Heal's
Vitra Ceramic Container No.2 Ice Grey - Heal's UK Furniture
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Description
Alexander Girard's work brought a sensuous playfulness to twentieth-century design that had been absent from the austere aesthetic of classic modernism. This also finds expression in the Ceramic Containers. The three original models were made of wood, hand-turned by Girard on a lathe in his workshop. Their silhouettes are reminiscent of the traditional shapes of apothecary vessels, board game tokens or millinery blocks. The original wooden objects are held in the Girard Archive at the Vitra Design Museum. Using these models as templates, Vitra joined together with the Girard family to develop the Ceramic Containers in cast ceramic. The hand-glazed pieces feature hues from Girard's rich colour palette and can be used to store odds and ends, keys, coins or other items. The natural material lends the Ceramic Containers an artisanal flair.
Our Stylist Says
While the Vitra ceramic container isn’t a bed frame, its sleek, sculptural form makes it a versatile piece for styling in a bedroom, particularly in spaces with a modern or minimal aesthetic. I love its muted ice grey tone, which adds a subtle touch of sophistication without overpowering a colour palette. It works well as a decorative accent on bedside tables or open shelving, offering a tactile element that balances well with soft textiles like linen or velvet. For practical styling tips, pair it with other ceramic or matte finish accessories for visual cohesion, and consider placing it alongside a few curated books or greenery to create a layered, curated look that elevates the overall interior.
Sienna Brooks
Flitch Interior Stylist
Dimensions
About Heal's
A Rich Legacy in Furniture Design
Heal's is a well-known British furniture store with a history that spans over 200 years. It began in 1810 when John Harris Heal and his son started a business for feather products but soon moved into furniture.
By the 1900s, almost everyone in London knew Heal's for its great furniture. Interestingly, they were also among the first to sell electric lights in Britain. During World War II, their main store even helped by making parachutes for soldiers.
Influences and Design Philosophy
A significant part of Heal's story is Sir Ambrose Heal, who worked there for 60 years, from 1893 to 1953. He had a unique idea combine the beautiful designs from the Arts and Crafts Movement with affordable manufacturing.
This meant more people could buy well-designed furniture without breaking the bank. If you visit the Heal's store on Tottenham Court Road in London, you'll see a cool spiral staircase and a statue of a bronze cat, both of which show off the company's unique style.
Modern Expansion and Growth
While Heal's has a long history, they're always looking forward. In 2001, a company named Wittington Investments bought Heal's, helping it to grow and open stores in many cities, including Manchester and Leeds.
They've also started selling products online, aiming to be a modern e-commerce store with physical showrooms. Their main Tottenham Court Road store celebrated 200 years in 2018. Recently, they revamped it, making it even better for shoppers.
