Otago Studios is one man's studio tucked away upstairs in a fabulous ramshackle house that looks like it's been here since Glasgow was nothing but local boroughs. That's why I had to uncover the mystery of what the buzz was upstairs, I've been wondering since I was little!
When I walked up the shaky stairs the mystery was solved...it's a local designer's studio. Admittedly when I burst through the door I felt like I was trespassing in someone's apartment but the designer couldn't have been nicer.
"I don't usually get people coming here,'" he bashfully informed me as I looked around his workspace. But he was nevertheless welcoming, informative and explained he usually sells to local shops. He did however show me what he had produced - gorgeous, art nouveau inspired frames in gun metal and copper, made from soft metals. The patterns, which I likened to the Parisian poster art of the 1880s and a wee hint of Rennie Mack were embossed into the metal frame, giving them a subtle finish. Each original design was about £40, and a good size.
I would stress that this studio isn't a public gallery and to avoid embarrassment, I wouldn't venture upstairs without a purpose . Saying that, if it's a unique piece of local design you're looking for, these designs would be a nice touch in your home. This guy specialises in high quality craftmenship and if that's your thing, then I would definitely track him down. Just phone him first so you don't feel too intrusive! read more