Frost on High Ground

Derek Frost has established a network of craft people who gild, carve, do metalwork, lacquer and marquetry with the skill and vocational ardour of artisans of the past. Combining materials such as mother of pearl, white gold gilding, lacquer (shades of Eileen Gray), exotic wood veneers and custom metalwork, his creations are often derivative in their inspiration, but suggest a boldness which belies their origins. Though clearly contemporary his designs draw their inspiration from the past and employ rich voluptuous materials which blend well with antiques.

"I like to express individuality, personality, excitement, fun and drama. Oh yes, and comfort. I want to design contemporary pieces of sufficient quality and interest to sit comfortably alongside the finest pieces from earlier periods.

Typical of his work is his "Racing Chair. Fashioned in mahogany with perspex detailing on the carved legs.

"It's stylised, created from my imagination. I added a sort of coquettishness by setting a scarlet stripe into the mahogany, rather like a cross between a pair of military trousers and a tart's stocking."

Art Deco lines rule in Frost's lacquered drinks cabinet