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French's Dairy - the History Behind the Name
French’s Dairy was London’s first dairy, set within the historic and listed building that is 13 Rugby Street. Under the building flows the White Conduit (circa 1300 AD), part of the water supply between Greyfriars Monastery and Newgate Street. It’s a beautiful building redolent with history and has provided the character and look for which we have became world famous. It’s the perfect venue in which to display the work of our international, award-winning designers.
The French's Dairy story started in the south of France with a necklace – in retrospect I don't think it could have begun anywhere else. The town was Perpignan, the boutique named Nomad – long gone – and the necklace was of an exceptional design. Six months later I re-visited and bought a second necklace which had the same distinctive feel. The reaction when I wore it was the same as the first. People loved it – asked me about it and said wonderful things. Luckily Philippe Ferrandis signs each piece and I was able to find him. That first meeting, which I remember so vividly, was to become the start of a working relationship which now spans several years. This renowned Parisian designer is showcased at French's Dairy, an association of which we are most proud.
Indeed French's Dairy is proud of its association with all of our other designers. We’re home not only to the collections of Philippe Ferrandis but also to many of the most exciting, innovative and talented designers working in the field of costume jewellery today. Anton Heunis whose studio is in Madrid, Stefanie Freydont who designs in her studio on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Miranda Konstantinidou whose company is based in Luxembourg, Patrice from Florida and Karin Andreasson who works in London, to name but a few.
French's Dairy - Rugby Street
Our first shop and showroom, located on Rugby Street WC1 in the fashionable Bloomsbury Quarter, (one of central London's best kept secrets), has been home to artists for generations.
Bloomsbury is still at the forefront of artistic and cultural innovation – it's as vibrant, dynamic and creative as it has ever been.
French’s Dairy, both the building and name are listed, has provided us with our business name. A magical building with a magical name in a magical area.
French's Dairy - Chancery Lane
In December 2008 the magic continued when we opened our second shop in Chancery Lane, London WC2, also named French’s Dairy.
Set between Fleet Street and High Holborn it’s in an area which is both rich in history and architectural heritage. The French’s Dairy story continues.
Maggie Owen