AMATEUR interior designers who are fans of a West End shop can get their kicks closer to home with the opening of Lifestylebazaar s second branch in Shoreditch. Attracted by the unpretentious, urban feel of the neighbourhood, owners Chris Curtis and Laure

AMATEUR interior designers who are fans of a West End shop can get their kicks closer to home with the opening of Lifestylebazaar's second branch in Shoreditch. Attracted by the unpretentious, urban feel of the neighbourhood, owners Chris Curtis and Laurent Nurisso say that Shoreditch seemed the obvious location for the expansion of Lifestylebazaar's brand.

The pair says it is the perfect opportunity to showcase some of the edgier pieces that have become synonymous with the brand's quirky style.

The pair's first store, in the West End, opened 18 months ago and stocks furniture and home ware from designers including Black & Blum, Gianluca Slodi, Edition Compagnie and Kartell.

Nurisso explains: "Shoreditch is earthy, a bit grungy and has a soul and a real 'village' feel.

"It's a mix of what you want London life to be; street markets, cool bars, galleries and design bubbling under the surface."

The Kingsland Road shop will be 'edgier' than the first and is part of a renovated Wellington boot factory with many of the original warehouse-style features of the building retained.

The owners have also designed a unique blackboard wall that will feature a changing display of graffiti, inspired by the neighbourhood's gritty, urban surroundings.

The store will feature the same mix of contemporary home accessories from upcoming and established designers as its sister store but with more emphasis on furniture and lighting.

An established designer himself, Nurisso hopes to utilise the opportunity to develop a range of Lifestylebazaar-branded products.

He says: "I have some ideas but as yet I've not had time to take it any further, so watch this space."

Lifestylebazaar opened last month and is at 11a Kingsland Road. Customers can also shop online at www.lifestylebazaar.com