Archie Shine Robert Heritage Cabinet

Robert Heritage cabinet by Robert Heritage for Archie Shine, c.1960.

This cabinet design by Robert Heritage typifies his refined and subtle approach towards case furniture. The outline and ‘façade’ is simple and restrained. The recessed drawer and door pull ensure minimal imposition on the design. Within two of the drawers are felt-lined cutlery divisions and behind one of the doors is a removable bottle rack.

The overall design is lent personality by the distinct horizontal recessed panel that separates the doors and drawers, the generous radius to the top edge and the bold rounded legs.

The partnership between Heritage and Archie Shine began in the late 1950s and continued through the 1960s. The designs by Robert Heritage embraced traditional elements while being thoroughly modern in proportion and detail. Heritage favoured bold dimensions with long sleek outlines for his cabinets. This was in contrast to most other UK-based designers and manufacturers of the period.

Robert Heritage is a somewhat overlooked designer. He was awarded more COID (Council of Industrial Design) awards by the Design Council than any other British designer in the 20th Century. His work extended from industrial products to lighting and even furniture for the QE2. Heritage was acknowledged as Royal Designer for Industry, awarded a CBE and was Professor of Furniture at the Royal College of Art.