04/12/23
A Decade of Elegance: Ten Questions with Richard
A decade has passed since Richard Brendon started his brand, marking ten years of exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and unwavering commitment to elevating the art of dining. To commemorate the journey, we sat down with the designer himself for an insightful Q&A session. As we delve into the depths of his journey, inspirations, and aspirations, we invite you to join us on this occasion with a cocktail in hand, as we unveil the legacy that has been crafted over the past ten years.
What is the most memorable moment from the first 10 years of your brand?
A huge amount has happened since my initial inspiration struck during my strolls down Portobello Road Market! From the creation of our founding collection, Reflect, to the launch of the Jancis Robinson Collection which really propelled the brand on a global scale... it's hard to single out just one moment. However, I do still get a real thrill when I walk into a beautiful hotel or restaurant and seeing our products on the table, doing exactly what they were designed to do. It really reminds me of how far we have come.
Which collection are you most proud of, and why?
I'm really proud of the Diamond collection, the first of our three cut crystal collections. This collection broke away from the usual cut crystal designs, making a bold statement with its more contemporary feel. Diamond represents a shift from the norm, bringing a fresh and modern approach to crystal craftsmanship.
Have there been any unexpected moments since launching your brand?
Many! The pandemic threw some huge curveballs at us, as did the war in Ukraine and the impact this had on our glassware supply chain.
What is your favourite cocktail, and which of your glasses do you prefer to drink it from?
My favourite has to be a Maple Syrup Old Fashioned, and I particularly enjoy it in a Fluted Double Old Fashioned Tumbler. While lockdown had its challenges, one silver lining was the opportunity to experiment with various cocktail techniques. It was during this time that I refined and perfected the recipe for my favourite Maple Syrup Old Fashioned.
Where do you go to for the best Old Fashioned?
Gleneagles stands out as the perfect setting, where you can indulge in the service of our Art Deco-inspired Fluted Collection. Another exceptional option for an Old Fashioned is Velvet at the Corinthia London.
Which hotel in London is next on your list for a staycation?
Having recently completed the bespoke dinnerware for The Peninsula London, I can confidently say that it has become my top choice for a weekend getaway. The distinctive charm and exceptional service are truly unmatched, and I'm very proud to have worked with them for this collaboration.
What’s the biggest wine or cocktail hack you’ve discovered during your time in the industry?
If you enjoy white Burgundy, consider exploring Godello wines from Spain, like Louro. These wines offer remarkably similar flavour profiles but come at a much more affordable price.
What’s your go-to restaurant in London at the moment?
Following a recent renovation, Core by Clare Smyth has reopened, showcasing our cocktail glasses and bespoke designed water glasses. In my opinion, it stands out as one of the finest restaurants in London.
What aspect of your brand are you most proud of?
I take great pride in our unwavering commitment to our original mission, ensuring that our purpose and vision remain clear. Our emphasis is on maintaining high-quality craftsmanship, preserving age-old craft techniques, and crafting products that endure the test of time. Our products serve as a testament to lasting quality, representing treasures that are meant to be cherished and celebrated for generations to come.