A RUM FELLOW is a UK design studio dedicated to artisan textiles and handcrafted rugs and emblazed by colour and intricate pattern. It’s a balance of contemporary and heritage design achieved with the finest materials and the skills of master craftsmen.
A RUM FELLOW was founded by Caroline Lindsell and Dylan O’Shea, a partnership that fuses a desire for beautifully crafted and well-travelled design befitting a contemporary lifestyle. In the spirit of the intrepid British explorers, they traverse the globe in search of the wonderful and unique.
The design studio was founded on 3 principals - Design, Quality and Integrity. Creative Director Caroline’s signature style infuses collections with layered pattern and expressive use of colour, at once sympathetic to their heritage whilst achieving a timeless aesthetic.
A commitment to quality and integrity spurs the couple to explore less travelled parts of the globe in the pursuit of uncommon techniques and exceptional craftsmanship. Each element is crafted by an expert in their discipline in order to achieve an unparalleled quality throughout collections.
A RUM FELLOW is rooted in the design we love, the values we hold, and a firm belief that beautiful design can be a force for positive change. We celebrate and support our incredible artisans with a commitment to fair trade principals. The studio’s approach harnesses the power of creativity to promote disadvantaged artisans and preserve artisanal craft practices through great design and a contemporary sensibility.
OUR STORY
SUSTAINABILITY
At A RUM FELLOW, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our approach is rooted in slow production, valuing quality over quantity, and crafting pieces that stand the test of time. We embrace handcrafted techniques that are inherently low-energy, relying on the skill and artistry of traditional makers rather than industrialised processes.
Each collection is produced in small batches or made to order, ensuring minimal waste and thoughtful resource use. By working with natural, renewable, and responsibly sourced materials, we prioritize both environmental and ethical responsibility.
But to us, sustainability extends beyond materials and processes—it’s about people. We are committed to livelihood sustainability, creating long-term economic opportunities for marginalized communities and artisans. By collaborating directly with skilled craftspeople, we help preserve heritage techniques while ensuring fair wages, dignified working conditions, and a sustainable future for artisan communities. We work directly with textile artisans, fair trade organizations, and cooperatives, some of which we have helped establish, to create ethical, meaningful opportunities. Our rugs are woven by Label STEP Fair Trade Certified weavers, ensuring that artisans receive fair wages, work in safe conditions, and have access to long-term economic security.
With every piece we create, we aim to make a positive impact—on the planet, on craft traditions, and on the lives of those who bring our designs to life.