If only all towns had a version of Emma Jane Palin’s Our Curated Abode. Trained in graphic design and illustration, Emma is an all-around creative type: she’s worked in digital marketing for brands like Apple and the London Design Festival, blogged about interiors and life in a rental, and is now a stylist and interior designer. While fixing up her own place in the port town of Ramsgate in Kent, England, Emma encountered so many unaffordable and hard-to-pin down tradespeople that she decided to tackle things herself—and earned a diploma in site carpentry.
Last August, having discovered a lack of quality hardware and other decor staples in her area, Emma opened her own emporium stocked with exactly the goods she was looking for, sourced from local and indie brands. Tagline: “hardware meets homeware.” Our Curated Abode also offers design and color consultations, plus DIY workshops on things such as how to drill and how to replace a sink.
Wearing a hot pink suede tool belt, Emma herself built out the space. And she’s also the one running the show behind the scenes as well as manning the store most days. Copycats, please take note, but be warned that a lot of heart, soul, and sweat are required.
Photography by and courtesy of Emma Jane Palin/Our Curated Abode (@ourcuratedabode).
Above: COAT paint and product on offer include “mind the gaps Wall Filler” and Sugar Soap wall cleaner.
Our Curated Abode is at 26 Addington Street in Ramsgate.
Three more favorite shops, near and far:
- Artisans And: A New Design Emporium from a Mother/Son Duo in Columbus, Ohio
- Oeuvres Sensibles Atelier and Shop in Marseille
- Margot, a Charming Family-Run Homewares Shop in East Sussex
Have a Question or Comment About This Post?
Join the conversation