Olive & Barr open fourth showroom, USM move to Marylebone and Nakagawa pop up in Shoreditch

USM, the renowned Swiss manufacturer of modular furniture, has relocated from East to West moving its Clerkenwell showroom to a new retail development in Marylebone Square (above). Although still catering to the contract and office sector, this strategic move marks a shift in focus from commercial spaces to the residential market. Launched in 1965 the modular system, based on a chrome-plated steel framework combined with enamelled steel panels in a choice of colours, gained popularity in offices worldwide. Recently, demand has grown for bespoke USM units in the home interior sector. The system is extraordinarily flexible, allowing the team at USM to create anything from shelf units to kitchen islands, drinks trolleys, a baby changing table or fully fitted home office. (photo credit James Retief)

British handmade kitchen company Olive & Barr has opened their fourth showroom in the regency town of Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. Inside, the space has been thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming atmosphere where customers can relax and appreciate the craftsmanship of the cabinetry. The front display features a classic L-shaped kitchen in soothing neutral colours, enhanced by an eye-catching marble worktop and backsplash with decorative marble corbels.

After more than three centuries of preserving Japan’s finest craft traditions and collaborating with over 800 artisans nationwide, Nakagawa will open its first pop-up in London’s Shoreditch design district from 9 September 2025 to July 2026. Nakagawa’s philosophy emphasises sustainability and longevity. Each product is designed to age gracefully with use, encouraging a slower, more mindful approach to everyday living. By bringing centuries-old skills into the present, Nakagawa aims to show how traditional craft can enrich modern life. Products include home textiles, cooking utensils and table ware