Passion for pattern

A love of India and home furnishings is the inspiration behind a new family interiors business based in the heart of the Wolds.
Karoline and Kim Shepherd relocated to Low Toynton, near Horncastle with their son Sam last year but the story of the business which they all run, Kasakosa, began in 2013 when Sam was spending twelve months in India.

“Kim and I decided to go out to visit Sam,” explained Karoline. “He was telling us about the wonderful textiles and furniture which were being manufactured out there and we wanted to see if there was potential for a new business, bringing unique items into the UK. We share his love of India and we soon began to identify which craftspeople and artisan producers we wanted to work with.”

The first shipment sold out within days but included many items similar to those which are now stocked in the showroom adjacent to their home. The converted barn has two display rooms stocked with parasols, Kantha quilts, handwoven wool rugs, antique wooden furniture, hand applique silk organza curtains, jewellery, ceramics, soft furnishings and accessories.

The items are all handmade and individual in design and craftsmanship.

FURNITURE
Sam looks after the marketing and website for Kasakosa. He said: “Amongst the furniture pieces there are antiques such as dowry boxes while others carry elements of tribal carving or adornment which are combined with reclaimed woods to create new pieces.”

Amongst the most intriguing are an antique elephant seat and a pida chair.

QUILTS, SOFT FURNISHINGS AND MUCH MORE
Heritage fabrics are used to create Kantha quilts, eiderdowns and cushions. Delicate hand stitching ties the layers together, each one unique in colourway and decoration.

Ikat style prints feature on bedspreads with matching pillow cases, while muslin Dohar blankets and cotton summer weight blankets have ethnic prints encapsulated between the fabrics.

Bright and bold ceramics are made in Spain which are perfect for al fresco dining and dips. Add some colourful Indian mosaic tealight holders to set the scene.

Finally, accessories include hand crafted pendants, Sahel designer handbags, scarves, iPad cases and wallets.

Karoline, Kim and Sam invite you to visit their showroom to really appreciate their beautiful collection. They are open Monday to Saturday, 10am–4pm, but give them a ring first to let them know you are coming.

PARASOLS
One range of luxuriously patterned Indian parasols are made from brightly coloured heritage saris and embellished with embroidery, beads, sequins and even shells in some cases. Made in Rajasthan, each one is uniquely named and reflects the rich culture of the region with motifs from local religion and folklore. The second range are fabricated from block printed contemporary fabrics, which also line both ranges to give a truly luxurious finish to each piece.

“We adore how these artisan producers combine heritage with modern materials to produce highly desirable items,” said Kim. “This fits with our own upcycling ethos.”

Kasakosa
Willowbrook Farm, Low Toynton, Horncastle LN9 6JU
Tel: 07931 307 810
Website:www.kasakosa.com
Facebook & Twitter: @kasakosa
Instagram: kasakosa_homeware



Never miss a copy!

Big savings when you take out a subscription.