David Linley - Biography

David Linley founded his company David Linley & Co in 1985. It has now become known simply as LINLEY. The first collection he launched commercially was unveiled at Christie’s, King Street in 1985; he then went on to open retail premises in London and some 23 years later the LINLEY brand is going strong, and David Linley remains its Chairman.

David’s creative ability was nurtured by his parents from an early age as they encouraged his passion for making things. His talented father, the eminent photographer Lord Snowdon was particularly influential having himself trained as an architect and designed amongst other things the Aviary at London Zoo. David attended Bedales School – an alternative school which emphasises arts and crafts – where he developed an avid interest in wood-working honing his professional skills at a specially designated School for Craftsmen in Wood he attended subsequently.

David has written three books and has lectured around the world at prestigious venues such as the V&A Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 2006, David took up the position of Chairman of Christie’s UK, in addition to his role as Chairman of LINLEY. David lives in London with his wife Serena, son Charles and daughter Margarita.

MILE STONES

2007

David Linley is appionted as Chairman of Christie's UK, which he combines with his role as Chairman of LINLEY.

2005

LINLEY'S second shop is opened at LINLEY Mayfair, 46 Albemarle St, London W1

2002

David and Serena's daughter, Margarita Armstrong-Jones, is born.

2000

David's third book, "Design & Detail in the Home" was published by Little, Brown. David embarks upon an international lecture tour lecturing at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian Institute and the V&A among others.

1999

David and Serena's son, Charles Armstrong-Jones, is born.

1998

The extended shop (56 - 60 Pimlico Road) was opened. New collections of sofas and fabrics were introduced into the shop.

1996

David's second book, "Extraordinary Furniture", is published.

1993

LINLEY relocated to 60 Pimlico Road to be on the antique collector's browsing route. David's first book "Classical Furniture" was published by Pavilion Books in the UK and then subsequently in the US.

On 8th October, David marries The Hon Serena Stanhope at St. Margaret's, Westminster.

1985

First LINLEY shop opens on the New Kings Road. The Venetian collection of furniture and desk accessories was launched on the 1st October 1985 at Christies, King Street (the first commercial enterprise launched ever at Christies). Sir Roy Strong (Director at the V&A) agreed to open DLF and quoted "David Linley's furniture will become the antiques of the future."

1985

David Linley leaves Parnham House, School for Craftsmen in Wood to set up a co-operative in Dorking.