Home decorating, interior design ideas, garden design - Homes and Gardens

It was surely only a matter of time before Russell Pinch's extraordinary talent as a designer would be recognised by the judges of the Classic Design Awards. In a relatively short career (he is still in his early 30s) Russell has demonstrated an impressive diversity of style, from designs for sleek, uncompromisingly modern, upholstered furniture to cabinetry firmly rooted in the English furniture-making tradition, using time-honoured techniques to create contemporary interpretations of classic items. His greatest skill as a designer, however, must be his capacity to surprise, a knack that is evident in pieces such as the Wave sideboard and Twig bench.

Of all his recent work, the Alba Armoire is one that combines all these qualities. One of three versatile armoire designs, it is not just an example of innovative design, it also offers consumers the ultimate in versatility with a huge range of finishes and storage configurations inside for bed-room, home office and kitchen use. “This award is richly deserved,” says editor Deborah Barker. “Russell Pinch is a designer who perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Classic Design Awards.”