The late Richard Collins was a revered design polymath whose designs were a striking reflection of his exceptional taste and eclectic style. Drawing on a 40-year career which was influenced by legendary designer Robert Kime, Collins masterfully blended antiques, fine art, and contemporary furnishings to create a space of layered elegance and comfort.
Dreweatts is thrilled to showcase his extraordinary eye for design and innovation in its auction on Wednesday 13 August - London Designed: Two Private Apartments by Peter Mikic and the late Richard Collins.
Known for his love of mid-century design, this home demonstrates his ability to combine antiques with modern comfort, resulting in a multi-layered showcase of Collins’ style. From fine art, photography, modern lighting, and antique furniture, he was able to blend timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication.
His love of interiors and his admiration of a range of renowned designers are demonstrated by the inclusion of their pieces within this home. As a result, the provenance of the furnishings is as impressive as their elegance.
The apartment boasts items acquired from, or pieces designed in the manner of iconic design houses and individuals, reflecting his belief in creative collaboration. The items acquired from Sybil Colefax & John Fowler bring a timeless English country house style, characterised by comfort, elegance, and a sense of history, that has been subtly woven into the fabric of the apartment, through classic furniture with an interesting edge. Rose Uniacke’s items, known for their restrained luxury, exquisite materials, and utilisation of the power of simplicity, contribute clean lines and natural textures. Robert Kime’s richly layered aesthetic, adds depth and narrative to the apartment’s character, and allows the old and new to blend harmoniously alongside one another. The titans of Italian design Giorgetti, Padova, and Poltrona Frau, bring their signature blend of innovative forms and luxurious materials, providing a contemporary edge and unparalleled craftmanship. The pieces from Howe London contribute a sense of enduring quality and timeless appeal, which reflect a dedication to authentic English design and tradition.
The expansive living areas are a symphony of plush furnishings, rich textures, and carefully selected accents. Every element, from the lighting to the upholstery, contributes to the creation of a harmonious and sophisticated atmosphere. The sheer volume and quality of the interior pieces, combined with the impressive art collection and distinguished provenances, make the contents of this sale a truly extraordinary example of high-end design and a profound celebration of enduring style—a fitting legacy to the remarkable talent of Richard Collins.
Auction:
Wednesday 13 August, 10.30am BST
Dreweatts, Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE, UK
Bidding is available in person at our salerooms, online, by telephone or you can leave commission (absentee) bids.
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Dreweatts, Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE, UK
Thursday 7 August: 10am-4pm
Friday 8 August: 10am-4pm
Monday 11 August: 10am-4pm
Tuesday 12 August: 10am-4pm
Further information:
General enquiries: + 44 (0) 1635 553 553 | interiors@dreweatts.com
Press enquiries: press@dreweatts.com
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