As part of this season’s Heal’s Discovers initiative, we’re excited to introduce Charlotte Devereux, a talented Loughborough University graduate discovered at the New Designers 2024 showcase. Recently named by Elle Decoration as a “new designer to watch,” Charlotte’s final graduation collection, Al Fresco, features exquisite illustrations inspired by the vibrant cityscapes of her Mediterranean travels.
Her new Limited Edition Linen Cushion range reflects Heal’s commitment to reducing waste through sustainable production. Using end-of-roll linens from industry suppliers to minimise waste. Available in four unique colourways and in limited supply, the collection brings to life the fresh palette of SS25.
We sat down with Charlotte to learn more about her creative journey and how she transformed a work of art into a striking statement cushion range.
We’re obsessed with your exclusive cushions range! Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the print you created for this collection?
This collection was inspired by my travels around Italy, specifically the Amalfi Coast. I brought my camera along on my travels and took little snapshots of different scenes. I was really inspired by the vibrancy and the atmosphere of Italy. I used the photography all throughout my project which cultivated the prints, colour and style to create this vibrant range.
Your designs have such a distinctive style – how would you describe your signature design style and how does this collection reflect that?
My style changes a lot depending on what I’m working on next and what I’m creating. However, I’d say I always come back to my core style, which is rooted in a painterly and organic approach but also balanced by intricate details and refinement. I feel like that comes across in the collection because it embodies this mix of old and new, blending the contemporary with the traditional to create an eclectic feel.
We’d love to hear more about your creative process! How did this collection come to life, from the initial ideas to the final products.
For my graduate project, I wanted to work on something summery, especially after my previous London-inspired project was much moodier in style. I did a lot of mind mapping and researched Mediterranean artists like Matisse.
This led me to create stylised paintings and experiment with mediums like line drawings and collage. I then made a collage of thumbnails, which became the core of my collection.
From those hand drawings, I created colour separations for screen printing, deciding that the cushion range would be screen printed. Once I found this style, I really hit the ground running.
These cushions are bold statement pieces – how would you style them at home? What are your top three tips.
As a print lover, there are a few ways to approach it. You could make prints the main statement piece and tie other prints into it, like pairing a large abstract print with a smaller ditsy pattern for a stylish look.
Alternatively, you could let the collection be the focal point, balancing it with neutrals for a toned-down vibe. While cushions are smaller accessories, they can still make a bold statement on things like upholstery or sofas.
Finally, you could pick out a few colours from the collection and add pops of them throughout your home – it’s all about experimenting and having fun with it.
Every collection has its challenges – were there any hurdles along the way and how did you overcome them?
With this project, there was a lot of deadline pressure since it was my final major project at university. I spent a lot of time second guessing myself, worrying I wouldn’t do my ideas justice, as I really wanted a collection I could be proud of. Instead of focusing on the outcome, I tried to follow the design process properly. If you had shown me the finished collection at the start, it wouldn’t have been what I imagined. It was a happy accident, learning from mistakes.
And finally, what’s next for you? Can we expect to see more exciting projects on the horizon?
I am currently working for a fashion brand in their print department, a role I got through showcasing my work at the New Designers event. I also sold all my prints at the event, which will launch with a high-end retailer in 2026. I can’t wait to see my designs in the collection.