Get to know a little bit more about us – our expertise, our passions, our style...
Meet Amy. Responsible for all things Creative – Aesthetic, Curation and Storytelling.
Amy's answers...
Why did you start HoC?
Meeting while working at Wedgwood, we’re both fiercely proud of where we come from – celebrating and supporting the history, heritage and craftsmanship of Stoke-on-Trent ceramics at every opportunity. Still curious with so much to discover and learn, we share a passion for all things pottery.
Where did the name come from?
After going through both of our very long lists of ideas... a thought popped into my head at the very last minute. We want to support makers of tableware, teaware and homeware (interiors) in the UK along, with a focus on Stoke-on-Trent. Stoke is known as the 'home of ceramics', so it made perfect sense. We want to focus on interiors, and are building an online platform that'll be a home to beautiful ceramics, magical stories and creative community. Not forgetting tiles, jewellery, sinks, toilets, and all sorts of other ceramic objects.
What makes you different / your USP?
With years of experience in the ceramics industry, working on many brands (both big and small) across marketing, eCommerce and creative, we’ve learned a lot along the way. We’ve got a vast network of industry contacts, lots of creative ideas, and an infinite amount of love for ceramics. Warm, friendly and open to all – we want everyone who visits Home of Ceramics to feel welcome, leave inspired, and come back to see us again.
What's your connection to The Potteries? Do you have any family that work in the industry?
I was born in Stoke-on-Trent and I'm very proud and passionate of our rich heritage. I've travelled and lived in other areas and countries, but always come back to 'the motherland'. My Grandpa was a Sanitary Caster (sinks and toilets) for Twyford, later moving on to work at Johnson Brothers. My very talented Cousin has been a Painter at a local ceramics firm for years, still working there today.
Earliest memory of pottery?
My Nan & Grandpa's house in Hanley was full of traditional ornaments, trinket dishes, dinnerware, tea sets, Wedgwood jewellery... you name it, they had it! My Nan would let me go through her costume jewellery, and try on her Wedgwood rings too. It was magical.
Have you ever made anything ceramic?
Yes! A few times but I have a long way to go! Hand-building and throwing on the wheel at school, college, evening classes... I was even lucky enough to decorate a teapot, in my own style while working at Burleigh Pottery a couple of years back.
Favourite ceramic brand made in Stoke?
Very tricky question as I don't want to upset anyone... Wedgwood, specifically Jasperware, is always the first thing that comes to mind. I wear my Nan's cameo ring every day. The matt blue stoneware is my ultimate all time favourite material.
"My homeware and interiors style in three words? Eclectic. Victorian. Unconventional."
Favourite ceramic item at home and why? Any weird collections?
There's no way I can pick just one item! My house is full to the brim with ceramics I've collected over the years... maybe I'll post about a few different pieces on Instagram to show you some of my favourites and why. I collect a lot of plates and cups through my work, but I have a thing for little sinks, Minton tiles, and weird and wonderful Wally Dogs – single, missing an eye, strange eyebrows etc.
"With ceramics, it’s the little details – the human touch, the fingerprints, the brushstrokes / brush marks and the glaze spots. Making each and every piece unique."
What's your favourite mug and why?
Again, that's a tricky question as I have a few on rotation but there's a particular Royal Doulton mug from the Olio collection by Barber Osgerby which I always go back to – a nod to an old design with a modern feel. I love the contrast between the glossy glaze and matt bottom, with the impress underneath.
Your favourite pattern?
The Willow pattern – there are so many variations, you'd never be able to collect them all! I also love modern versions with updated, contemporary motifs.
Piece of pottery you wish you owned?
There was an artist at the British Ceramics Biennial years ago, who had made lots of different pots. One had gold hidden in the clay. It was such an intriguing and innovative idea. I was being quite strict at the time, trying to not collect any more ceramics, but I really regret not buying one now. Not for the possibility of finding the gold, but the designs were really cool and I just loved the idea. It was an immersive concept, where you had to complete a survey about your income and you would then be recommended a particular design. That or one of the early Wedgwood Portland Vases!
Favourite factory tour or museum?
I love all of the local factory tours for different reasons – showcasing the unique styles and skills of the individually potteries. The latest partnerships between Duchess China 1888 and Gladstone Pottery museum ticks all of the boxes.
Favourite place to go for coffee?
There are a few good coffee places actually... the Packing House Café at Middleport Pottery, Emma Bridgewater Café, Goods Yard, Piccoloco (the smaller, original venue) in Newcastle, BEAR in Stone or Uttoxeter. I've probably missed some.
Favourite place to go to find inspiration?
Nature. Mother Nature wins every time – she makes you stop, look and listen. Get off your phone. Think. Breath. Look at the beautiful flowers and wildlife. Nature is amazing and always the best medicine and inspiration.
"In the next few years, I'd like to see more brands making here in Stoke, and talking about it proudly. Bigger manufacturers supporting passionate, local creatives and giving them a chance to show what they're capable of. Promoting from within the company."
Dream collab between a ceramics brand and... who?
ERDEM with any ceramics brand – I'd like to be credited and involved at every stage please! Have you seen the Baz Luhrmann collection Duchess China 1888 have just made for the new Belmond Train Carriage, Celia? WOW!
Favourite pottery fact?
Josiah Wedgwood is responsible for the 'buy one get one free' concept, invented in the 18th century!
What's one thing most people don't know about Stoke-on-Trent that you think they should?
I always tell people there are so many hidden gems, they just need to know where to look. People drive through Stoke and get the wrong impression. It's full of the most amazingly creative and wonderful people and places. Read our blogs for inspiration if you're visiting.
"Also, that we do still make ceramics here and it's not just figurines, not that there's anything wrong with figurines. Take a look at 1882 Ltd, Duchess China 1888, Clay College. Lots of cool things going on."
Favourite item on the website currently?
Ooh everything! It's just amazing to see it all coming together, so quickly. I'm excited for what's to come...
What are you most looking forward to about HoC?
Pulling everything together, beautiful visuals, connecting the dots, hearing and sharing peoples stories and challenges, and helping them as best we can.
Why are you starting HoC now?
I see a lot of people with ideas keep putting them off, trying to reach perfection. I myself am guilty of serious procrastination, but the timing just seemed right to do this now. Me currently being freelance, the ceramics industry needing extra love and support at the moment, and not getting any younger... what is there to lose?! Just get something out there. Ask questions, listen, make mistakes, learn, adapt, grow... Be brave!
Connect with Amy on LinkedIn.
Meet Home of Ceramics Commercial Co-Founder, Steve Hough...