Designed by modernist British architect Peter Womersley, Farnley Hey is a mid-century architectural jewel nestled in the hills of rural Huddersfield. A groundbreaking design upon its creation, even today it is considered somewhat of a rulebreaker – affectionately known within the local area as the ‘Marmite House’ as a result of its ability to divide opinion. However, meticulously maintained, the building remains as impressive now as it did upon its completion in 1954. Described by English Heritage as typifying ‘the best of the 1950s in its lightness, sense of the picturesque and optimistic stance’, Farnley Hey is truly an icon of mid-century design.
So, when we were looking for the ideal location to photograph
Zap and
Armadillo, the newly reimagined mid-century textiles of Jens Risom, we knew we had to get in touch with its owners – Christian Harvey and Vicky Davies. Commercial Interior Designers at Leeds-based Fusion by Design, the couple had worked with Camira on a number of their projects and, luckily, were more than happy to lend us their home for an afternoon. Whilst there we learned more about this incredible building – and what it’s like being the custodian of such a prestigious house.