Nobody throws a party like Kyle Irwin, co-owner of Field+Fort in Summerland and noted interior designer who has gifted our community with one of the most stunning retail destinations around.
Beyond his gorgeous shop and Feast restaurant, Irwin provides something truly special by showcasing artists from around the world through unforgettable events.
Last summer’s treat was San Francisco’s Found by Maja, and June brought an equally magical evening celebrating Summerill & Bishop, the London-based luxury table linen brand that has been enchanting hosts for three decades.
On a recent sunset-kissed evening, the Field+Fort annex at 2580 Lillie Ave. was transformed into something straight out of a London garden party.
Summerill & Bishop owner Seb Bishop says the table cloth “isn’t just a piece of material. Each one is designed to withstand time, becoming a cherished heirloom to be enjoyed for generations.” Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Field+Fort co-owner Kyle Irwin with Louisa Alan. Credit: Judy Foreman / Noozhawk photo 
Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Sigal Friedmann, owner of GLŌAM hand-dipped beeswax candles, flanked by daughters Lyore and Noa, and husband Michael. Credit: Judy Foreman / Noozhawk photo 
Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Screenshot Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo 
Credit: Summerill & Bishop photo
Fluttering yellow-and-white striped linen fabrics formed a welcoming canopy at the entrance, drawing interior designers, friends and customers into a space that took my breath away.
Multiple long dining tables filled the room, each one a masterpiece of styling featuring unique floral arrangements, exquisite dinnerware, gleaming candlesticks, and those gorgeous Summerill & Bishop linens.
The bar in the foyer, draped with pale blue-and-white striped tablecloths, served proper Pimm’s spritz and gin and tonics while servers passed Ova Caviar on blinis, Speck rolls with parsley and delicate cucumber finger sandwiches.
It was a feast for every sense.
The honored guest was Seb Bishop, son of one of the Summerill & Bishop brand’s founders. The former dot-com executive has become the devoted guardian of the extraordinary legacy of his mother, Bernadette Bishop, and her best friend, June Summerill.
Bishop nearly closed the iconic Notting Hill shop after his mother died in 2014, but ultimately chose to carry on their vision of bringing people together around beautiful tables.
“We all know from experience there is nothing more powerful than gathering around a table, sharing food and conversation, and simply being together,” he told Noozhawk.
“That’s why the tablecloth isn’t just a piece of material. Each one is designed to withstand time, becoming a cherished heirloom to be enjoyed for generations.”
“There is nothing more powerful than gathering around a table, sharing food and conversation, and simply being together.”
SEB BISHOP
Summerill & Bishop’s 100% French linen tablecloths and napkins are celebrated for exceptional quality, softness and those charming irregularities that make each piece unique.
The crowd, myself included, “oohed and aahed” as we admired the impeccable craftsmanship and bold designs that take table setting to truly dazzling new heights.
The beautifully set tables are still on display at Field+Fort, where they also are available for purchase.
And, trust me, once you see how these linens drape and transform a table, you’ll understand why they call it “The Fabric of Life.”
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