Five Questions For: Jane Rockett of Rockett St George
I've always loved Rockett St George. When I discovered them online almost a decade ago, it was so refreshing to find a homeware store that was individual and not simply based on trends. They stocked art prints by independent artists and worked with small businesses to bring gorgeous products to the masses that weren't widely available on the High Street.
Years ago, I won House Of The Month on the Livingetc website (I may have mentioned this before ;)) and my prize was £150 of RSG vouchers. I chose a Barbara Coupe cushion embroidered with Girls Only In This Area (a classic) and a linocut print of mid century furniture that is still framed on my wall today. As an obsessive vintage shopper, I found their love of the alternative and unique forward thinking and exciting and it was the start of my long term devotion to their brand.
When I moved into my house, the first thing I invested in was a spotlight chandelier, a product from their site that I had been lusting after for months.
Their support for other small business is something that I've personally experienced. When Dee Campling and I started running Styling Your Home workshops earlier this year, we reached out to Rockett St George for input and they've been consistent in their support of our own brand. Their Head Office team in West Sussex are always happy to help and consistently friendly and welcoming.
From a business point of view, RSG are going from strength to strength. Last year they introduced their first pop up on the 4th floor of Liberty and this year they've got a concession in Harvey Nichols. Jane and Lucy curated a collection for each of the pop ups to showcase what Rockett St George is all about - the quirky, unusual items that make interiors stand out from the crowd.
So I was really excited when Jane, co founder of RSG, agreed to answer a few questions for me.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Jane Rockett from Rockett St George. I am one of the founders of Rockett St George (together with Lucy St George). I have a long term partner Toby, three children, Tyler 18, Lola 16 and Eden 12. Plus two dogs which is more than enough for me to keep alive! Hence I have quite a few faux plants.
Rockett St George is one of the best known online homeware stores in the UK. What made you decide to start your business?
Lucy and I set up Rockett St George in 2007. We were best friends (and still are!) who are obsessed with interiors and homeware. We spent a lot of time at car boots and antique fairs looking for treasures for our own homes. We were often asked to find things for friends and family. As demand grew, we quickly realised that we should start a shop and so we did, Rockett St George.
What is your own personal style?
My style grows and changes as I do. I do have dark walls in my home, but I also have white walls too. I love ethnic and vintage influences mixed with modern pieces and a creative twist.
You've achieved so much in the last ten years. Where do you want to be in the next?
On a beach, I always want to be on a beach!
Who is your design idol?
It is so difficult to say just one, but I do adore Zaha Hadid's work. She always broke the rules and her architecture is mind-blowingly beautiful.
And finally, it was impossible to write this blog post without a quick look at my own personal current top six items from this fabulous store. In my opinion, these items really sum up how individual the Rockett St George brand is and how their support of smaller independents puts them in a league like no other.
1. Anna Hayman With Beth Fraser Art Print - Sadie
£35. Absolutely love this collaboration between two independent artists.
2. Ritzenhoff Gin & Tonic Glass - Pauline Deltour
£22.50. The perfect gift for a G&T lover and super stylish too.
3. Cinema Style Letter Board - Pink
£45. Love this twist on the standard black and white. So pretty!
4. Marrakech Diamonds Cushion - Rectangle Gold Metallic
£39.50. Modern take on the Moroccan cushion really gives this an edge.
5. Six Arm Ceiling Light
£280. This was the light that stole my heart when we moved into our house and I still love it.
6. Blue Lady Head Wall Hanging
£10.95. Tretchikoff inspired, I love this quirky piece.