Ted Homer, Co-Founder and Director of new independent furniture retailer Rest & Root, talks about the launch of the business, why now was the right time, early challenges and the initial reaction since opening.
Meet Ted
I’m the Co-Founder and Director of Rest & Root, alongside business owner and co-founder Suzanne Thomson. Together we run all aspects of the business, from buying and supplier relationships to marketing, customer experience, finance and the day-to-day running of the shop. Suzanne had the original idea for the business after being made redundant from Gardiner Haskins, bringing with her a wealth of industry experience and a clear vision for Rest & Root.
Recent investments?
As a new business, we’ve made significant investments in opening and fitting out our store, creating a space that reflects our calm, considered approach to interiors. We’ve also invested in partnering with established and respected brands, including Harrison Spinks, with new bed and mattress displays, alongside furniture, lighting and homeware displays. Digital marketing, our website and point-of-sale systems have also been key areas of early investment.
Future plans?
We’re focused on carefully expanding our core ranges. This includes growing our furniture offering into more sofas and chairs, as well as extending further into bedroom furniture. We’ve already begun hosting in-store workshops and plan to continue developing these as a way to build community and encourage people to engage more deeply with the brand. Long term, we want to grow sustainably without losing what makes us personal.
What is your mission?
Our mission is to help people create homes that feel calm, comfortable and rooted. We want to take the stress out of buying furniture and furnishings by offering thoughtful advice, well-made products and a genuinely supportive, welcoming experience.
On sustainability, what is your business doing on this topic?
Sustainability is a key part of how we choose suppliers and products. We prioritise brands that focus on quality, longevity and responsible manufacturing, such as using natural materials and ethical production processes. By encouraging customers to buy fewer, better pieces, we aim to promote a more sustainable approach to interiors.
How has recent business been?
We only opened just before Christmas, so it’s still early days and trends are difficult to define at this stage. That said, the response has been very positive, with strong interest in beds, made-to-measure furnishings and considered furniture pieces. Customers are clearly looking for guidance and reassurance, particularly when making higher-value purchases.
What would you change in the industry?
We’d love to see a shift away from fast furniture and constant discounting, and towards better education around quality, materials and longevity. Independent retailers have a real role to play in helping customers make informed, confident choices.
What challenges do you currently face and how are you overcoming these?
As a brand-new independent retailer, managing cash flow and rising costs is a constant challenge. With no staff and just the two of us running the business, it’s about wearing many hats and staying agile. We’re overcoming this by keeping overheads tight, investing carefully, and focusing on building strong, lasting customer relationships.
As we don’t currently have any staff, it makes our partnership even more important, and we’re proud of what we’ve built together in a short space of time.
Why do you think customers choose your business?
Customers choose Rest & Root for the personal service, honest advice and carefully curated product ranges. We take time with every customer and focus on what’s right for them, rather than pushing quick sales. People appreciate the calm environment and the confidence that comes with expert guidance.
Final thought…
Opening an independent interiors store in the current climate is challenging, but we’ve been incredibly encouraged by the support from our local community. We’re excited about the future of Rest & Root and are committed to growing the business in a way that stays true to our values.
