Lighting pendants are they breeding?

You may have noticed if you’re a fan of interiors magazines or pinterest that we seem to have become infected by multiple’s of pendants. Why is this? Clustering drop pendants works well and is not only stylish but a cost effective way of making a statement.  The great thing about it is that you are not restricted to a centralised chandelier and it can cover a wide area. If you also vary the heights of the pendants you can layer the light or highlight decorative features.

All images found here: http://www.pinterest.com/MiddletonDesign/lights/

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Wish I was here: Tuscan Villa Designed by Nicky Dobree

Whilst the summer is now upon us some of us may find the time to go overseas to warm our bones.  It will almost certainly be to a more consistent sunny outlook location that here in the UK.  The Reschio Estate in Umbria is home to Spinaltermine, a five bedroom private villa, designed by London-based interior designer Nicky Dobree for a client. At the end of its own 3-kilometer private drive, this beautiful retreat was in complete ruin when Dobree started on the project.

Images found here: http://nickydobree.com/portfolio/index.php

The Friday Following!

Pine makeover!

I can’t tell you the number of houses I have been in that have pine kitchen units. Whilst there is nothing inherently wrong with pine as a material it is often much maligned as it often “dates” a property. This Cottage in Fleet, Hampshire had an entirely pine kitchen that was given a dramatic renovation, which included knocking down a section to increase the available space. The number of units has been increased and a streamlined modern feel has been given with high shine units and sleek bar handles.  Whilst burgundy might not be your colour, it is a bold choice that emphasizes the modern feel. I might also have added a splash back behind the cooker…..

Images found here: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/3456595/list/24-Dramatic-Kitchen-Makeovers/

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What's Hot Wednesday!

Fabric Forecast for 2014

Its big business trend forecasting as it needs a little bit more science than crystal ball gazing to get it right. Interiors fabrics often take their cue from fashion although maybe lag ever so slightly behind. As we are now half way through 2014 it’s a good time to reflect on the fabric trends predicted for 2014 and see if they’ve hit the mark.

Florals – a big hit on the catwalk and it seems a huge hit in the home. Exquisite florals are a key look although there are certainly less chintzy and more “loose’ and billowy than we’ve seen in the past.

Botanicals - Leaf prints are a big botanical theme this year but simplicity is key. It’s a trend I was instantly caught on and has been splashed across the pages of many “shelter” magazines.

Ethnic inspiration – dreams of far-off places, a melting pot of world cultures but contemporary. It hasn’t caught on in quite the same way yet but watch this space.

Fashion Images from: Valentino, Stella Jean, John Lewis, Alice & Oliver,  Giambattista Valli

Fabric images from: Andrew Martin, Sanderson Home, Farrow & Ball, Bluebellgrey

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