Amy Armitage has an eye for the kind of homeware that immediately becomes a conversation starter. The founder of UAE-born online homeware brand, Tangerrine Casa has built a brand around the idea that homes should feel personal and a little playful, filled with pieces that tell stories rather than simply matching a colour palette. What began as a love for vintage shopping and styling eventually turned into a platform dedicated to curated preloved homeware, from quirky porcelain finds to chrome accents and statement serving pieces.
What’s the weirdest or most unexpected piece you’ve ever found while sourcing?
I am always drawn to the slightly weird and wonderful! I loved our wooden pear pot and swan matchstick holders!
If Tangerrine Casa had a personality, how would you describe it?
Fun, quirky, unique. Enjoys a slower pace of life and moments of calm and solitude but wouldn’t say no to a party once in a while.
Was there a specific vintage find that made you think, “Okay, I need to start this brand”?
Not so much a specific find but not being able to find a place locally in Dubai that had the kind of cool preloved pieces I was looking for, that were affordable and easily accessible. When browsing in the UK around the time of starting the brand, I did fall in love with some preloved ceramic horse matchstick holders, and I thought surely there is a community in Dubai that would appreciate this kind of thing too.
Your pieces are playful and personality-driven. With the rise of dopamine decor and more expressive interiors, do you think people are finally moving away from overly perfect homes?
For sure, we want to show how cool preloved can be, particularly for those with a desire for individuality. Trends themselves come and go but I think ‘Imperfect living’ has definitely gained more popularity as people look for more balance between a slightly more relaxed and less staged home. Home decoration doesn’t have to be a trend-led finished project, but a slower process of collecting objects over time.
What’s one homeware trend you hope disappears forever?
I don’t know that it’s a trend but I love to hate a crushed grey velvet situation with maybe a sprinkle of baby pink and something like ‘Live Laugh Love’ on a plaque.
You’ve worked in fashion and styling for years. How different is styling a home versus styling a person?
I think they’re actually quite similar in a lot of ways. Maybe because I kind of apply the same principles for both in focusing on the mood or vibe you want to give. Trends are always present in both, but it’s in the details and personal touches within both that I think makes them stand out.
If someone’s home feels boring, what’s the first thing they should add?
Something that represents them. A small object that sparks joy or something that brings a fond memory. I like to frame things like a menu from a special occasion or hang cool plates on the wall to add depth and personality.
What’s your personal favourite category to source, plates, glassware, trays, candle holders, random tiny objects?
That’s a hard one because I love to curate, so an eclectic mix is when I feel chef’s kiss, work is done. I think if I had to pick, it would be the random tiny objects, because you never quite know what you are going to find. When I see a fish shaped dish!? You know it’s coming home with me!
What’s your dream flea market or vintage shopping destination?
I feel like I haven’t visited them yet! I would love to explore more of Europe and further afield. Currently most of my sourcing happens in the south of the UK, tied into visiting family there. Sunbury Antiques Market in the UK has various locations and I have picked up great pieces there!
You’ve made preloved shopping cool and aspirational. Was changing that perception always part of the plan?
Thank you! So glad to hear that. Absolutely, we want more people to shop preloved first and changing people’s perception is a huge part of that. I think more people would shop this way if the stigma was removed and people could be inspired by the way items are presented and styled.
What’s your own home aesthetic like? Is it as eclectic as the brand?
I would say so, yes. In terms of the small objects, I have an eclectic mix of pieces collected over time from various trips and markets. I love if people ask where something is from, to be able to share a story behind where I found it.
You clearly love hosting. What’s your signature “people are coming over in 20 minutes” table setup trick?
Intentionally mismatched plates! I think it adds instant character to a table. If you have flowers, you can be creative with any little bud vase, egg cup or jug you might have to put stems in too, it immediately adds some colour and texture.
If you could collaborate with any brand, artist, or designer for a Tangerrine Casa collection, who would it be?
Irish, locally based artist MC, (@maryclairekirwan), is an amazing abstract artist. Her work is very colourful and joyful, but she is also an amazing cook. I went to a beautiful Iftar she hosted last year and I love how she connects art with food and hosting, so she would be the perfect Tangerrine Table guest too.
