Sofas and Stuff

Introducing Milli Proust

Florist and author

For Milli Proust, author, flower farmer and co-founder of Alma Proust, home is a reflection of her love for nature and creativity. Her 17th-century cottage, shared with her partner Ted Dwane (bass player of Mumford & Sons), their son, and two dogs, is full of character. Low ceilings and quirky nooks lend a sense of intimacy and rustic charm, while layers of patterns and textures create a joyful, welcoming atmosphere.

At its heart is the sofa she designed with us, a personalised design that balances timeless style with everyday practicality. Milli wanted to reflect her love of nature, so she chose a tactile velvet in a rich green shade. Comfort was key - after long days working outside and looking after her little boy, she needed a sofa that offered a sense of ease and relaxation. Durable velvets with heritage-inspired patterns ensured her sofa not only looked and felt luxurious but also stood up to the demands of her busy life with children, dogs and the occasional armful of freshly cut blooms.

See Milli’s sofa journey

Meet Milli Proust

“Comfort to me is feeling safe, secure and loved by the people around me. A sofa does that, right? Nothing better than a comfy sofa!”

Milli Proust

We worked closely with Milli to bring her vision to life, drawing on our design expertise to create a piece that perfectly complements her home’s period features. Together, we selected luxurious yet durable materials that reflect her love for nature and creativity, ensuring the design would stand the test of time.

As Milli says, “What I love about these sofas is that they’re all handmade, which is such a special thing - it's a craft, and another human is making them from scratch. How beautiful is that?”

This combination of thoughtful design and the craftsmanship behind our sofas ensures that each piece is not only a beautiful centrepiece but also a timeless addition to her home, telling a story through its meticulous construction and enduring quality.

Meet Milli Proust

“We needed something really hard-wearing. We want something that's going to last for many years, so velvet was a good option for that.”

Milli chose the Cromer 3-seater sofa in V&A Threads of India Opulent Velvets Ikat Mirage in Hunter, complemented by a Helmsley snuggler in Forest Creatures, Hunter, from the same collection. The velvet’s lush feel is complemented by its durability and practicality - perfect for a life filled with family, dogs, and creative pursuits.


Every detail in our homes weaves the story of who we are

Create a sofa that tells your story

Milli’s BFI picks: Jules et Jim, Wilding and The Eternal Daughter

This winter, settle into the comfort of your sofa with a classic film or perhaps something completely unexpected. Milli’s first pick is Jules et Jim, François Truffaut’s French New Wave classic that explores love and loyalty through the story of two best friends and their shared affection for the enigmatic Catherine.

Her second choice, Wilding by Isabella Tree, is a hopeful documentary about the transformation of Knepp Estate into a thriving wildlife haven, close to Milli’s Sussex home.

Lastly, Milli selects The Eternal Daughter, Joanna Hogg’s atmospheric tale of memory and motherhood, starring Tilda Swinton in a mesmerising performance. These films bring a unique blend of thought-provoking storytelling and emotional depth, perfect for any time of year.

Explore more Sofas & Stuff picks on our curated BFI watchlist.
British Film Institute