30 Years of Success: Liese Brandt and Richard Hunt Reflect on RHA’s Journey from Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
In celebration of RHA’s 30th anniversary, we had the pleasure of speaking with Liese Brandt, the company’s Managing Director, who continues the legacy of her father, Richard Hunt, the founder of RHA.
In our conversation Liese shares insights into the origins of RHA, from its first contracts with McDonalds to becoming a key player in the hospitality design sector. She also reflects on pivotal milestones, including collaborations with high-profile clients like Gordon Ramsay and Hilton Hotels, and discusses how RHA has navigated industry changes while maintaining a focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation.
Additionally, we had the opportunity to ask Richard a couple of questions, where he shares his motivations for starting RHA and some of the most fulfilling moments from his extensive career in the furniture industry.
Liese Brandt, Managing Director of RHA Furniture Ltd
Liese, to start, can you tell us about the original launch of RHA? What were the circumstances and vision that led to the creation of the company by your father?
Richard and Caroline started RHA in 1992, working from a coffee table in their rented flat in Surrey. Richard, my father, brought extensive experience from his time at Maple and Co and his role as Export Director at Hille and Co. By 1994, they formalised their business, registering it as a limited company. Their big break came when designer friends introduced them to the rapidly expanding McDonald’s chain. As McDonald’s grew quickly across the UK, RHA began supplying their furniture needs, which eventually led to manufacturing chairs and tables in Yorkshire and later in Italy. This year, as we celebrate 30 years since the company’s official registration, we reflect on the remarkable journey from those early days.
Richard Hunt and Caroline Duperon-Hunt Founded RHA in 1992
RHA is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Can you share some of the key milestones that have defined the company’s journey over the past three decades?
RHA’s journey over the years has been marked by several key milestones. Richard and Caroline began by securing their first showroom on Kew Road and landing a major contract with Twickenham RFU. They then expanded their Richmond showroom threefold and ventured into retail sales, operating seven days a week. As RHA evolved, they shifted focus from fast-food furniture to collaborating with high-profile names like Gordon Ramsay, Marco Pierre White, and Hilton Hotels. Exports, especially with Hilton in Europe, became crucial to their growth.
In-house furniture designers were brought on board, leading to involvement in high-profile projects such as the G8 summit at Gleneagles and work at 10 Downing Street. Custom furniture design became a significant aspect of their business, culminating in 2010 with a bespoke furniture collection created for REGUS. This collection was prototyped in their new business lounges in Copertino, California, and Hong Kong. RHA secured a three-year contract to supply this furniture across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, achieving notable success during this period.
The current RHA team
How has the contract furniture and custom joinery industry evolved since RHA’s inception, how have you navigated these changes?
Since its inception, RHA has adeptly adapted to changes in design trends, technology, and global markets. By staying attuned to client preferences and evolving supply chains, Richard and Caroline have ensured RHA’s success for 30 years. This adaptability has allowed RHA to maintain its relevance and thrive in a dynamic industry.
RHA first showroom, Kew Road, London
As the Managing Director, you have continued the legacy started by your Father, Richard Hunt. How has the transition in leadership within the family impacted the company’s direction and vision?
The transition has been smooth, with my father gradually handing over the reins. From a young age, I was immersed in the industry, spending holidays at work with him, organising furniture catalogues and fabric swatches, and attending trade shows like Designer Saturday. My aim is to preserve RHA’s core values and reputation while expanding our services and capabilities to reach more designers and hoteliers. Although change is inevitable, I am committed to modernising RHA and ensuring it stays relevant for the next generation of designers.
RHA first showroom, Kew Road, London
Can you walk us through your product portfolio and your design and development process?
Our product portfolio is one of the most extensive available to interior designers, offering a valuable resource for various sectors within the hospitality and leisure industries. We represent numerous European and UK contract furniture manufacturers with whom we’ve developed strong relationships over the years. Our bespoke service, covering both loose joinery and upholstery, involves a meticulous process from initial discussions and design drawings to wood finish samples and final completion. RHA is renowned for its craftsmanship and quality, consistently delivering high standards at contract prices.
G8 Summit, Gleneagles 2005
RHA has an impressive portfolio, including work for Gordon Ramsay, Buckingham Palace, and the G8 Summit at Gleneagles. What project or client do you feel has been the most challenging and rewarding for the company?
Looking back, the project I find both the most challenging and rewarding was our work with the Hilton Hotel design team and Rethink Interiors in 2012. We had the responsibility of furnishing 16 guest suites, 110 bedrooms, and various public areas, including the spa, golf club, restaurant, and bars.
