In India the parasol was once considered a symbol of royalty, often seen protecting a Maharaja from the tropical sun as he sat proudly in his bejewelled howdah, high on an elephant’s back. Today, this ancient tradition of the splendidly ornamental umbrella is flourishing again thanks to the East London Parasol Company.
Launched in 2016 by Lucy Ferguson, the brand produces artisan parasols with elegant, timeless bases – materials include carved wood, terrazzo and stone. These are complemented with matching cushions, napkins and decadent, handmade rattan chairs that infuse any outdoor space with colour and elegance.
The last few years have been tremendously successful for the East London Parasol Company as dining outdoors has become increasingly popular. Ranging from bright colours and floral patterns to contemporary prints with tasselled and scallop- edges, the brand’s parasols are a simple yet attractive way to extend any living area outside. Parasol- shaded setups have brightened celebrations, dinner parties and all kinds of gatherings (social media is a testament to the company’s following, with much of its Instagram account made up of customer photos). They are perfect for providing stylish shade for long al fresco lunches or for creating a festival or holiday vibe, or for afternoons lounging in the garden with a good book.
East London Parasol Company has long worked with craftsmen in India and Indonesia, but more recently it has also begun production in the UK. Here, it employs local Hampshire carpenters who had previously been making stage scenery but had to diversify due to the pandemic. Each parasol is a labour of love, constructed using traditional methods: the frames are made from sustainable FSC-certified ash wood, while the brass fixtures and fittings are bespoke, with a maritime feel inspired by yacht fittings. The brand is proud of its role in keeping artisans in work and their age-old skills alive. The fact that the parasols are handmade is an essential element of their appeal: many of these processes cannot be mechanised without compromising the beauty of the fabrics. Founder and designer Lucy strongly believes in giving back and has partnered with One Tree Planted, a not-for-profit charity with a mission to help global reforestation efforts. The company plants a tree in India and Indonesia for every parasol sold.
This year’s collection is a kaleidoscope of polka dots, stripes and pastel colours, with a broad range of influences that include 1970s spirograph patterns, ikat weaving and the late photographer, Slim Aarons.
‘Last year was meteorologically miserable. It was inspiring and expansive to work with beautiful colours and patterns, and to look forward to sunnier times ahead. We hope our colourful new designs lift spirits and herald a summer of sunshine,’ says Lucy.
There is also a new collaboration with British artist Harriet Popham, who has created a playful, whimsical print inspired by willow pattern and chinoiserie, which tells the story of East London Parasol Company. Looking ahead, the brand will continue to champion craftsmanship and maker partnerships, and produce ever more fabulous designs that encourage people to celebrate colour in their outdoor space.
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