LEVANTE LIFESTYLE

INTERIORS - NEW SEASON, NEW TRENDS

By Susan Spencer

We are constantly influenced by trends. Sometimes it is so subtle we don’t even know it’s happening. In recent, uncertain times, we were encouraged by paint companies to buy soothing shades of pale greens and blues.

At other times it is obvious - a celebrity wears bright colours to a premiere, and before you know it the same shades are filtered down to our home furnishings.

This is exactly what is happening this coming season with Modern Monochrome. Black and white is back big time in high street fashion clothing, and home furnishings are reflecting the trend.

The passion for black and white is growing, with a more grown-up feel. Shapely patterns with swirling designs are combined with plain pieces to bring balance. The black is glossy in accessories: Casa has some fabby black glass chandeliers that can add that real wow factor!

If you like the idea of monochrome, but prefer a touch of colour, add a shock of scarlet; not too much, just one or two pieces. If this look is too severe for you, charcoal grey and cream gives a similar effect, but much softer.

HIGHLIGHT COLOUR
The main colour trend this season is purple. Use it as a highlight colour to your existing scheme. It is ultra chic this time around, not 70s! Looks great added to a neutral room in creams and whites.

For drama add purple to charcoal grey and stone colours. A more feminine look is achieved by adding a few pieces of purple to a pink room.

If purple is for you, add a few cushions, ceramics and art, possibly paint one wall, and you are immediately in fashion!

My prediction is purple will be huge for Christmas decorations. Looks great with gold or silver sparklies.

If you tend to lean towards bolder colour, here in Spain lime green is everywhere. A small amount looks stunning with chocolate browns and cream. Mix with turquoise for an extremely cool look.

STYLE
Another trend emerging for autumn is the style of antique French chic. Go for the French style with Marie Antoinette opulence, satins and silks, flowers and frills. Create your own Versailles ambience with a Louis chair and a chaise longue or day bed. Very girlie!

The big trend in fashion circles are homeware items by designers like John Rocha and Kelly Hoppen, anything handcrafted and original art. The more unique the piece the better, as you will have the only one! Very trendy.

Finishing touches are about the final pieces you add to a room to stamp your personality on your home and add interest to your existing pieces. Art, sculpture, accessories and fab lighting all make your home individual.

Don’t get into the copycat culture. Use the trends to give you inspiration and develop your own scheme. You are unique and have your own unique ideas. You just need a bit of inspiration and help to bring them out.

Don’t keep up with the Jones, have the Jones keeping up with you! Most of all, have fun planning and designing your own unique space.