About Zoe

There's nothing like moving away from home to make you really appreciate it - which is one of the most important things I learnt at Loughborough University. Kent not just shaped my childhood - it helped me get where I wanted to be. I'd gone north to study Textile Design and Kent quite simply came with me. Memories of places around Thanet where I grew up and, especially, Margate, where I was born, have all had a huge influence on my designs. These places were part of me and have been slowly feeding my imagination to the point where I knew I had to do something about it.

So when I decided to set up my own design business after graduating in 2008 there was only one place I was going to go. Beautiful, maverick Margate, whose history and vibe had inspired my final year degree show. The design industry loved it - you can still catch my 'Margate Drawers' in the pages of The Observer, The Times and the Evening Standard - and I was shortlisted for the 'BDC New Designer of the Year' award in 2008.

I'm now selling a lot of my work through Liberty in London, although my studio in Margate Old Town will always remain the heart and soul of the business. Living close to my studio means it's easy for clients, press and other designers to drop round and see me in action - working with recycled furniture, 're-loving' old pieces and giving them new life.

Like any place, it may have its downsides and some old parts of the town may seem tired. But there's a magic about this town and things are really happening here - and I'm not just talking Tracey Emin's grand gallery projects. It's a great place to be young, to be yourself, to be inspired and, if you're in business, share that inspiration with people from London and beyond. And, to be honest, you don't need to move away to discover it either - it's right here every time you get up in the morning!

See some of Zoe's recycled work - www.zoemurphy.com