I have a few heroes of industry—the sort who combine a passion for their field with a staggering breadth of knowledge while somehow remaining disarmingly charming and enviably grounded. These are the people who don’t chase trends; they work in longevity. More often than not, they are the butterfly wings of movement that set the interiors world on its course. A rare species indeed, but I’m pleased to say that one of them is gracing Tête-à-Tat: Guy Tobin.
I first encountered the name Guy Tobin while working on the Pimlico Road. His was a name that echoed through that hallowed ground with excitement and energy. It was always a delight when he popped in—rare, as the place I worked at didn't deal in antiques. Later, when I moved to Jamb, he would visit more often. I'd listen to him, Will Fisher, and Henry Bickerton discuss the industry, pieces that might be on loan, and the Pimlico Road business that kept the area ticking harmoniously.
It's no wonder his name is met with such admiration—his career is nothing short of impressive. After leaving school, he, like many of us, had ambitions of pursuing a degree in History of Art. However, upon arriving at the university, he quickly realised that his excellent schooling had covered much of the curriculum. So, like many of the greats, he took a path famously trodden: he dropped out.
Guy Tobin's early career was marked by time spent with antique dealers and auction houses, but a notable chapter began at R. K. Alliston, a beloved garden shop on New Kings Road. He found himself there not long after the September 11th attacks, a period of uncertainty and upheaval across all industries. His former employer had promptly sacked him—an all-too-common occurrence in such a shaky, unsettling moment. One day, as he swept leaves from the wide pavement outside the shop, a man he had worked for at Phillips, Willie Cundle, cycled past. Guy, broom aloft, theatrically cried out, "Do you see what I am reduced to?" Hearing the impassioned plea of this talented young man, Willie assured him that he would see what he could do. Within 24 hours, Willie had secured Guy an interview with none other than Christopher Hodsoll, a name synonymous for decades with the finest antiques and interior decorating.
Over a glass of whiskey in his shop on the Pimlico Road—now the site of Colefax & Fowler—Christopher offered Guy the job. He worked there for seven years, kicking off what would become a remarkable 22-year stint on the Pimlico Road. From there, Guy partnered with Patrick Jefferson, another dealer of incomprehensible knowledge. Sadly, in 2008, the economic downturn forced their business to close. But as with so many of life's painful endings, while one door slams firmly shut, a window creaks open. That window came in the shape of a now widely celebrated name: Rose Uniacke.
In a 2022 article in House & Garden on her brother's home, the now-World of Interiors editor Emily Tobin quoted Uniacke as saying: "Guy has worked with me since I opened my shop almost 10 years ago, and now we literally finish each other's sentences. He runs the furniture side of my business beautifully, is my research expert, and I trust him completely. Working with him is both a pleasure and a privilege."
Later that year, Guy left his position at Rose Uniacke and moved to Derbyshire with his wife, Celia Tobin—founder of Pinxton & Co—and their three daughters. There, he has worked as a dealer, furniture designer, and consultant, applying his unmatched knowledge and expertise to projects for some of the most prestigious names in the industry.
But what is particularly exciting for you and me is Guy's upcoming auction with Dreweatts: 'Guy Tobin: For the Love of Objects', happening on January 7th. If you've ever dreamed of owning a piece of true beauty, I'd suggest signing up immediately. The sale includes a host of exquisite pieces with alluring estimates, and I, for one, will be glued to my screen on the day.
Without further ado, I'd like to thank Guy for taking the time to chat and answer my often inane questions. It is a treat to have him here, and I'm sure you'll wholeheartedly agree.
Favourite Day?
I read this as my favourite day of the week! Slightly cheating but I think I would say 'tomorrow' - odd as it may seem, dealing in the past being my job, I actually hate looking back but love the unexpected nature of what tomorrow might bring.
Favourite Restaurant?
A Pancia Piena just outside Florence; a kitchen in a truck parked in a car park. Outstanding food and champagne. Truck drivers, bikers and Florentines 'in the know.' We were introduced to this gem by my sister-in-law, who will not be pleased that I have shared this.......
Any good advice? Who gave it to you?
"Sit on your hands Tobin" - the angel on my right shoulder. The devil on the left usually wins out, though! I have received so much great, friendly advice over the years, much of it I was too stupid to heed or note down. As I get older, I realise how much easier life could have been had I slowed down, listened and steadied my natural inclination to always move forward. So perhaps more seriously, both my Grandfather and my mother, who said "More haste & less speed" countless times.
Happy Place?
Attics, warehouses, cellars, sheds, salerooms or any dealers shop.
Favourite Tube Line?
Having spent 20+ years walking to work on the same route, I am not a great knowledge on the Underground. I do love South Ken for some reason; the double staircase meeting the glazed roof arcade at street level has always appealed. I frequent the V&A a lot, so use the tube here a lot.
A film you can watch again and again without getting bored?
(Cliche!) Withnail & I. Uncle Monty's house (Bernard Nevills house on Glebe Place) is always beguiling.
Favourite smell?
Tomato plants. Summer rain. Sandalwood.
Your most prized possession?
I have yet to find it, it's always the next thing. I do love pebbles - I have one that lives alongside my wallet in every trouser pocket. A perfect disc of black basalt. A touchstone. My library too.
Dream meal?
Oysters and a rib of beef.
A song that always makes you tap your foot?
There are so many choices! Satellite of Love by Lou Reed, King of Sweden by Future Islands, and The Mexican by Babe Ruth—I'd be happy with those on rotation.
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