl enthusiastically describes on her Insta @pearllowe, the excitement she felt to include the apartment in her book, 'Helena has such effortless style and a knack for hunting out the most gorgeous antiques and vintage pieces. She's another maximalist who can't resist a treasure that has a past and a story to tell.'

In her past life, Pearl enjoyed London party life to the full, as part of the Primrose Hill set and a 90s singer/songwriter. However, Pearl long since settled in the Somerset countryside, with husband, Gavin Rossdale, also of 90s Britpop fame, in the band Supergrass. In their country house, they enjoyed family life and later added a seaside retreat, both of which featured in Pearl's previous books. But twenty years on, their lives have changed, with the kids now grown up, Pearl rediscovered London life in a flat in Notting Hill. 

Hence Pearl's new book is about her London home, Faded Glamour in the City: Romantic interiors for urban living and is now available to buy from Pearl's website, which describes it perfectly:

'Now the Faded Glamour author steps into the captivating world of urban interiors with vintage charm.

From London to Paris and beyond, these spaces exude old-world character, while reflecting the distinctive influences of city life. First of all, Pearl considers her journey and the inspiration behind this new chapter, featuring her newly decorated flat in Notting Hill Gate and her former home in Camden Town. Each of the following City Stories reveals the home of a designer, stylist, artist or musician who embodies urban glamour. In engaging conversations, these homeowners share their personal anecdotes, design philosophies and practical tips on incorporating vintage aesthetics into your space. Throughout, there is a focus on sustainable design, showing how to honour the past while creating vibrant, liveable spaces for the future. Featuring stunning photography by Kate Martin, the book captures the essence of city interiors via the fusion of modern design with vintage elements. Faded Glamour in the City will appeal to design enthusiasts, city dwellers and anyone looking to add style and character to their living space.'

Pearl Lowe designs her own vintage-inspired fashion and also sells beautiful pieces of old vintage clothing and home fashion. Pearl's love of fabric is evident in her curated design choices and in the interiors featured in her books. 

Although this new book is not just about stunning images, it is also an interesting read. There are many different design ideas to inspire your own interiors too. Plus a helpful 'Resources and Suppliers' guide at the back of the book, which includes Salvo salvoweb.com - thanks for the mention in the reclamation section.

My own favourite highlights include:

Image one: Pearl's city kitchen, designed to feel like a cool bar, contrasts dark wood flooring with light 'Setting Plaster' walls.

Thames riverside home, Hammersmith, London:

Image two: Stripped reclaimed bedroom fireplace.

Image five: Parquet-style old wood block floor. 

Image six: Reclaimed door.

Pearl commented that she discovered this house on a photo shoot with her daughter, Daisy, and wrote, 'It is one of the most beautiful houses I've ever walked into in London.' Luckily, this unique former convent can be hired out, so you could discover its beauty yourself. Architect Dominic Warren and his partner, Heather Alston, an interior designer, really 'brought out the magic of the house'.

Image three: Reclaimed parquet floor, shown in the hallway, but it can also be found in other rooms throughout this city home, designed by Carmen Haid, Vintage Curator & Creative Director: Paris, London and Marrakech. Pearl said, 'Carmen and I share a deep appreciation for ... pieces that are steeped in history.'

Image four: Narrowboat with a 'found' old statue adding salvage style to the deck garden. This London-based, moored narrowboat is home to Mat Whitley, founder of Whitley London, suppliers of tailor-made suits. Mat's love of fabric matches Pearl's. The rich tones of the furnishings and bed contrast beautifully with the much brighter floral drapes. Mat, like Pearl, loves that feeling of freedom, so cruising the canal, at will whenever he pleases, adds to the joy of canal boat living. But with the security of knowing he can return to his permanent mooring at any time.

This book would make a fab gift for any antique and reclaimed renovator. A limited number of signed copies were available from Pearl's website (see link below). 

Faded Glamour in the City by Pearl Lowe, published by Ryland Peters & Small (£25)

Photography by Kate Martin © Ryland Peters & Small