As a family run business, we take great pride in our craftsmanship and our approach to customer service.
Every single job is special to us and we are delighted to have been recommended hundreds over times over the years.
Our business was founded on these very principles in 2017 by our director Mark Zealander and it’s about time we get to know him a little better! Read our full interview with him below:
Hello Mark, how are you?
I’m very good thank you. Been working on finishing up on some projects and looking forward to starting on our pre-Christmas installations. It’s always great going into our client’s homes at this time of year to see their Christmas decor. Really helps get you into the festive spirit and it’s a delight to see my clients excited to show off their new shutters, blinds or curtains to their friends and family over the Christmas period.
When was Feather & Grey Interiors founded?
I founded Feather & Grey Interiors in 2017 after spending 15 years in the carpentry industry and working for some of the biggest window styling companies in the UK. There were very few companies at that time who had a real passion for their craft as well as great quality products and a genuine care for their customers. It was then I realised there was a space for Feather & Grey Interiors within the market.
What’s the inspiration behind the name?
When I first started Feather and Grey Interiors I had originally called it Bespoke Interior Shutters.
After many back and forths one Tuesday evening with my Dad over company names, Bespoke Interior Shutters just never sat well with him. Nevertheless he was encouraging and supportive with what I set out to achieve.
Sadly, the next evening he unexpectedly passed away.
Over the next few months I just ran with the company name even though my Dad wasn't too keen on it as I didnt have the head space to think about it further. Three months later I was driving home from work and was on the phone to my Mum. I mentioned to her that the name wasn't sitting right with me either and how Dad was never too keen on it. My Mum said to me "why dont you name it something to do with Dad?". This got me thinking...
After losing Dad, whenever I needed to turn to him for advice or some warmth I would always be greeted with a grey feather as a sign, I believed, that he was still with us. It would come at a time where there would be no explanation for it. If I wasn't spiritual before losing Dad, it certainly made me think twice! Mum said to me "why dont you name it something to do with the grey feathers?" So with a little play on the words we came up with Feather and Grey Interiors and it was the best choice we ever made.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Sounds cliche, but I love seeing the transformation of my client’s homes. As a cabinet maker by trade, I’ve always loved the process of creating beautiful living spaces and the transformation that comes with this. The positive feedback from my clients and the difference this makes to their home is such a big driving force for us to continue to serve our clients with the best products and best service we can.
One thing we should know about you?
I’ve once done some work for the Beckhams! It was a little while ago now, but it’s definitely been a job that I’ve been proud to be a part of.
How would your client’s describe you?
Honest, trustworthy and genuine.
Or hear it firsthand from our clients with 150+ 5 star reviews across Google and Trustpilot!
What’s an essential part of your daily routine?
It has to be coffee! I go to my local M&S garage almost religiously every morning to get my cappuccino. There’s nothing better than sipping a hot coffee, whilst stuck in traffic or on a long commute. Once I’ve had that I’m ready to start my day!
How do you like spending your time outside of work?
I’m a real family man, so I love spending time with my wife and two children. They’re still so young and I think it’s important to spend quality time together, especially at the weekends. Having your own business means you very rarely get time to switch off, so I try and get the balance right.
I’m also a keen golfer, although a little rusty! If you don’t find me with my wife and children, you will find me down my local golf course.
What’s your greatest achievement, either professionally or personally?
Aside from the obvious, being my two beautiful children, I embarked on a 100 mile bike ride last year in London. I completed this within 5 hours which I am particularly proud of given I am not a professional cyclist! I love a challenge and this was definitely that! Now looking to the next...
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
I love to travel and one of mine and my wife's ultimate travel bucket list destinations would be jungle trekking in Rwanda. We love an adventure and that would certainly be it, however one to wait for when the children are much older!
We would also love to do an Italian road trip ending up in the Amalfi Coast. We love the culture and food and would love to involve our children, teaching them about the World as we go!
What’s next for Feather & Grey Interiors?
Having spent the last year welcoming our newest member to the family, we are excited to get started on some new projects as well as launching a range of exciting new products in the New Year.
We have lots of big dreams for Feather & Grey Interiors and looking forward to our plans coming to fruition. Lots of announcements coming over the next couple of months…
Watch this space!
Thank you Mark!
Are you looking to transform your home in 2024? Download our brochure to become inspired and get in touch with us today to book your complimentary design consultation.
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