David Linley
David Linley – Life, Career, and Memorable Insights
David Linley (born November 3, 1961), son of Princess Margaret and furniture designer and entrepreneur, blends royal heritage with craftsmanship. Explore his life, Linley brand, and his influence in design.
Introduction
David Linley (full name David Albert Charles Armstrong-Jones), born November 3, 1961, is a notable figure at the intersection of British royalty, art, and design. While he is a member of the British royal family (the nephew of Queen Elizabeth II), he is perhaps best known for forging a distinctive path in the world of furniture making and interior design. Known professionally as David Linley, he has built a respected reputation for his craftsmanship, refined aesthetic, and ability to unite aristocratic heritage with creative enterprise.
Early Life and Family
David Armstrong-Jones was born at Clarence House, London, on November 3, 1961, to Princess Margaret (sister of Queen Elizabeth II) and Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon Viscount Linley, a courtesy title.
His maternal lineage gives him close connection to the British throne: through his mother, he is the grandson of King George VI and first cousin to King Charles III.
He has one full sister, Lady Sarah Chatto (née Armstrong-Jones).
When his father passed away in 2017, David succeeded as the 2nd Earl of Snowdon and dropped the courtesy title of Viscount Linley in formal contexts.
Education & Formation
David Linley’s education blended conventional schooling with craft training:
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In early childhood, he was taught alongside cousins at a Buckingham Palace schoolroom.
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He attended a series of preparatory and independent schools: Gibbs Pre-Preparatory (Kensington), Ashdown House, Millbrook House, and finally Bedales School, where his artistic sensibilities developed further.
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In 1980–82, he studied woodcraft and craftsmanship at Parnham House in Dorset, a school for furniture makers and restorer training.
This combination of royal exposure and hands-on craft training set the stage for his later career.
Career & Achievements
Founding LINLEY & Design Work
In 1985, David Linley founded his own workshop in Dorking, focusing on bespoke furniture, artistic cabinetry, inlaid woods, and interior accessories. LINLEY brand (sometimes styled in all caps), producing luxury furniture, upholstery, home accessories, and interior design services.
His designs are known for combining neoclassical influences, clean lines, and high craftsmanship, often using inlaid woods and refined detailing.
LINLEY’s products are retailed in select luxury venues (such as Belgravia, Harrods) and sold internationally.
At times, the business encountered financial challenges: in 2012, debt pressures led to the sale of controlling shares and David Linley losing full control of the company.
Role in Christie’s & Other Ventures
David Linley joined Christie’s (the renowned auction house) in 2005 as a non-executive director and in December 2006 became Chairman of Christie’s UK. honorary chairman for Christie's Europe, Middle East, Russia & India (EMERI) regions.
He has lectured internationally on design, craftsmanship, and furniture, speaking at museums and cultural institutions in the U.S. and Europe.
He also once co-founded (with his second cousin Patrick Lichfield) a restaurant called Deals in London.
Public & Royal Role
While his professional identity leans more on craftsmanship than ceremonial monarchy, he remains a visible royal figure:
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After his father’s death in 2017, he formally holds the title Earl of Snowdon.
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Nonetheless, he does not hold a seat in the House of Lords, because his hereditary peerage does not include a life peerage component after the reforms of 1999.
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In 2018, he considered standing in a by-election among hereditary peers for a crossbench seat in the Lords, but ultimately withdrew.
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In royal ceremonial duties, he has participated on occasion — for example, during the “Vigil of the Princes” in 2002 at the lying-in-state of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
Personality, Style & Influence
David Linley is often regarded as one of the more quietly influential royals who chose craft over title. He embodies a blend of aristocratic background and dedication to hands-on work in the design world.
His design philosophy is sometimes described as “less is more” — refining classical forms, removing embellishment to highlight materials and precision.
He also maintains a lifestyle that reflects both elegance and simplicity, with homes (in Provence, Gloucestershire, London) that mix artistic objects, family memories, and relaxed design sensibility.
In interviews and articles, his attitude often conveys humility toward craft and a desire not to rest on royal laurels but to earn respect through work.
Notable Quotes & Reflections
David Linley does not have a widely known catalogue of motto-like quotes, but certain reflections and remarks illustrate his mindset:
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On his career choice: He reportedly embraced the idea of working with his hands and creating tangible objects rather than relying solely on title or status (a motivation impressed upon him by his parents)
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On design ethos: LINLEY describes its approach as “fusing striking design with exemplary craftsmanship.”
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His mother (Princess Margaret) is said to have defended his career choice, reportedly telling the Prime Minister when asked why her son was becoming a cabinetmaker: “Christ was a carpenter.”
Because his public persona is more understated than many royals, his influence is often seen through his work and legacy rather than aphorisms.
Lessons & Legacy
From David Linley’s life and path, several lessons and themes emerge:
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Embrace vocation over expectation. He chose a profession rooted in craft rather than relying solely on royal privilege.
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Craftsmanship can be a form of personal legacy. Rather than symbolic roles, his furniture and designs stand as physical testaments to skill and taste.
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Balance of heritage and independence. While respecting his royal lineage, he created a distinct identity in the design world.
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Resilience through challenges. The financial difficulties he faced with LINLEY show that success is not guaranteed—even for those with status—and perseverance matters.
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Quiet influence. Not all leadership is loud — influence can come through example, artistry, and commitment to excellence.
Conclusion
David Linley walks a sophisticated line between tradition and creativity. As a royal whose strongest claims to public attention stem not from ceremonial role but from craftsmanship, he offers a model of how one can honor heritage and still carve one’s own path. His brand, his design legacy, and his quiet approach to his public role demonstrate that dignity and work can intersect meaningfully.