The Sherborne
In conversation with Adam Ellis
SHERBORNE TIMES, JULY 2024
Tell us a little bit about Adam Ellis Studio and what you do.Â
Adam Ellis Studio was founded in 2005 and consists of a small but perfectly blended team of graphic artists, illustrators, archivists and project managers. Pictures are at the heart of what we do, expressed through our bespoke wallpapers, limited edition prints, custom fabrics and site-specific installations commissioned for both public and private interior spaces. We work closely with our clients, many of whom we have worked with for a long time and with whom we have developed a bond of trust that allows for creative freedom.
How did you get involved with The Sherborne and what attracted you to the project?Â
Jeremy Lee, Commercial Director of The Sherborne, contacted the studio to work on this exciting refurbishment after seeing our work at a restaurant in Oxford. We’re honoured to be involved as we believe art can breathe new life into any space. We were attracted to the project due to the unique history of the property and the creative opportunity it presents.Â
Our designs are characterised by strong colours and bold motifs, often referencing traditional printing techniques. Our substantial collection of antiquarian prints is central to our design process and the starting point for any new design. I first started collecting prints while a student at the Slade School of Fine Art and the studio now houses an extensive archive. Subjects range from zoology to botany, topography to architecture and everything in between.
Our bespoke range of wallpapers are all made to order and tailored for the intended space, unlike a repeat pattern. This allows meticulous attention to detail to ensure that all details are precisely positioned around the space. The studio is based in West London and extends into our gallery space, allowing us to show new artwork and wallpapers, together with selected pieces from the archive.
Where will we be able to see your work in the House?Â
Our scope includes bespoke wallpapers and individually framed artwork pieces for the various key spaces around The Sherborne, particularly the Bistro and The Palm Room. The Bistro is a space that was close to Michael Cannon’s heart, the founder of the project, and it is his vision for the artwork that we intend to bring to life.
For the Palm Room, we’ve taken inspiration from the name itself to design a highly impactful bespoke mural. The mural includes a giant banana tree that envelopes the bar area and is complemented by over-size, bold prints all hung in natural wood frames. Also very important to the scheme are the fabulous washrooms, for which we are developing a whimsical and immersive wallpaper in glorious metallic finishes.
What makes this special project stand out for you?Â
This project certainly stands out to us. We’ve enjoyed working closely with Jeremy and The Sherborne team. We share their design aspirations and goals to celebrate the history of the house, the local area and the surrounding community. It’s an honour to be part of this project.
What other exciting projects have you worked on?
We’ve recently completed projects including the W Hotel Budapest, Prince de Galles and La Fantaisie in Paris, and Sexy Fish Manchester. Notable previous projects include Ivy Brasseries & Ivy Asia, Annabel’s, Scott’s, Harry’s La Dolce Vita, and Harry’s Bar.
