Designers In Focus: Raven & Lack

Since launching in 2019, Raven & Lack, the dynamic interior design duo, have been transforming spaces with their innovative and eclectic style. Known for their ability to blend modern aesthetics with timeless elegance, they have carved a niche in the design world. Their approach is characterised by a keen eye for detail, a passion for sustainability and artisan wares, and a commitment to creating spaces that reflect the unique personalities of their clients.

We sat down with the duo, real names Rae Underhill and Adriel Lack, at their latest show residence at Wandsworth Mills in south-west London, the new wellness-led development created by St George that is proving extremely popular with buyers.

Where did it all begin? The pair met in Australia at an architecture practice many years ago before spending time in London and forming Raven & Lack in 2019. Rae comments: “This dream that we had discussed over a glass of wine for 15 years was always there, an idea of our own studio, yet to be formed.”

After taking the plunge to go it alone, the pair have worked on a range of exciting projects, from one-off mega mansion commissions to boutique hotels and area-defining apartment schemes across the globe.

Speaking on the inspiration at Wandsworth Mills, Rae comments, “We were really inspired by the location and site context. It is an incredible site with the River Wandle running through it, with a rich historic weaving and textile industry that used to operate here. We have incorporated and extrapolated lots of details from that history into the apartment.”

Adriel adds: “We've really tried to delve into the weaving and the cloth and textiles, which you can see through the wall coverings, beautiful cushions, and artwork throughout. There are so many different references that all pick up on the amazing heritage of the site.”

When it comes to creating the right atmosphere for prospective customers, Rae explains: “What we really want is for people to feel at home from the second they walk through the door. So, we put a lot of time and effort into a rich, layered material palette. This includes beautiful specialist wall finishes and finishes on the furniture. It's very light and contemporary, while still paying homage to the site’s former uses.”

As you walk through the show residence, your eyes are captivated by the wealth of textures and fabrics, not to mention some big statement pieces.

Adriel says: “Travel is always a big inspiration for us - the places we’ve seen, experiences we have shared. That is no exception here, where we’ve got a beautiful vintage chandelier in the dining area that came from a gallery in the markets of Paris.”

What is abundantly clear when viewing the apartment is Raven & Lack’s love for perfectly curated art and wall hangings. Rae highlights: “I'd say the most important piece in the living room is the hanging wall piece by Rebecca Whittaker. She is an up-and-coming woven arts and crafts new talent from the States, and we worked in conjunction with her to create something bespoke for this home.”

On creating the perfect bedroom, Rae proudly explains: “We've got beautiful details in the bedroom with a focus on creating calm, relaxing spaces. Very much like a serene retreat. We have a beautiful metallic wall covering that helps to reflect the light. We have also added feature pendant lighting which creates quite a beautiful moment over a mirror and a console table, so it has a really beautiful sense of arrival.”

“We created a beautiful custom headboard in the primary bedroom. It’s a stunning full-height piece with hand-dipped fabric with an ombre effect. It also has some liquid metal details that help to elongate the room” adds Adriel.

Adriel also points out: “So about 80% of the furniture we put into an apartment is custom made for the space. We partner with local artisans that are incredibly talented and we create unique one-off pieces.”

As our time at Wandsworth Mills concludes, there’s one thing I’m sure many people are keen to know. What’s it like mixing business and friendship? Rae reflects: “Like any friends, we have natural ups and downs but ultimately, we love working together as we share a similar vision and constantly inspire each other. Being able to bounce ideas off a friend is invaluable and forms a major part of our process. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far and look forward to the future.”

Wandsworth Mills photography by Taran Wilkhu. Raven & Lack portrait by Tony Hussey.