Our Story

We regularly collaborate with well-known artists including Sophie Matisse, Mr. Doodle, Inkie and Thierry Noir on our contemporary and playful games. Our critically acclaimed Chess, Backgammon, Checkers, Playing Cards and Darts contrast traditional shapes with street art, contemporary illustration and modern interior design influences.

Our direct and private-label clients include Harrods, Bergdorf Goodman, renowned property developers, a Royal Family, rap artists, film producers and professional sports players. Our works have been exhibited at Christie’s London, Saatchi Gallery and the World Chess Hall of Fame, St. Louis MO, USA.

Purling London painted pieces exhibition at the World Chess Hall of Fame — **Purling London solo-exhibition at the World Chess Hall of Fame, USA**

“Our goal is to revitalise time-honoured games, mixing established forms with contemporary art and design influences. We aim to create new playful experiences, fresh family interactions, and customer surprise and delight! We aspire to bring back chess, darts and classic games as fashionable and innovative interior design accessories and gifts; embodying precision, history and luxury.”

Simon Purkis, Founder

Purling London was established in 2012 by Simon Purkis:

“I was playing chess on a beach against an old school friend of mine. As the sun set over the sea, it became more and more difficult to differentiate between the chess pieces. This gave me the idea of an illuminated chess board. I also questioned why so many Staunton chess sets are brown-varnished wood. I wanted to re-vamp the iconic design in collaboration with talented artists and introduce colour to complement modern interior designs.

We applied the same philosophy of traditional forms and contemporary colour to Playing Cards, Backgammon, Checkers, Darts and more.”

Purling London now supplies a wide range of classic games to many international luxury stores and well-known interior designers. We were selected by Europe’s largest design show, Maison & Objet Paris as a ‘Future Trend’. We have collaborated with over 30 contemporary artists on bespoke games and regularly ship to all corners of the world.

“I hope you enjoy our playful products!“

Simon Purkis, Founder