It began with a drop of ink. “It wasn’t planned,” says Danish textile designer Helene Blanche, “but from that dot emerged something beautiful and imperfect.” Left to bleed into the fibres of silk paper, this single mark seeded her first collection almost a decade ago – and has grown into an eponymous brand of fabrics, wallpaper and home accessories.
“I think my strength is to simplify things,” says Blanche, her hair pulled back in a tight bun. “I am instinctively drawn to hidden details, like the threads in a seam.” From the original Dot print to multiple takes on stripes, her patterns are delicate and studiously spare – a quality that has attracted a discerning clientele. Designers such as Ilse Crawford and Rossana Orlandi are fans. Her work can be found in Soho Houses and Kit Kemp-designed hotels, as well as the private homes of the Rothschild family and royal households. Last year, she was commissioned to create a bespoke sienna fabric colourway for the Danish royal yacht Dannebrog.
Helene Blanche’s living room, with curtains by Blanche, a table lamp by Donghia and a painting by Alexander Tovborg © Emilie Holm
Silvia’s Cloth curtains, bedspread and bolster in the guest room; the lamp is a collaboration with Nina Nørgaard © Emilie Holm
