Autumn 2019

24 Jul19037 A Reflection of True Luxury In today’s modern design sector, which embraces freedom in creativity, there’s been a resurgence in the need for expertly crafted mirror glass. After all, in a world of mass-produced items, there’s a certain luxury to getting something truly bespoke. In this and inspired by his roots in antique restoration, Dominic Schuster has nurtured a distinctly singular skill for creating statement pieces that enhance and transform spaces and yet, blend seamlessly into the environment. Today, working alongside a team of artisans, Dominic has built an indelible reputation in a niche market, becoming the de facto expert in all things mirror and glass. “Our studio has recently located to Surrey which has enabled us to take on larger scale projects as well as more complex installations. We work with some of the world’s leading architects, construction companies and designers on projects ranging from small one-off mirror designs to large scale installations in hotels, restaurants and superyachts. We are also proud to be 100% UK based, with every product and design created by our studio here in Surrey. We do not have overseas factories or workshops, which enables us to keep our lead-times down to a minimum whilst also keeping a very close eye on the quality of our products.” Ultimately, quality defines Dominic Schuster Ltd. There’s a care and a diligence with every project that is becoming a rare thing indeed even on the greater luxury landscape. Moreover, the company espouses a traditionalist approach that, perhaps surprisingly, also embraces true innovation to pack a powerful punch – as Dominic continues. “Using glass and mirror in varying thicknesses and sizes, our studio creates finishes that authentically replicate the natural degradation of mercury or silvered mirror to bespoke effects incorporating silver and gold for a more contemporary look. One of our current projects has involved multiple samples of a bespoke finish going to the USA for the client to approve – not only did we have to create a finish to their specific requirement, we also had to ensure that the actual glass matched the exact remnant of a mirror that they had found in an antique frame. Because the iron content in glass varies from country to country, we had to source from different suppliers until we found the correct colour.” It goes without saying that this dedication to quality has differentiated the company in a highly competitive environment defined by talented, distinguished craftspeople. However, as Dominic moves on to discuss, customer service has proven a pivotal element to securing their enduring success. “The beauty and quality of our product sets us apart from our competitors but so does our customer service. As a large percentage of our work also involves seeing projects through from conception to completion, we work very closely with the designers, architects and construction companies. The initial site visits involve in-depth discussions to determine the client’s exact requirements as well as taking technical details. Once the vision and scope has been determined we draw up a variety of options and layouts for approval by the client. We then commence work on the chosen product, with the client often coming to our workshop to assess progress. Only once the mirror and glass has passed our strict quality control, do we deliver it ourselves to site where we personally undertake the installation to ensure that the client’s expectations are fully met.” As the interview comes to a close, Dominic concludes by offering some insight in a few of their most recent projects. “We have a loyal team of artisans who have worked with us for a number of years, assisting us in supplying and installing our glass and mirror in the UK and overseas. Amongst a number of other projects, last year we completed a highly complex ceiling installation in London, oversized arched mirrors for a roof-terrace project in central London as well as bespoke verre églomisé designs for an apartment complex in Azerbaijan. Of particular note, moving forwards, Dominic Schuster Ltd.is launching its own product range, utilising its hard-earned expertise and history of success to catapult the company to the next stage of their inevitable growth. Called ‘Collection 400’, the range takes its inspiration from classic designs of the last 400 years. With eight pieces finalised so far, including the Kensington, delighting with its almost industrial-inspired finish, and the 18th Century-inspired Mercury Shield – all gilded elegance – the range offers the perfect statement pieces to complete any room. All that is left to say is: watch this space. From a background in antiques and restoration, Dominic Schuster Ltd has become the go-to name for gilded and antiqued mirror glass in residential and commercial sectors, at home and abroad. Following the company’s success in the 2019 Leading Designers programme, we spoke to Dominic himself who offered some more insight into his history and work. Address: Knaphill, Surrey, GU21 2LX Website: https://www.dominic-schuster.com/ Telephone: +44 (0)20 8874 0762