Homes and Gardens

It is perhaps only fitting that this award should be made in the Victoria & Albert Museum, as it was here, half a century ago, that Laura Ashley dreamt up the idea of creating a range of furnishing fabrics. In her hands – and in those of the people who have followed her – the business thrived, in a field where many have floundered. Today, the essence of her original flash of inspiration is alive and well. Although the styles have changed, the aim of the enterprise has remained the same – namely to provide a source of good-quality yet accessible fabrics, furniture, lighting and home accessories.

This category was voted for by readers of the magazine and vistors to our website www.homesandgardens.com, and this result is a testament to the fact that 50 years on, Laura Ashley is still a much-loved part of British life.