Ochre

Known for their subtle and sophisticated furnishing, designers Joanna Bibby, Harriet Maxwell Macdonald and Solenne de la Fouchardiere place equal importance on harmonious proportions, beautiful materials and expert British craftsmanship. Together they are Ochre, a British based furniture, lighting and interiors company, recognised as innovators in the design industry. Ochre specialises in creating objects of style and beauty which are both timeless and contemporary while seeking out and working with the finest craftsmen. Each piece is made to order which ensures impeccable standards of manufacturing.

While Joanna and Harriet were studying Decorative Art at City & Guilds of London Art School, they decided to join forces, each bringing a different skill set to the collaboration. Joanna and Harriet’s dedication to Ochre became apparent as the duo worked tirelessly, juggling day jobs and coming together at the kitchen table in the evening to create gesso and pigments. Their creative flair lead them to design their first products, the Water Gilded and Bole Table Lamps. These were successfully launched at 100% design in 1996. 

Joanna and Harriet were later joined by Solenne - a graduate of Wimbledon School of Art - who had been looking for a role within the design industry that combined both art and business. Solenne soon became an equal partner, and the three designers bonded over their passion for materials, a deep appreciation of craftsmanship, design and art. The inaugural friendship shared between the trio and deep mutual respect has always remained integral to Ochre’s activities and is portrayed through its collections.