Hornsea Pottery (England)

Hornsea Pottery was founded in 1949 by brothers Colin and Desmond Rawson. Driven by a wide array of design influences the pottery quickly grew from being a purveyor of seaside tourist trinkets to the largest studio pottery in the world, employing over 700 people.

Hornsea’s rapid growth was generated by its widespread popularity and inspirational design. Located away from the traditional ceramics heartland in Staffordshire, Hornsea developed unique and groundbreaking techniques and designs many of which were influenced by the Rawson’s textile backgrounds.

Hornsea is a remarkable British design story involving some of the icons of British pattern and ceramic design. Hornsea remains a much loved and influential brand, with a timeless appeal.

Their signature designs which appeared in many British kitchens are those of Heirloom (in brown, green and blue), Saffron and Bronte. Heirloom was produced from 1966 to 1989, Saffron 1970 to 1990 and Bronte 1972 to 1987.

You can read more about Hornsea's history, here.