Nicole Dennett

I am so pleased to introduce you to Nicole Dennett, the co-founder of Studio Neighbour and Folkhaus. Based out of a beautiful brick-and-mortar in Frome, Somerset, Nicole and her husband Dan spend their days curating vintage homewares and crafting bespoke furniture designed for real, everyday living. Her eye for practicality, beauty, and pieces meant to be passed down feels so aligned with our own philosophy. We asked Nicole to share a bit about her journey, her daily rhythms, and how she finds balance amidst it all.

You run Studio Neighbour and the bespoke furniture company, Folkhaus, with your husband Dan. How did this journey begin, and what was the catalyst for opening your brick-and-mortar space in Frome?

It all began quite organically, really. Together Dan and I had been making and designing furniture for a number of years through Folkhaus. We both had always been drawn to interiors, objects and creating spaces that felt welcoming and lived in, so Studio Neighbour grew out of that shared interest.

Opening a physical shop in Frome felt like the next natural step. We wanted somewhere that could bring all of those things together, but also somewhere that felt like an extension of our home and our way of living. Somewhere people could come in, browse, have a chat, discover something unexpected and hopefully leave feeling inspired.

How do you balance running two businesses together while carving out space for family life?

It’s definitely a work in progress! Running two businesses together means work can easily spill into our life, so we’ve had to learn that there’s no such thing as a perfect balance. We try to be intentional about switching off and making proper time for each other. The nice thing is that we’re in it together, so we understand the pressures and support each other through the busy periods.

Your curation focuses on simple, useful pieces and handpicked vintage goods that are meant for "real life." What are you looking for when you source a new piece, and what is inspiring your curation right now?

For me, it’s always about finding things that are beautiful but also useful; pieces that you can actually live with and that will hopefully get better with age. I’m drawn to things with a sense of simplicity and character, whether that’s something vintage or a beautifully made new piece.

At the moment, I’m really inspired by natural materials, earthy colours and homes that feel collected rather than overly styled. I love the idea of mixing old and new and finding those pieces that make a space truly feel personal.

What advice would you give to another woman wanting to turn a passion project into a full-time, independent career?

I’d say start before you feel completely ready. You learn so much by actually doing it, and stop waiting for things to be perfect. Stay true to what you love, be willing to work hard, and don’t be afraid to evolve as you go. There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating a career around something you genuinely care about.

What is something people might be surprised to learn about you or the behind-the-scenes of your business?

I think most people are surprised to learn I’m a cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer at 28, I’m now four years clear. It really changed my perspective on life, of course, and what’s truly important. Part of the reason we opened Neighbour was as a gift to myself, as having a shop has always been a dream of mine.

Describe this current season of life for you. Do you have a typical morning or a weekly rhythm that you try to stick to?

This season of life, for me, has been really full and lovely. My son is getting to an age where we both enjoy sharing activities together. There’s a lot going on with the businesses and family, so I try not to be too rigid with a routine. Mornings are usually about getting everyone up and out, then having a coffee and a little bit of quiet time before the day gets going.

When juggling a physical shop, artisans, and a family, what helps you feel grounded when things get overwhelming?

I am a creature of habit, if it’s been a long day, I want to immediately pop on For Emma, Forever Ago by Bon Iver. Quiet, calm hobbies such as simply doodling in little sketchbooks help take my mind elsewhere if I need a break. I normally have a few in my bag!

What is the most cherished object in your own home?

My son once painted a picture of what love felt like. We were staying at a cabin which had a river nearby. He used water from there and painted the sweetest character with a serene little face. I have it framed, it brings me peace whenever I look at it.

What is on the menu for a dinner party with friends?

Olives, burrata, lots of wine and aubergine parmesan, which I may have been told is my speciality! I will torture everyone with gluten free bread though, sorry guys!

Do you have an everyday "uniform" or outfit formula that makes you feel most like yourself when you are working in the shop?

I am often seen in a long flowy skirt and cowboy boots, they’re my favourite! Paired with a simple top and a cozy sweater (when it’s chilly!)

What is the last best thing you ate?

I haven’t stopped thinking about the steak I had at Bistro Freddie in Shoreditch. It was last year, and I bring it up pretty much once a week.