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New Lighting trends

As the night’s are drawing in, it seems a perfect time to focus on the work of some innovative lighting designers.

I was able to take a personal look at some of their work, and trends to look out for, at the ICFF contemporary design showcase event earlier this year.

This combination of walnut sits well with the unique excavation technique employed by New York based In.Sek. Designer Ashira Isreal adds quartz crystal to specially blended concrete, creating a torn window effect for the shade, which in turn casts a sprialing light and soft glow across any space.

In Sek Design, New York, Excavation Dune Pendant
In.Sek Design, New York, Excavation Dune Pendant

Created from painted stainless steel mesh, the apparent simplicity of these Arturo Alvarez designed lamps belies their delicate crafting. Fine pleats form two overlapped layers creating two different lamps full of dynamism – two lively shapes born from one, creating the same movement yet at a different tempo.

Tempo Vivace pendant lamps designed by Arturo Alvarez

I particularly like how Iranian-born designer Ali Siavoshi works with everyday objects, transforming them into light fixtures, whilst injecting a sense of humour into these stylish and innovative displays.

Ali Siavoshi lamps on display at ICFF 2016 New York
Ali Siavoshi lamps on display at ICFF 2016 New York

Another designer who creates extraordinary pieces of art and lighting from ordinary “up-cycled” everyday glass bottles, is Altanta based Kathleen Plate. Her innovative techniques and sophisticated designs sit well within contemporary and stylish restaurant and hotel groups.

Smart Glass Art (SGA) custom chandelier designed by Kathleen Plate
Smart Glass Art (SGA) custom chandelier designed by Kathleen Plate

Zac Ridgely is a trained artist who uses his talent in the medium of light, son of a famed Canadian architect he quickly learned how to navigate his way through architectural drawings. The CRISS-CROSS series was created from a genuine desire to blend art with lighting, and this sculptural piece of cut steel rod is carefully arranged and welded in a seemingly random pattern.

Zac Ridgely's Criss Cross wallsconce

Zac Ridgely’s Criss Cross wallsconce

I hope these inspirational creations will give you some ideas for transforming your living or working spaces.

Moody Monday offers a bespoke design service to complement any projects you might be considering, and I’d be happy to discuss these further, Eliza.

Sources: www.insekdesign.com

www.arturo-alvarez.com

www.alialiali.com

www.sdgconstructiontechnology.com

www.kathleenplate.com

www.ridgelystudioworks.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Spirit of Summer Fair starts tomorrow

From 22 – 26 June 2016, a special design event will be taking place at Olympia in London. For four full days, guests of the Spirit of Summer fair will be invited to feast their eyes on product collections from over 450 independent designers and boutiques ranging from fashion, gifts, artisan food and drink.

Organised in association with House and Garden, the House fair which is wholly dedicated to the home will be on too. With over 100 prestigious interiors brands cutting across furniture, lighting, soft furnishings, wall coverings, you’ll have so much design choices on offer.

Spirit of Summer fair Olympia

If you could do with new ideas and inspiration for all the rooms in your home, then this is the event for you. Quality British design will not only be in abundance but showing you how to enhance your interior space with beautiful products and furnishings is of utmost importance to the organisers.

Event highlights will include ‘Decorated spaces’ by interior designs, Joanna Plant Interiors and Salvesen Graham. Another unique feature will be three styled rooms sets designed by three prolific interior bloggers. The bloggers involved include Martyn White, from Martyn White Designs, Grant from Interior Style Hunter and Gabriella Palumbo from Flat15.

So whether you’re looking to revamp your home or redo a new client project and are looking for some inspiration, look no further. It comes round once a year, you don’t want to miss it. Enjoy the spirit of summer.

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The Timeless Appeal of Mid-century Patterns


Chances are you would have come across mid-century patterns if you’re into interior design. Very popular in the 50s and 60s, minimalism and simple repetition ruled with this trend.

Even today, they’re still very much in vogue. You can understand the appeal for these designs. They’re striking, geometric, reminiscent of things we can all relate with and at times nostalgic. Nowadays, it is more common to find people seeking interesting modern interpretations.

What’s not to like about the sheer simplicity in the patterns used? The bold contrasting colours are a staple which means they’re nothing but bold and beautiful. A perfect match for anyone who likes full on colour.

