The son of Princess Margaret (“My mother has always been a very big influence—taking us to galleries and museums”), and photographer Lord Snowdon (“My father has always been a creative force”) and grandson of the late Queen Mother (“My grandmother had a very artistic temperament”), David, Viscount Linley, almost seemed destined to end up a bridge between the worlds of vintage and contemporary design. In 1985, he founded the eponymous fine furniture–making company that’s since become known for its artist-designed works and exceptional woodworking. For the second consecutive year, Linley—who recently was named chair of Christie’s London—will display his works at Grosvenor House Arts & Antiques Fair (June 14–20).

DID GROWING UP IN KENSINGTON PALACE’S APT. 1A INFLUENCE YOUR AESTHETIC?

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I was raised in a very interesting time, ’60s and ’70s London. Everyone was throwing out the old. I actually lived in a home that was very modern. My mother, of course, still had all the classical things that she inherited, but we weren’t stuck in the 18th century, surrounded by golden chairs. I could always walk into my father’s study, which was completely contemporary—all black and white and red.

HOW DID YOU END UP A CABINETMAKER?

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I found myself obsessed with marquetry techniques and beautiful pieces that were also engineered for functionality. I trained under John Makepeace—I still collect his work. I also had a wonderful opportunity to work with Wendell Castle.