Q&A With Caroline Downing Nadel, Co-Founder Of Wicklewood
Inspired by her family's heritage and travels, Caroline founded Wicklewood with a passion for artisan-crafted homeware. Get behind the scenes of this unique brand and discover the beauty of Wicklewood's collection that blends tradition with contemporary design.
Read time:
6 minutes
From her great-grandmother's antique fabrics collection to the samples she helped her mother cut and send out, textiles and interior design were woven into Caroline Downing Nadel's life from day one. So it was not a surprise that when she returned to London after a decade in the US, she founded Wicklewood, starting with a limited collection of cushions that now form the heart of the brand.
Inspired by the rich heritage of textiles and design, Wicklewood's pieces are more than just products; they are modern heirlooms that celebrate craftsmanship, quality, and enduring beauty - qualities that make them our favourite recommendation for your wedding gift list, too! From vibrant cushions to exquisite textiles and homeware, each item tells a story, reflecting the passion and dedication of the artisans who created it.
We were excited to chat with Caroline about her journey and Wicklewood's designs, which are not only functional but also visually stunning, adding a touch of personality and charm to your home. Read on to discover more.
How did Wicklewood start?
Wicklewood was born from my experiences in my twenties, when frequent moves and the need to decorate numerous rental flats inspired me to make interior design more accessible. I launched Wicklewood in Autumn 2017 to cater to people like myself, who find themselves moving frequently—whether around the corner or across the globe—yet still desire a space that reflects their unique style. I believe a home should tell a story—a place to truly live in, not just admire.
Wicklewood is built on the belief that when the designs we surround ourselves with have traceable origins and are crafted with care and skill, they become more than just objects; they become elevated treasures. Our pieces are designed to celebrate tradition, spark stories, and bring people together, offering a whimsical escape from the everyday and adding a touch of joy and beauty to life.
Where do you take inspiration from?
My inspiration stems from three generations of women in my family who were passionate about textiles, design, and individuality. They believed that a home is a reflection of oneself, and this belief deeply influenced me. Growing up surrounded by free-spirited women and beautiful interiors, I launched Wicklewood to make distinctive design accessible and to share the transformative power of colour, pattern, and textiles in home décor.
“My travels around the world fuel my creativity as I collect patterns, textiles, and artisan techniques that tell a story and evoke joy.”
Wicklewood’s designs are influenced by the archives of my great-grandmother, Guatemalan textile collector Lilly De Jongh Osborne, the iconic fabric and wallpaper company Blithfield, founded by my mother and Anne Dubbs, as well as my own experiences of moving from home to home.
I also find inspiration in art, often visiting museums and galleries to spark new ideas. Recently, I’ve enjoyed hands-on workshops, such as the collage workshop we hosted with artist Diana Forbes in our store, which allowed me to switch off and create in a more tactile way—an experience that truly embodies my idea of the perfect evening.
What's your favourite product to date?
I’d have to say our Caballo cushion. It’s become a Wicklewood staple and a favourite among our clients as well. The playful horse riders always bring a smile to my face, and it’s a design that adds a touch of whimsy to any room.
What are your future plans for Wicklewood?
Our future plans for Wicklewood include expanding our artisan network to collaborate with even more talented craftsmen worldwide. By deepening these partnerships, we'll introduce unique products that reflect rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship. We're committed to continuously evolving our product line with fresh designs that embody Wicklewood's vibrant patterns, timeless elegance, and sustainable practices. Our goal is to keep inspiring customers with beautifully crafted homeware that adds joy and character to their spaces. Stay tuned for exciting new developments and events in our ever-evolving store.
What is your favourite room in your house and why?
I love the kitchen—it's the heart of our home, where my family comes together to cook, laugh, and create memories. It's always full of warmth and activity. I also cherish my formal living room, a serene sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle. Surrounded by books and with views of the garden, it’s an incredibly peaceful spot where I can truly unwind.
Who are your favourite interior designers?
I have so many! Some of my favourite UK-based designers are Kit Kemp, Lonika Chande, Rosanna Bossom, and Home & Found. Recently, I've been inspired by the work of Casa Josephine and Marie Caroline Willms in Spain. In the US, I love the work of Lilse McKenna.
Do you have any advice for couples on setting up their wedding list?
Choose items that are truly special—pieces you wouldn’t typically buy for yourself but will cherish as reminders of this exciting time in your life. While it’s tempting to focus on practical items for the immediate future, try to strike a balance. Some of my favourite gifts from my wedding ten years ago are those I use less often but hold dear, like my Bernardaud Grenadiers Christmas plates—items that I wouldn’t have splurged on myself but now bring joy and memories every time I use them.
What is it about the Wedding Present Company that stands out to you?
What truly sets the Wedding Present Company apart is their exquisite, colourful assortment of products that cater to a variety of tastes and styles. Whether you're looking for timeless classics or unique, vibrant pieces, their selection is both diverse and beautifully curated. Beyond the products themselves, it's the personal touch and dedication of the team that really makes the experience special. They take the time to understand your preferences and guide you in creating a wedding list that feels truly personal and reflective of your journey together.
“The combination of carefully chosen products and exceptional, personalised service is what makes the Wedding Present Company stand out to me.”
What do you like buying as wedding presents?
I love gifting tabletop items. Dinnertime is my favourite part of the day, a moment my husband and I share daily to reconnect, away from work and the bustle of family life. It’s a special time for us, and I enjoy giving friends gifts that can make their meals more vibrant and memorable as well. Whether it’s beautifully designed plates, colourful napkins, or elegant glassware, I believe these pieces add a touch of joy to everyday moments and help create lasting memories around the table.
Which Wicklewood product makes the best wedding present?
Our scallop plates or our Mali Kahala quilt. Perennial favourites.
