From the freshly cut wildflowers at the entrance to the groaning wooden stair-case and Tudor facade, shopping at Liberty of London is a retail experience like no other.
The building iself was designed by father and son duo, Edwin T. and Edwin S. Hall. The Tudor style was a product of the 1920′s flair for all things Tudor-esque. The shop was constructed to sit within three light shafts that became the main focus of the building. Even today, when you enter Liberty you’re compelled to crane your neck skywards. Arthur Liberty, the store’s founder had advised the designers that he wanted the store to feel like you were walking around your own home. Each one of the light shafts was surrounded by smaller rooms to create a cosy feel. The original rooms had fireplaces and some still exist to this day. The ceiling lights produced the perfect surroundings for displaying Liberty’s plush quilts and woven rugs. The store’s latest edition, The Scarf Room is testament to the building’s clever planning. Beneath the heavy, rustic rafters, you can browse a light-filled hall of floaty scarves of every description – from Liberty’s trademark floral whimsy to the latest offerings from Givenchy, Matthew Williamson and Fendi.
Look out for: The commemorative plaques on the stairwell that remember the Liberty workers who lost their lives during the Blitz.