Island Life Magazine Ltd February/March 2008 | Page 110

life

From little
acorns...

LOCAL BUSINESS

Antique answer to mass
market minimalism
When Stephen Gratton, of
Lugley Antiques and Interiors
in Newport, first moved to
the Isle of Wight, many of
his fellow London-based
specialists questioned his
wisdom. Three years on,
and they all agree it has been
a very successful move.
Lugley Antiques and
Interiors specialises in antique
and early 20th century
furniture, contemporary art
and home accessories, and
gardenware. Regular deliveries
across the Island, to the
mainland and even overseas
shipments testify to the
popularity of Stephen’s stock.
“Customers are increasingly
turning their backs on
disposable mass market
minimalism,” Stephen says.
“Good quality furniture more
than meets the demands of
family homes in the 21st
century – whether you live in a
Victorian villa, a 1970s house
or a brand new apartment.”

110

Stephen’s passion for antiques
started when he was buying
furniture for his first house 25
years ago. “I was working in
the City as a shipbroker, but
all my spare time was spent
visiting auctions and antique
shops.” After 10 years Stephen
took the bold step of leaving
the City to work as a porter
in the antiques quarter in
Bermondsey, South London.
“I worked my way up, learning
from the very best specialists,
auctioneers and restorers.”
When he set up on his own,
he never looked back. “I
certainly don’t miss London.
I work with beautiful but
practical furniture, with
the best restorers and with
customers that appreciate the
shop and what we sell. All this
on the beautiful Isle of Wight!”
Open Monday, Wednesday,
Friday and Saturday from
10am. Tel: (01983