Celebrity interior designer Julia Kendell to cut the ribbon on new Thames Hospice Superstore in Reading

Thames Hospice is delighted to announce Julia Kendell will formally open Thames Hospice’s first ever Superstore. The grand opening will take place at the Superstore on Richfield Avenue in Reading on 17 October at 11am.

With 30 years’ experience in renovation, refurbishment and interior design, Julia specialises in property remodelling and interior transformations. She is best known as a regular guest interior designer on the BBC1’s hugely popular DIY SOS, having taken part in eight series as well as making regular contributions to GMTV, This Morning, Live with Gabby, BBC Breakfast and the Alan Titchmarsh Show.

Julia Kendell explains, “Thames Hospice does much needed work for the local community and is a wonderful charity. I am delighted and honoured to be opening their new Superstore as they look to expand their range of shops and raise vital funds.”

With less than a month to go, the Hospice is now in the final stages of transforming the former Fun and Frolics building into a new, vibrant and emporium-like Superstore. It’s sustainable shopping on the grandest of scales, providing a complete shopper experience with something for the entire family.

Julie Rowley, Director of Retail at Thames Hospice, adds, “We are absolutely thrilled Julia has agreed to open our Superstore for us, particularly given her knowledge and passion for upcycling and renovation which is central to our Superstore ethos.

“Our Superstore will offer something for everyone and will be a key destination for the Reading community and beyond.

“Sustainability is at the heart of our 22 shops and our Superstore. Our creative hub will include a Repair Shed and an upcycling workshop where a team of crafty experts will be able to repair, recycle and give new life to the diversity of furniture, clothes and homeware donated to us.

“We shall also be hosting a series of events, workshops and demonstrations on a variety of topics as well as creating volunteering opportunities as we look to recruit 150 volunteers to flex their skills and learn new ones.

“We hope the community will choose to meet up with friends and family in our colourful café with ample free parking at the rear of the store.”

Thames Hospice Superstore opens on Thursday 17 October at 11am
16 Richfield Avenue, Reading RG1 8EQ