Sadie Perry, the visionary behind Mantel, a vintage furniture and décor shop that opened its doors in 2021, has captivated the Vogue team with her exquisite taste. Perry’s journey into the world of design began with a silversmithing training in Mexico, followed by years spent crafting jewelry. This background has instilled in her a deep appreciation for both technical skill and unique, often undiscovered, pieces. Her passion lies in unearthing hidden gems, whether it’s a rare Edgar Brandt lamp or a Catherine Noll jewelry piece, all while meticulously curating a collection of ‘chrome, wood, and glass’ finds that exude an undeniable Art Deco charm.
Perry’s newly opened studio in Hackney, East London, is a testament to her personal style. Decorated by her own hand, the space boasts walls painted in Farrow & Ball’s New White and features custom-made tasseled shades for the pendant lights. This welcoming environment allows her to connect with customers on a personal level, taking them on a journey through her collection of Secessionist trinket boxes and Monique Vedie clip-ons.
‘Dealing with people exclusively from behind a screen can feel a bit soulless after a while,’ Perry shares, highlighting the importance of physical interaction. She finds joy in engaging with customers in person, whether they are fellow enthusiasts or local elderly individuals who stop by to share their own collection stories. In this interview, Perry opens up about her life, style, and the fascinating intersections between the two.
Vogue:
What’s on your bedside table right now?
Sadie Perry:
It’s a high-low mix. My mouthguard sits alongside a trinket dish where I store my jewelry before bed, a pot of melatonin, a tiny René Delavan lamp, and a tub of Sudocrem.
Vogue:
And in your bathroom cabinet?
Sadie Perry:
Evolve Beauty’s Gentle Cleansing Melt is a staple, mainly because it smells like Turkish delight. I also keep Dylure for dyeing my eyebrows at home every two weeks, Sans[Ceuticals] Shampoo and Conditioner, and Oway H Melt Mask in Divine Gold to keep my hair color warm.
Vogue:
How can I make a rental property more appealing?
Sadie Perry:
A great trick is to invest in table lamps with warm bulbs, so you never have to rely on harsh overhead lights. Adding curtains, a rug, and replacing lampshades can instantly transform the space. If your landlord allows it, consider installing some shelving to display objects you cherish.
Vogue:
Mexico is a constant source of inspiration in your work; if I’m going there on holiday, where should I visit?
Sadie Perry:
If you’re in Oaxaca, visit the Graphic Art Institute and make a trip to Teotitlán del Valle to experience the artisans there. In Mexico City, indulge in pastries at Panadería Rosetta, explore Casa Estudio Luis Barragán, and visit the bustling flea market, La Lagunilla, on Sunday morning. I highly recommend a visit to Museo Guillermo Spratling to marvel at its pre-Hispanic silver collection.
Vogue:
Which scents are most nostalgic for you, and why?
Sadie Perry:
My father’s saxophone reed, the salty air of Brighton where I grew up, the fur of my family cat Claude, and the aroma of Mexican copal all evoke strong nostalgic feelings.
Vogue:
You’ve got an hour before people are coming over for dinner. How do you prep?
Sadie Perry:
My culinary repertoire is admittedly limited, but I usually whip up something like a spinach and feta pie with a crunchy green salad or a lemon and ricotta pasta. I tend to stock up on wine, particularly Sancerre, in French supermarkets during my trips to antique fairs.
Vogue:
And in terms of décor?
Sadie Perry:
I adore the way white tulips look as they wilt and droop over the edge of vases. It adds a touch of natural elegance.
Vogue:
Which jewelry designers and galleries are you excited about at the moment?
Sadie Perry:
Galerie Parisienne and Galerie Subra Woolworth are both constant sources of inspiration; their vintage collections are truly remarkable. I’m also coveting one of Camille Surault’s ear cuffs after meeting her at my pop-up in Paris earlier this year.
Vogue:
Which area of London do you live in, and what are some of your favorite spots in the area?
Sadie Perry:
I reside in southeast London. Chichirara down the road has incredible vintage finds, and El Vermut is a fun vermouth bar in Nunhead. Since opening Mantel, I’ve been spending most of my time in Hackney. I’m a regular at the Wilton Way Deli for espresso and canelés.
Vogue:
What should be on my autumn reading list?
Sadie Perry:
I recommend ‘The Tenant’ by Roland Topor, ‘Good Morning, Midnight’ by Jean Rhys, ‘Hollywood Babylon’ by Kenneth Anger (which reads like the original Daily Mail Showbiz pages), ‘Real Estate’ by Deborah Levy, ‘Hotel Room Trilogy’ by Barry Gifford, and ‘Role Models’ by John Waters. I’m also eagerly anticipating the latest issue of Neptune Papers.
Vogue:
Who—and what—is on your creative moodboard (literal or metaphorical) right now?
Sadie Perry:
My current moodboard features black lacquer, Eugénie O’Kin and Henri Simmen’s ceramics, Kyran Thrax from this season of Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK, Nancy Cunard’s bangles, a specific look from Belle de Jour, Thérèse Bonney’s photographs from the 1920s and 1930s, and garden snails.
Vogue:
Which essentials do you need to get through your working day?
Sadie Perry:
Orwell PVC Laundry Bags for transporting my packages, a head torch for exploring fairs before sunrise, and a collection of vintage jewelry made from silver, bakelite, or resin.
Vogue:
What’s on your fantasy shopping list right now?
Sadie Perry:
A pair of satin-jacquard Sleeper pyjamas, a Sophie Buhai Teardrop Pouch to carry my jewelry, and, if I win the lottery, a Ruhlmann & Besnard lamp I spotted on 1stDibs.
Post Views: 34
