Country Specific Interior Design
Go Continental – Using Holiday Inspiration
July 23, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
Travelling around Europe is a great opportunity to see some beautiful continental styles in homes and public interiors such as hotels. The continental style is quite varied when you go from country to country and you might find your preference in one period style of Italy, France or any other country you have visited of [...]
Broaden Your Horizons – Part 4 – Midsummer no Murder
June 24, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
Although Midsummer Day occurs near the summer solstice, or what we think of as the beginning of summer, to the farmer it is the midpoint of the growing season, halfway between planting and harvesting, and an occasion for celebration.
Although it’s also the feast day of St. John the Baptist, it features pagan traditions such as [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways – Part 7 – English Tea
April 4, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
As with many of the interior designs from different countries there is an eclectic mix of styles which are used pending on the age of the house and the occupants’ lifestyles.
Traditional English is usually seen as the quintessential country rose cottage with tea and scones being served on pretty bone china plates and whist this [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways – Part 6 – American Pie
April 3, 2010 by Helen Green · 1 Comment
The styles of interior designs in America are as diverse as the country itself. With each state having its own distinctive style which represents the climate. Therefore, if you want an American interior the first thing you’ll have do is decide which style to go for!
The southern beach look, the New York loft apartment look, [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways – Part 5 – Mexican
April 2, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
Mexican interiors are all about colour based on earth tones as the backdrop against vibrant colours such as yellow, indigo, orange and crimson. If you want to create a Mexican themed interior you can’t be afraid of colour, rather like hot chillies you select the reddest and hottest and accept the consequences!
Bright, bold patterns are [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways – Part 4 – Japanese
April 1, 2010 by Helen Green · 1 Comment
The trend for Japanese Sushi take a-ways is growing in popularity along with Japanese themed interiors. Reflecting clean lines and a minimalist approach this style is ideal for modern and contemporary homes.
As with all interior design styles it’s possible to bring the look into your home by adopting a few simple design principles. Above all [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways – Part 3 – Italian
March 31, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
Think of Italy and immediately Pizza and gelato (delicious Italian ice-cream) spring to mind! The Italians are renowned for their stylish interiors and for being leaders in contemporary designs styles along with continuing with traditions which are decadent and opulent.
From more traditional Italian interior design styles you need to think along the lines of refinement [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways – Part 2 – Chinese
March 30, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
Chinese interior styles are influenced by ancient Chinese traditions, philosophy and arts. Colour schemes are bold, traditional styles include red due to its associations with philosophical and nationalistic overtones. Beautifully carved furniture and gloss or lacquered finishes are seen, along with patterns which include dragons and other mythical scenes.
Colourful pottery, paintings and folding screens are [...]
Design Style Take A-Ways Part 1 – Indian
March 29, 2010 by Helen Green · 1 Comment
To achieve the look of traditional India you need to be thinking along the lines of rich warm colours, spicy shades and jewelled tones.
Intricate patterns are fundamental, these can be shown in fabrics and curtains, luxury bedding and fret work. Be bold with pattern and strong colours, mix red, orange,lime, yellow and purple in one [...]
Global Influences – Part 7 – Quintessentially English
February 21, 2010 by Helen Green · Leave a Comment
Throughout this mini series we have looked at the different global influences from around. the world. The common denominator with them all is the use of earthy colours and colours inspired by natural flora and fauna from particular countries and creating a quintessentially English interiors remains true to these factors.
English country cottages are themed around [...]
