In Conversation with Beata Szabo

Championing Italian Mid-Century Design in London

As the Autumn Battersea Decorative Fair approaches, we interviewed Beata Szabo, the visionary founder of London’s Living in Style Gallery, to discuss her passion for Italian mid-century design, her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, and her thoughts on timeless style and sustainability in furniture today.

Why is it important for Living in Style Gallery to participate in this year’s Autumn Battersea Decorative Fair?
“The Decorative Fair is one of the most prestigious events in London. We participate to educate people about the amazing Italian mid-century design and to spread the word. It’s also an opportunity to meet new designers and new customers,” Beata
explains. “We always enjoy creating a stunning mid-century interior at the fair to inspire visitors — whether they are seasoned collectors, designers, or enthusiasts looking to learn more.”

The Battersea Decorative Fair is a landmark event attracting design lovers and buyers from across the UK, showcasing a broad range of antiques, decorative arts, and design pieces.

Are there particular pieces you’re excited to showcase at the
exhibition?
“We’ll likely bring a modular sofa first introduced in the 1960s — an iconic mid- century piece. Also, a travertine console table, which has enjoyed waves of popularity since the 1970s and is very much back in fashion thanks to its understated, organic look. We’re also looking at including some Max Ingrand wall sconces — discreet, elegant lighting that complements mid-century interiors beautifully.”

Can you tell us about your background and how you came to open Living in Style Gallery?
“I studied at the Sorbonne in Paris, where I opened my first antique shop specialising in French Art Deco — which I fell in love with,” Beata recalls.

“Later, I moved to Budapest and opened a gallery there, which was very successful. For family reasons, I then relocated to the UK and started Living in Style Gallery six years ago, focusing this time on mid-century Italian design. I had travelled
extensively in Italy and became fascinated by this style, which has grown massively in popularity over the last decade.”

“In the past, antiques and Art Nouveau dominated the market, but fashion has shifted towards mid-century — less shiny, more organic and elegant. I believe the trend will gradually move toward the 1980s style next.” Living in Style Gallery now operates between London and Brussels, with over 3,000 pieces of furniture and lighting in its catalogue.

What makes Italian mid-century design unique in your eyes?
Beata reflects on the historical and cultural context: “After the war, there were two major mid-century movements — Scandinavian and Italian. Scandinavian design is rigid and pure, but Italian design celebrated liberation and joy after the fascist era. It was a time of la dolce vita — the sweetness of life — expressed not only in furniture but also in cinema, fashion and art.” “Italy has a long tradition of excellence in design, from the Renaissance through Baroque eras, so Italian designers post-war had a rich heritage to draw from. They let their imagination fly and created truly timeless pieces.”

Which designers inspire you the most?
“I adore Carlo Nason, the iconic Murano glassmaker, and Carlo Scarpa, a genius furniture designer whose work combines artistry and function in remarkable ways,” says Beata.

How have you seen the vintage furniture and interiors scene evolve over the last 25 years?
“Mid-century has moved beyond a fashion trend — it’s a lifestyle choice. People now mix periods with care and taste: an 18th-century tapestry next to a 1940s chest and mid-century armchairs, for example,” Beata explains. “The market has matured, and there’s a greater appreciation for authentic craftsmanship and materials.”

How do you see the balance between sustainability and luxury playing out in furniture today?
“Sustainability is very important nowadays,” she says. “Mid-century design marries luxury and sustainability perfectly: untreated wood, no lacquer or stain, natural stones like travertine, and upholstery in linen, bouclé, wool — all very organic and environmentally considerate.”

What are your projects moving forward?
“We’re curious to see how business evolves. More is done online, but there’s still something special about meeting people, touching fabrics and discussing pieces face-to-face — which is why events like the Battersea Fair remain essential,” Beata
notes. The gallery is also expanding its online presence with an Instagram Shop to blend
digital and in-person experiences seamlessly.

What does “timeless design” mean to you in today’s fast-moving
world?
“An amazing design always stays amazing. As Coco Chanel said, fashion changes but style endures. I am very personal in my buying: I tend to choose what I truly love and enjoy putting those pieces into interiors with attention to colour, materials and detail,” Beata shares.

Final thoughts?
“Mid-century Italian design captures joy, imagination and freedom — values that resonate deeply today. I’m honoured to help bring these beautiful pieces and their stories to a wider audience, whether in London, Brussels or at events like Battersea.”
Living in Style Gallery will present a curated selection of Italian mid-century design at the Autumn Battersea Decorative Fair this September.