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Design Questionnaire With Saffron Hare, Creative Director of James Hare
In this edition of Love Happens’ Proust-style Design Questionnaire, meet Saffron Hare, a graceful and polished Brit who leads the charge of the renowned textiles brand James Hare.
Cool colors, classic designs, and sleek silks compose the foundation of James Hare. Since 1865, the brand has strived, and excelled, as the face of both British fashion and interior design. At James Hare, fashion and interiors link through their shared colors and design trends.
For over 20 years, Saffron Hare has led the creative team at James Hare. She’s seen the company cater to international tastes and celebrate its 150th anniversary with Princess Anne. Saffron admits she didn’t always plan to work for the company, but her loyalty and love for the family brand are a testament to her and the company’s values. As the creative director, Saffron oversees new and future collections and revealed she’s always working on the next big thing.
Meet Saffron Hare, Creative Director at James Hare in the Lh Design Questionnaire
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Having health and happy children and being in my favourite place, Sandsend, on the coast in Yorkshire (if it’s sunny!).
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Our family business was founded in 1865, an incredible history that I am very proud of, and now, with my cousin Charlie, I have the responsibility of taking it forward, we’re the fifth generation. Having never thought I would join the company this is definitely my greatest achievement.
What profession does your alter ego have?
I love travel, seeing new places, meeting different people, it’s very inspiring, so I think a travel writer, that would be the excuse, if I needed one, to set off again to somewhere new and explore.
The design you will never forget.
Shagreen silk, as it has just sold and sold over years and years. We have recoloured it and it is still a classic, although when we launched it, it was considered a risk due to the 3D texture on the surface.
Your favorite design material.
Silk, without question. It’s played such an important role over so many years at James Hare. I can’t tell you how many women tell me their wedding dress was made from one of our silks and now we can take it into homes as well. Our interior collections include a lot of silk, either on its own or mixed with wool.
It’s the most amazing fibre, it’s so sustainable too and it just makes a room look fabulous. One of the things I really love about silk is how it takes colour, no other fibre can match it and there are so many different textures. It’s truly incredible.
What inspires you?
There is so much inspiration—holidays, exhibitions, catwalks, old buildings, and costumes. Inspiration is everywhere.
Your design mission.
Silks and design.
Our Portugal-based publisher KOKET makes décor too :), what comes to your mind when you imagine a collaboration between James Hare and KOKET?
The upholstered furniture. I can see our fabrics working well, especially some of our silks.
Love happens when….
Our new collection launches and everyone loves it….
Learn more about James Hare.
Words by Patricia McGee
Feature Image: James Hare ombré curtain and throw in Horizon Pink. All fabrics and trims from the Campden Collection 2022.
