FABULOUS BAKER BOYS

If you’re interested in fabric, you’re probably already familiar with the name GP&J Baker, most likely from the brand’s garden-inspired prints, weaves and wallpapers.

- Miriam Methuen-Jones

It is known for muted, traditional colour palettes and patterns with a pronounced floral influence. GP&J Baker has also supplied many textiles and wall coverings to the royal household over the years, becoming a holder of the Royal Warrant in 1982. Despite the famous name, however, the rich backstory of this popular brand might not be so well known.

The company has been producing beautiful textiles since 1884 when it was founded by two brothers – though it was actually their father, George Baker Snr, who paved the way for their creative enterprise. A gardener by trade, George enjoyed great success in Turkey, even designing the British Embassy gardens just outside of Istanbul (or Constantinople as it was then). George had a head for commerce, and took full advantage of the bustling markets on his doorstep. He began exporting Turkish goods, and set up a London bas