Desert Island Stores: Lara Chant, co-founder of Brityard
Lara Chant is co-founder of Brityard that brings together independent British brands together in a physical space on London’s Regent Street.
The objective is to highlight some of the smaller, high quality producers that can be found in the UK and give them a physical shop-front in a marketplace-type environment.
The store you remember from childhood?
I’d have to say Selfridges – as clichéd as it sounds I just remember walking in there with my mum and sister and feeling like I’d entered another world. A bit like Alice in Wonderland. Even as a child, I loved the fact there was so much to offer in one place – sweets for my sister and I and perfumes for my mum. It had it all. Going there was always so exciting and a treat we all looked forward to.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Most inspirational store to your career?
Brityard was, and still is largely inspired by Eataly. What started off as a small shop in Torino, Italy, has evolved into a global franchise. Eataly is a place where you can eat, shop and learn and is much more than just a shop or market-place. It would be an immense honour to have Brityard compared to Eataly—a truly unique experience that transcends just shopping. To be regarded in such esteemed company would be a privilege, and a testament to the unique experience we strive to offer every guest who walks through our doors.
Most frequently used store?
Can I answer Deliveroo? It’s got everything you need! Joking aside, I’d have to say Whole Foods is definitely where we shop the most – it’s got incredible brands, fresh ingredients, and it’s a family favourite.
The store you wished you’d created?
I already have created it. Brityard truly is a vision that started many years ago and is continuing to grow and evolve.
Your overall favourite store?
Restoration Hardware is probably my favourite store – it effortlessly blends timeless elegance with modern luxury, without compromising on quality. I just think it’s so sophisticated but still so warm and inviting. It’s a favourite of Robert [co-founder of Brityard] and mine!
The store you’d like to take to the desert island?
It would have to be Brityard. It’s got everything I would need to sustain me – I’d have an Assembly coffee to kick-start my morning, cheese and crackers from Grape & Fig for nourishment, a delicious Blondie’s Kitchen cookie for when I crave something sweet, and a glass of Nyetimber’s English sparkling wine to help me embrace the reality of being stranded on a desert island.
