I set up The Bespoke Footstool Company out of demand for bespoke footstools through my bespoke chair business. I began to receive a steady stream of commissions, and so it was an obvious decision for me - I am passionate about them. All of our footstools are designed by me, and created by hand and made entirely by British craftsmen.
"... functional, adaptable, cohesive as well as holding their own as little "works of art", they are my passion." Patricia Alban
I have been in the upholstery business for over 18 years. I trained at an advanced level at the London Guildhall University (previously the London College of Furniture) under master Upholsterers Alan Kirk (formerly upholsterer at the Oad Street Craft Centre, Kent), Malcolm Hopkins (author of Upholstery: the Complete Guide) and Alex Law (author of Quick and Easy Upholstery: 15 projects). I have won national upholstery awards including President's Award for best piece overall in al craft categories presented by The Workshipful Company of Upholders and The Association of Master Upholsterers in 2005.
I have had a diverse career, including a spell at Bruce Upholstery of SW London, whose clients include Knoll, Liberty and Chelsea Harbour. In 2006, I set up Alban Upholstery; the business enjoyed bespoke upholstery commissions along with varied re-upholstery projects from Victorian iron-back Crinoline chairs to iconic modernist pieces such as Ernest Race Heron Chairs.
As well as undertaking commissions for private clients, The Bespoke Footstool Comapany also works with interior designers and retailers. The Bespoke Footstool Company is a full member of the Association of Master Upholsterers.