Jemima Lanario‘s versatile products intertwine nature and our cityscapes. Inspired by everyday London architecture, Jemima focuses on every-day structures, resulting in a universal connection and appreciation of what really makes London “London”. Keep reading to learn about how their interest in art and designs transformed into a creative business.
Hi Jemima! What inspired you to start your own creative business?
In my final year at UAL, I found a craft that encapsulated many of my interests and the creative methods I enjoyed most, and upon graduating I was extremely eager to pursue it further. With the drive from my passions for architecture, interior design, and nature, I was determined to continue encouraging the introduction of nature into our urban environments in a fun, stylish, and personal way through home décor.
Concrete Café Pot
The concrete Café pot can be used for plants, to store stationary, as well as being safe to hold a candle.
What is your favourite aspect of running your own business?
My favourite aspect of running my own business is how much I am constantly learning about myself and my craft. I love working through the challenges I face when developing new designs and pushing myself to think in alternative ways.
You’re pots are all handmade. What element of the making process do you enjoy the most?
What I enjoy the most is pouring the concrete into a new mould for the first time. After many hours of designing, making, and polishing the master model and creating the mould, I love being able to finally see the full effect of the product in its intended form.
What is the USP (unique selling point) for your products?
They are multi-functional and can be styled to suit whatever your vibe, whether you choose to use them as a plant pot, stationary organiser, or candle holder.
Where do you come across inspiration for your designs?
Pretty much any street I walk down. Even your standard shop doorways have variations in design and character, all with the unique touch of the different craftsmen behind their creation.
I think we often forget that practically everything in our urban environments has been made/put there by a person/people, and I believe we should make more of an effort to appreciate the design, skill, and resources that have gone into even the most common of structures.
How did your interest in design start and then develop into what it is now?
As a child I always loved ‘inventing’ things with empty tissue boxes, lolly sticks, and string. However, one particular moment in my childhood that propelled my interest in design was when I read the 1947 book by Rumer Godden titled “The Dolls’ House”, which inspired me to refurbish my own vintage dolls house.
Over several months (with the help of my dad) I installed staircases with miniature spindles, added working ceiling lights, re-carpeted the floors, fitted new windows, painted the walls, and refurnished all six rooms right down to the mini tins of beans in the cupboard. The love for model making, sculpture, and interior design that this project fostered has had a significant impact on my creative process ever since.
How would you summarise your collection in a few words?
Architecture-inspired, multi-purpose, concrete home décor.
Where would you like to take your design career and collection?
I would love to delve deeper into the world of home décor and interior design and expand the collection with larger statement pieces/furniture. I really want to test the limits of my methods and experiment with new processes and materials.
Jemima Lanario is part of not just a shop‘s selected new designers and makers for 2025.
Each year, not just a shop holds an Open Call for new products from UAL students and alumni. All products and makers are selected by a panel from various disciplines and backgrounds.
This year, 13 new makers were chosen as our new cohort, making it one of our most successful years yet. Our range of practical yet stylish homeware, jewellery and accessories are sure to excite and enhance your everyday style and experience.
Learn more about this years selection of new makers and products.