My Story

Hi, I'm Nicky.

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For over twenty years I worked as a footwear Design Director, including seven unforgettable years in New York designing for Marc Jacobs. It was an incredible career that taught me the importance of craftsmanship, proportion and detail—creating products that were not only beautiful, but made to last and made to be lived in.

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But over time, I found myself longing for something slower.

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I missed creating with my hands. I wanted to step away from the pace of fashion and rediscover the satisfaction of making thoughtful, lasting pieces from start to finish.

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I've always loved interiors. Growing up with an interior designer as my mum, I learned early on that texture, colour and character are what make a house feel like home. So, on a whim, I enrolled on a weekend upholstery course—and completely fell in love with it.

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For the first time in years, I found myself slowing down, thinking carefully about every stitch, every curve and every detail. There was something deeply rewarding about transforming beautiful materials into a piece that would become part of someone's everyday life. I knew I'd found what I wanted to do.

I retrained in modern upholstery through an intensive year-long course, and it remains one of the best decisions I've ever made.

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Today, my husband Matt, our two children, Alfie and Bonnie, and I live in the Kent countryside, where The Croft Upholstery was born in the converted coach house at the bottom of our garden.

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Every headboard and ottoman is made by hand, one at a time. I believe furniture should be personal, beautifully crafted and built to last for generations—not seasons. My aim is to create timeless pieces that reflect your home, your style and your story, bringing together thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship and the quiet luxury of something made just for you.

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Thank you for stopping by. I'd love to help bring your vision to life. x