The Designer

How to sell sanctuary

After completing his art degree and studying design at the former London College of Furniture, Frank Sawkins began his career in 1971, quickly making a name for himself as an interior designer and advising on several residential restorations and major renovation projects, including that of the London Corn Exchange. By 1976, Sawkins was running his own interior design business, with a portfolio of clients that included IBM, BP and Britain’s forerunner to HSBC, the Midland Bank. His real calling, however, was the high-quality rethink of the bathroom. Czech & Speake might not be his entire creative legacy, but is certainly his proudest professional success.