One very popular design is the Dandelion clocks pattern which was designed by Fiona Howard for Sanderson in 2008.

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Dandelion clocks, Fiona Howard

Going down memory lane, a textile designer well known in her days for brilliant designs was Lucienne Day. The ‘Calyx’ which she designed for Heal’s in 1951 was the fabric that brought her fame.

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Calyx, Lucienne Day

Orla Kiely is another lady whose name rings a bell when it comes to mid century patterns. Her designs are literally on everything.

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Multi Stem wallpaper, Orla Kiely

Even some designs like this Aquila wallpaper design in our Stellar collection have been said to have mid-century feel to them too albeit a modern take. We sure didn’t see that coming but we’re more than happy to take the compliment.

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Aquila wallpaper, Moody Monday

With applications on wallpaper, fabric, wall art and even custom headboards, you’ll agree that these designs are very versatile. Inspired? Why not look to infuse this into your home?

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How to use Emerald Green in Interior Design

Colour has a way of creating a certain mood. With many shades and tones to choose from, green is versatile and ideal for creating an energetic interior. Seen vastly in nature, it has a way of rejuvenating a space and evoking a sense of peace and harmony.

If you’re looking for a colour which communicates elegance and luxury, a rich emerald green is perfect. To celebrate St Patrick’s Day, we’ll take a look at a few rooms for inspiration.

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The beauty of using emerald green is the way it works so well with other colours. Here the jewel toned wall colour and armchair are paired with Dixon’s gold pendants. Introducing natural materials in brown is the perfect addition to warm up this earthy scheme.

Source: Dwell

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When combined with other neutral colours like grey, emerald green creates a sophisticated environment. I like how the plants and furniture add subtle yet classy pops of colour to the overall look.

Source: Casa Vogue

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This wild card showcases a luxurious green feature piece juxtaposed with interesting patterns to complement. The natural theme continues with the accessories well positioned on the shelf. If you like to mix patterns, why not go all out?

Source: Arts and Classy

Like the look of emerald green? How can you inject this beautiful colour into your decorating this spring? Let us know.

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Design of the week: Colourful studio by Masquespacio

It’s always a great feeling when we find inspiring colourful interiors. This office studio by Masquespacio has quickly become the highlight of our day. We won’t list all our favourite things about this design but we’ll share those that resonate with us most with you.

Colour is good and lots of it

For those of you who love colour, this design will appeal to you. Vivid colours in cheerful hues give the space a playful feel. Using these types of colours in working environments must be a good thing for creativity. Even pineapples manage to play a part. How clever is that?

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Trendy furniture makes a powerful statement

This was the first time we’ve come across the Toadstool collection. They are very impressive, don’t you think? Designed by Masquespacio, their debut furniture collection which launched in January 2016 is characterised by colourful fabrics and rounded shapes. Luxurious with extra glam factor, swooning over them is surely an understatement.

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You can never have too many plants

Perfectly perched at prime positions, the lush plants add that extra layer of texture and freshness. They’re literally in every corner around the studio. It makes us want to rush to the garden centre to fill our Moody Monday studio up.

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There is design inspiration everywhere. What has inspired you this week? Let us know.

Full story via Dezeen. Photography by Bruno Almela.

Related articles

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Japanese Interior Design inspiration

The Japanese are well known for incorporating rich cultural traditions into contemporary spaces. Simple lines and muted colours typically characterise their interior design.

Today on the blog, we share two Japanese interior designs which caught our eye. There are some key design elements in the designs to give particular attention to.

Introduce outdoor elements with natural materials and greenery

Low seating with the addition of large floor cushions creates an authentic Japanese feel in this restaurant. It also incorporates furniture made from natural materials which is popular in Japanese interior design. Wood, bamboo, silk are common for creating harmony and bringing in nature. You can’t go wrong with indoor plants too.

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Japanese interior design embraces the use of soft lighting. Light is concealed if possible or dimmed. This restaurant design uses lighting which is dimmed or seeps through. We like the use of ambient lighting and task lighting focused on the display of Japanese-style bowls.

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Another element of Japanese interior design is creating a sense of privacy even in an open plan space, Without doubt, most of us are familiar with the screens typically seen in traditional Japanese homes.

Say hello to minimalism for clean refreshing spaces

With the belief that all clutter is tossed aside in place of a simple life, