Nick Arkell of Walton House Antiques.
1. Fairs vs shops vs online?
I believe that in today’s world it is important to be everywhere to maximise your exposure.
I own a large shop with 5000sq ft of carpeted showrooms with my business partner Paul Gafney in Mere.
We also do fairs such as Petworth, Olympia and NEC to find new clients and encourage them to come to Walton House, a warm and inviting showroom.
And twice a year we invite all our clients to a party with live music and good wine. Websites are great but there is no comparison to seeing the piece in real life. Having said that, for customers further afield our online shop is vital.
2. One rule you live by as a dealer?
The customer is king! I have always made an effort to engage with a customer and hopefully enthuse them with my passion for antique furniture.
3. What’s your favourite material?
I am passionate about Georgian furniture, especially satinwood. It’s tactile and reflective so when you move around a piece it changes colour and comes alive. This timber is very versatile and looks great in both period and contemporary interiors.
4. One thing you would like to achieve?
To find a satinwood cheese dish, which I do not believe exists. To retire gracefully to sit by the pool with a gin and tonic and watch the sun go down.
5. Real ale or espresso martini?
Real ale, good wine and great food with my best friends.
A Regency Gillow Lancaster sofa table, c.1820, £2,900 offered at the Petworth fair. The top drawers have 4248 stamped underneath.
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