A BRAND new interior design business at Vallum Farm, on the Military Road, has enjoyed a successful first month.

Jolaru was set up by friends Jo Harrison, Laura Addyman and Ruth Dance, to take design and re-styling to another level from their working studio.

The design specialists provide quirky, individual pieces of furniture painted in a variety of colours with various finishes.

Their professional, modern designs include artworks, hand-made lampshades and a variety of unique cushions.

The new business opened on May 26 and the team are delighted with the reception they’ve received so far.

“The past month has proved that Jolaru isn’t just about furniture. There are other services we provide,” said Ruth.

“We’ve had lots of people coming in and bringing their own interior ideas to us.”

“Our customers want to dress their homes with pieces of furniture as individual as themselves. We want to work with each customer to create an inspiring environment, unique to them.”

Jo has put her passion for upcycling vintage furniture and love of interiors and styling into practice.

“By chance, in 2015 I painted some old furniture and was amazed at the reaction I received through social media, “ she said. “I soon realised that I’d gone back to doing what I loved most and set up a business upcycling furniture, which was great success.

She added: “I’d formed a working relationship with Laura and Ruth, so combining our forces and creating Jolaru was a natural progression for us all.”

Laura has worked as a stylist and art director for almost 20 years, and is using her expert knowledge to drive Jolaru forward.

“I’ve always been a magpie, drawn to the colourful, unusual and the eclectic and now I’m so happy to be working with two people who share my passion,” she said.

Ruth brings a strong business and management aspect to the partnership, both from her academic background and also from the experience of setting up a clothing company with her husband. And she jumped at the chance of joining her friends at Jolaru.

“I’m so excited about this enterprise: three creative, experienced women wanting to share their passions and make a difference,” she said.