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Discovering Margot: The Heart of Lewes, East Sussex
Nestled in the charming town of Lewes, East Sussex, Margot shines not only as a family-run homewares shop but as a beacon for sustainable living and culinary education. With its chocolate-brown façade and unique 18th-century Grade II-listed building, Margot is a delightful stop for those wandering down the High Street. The store offers an exquisite collection of hand-glazed ceramics, breezy linens, and captivating light fixtures—all while supporting an inspiring initiative, Cook School, aimed at teaching children the essentials of healthy cooking and nutrition.
A Personal Touch: The Dean Family’s Journey
At the helm of Margot are husband and wife team Kristan and Amanda Dean, whose combined backgrounds in restoration and food writing significantly influence the store’s vibe. Inspired by deep familial roots—Kristan’s grandfather contributed to Lewes’s iconic flint walls and his father ran a local pub—the Deans found themselves naturally gravitating towards this quaint location. Amanda, raised by a creative mother who made floor-to-ceiling curtains, adapted her imaginative upbringing into a talent for elevating everyday spaces.
Committing to Heritage and Sustainability
The shop's design is a homage to its historic roots. Kristan’s meticulous work in refurbishing the space involved uncovering elements like original tongue-and-groove paneling and vintage lath-and-plaster ceilings, which were incorporated into the shop’s aesthetic rather than coated over. ``“When we found the space, it had been stripped back—just a white room,” Kristan shared, noting the discovery of authentic historical features that now enrich the store's charm.
Cooking and Community: More Than Just a Store
One of the many unique features of Margot is its functional kitchen area. As the Deans conduct live recipe demonstrations for Cook School, the space doubles as an engaging hub for community learning. Adding to this atmosphere is the presence of a stunning Bertazzoni oven, specially designed for appearances and practical culinary use. This marriage of commerce and community reflects an ethos that values making learning accessible and enjoyable.
Inspiring Future Generations
Margot is more than a mere storefront—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of health-conscious citizens. Backed by notable names like Sir Paul McCartney and celebrated baker Claire Ptak, the Cook School provides engaging food education to young minds. The initiative not only fosters culinary skills but also empowers children to make informed choices about the food they consume.
Why Visit Margot?
In a world where home improvement and décor decisions increasingly lean towards sustainability, Margot offers more than just decorative items; it champions a lifestyle. The thoughtful curation of products reflects values of artistry and function, allowing homeowners to create beautiful spaces enriched with intention.
Final Thoughts: Engage with Your Community
For homeowners and design aficionados alike, visiting Margot is a chance to find not just beautiful homewares, but to support a local initiative that educates children about food, wellness, and community. As Margot continues to flourish, it serves as a powerful reminder of how retail spaces can become pivotal in promoting local culture and sustainable practices.
Take advantage of your next visit to East Sussex to discover this hidden gem. Explore charming shops like Margot, experience their offerings firsthand, and consider how you can enrich your own home while contributing to meaningful community initiatives.
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