Laura Dadswell, director of Westland London, speaks to Molly Malsom about her favourite fireplace style, the arduous restoration process, and how to ensure you’re buying the perfect antique for your home
Talking Shop
Geoff Westland started the business in 1969. Previously he’d transported antiques for a prominent Parisian dealer and was so inspired by their business model that he founded Westland London, seeking to emulate the grandeur he so admired. The business grew quickly, and Geoff became one of the leading dealers of antique fireplaces globally.
Our showroom has evolved over time to encompass a large ground floor with individual galleries organised by period, which gives our visitors a clear idea of the distinctive styles available. Our upstairs showroom is more eclectic, with glittering chandeliers hanging above a selection of fireplaces and decorative antiques.
When we’re helping a customer to choose a fireplace, we first ask for basic information, such as the period of the property and the dimensions of the chimney breast and opening.
We can then narrow it down to a selection of compatible fireplaces, and produce digital visuals showing the fireplace in the space. For local customers, we also let them try the fireplaces in situ to see how they’ll look once installed.
We take a bespoke approach to the restoration of our pieces. We understand that our clients desire different levels of restoration – some appreciate the patina acquired over time, while others prefer more extensive work to be carried out. Whenever possible, we use traditional tools and techniques.
Antiques and fireplaces from the Regency period have enduring appeal. Perhaps it’s the simplicity of design, as the pieces from
