James Brown and Christie Fels are a couple who embody creativity and authenticity. They are the founders of Blue Mountain School (BMS), a unique art, retail, and restaurant space located in London’s Shoreditch. The name is a homage to Black Mountain College, a renowned art school of the mid-20th century.
BMS is housed in a sleek, six-story townhouse on Chance and Redchurch Streets. It’s a place where Brown and Fels can showcase their passions, from fashion and art to gastronomy. One standout feature is Cycene, a small restaurant led by British chef Theo Clench. With a 10-course menu, it quickly gained a Michelin star in its first year. BMS also offers a listening space and a fantastic rooftop terrace. According to Brown, they don’t conform to tradition in anything they do.
The couple’s home reflects the same aesthetic that defines BMS. Fels, an interior architect, curates their space with impeccable taste. Their house, built in the late 17th century, is one of the oldest in the Canonbury conservation area. Original features blend seamlessly with contemporary design, resulting in an uncluttered, modern yet cool environment.
Brown’s journey into the art and fashion worlds might seem surprising, considering his previous career in football. However, after retiring due to injury, he immersed himself in his love for design. His first venture was the menswear store Hostem, which quickly gained a cult following. Eventually, they acquired the entire six-floor building for BMS, thanks to the value of Brown’s art collection and their property acumen.
Their timing was fortuitous, as the East End art and design scene was thriving. Today, their art collection includes works by renowned British artists as well as contemporary pieces. Their home also serves as a gallery, displaying works by artists such as Rachel Whiteread, Ricky Swallow, and Clementine Keith-Roach.
Despite the success of Hostem, the couple grew disillusioned with the fashion industry’s rapid pace. They transformed the space into one that offers a curated selection of garments, ceramics, objects, and artworks. This shift allowed them to focus on collaborations with artists and makers, offering unique pieces that can only be found at BMS. This multidisciplinary concept gave birth to Blue Mountain School in 2018.
Brown and Fels have lived in their Canonbury home for a decade, alongside their Studio School, which focuses on interior design. Their space features a mix of classic furniture, antiques, and pieces exchanged as meaningful gifts. Brown admits to having a penchant for changing things up, even going as far as emptying the entire house on a whim. Fels has come to terms with his impulsiveness, appreciating his forward-thinking nature.
The home of James Brown and Christie Fels is a testament to their extraordinary vision. It’s a place where creativity, authenticity, and passion thrive. Whether they’re curating art at BMS or designing their own unique space, this couple ensures that everything they touch is infused with their artistic spirit.
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