SPRING / SUMMER 24
A SUMMER IN SKYE
For as long as Kestin can remember, he and his family have had a close relationship with the Isle of Skye. Fond memories of childhood holidays on the Misty Isle in the 80s, fishing trips with friends, right up to present day and enjoying the magic with his own kids. This collection draws on decades of experiences on the island, its people, the buildings and landscapes.
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The Isle of Skye, or ‘Cloud Island’ in Old Norse, is the largest of the Inner Hebrides and the second-largest of Scotland’s islands. We know of no other place where so many different landscapes that can be seen in 50 miles. To the south, the black and red Cuilins mountains rise sharply into the sky to nearly a thousand metres. The land here starts at sea level and this makes for beautiful combinations of lochs and mountains. In the north, however, on Waternish you will find artfully carved mountains, with soft and sometimes bizarre shapes.
Kestin’s parents now live in an old Manse on the Waternish Peninsula of Skye, designed by Scottish architect and engineer Thomas Telford. Telford was commissioned to design and build manses by Church of Scotland. This cosy family home was set up by his parents as a sanctuary to be creative in with no internet or TV. It’s filled with a mix of historical and modern influences original wood panelling, contemporary paintings done by family members, antiques, old rugs, Skye sheepskins, and a well used aga.
This eclectic mix of prints, pattern and textures have been used to create depth within the collection, featuring rug-inspired jacquards, and table cloth-inspired textured linen checks - both from Japan. Crisp natural-feel water repellent cloth from South Korea and modern Camo jersey jacquard from Italy give a richness and contemporary juxtaposition to materials used.
The island itself is stringing and harsh, difficult to grow things. But wild flora is there in abundance if you know where to look. Botanical references are there too, including an in-house hand painted 'Alpine Blue Sow-thistle.' This extremely rare species is only known to survive naturally in four locations in Scotland. The SS24 colour palette is organic and soft derived from the Skye Landscapes and the old Manse. Unexpected highlights of Fern green, Ochre yellow, terracotta, and powder blue cut through as accents against the more natural tones of military green, tobacco and wine.
