THE STYLE, AND BIBELOT NOOK BLOG THE STORY, HOW TO SPOT THE
THE BIRTH OF G PLAN In the drab, rationed days following World War II, British homes were crying out for a splash of style and modernity. Enter G Plan, the brainchild of E. Gomme Ltd, a long established furniture company based in High Wycombe. Founded by Ebenezer Gomme in 1898, the company had a rich history of innovation. In 1953, under the direction of Ebenezer’s grandson, Donald Gomme, E. Gomme Ltd launched the G Plan range, aiming to make modern furniture that departed from their traditional designs. Inspired by sleek Scandinavian design and a desire to offer quality furniture that didn’t require a bank loan, the vision was simple; create pieces that were not only chic and contemporary but also accessible to the average Brit. Thus, G Plan was born, bringing a breath of fresh air into living rooms across the nation. But what set G Plan apart from the rest? For starters, they ditched the traditional mentality of purchasing an entire matching set of furniture for a room. Instead, people could buy individual pieces as their budgets allowed, making it a hit among young families and design enthusiasts alike. Their designs featured clean lines, warm teak finishes and a modular approach that screamed versatility. Plus, with a clever marketing strategy that included showrooms where customers could see and feel the furniture (a novelty at the time), G Plan quickly became the go-to brand for those looking to jazz up their homes. Ebenezer Gomme
STYLING G PLAN Looking to infuse your home with a touch of retro charm without making it feel like a time capsule? Let’s talk G Plan furniture, the classic mid-century marvel that’s making a stylish resurgence. Picture this; a sleek G Plan teak sideboard paired with a bold, contemporary sofa, creating a harmonious blend of warmth and modernity. The rich wood tones of G Plan pieces provide a cosy contrast to modern furnishings, resulting in a space that is both timeless and trendy. But don’t stop at the sideboard! Incorporate a G Plan coffee table with those signature tapered legs to anchor your living room. Or mixing vintage G Plan chairs with a minimalist desk and some abstract art can create a eclectic yet sophisticated study. The key is balance, let G Plan’s classic designs shine alongside your modern pieces, and watch as your home transforms into a curated gallery of past and present.
So, you’re on the hunt for that iconic G Plan piece to elevate your space? Let’s make sure you’re snagging the real deal! First off, keep an eye out for the distinctive labels. Early G Plan pieces from the 1950s often feature a gold embossed stamp reading “E Gomme, High Wycombe” with “G Plan” proudly displayed beneath. Later designs may sport a red label, but be aware as these can be peeled off and stuck onto imposters. So, always look for other telltale signs of authenticity. SPOTTING G PLAN FURNITURE Now, where to find these mid-century gems? Your first stop should of course be Bibelot Nook, Newcastle’s vintage haven, this treasure trove is brimming with quality preloved items waiting to be discovered. Beyond local spots, the digital world is your oyster. Online marketplaces like eBay and Vinterior often feature a plethora of G Plan listings. However, when shopping online, scrutinise seller reviews, request detailed photos, and inquire about the item’s history to ensure authenticity. Happy hunting, and may your home soon be so full of G Plan furniture that it could pass as their next catalogue shoot! Look out for these labels!