A Dunnington-based independent business, 100 per cent owner-operated and managed, is hoping for recognition in The Press Awards 2013 in the Small Business Of The Year and the Retailer Of The Year categories.

Director Steven Whitt, is proud that Art From The Start, founded in 2006, has seen turnover increase each successive year despite the constraints of the recent economic recession.

He said: “We began as an interior design consultancy then, a year later, a shop was acquired to diversify and grow the business. The retail outlet, Fabric Gallery & Interiors, is situated in Dunnington, chosen for its ease of access from across Yorkshire, offering fabric, wallpaper, paint, curtains, soft furnishings and accessories.”

After six months Fabric Gallery & Interiors moved to larger premises in Dunnington, and has been developed as a destination for customers within an hour of York.

In 2010, Art From The Start saw further expansion, with a new online business created to supply bespoke upholstered occasional chairs to a wider client base. The Occasional Chair Gallery now sells bespoke furniture across the UK from its York headquarters.

Steven said: “Although Art From The Start has used the Internet extensively with three separate websites, two Facebook pages and Twitter supporting its activities, the business exists and thrives because of human interaction.

“Hands-on management by the two directors, total commitment from our retail staff and our network of reliable and trusted curtain fitters, upholsterers, decorators and joiners means Art from the Start offers exceptional service.”

And Steven still has ambitions for the business.

He adds: “Growth has been a central driver behind the business and many opportunities still exist for distance selling across the UK.

“Since 2007 the business has exported goods to consumers across the world and that offers room for expansion especially as the European and American economies recover.”