The scale of the project was immense, and it required meticulous planning and execution. I’m particularly proud of how the furniture has stood the test of time. Each visit to the hotel confirms that our furniture still look stunning and contribute to the hotel’s continued success and its yearly accolades. Highlights include the reception desk, which features local marble, a hand-stitched embroidered front, and American walnut details, creating a striking first impression. The cocktail bar, designed to fold shut and lock without moving the contents, was inspired by the sophistication of a Louis Vuitton trunk. Additionally, the walnut tabletops in the restaurant, adorned with stainless steel inlays of the hotel’s logo, and the deep-buttoned leather banquettes, embody a sense of luxury and refinement that has been well-received.
George W Bush and Gordon Brown at 10 Downing Street, 2008
In today’s market, sustainability and innovation are crucial. How is RHA incorporating these elements into its business practices and product offerings?
We collaborate exclusively with reputable European manufacturers from Italy, Portugal, and Spain, most of whom we have partnered with for many years and have personally visited to see their facilities. These manufacturers operate sustainable factories and are continuously enhancing their processes and recycling methods. For instance, one of our partners now uses the leftover juice from crushed grapes to stain their chairs, eliminating the need for chemical wood stains.
Conrad Hilton Algarve
With projects across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, how has RHA managed to maintain quality and consistency while expanding its global footprint?
We meticulously oversee all our projects, regardless of location. Our sister company, RHA Furniture EU, has been crucial in managing our European projects. With the EU team on-site, we have ensured effective oversight of site visits and factory operations across Europe. Notably, we have completed projects for Hilton Bucharest, Sheraton Amsterdam, Hoxton Barcelona, and Hard Rock Dublin. This setup facilitates smoother business operations for both our clients and us. Meanwhile, our London-based sales and enquiries team remains dedicated to managing all project inquiries and operations for the EU and UK.
Conrad Hilton Algarve
What emerging trends in design and furniture manufacturing do you believe will shape the future of the industry, and how is RHA preparing to adapt to these changes?
As designers increasingly depend on online resources for selection and inspiration, RHA must be able to respond quickly to their needs. This demands a thorough knowledge of global furniture trends and offerings. To stay competitive, RHA is expanding our expertise and understanding of furniture from around the world to better meet the evolving demands of designers.
Conrad Hilton Algarve
As someone who has successfully led a family business into its third generation, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs in the design and furniture industry?
To remain true to your values and build on your strengths, it’s crucial to stay authentic and passionate in this close-knit industry where reputations are long remembered. Always be honest and genuine, and let your passion for the work shine through.
Richard Hunt, RHA Founder
As we celebrate RHA’s 30th anniversary, we took a moment to hear from Richard Hunt, the founder of RHA, who reflected on the early challenges and motivations that led to the company’s creation. Richard also shared some of the most joyful and fulfilling moments from his distinguished career in the furniture and design industry, offering a glimpse into the experiences that have shaped RHA’s enduring success.
Richard, what motivated you to launch RHA after your extensive experience in the furniture industry, and what were some of the challenges you faced during the initial stages of establishing the company?
After years of experience in the furniture industry, I was motivated to launch RHA by the desire to create a company that truly met the needs of our clients with a personal touch. Initially, our focus was on finding the right furniture solutions and working tirelessly to establish the business. We faced several challenges in those early days, including securing reliable suppliers and building a strong client base. As we gained traction and achieved early successes, Caroline and I were able to shift our focus to the future. We decided to elevate RHA by targeting high-end design houses and renowned chefs, aiming to position ourselves in the premium market and expand our reach.
Barack Obama at 10 Downing Street for G20 talks with Gordon Brown
Reflecting on your long and successful career, what have been some of the most joyful and fulfilling moments for you personally within the furniture and design industry?
Reflecting on my long and successful career in the furniture and design industry, several moments have been particularly joyful and fulfilling. One standout experience was the comprehensive furnishing of the Conrad Hilton Algarve. Seeing the impact of our work, from the intricately designed reception desk to the innovative cocktail bar and knowing that the hotel has garnered prestigious awards for over a decade, has been immensely rewarding. Collaborating with high-profile clients like Gordon Ramsay and Buckingham Palace also stands out, as these bespoke projects allowed us to demonstrate our craftsmanship and commitment to excellence. The successful execution of high-profile projects such as the G8 Summit at Gleneagles further reinforced our ability to manage complex and prestigious assignments with precision.
Richard Hunt, Liese Brandt, and Ross James
Equally fulfilling is the legacy we are building at RHA, which will be passed on to my daughter Liese and my grandson Ross. Knowing that the values and reputation we’ve established will continue through the next generation brings a deep sense of satisfaction and continuity.
Find RHA Furniture Ltd on Supplier Finder
Supplier Finder is the UK’s only search platform for accredited suppliers of commercial interior furnishings.
At Supplier Finder, our mission is simple: to help you find the perfect commercial furnishing suppliers for your interior schemes and projects. We understand the importance of having confidence in the suppliers you specify and the products that bring your designs to life. That’s why each supplier featured on our platform is accredited through Commercial Interiors UK’s rigorous membership application process. This ensures that you engage with only the best in the industry!