Porta Romana began life in 1988 from a tiny London workshop. From the beginning, the ambition was to create beautiful and inspiring lighting and furniture that would be loved. Good fortune came in finding skilled British craftspeople to create those quirky and original designs.
Over the past three decades the Porta Romana brand has become synonymous with timeless and elegant style made to the highest of standards. Now nestled in the countryside in Farnham, two concepts are still valued above all others: design and craftsmanship. It takes very special makers to turn the designs into a reality and the company works with the most exceptional artisans across a range of disciplines, many of whom are based close by in Hampshire and Surrey.
Since day one the heart of Porta Romana has been the painting studio where the team of talented artists transform simple metal, wood and composite into exquisite finished pieces. From convincingly aged plaster to perfecting the patina of a mussel shell, each finish must work in harmony with the design. The same demands are asked of the makers. Glass blowers attempt original and technically challenging pieces, whilst the metal workers work to exacting standards, resuscitating old techniques and developing new ones to realise the designs. From sculptors to ceramists, lacquer artists to glazers, every expert hand and eye is focused on the crafting of something beautiful and enduring. That is the hallmark of each unique Porta Romana piece. Destined for the world's most beautiful interiors, today the pieces can be found in the Royal Academy, Grange Park Opera House and many of the finest restaurants and hotels around the globe.
Protecting the planet has always been at the forefront of the brand and in Spring 2020 an Upcycling Club was introduced. Based on the belief that Porta Romana pieces are to be loved by you and for generations to come, the Upcycling Club is a restoration and part exchange service enabling clients to update existing lamps or trade in old Porta Romana pieces for new ones. This initiative is just one of the many efforts being made to minimise the company's carbon footprint.
Furniture, Mirrors, Lighting
"The Porta Romana style and design language has continuously evolved over the past three decades to become a leading global brand and a critical ingredient in the world’s most beautiful interiors. Our design studio, which is led by creative director and co-founder Andrew Hills, is known for producing original and distinctive pieces with timeless appeal. We still work with many of our original makers and continue to seek out talent, collaborating with designers and artists alike to help breathe fresh life into our collections. Most recently we joined forces with acclaimed designers Martin Brudnizki and Kit Kemp, ceramist Dylan Bowen, artist and sculptor Gareth Devonald Smith and artist Viola Lanari. This blend of creative talent forms an enduring charm, spanning many styles but always remaining true to the Porta Romana handwriting."
"Our painting and lampshade studio at our head office in Farnham, as well as our close relationship with makers, affords us the opportunity to offer a fully bespoke service. We understand the increasing desire for something entirely unique and love to realise our client’s ambitions. We can adapt the proportions and change the finishes of many of our existing designs. Our extensive range of flexes come in a range of colours which can be specified at any length while lamp holders can be produced in brass, nickel or bronze - the choice is endless.
For those clients who wish to make even more significant adaptations, we can transform a wall light design into a ceiling light. No request is too challenging or demanding. Each bespoke project is approached as a collaboration and our creative and technical experts work closely with clients every step of the way."
