There are some journeys that live in your imagination for years before you finally experience them. For me, Shanghai was one of those places.
I had long wished to visit China, and the opportunity arose when I spent time with one of the beautiful showrooms we collaborate with there. Christina, a fellow lover of exceptional floor décor, has embraced our collections and now shares them with her audience in China. During my visit, she curated a stunning exhibition within an art gallery space and hosted an immersive livestream event, introducing our rugs to clients alongside influencers.
The experience was remarkable. Over the course of the day, viewers sent photographs of their homes while we discussed which designs might work best in their spaces. It felt joyful, collaborative, and deeply human, design as conversation and connection.
A Warm Welcome for Moondance
Seeing our rugs presented in Shanghai was incredibly special. The collections were displayed beautifully, and the Moondance range in its many colourways captured significant attention.
There was particular excitement surrounding the forthcoming Moondance Wellbeing colourway ahead of its launch, which was received very favourably indeed. The lilac and gold colourway proved especially popular - a combination that seemed to resonate strongly.
A Lifelong Influence
Many of my designs draw inspiration from Chinoiserie and Eastern philosophy, so this trip felt like reconnecting with an important creative thread that has been present throughout my life.
During my younger years living in London, I became fascinated by Chinese philosophy, medicine, textiles, furnishings, and symbolism, even studying the I Ching. That curiosity never left me, and visiting China reignited that inspiration in the most profound way.
What continues to inspire me most is the philosophical understanding that humanity is inseparable from nature. Rather than positioning people above the natural world, Chinese thought invites us to move with its rhythms.
In Taoist philosophy, the concept of wu wei - effortless action - reminds us that there is strength in softness and wisdom in stillness. Water, one of Taoism’s enduring symbols, does not force its way forward, yet it shapes mountains. This idea has long influenced my design approach: beauty and impact can be gentle, flowing, and harmonious.
Interestingly, Shanghai had already inspired one of my designs long before I ever visited the city.
Shanghai Blossom was created from an imagined vision, a romantic interpretation of the city shaped by my fascination with Chinese art, florals, and decorative traditions. I was drawn to the symbolism of blossom as renewal, beauty, and fleeting moments in nature, themes that feel deeply connected to Eastern philosophy.
Experiencing Shanghai
My arrival was just in time for the showroom events, and after landing on Saturday evening, I went straight to the gallery the following morning to join the livestream.
The space itself was beautiful, and we spent hours discussing the inspiration behind each design, suggesting placements within clients’ homes, and sharing stories behind the collections. Later that evening, we enjoyed dinner together at a nearby restaurant, an experience that felt mindful and almost ceremonial, with colourful dishes presented with extraordinary care
Over the following days, I was able to explore more of the city, visiting showrooms, museums, gardens, neighbourhoods, and experiencing Shanghai’s remarkable architecture and energy.
One of the most inspiring moments of the trip was visiting the Shanghai Museum, where I discovered an exquisite exhibition of 1920s QiPao dresses. The craftsmanship, silhouettes, and embroidery were breathtaking. I could hardly believe my luck, it was heaven.
I also loved exploring the beautiful Yu Garden, with its extraordinary architecture and sense of tranquillity amidst the vibrancy of the city.
Inspiration Rekindled
From tea rituals and street decorations to cuisine and contemporary architecture, inspiration seemed to be everywhere. I returned home feeling energised and full of ideas, eager to begin drawing again and translating those influences into future designs.
Perhaps what resonates most with our Chinese clients is the balance between tradition and individuality within my work — a respect for Chinoiserie heritage combined with unexpected colour combinations and contemporary expression. There is also a shared love of animals and symbolism that creates a natural connection.
Looking Ahead
This journey has reignited my passion for Chinese art, philosophy, and aesthetics, and I have no doubt its influence will appear in future collections.
Travel reminds us that creativity is limitless - shaped by culture, curiosity, and connection.
And sometimes, the most meaningful inspiration comes from finally visiting a place that has lived in your imagination for years
