Blue G-Plan sideboard with decoupage and geometric stencil

Introduction

E. Gomme Ltd and its renowned furniture brand, G-Plan, hold a significant place in the history of British furniture design and manufacturing. With a legacy spanning several decades, E. Gomme and G-Plan revolutionized the industry and became synonymous with quality, style, and innovation. Let us delve into the fascinating story behind these iconic furniture makers.

Foundation of E. Gomme Ltd

E. Gomme Ltd was established in 1898 by Ebenezer Gomme in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England. Initially, the company specialized in crafting traditional, handcrafted wooden furniture. However, it was under the leadership of Ebenezer's son, Donald Gomme, that E. Gomme would make its mark on the furniture industry.

The Birth of G-Plan

In 1953, E. Gomme launched the G-Plan brand, ushering in a new era of contemporary furniture design. G-Plan, an abbreviation of "Gomme Plan", represented a departure from the company's traditional approach, embracing modernist influences and innovative manufacturing techniques.

The Design Philosophy

G-Plan furniture was known for its clean lines, functional design, and high-quality craftsmanship. The brand's furniture pieces were carefully designed to cater to the changing lifestyles and needs of post-war Britain. G-Plan offered a range of products, including lounge suites, dining sets, bedroom furniture, and storage units, all crafted with an emphasis on comfort, durability, and style.

Collaborations and Influences

G-Plan collaborated with prominent designers and architects to bring fresh perspectives and unique designs to their collections. Notably, the brand collaborated with Danish designer Ib Kofod-Larsen, who created several iconic G-Plan furniture pieces, characterized by their sleek Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.

Expansion and Popularity

G-Plan furniture quickly gained popularity and became a household name in Britain. The brand's success was attributed to its commitment to quality, innovative manufacturing processes, and effective marketing campaigns. G-Plan's furniture was marketed as both aspirational and accessible, appealing to a broad consumer base.

Evolution and Adaptation

Over the years, G-Plan continued to evolve and adapt to changing design trends and consumer preferences. From the sleek lines of the mid-century modern era to the more eclectic designs of the 1970s, G-Plan maintained its reputation for craftsmanship and quality. The brand successfully integrated contemporary materials, such as glass and chrome, into its designs, keeping pace with evolving tastes.

Legacy and Revival

E. Gomme Ltd was acquired by the furniture company Christie Tyler in 1990, marking the end of the original G-Plan era. However, the G-Plan brand has experienced a revival in recent years, capturing the essence of its mid-century designs while embracing modern sensibilities. Today, G-Plan furniture continues to be highly sought after, both by vintage enthusiasts and those seeking contemporary, timeless pieces for their homes.

Conclusion

E. Gomme Ltd and the G-Plan brand have left an indelible mark on the history of British furniture design. From their humble beginnings as traditional furniture makers to their transformation into pioneers of contemporary design, E. Gomme and G-Plan demonstrated an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Their legacy lives on, as G-Plan furniture remains a symbol of enduring style and quality in homes around the world.

Deciding to invest in a piece of vintage furniture is a sustainable choice in helping to save the environment and our planet. It gives you the freedom and the opportunity to create a truly personal, unique and stylish interior design statement for your home, your stamp, and your mark. It’s your chance to distinguish yourself from the crowds who are so easily led by fast-made, mass-produced and indistinguishable furniture, which, more often than not has been transported from the other side of the world.

Vintage furniture will make your home feel very special; it has character and soul and will be unique to you. My customers often say “That’s different”, to which I always reply “It’s good to be different!” Vintage furniture really can tell a story that no modern piece ever can: it gives a nod to the past and a smile to the future.

Owning a piece of vintage furniture can give you a sense of pride and nostalgia, a feeling you simply cannot experience from new furniture. My ethos is to respect the character of the piece while always delivering a structurally sound and fully functioning item of furniture ready for its new chapter in life.

A great deal of love, care and attention goes into every refurbishment I undertake so that you can enjoy your furniture for many years to come.

Building on a solid foundation

Before starting, every piece is thoroughly checked. Any faults, such as loose joints, surface damage, etc are addressed. You can be sure that I haven't just covered up problems with a 'lick of paint'.

Surfaces are fully prepared prior to painting to make sure that the finish will be durable and lasting.

The right products for best results

I only use high quality furniture paints and other specialist products that I know and trust. You'll find many of these products available in my 'paint shop'.

Out of sight, but not out of mind

It's not only the first impression that matters: details do too.

• All edges, where 'painted' meets 'not-painted', are taped to ensure clean lines.
• Backs of pieces are generally painted - not every piece will be placed against a wall.
• Underneaths of pieces are painted if there is any chance of seeing them when a piece is in place.
• The insides of cupboards, drawers, etc are cleaned and refreshed

Not just for show

Almost all furniture has to be practical as well as beautiful.

I apply varnish to surfaces that are likely to see heavier wear, so the painted finish will be protected.

Both before and after painting, all moving parts, such as doors or drawers, are checked for smooth operation.

Do you want to know more?

I am happy to answer any questions that you may still have, or to supply more photographs if needed.

Should you be close enough, you are also very welcome to visit my Brailsford studio to inspect any pieces.

Trust in experience

I have over 10 years of professional furniture painting experience, and everything I have learned during that time goes towards making sure that you will be delighted with your new piece of furniture.

But don't just take my word for it, see my testimonials from previous happy customers.