Over the years, he became a key member of the Arts and Crafts movement in Britain, associating with the likes of Ernest Gimson and the Barnsley brothers. He also worked with industry, in particular Russian furniture factories, where he developed a more industrial approach to furniture design.
Russell was involved in the formation of the Birmingham School of Design and also worked as a consultant for the British Industrial Design Council. In 1953, he was made a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services to design.
His work is characterized by attention to detail, elegant simplicity and high quality craftsmanship. His creations, which include furniture, jewelry and metal objects, have been featured in exhibitions and museums around the world, including London's Victoria and Albert Museum.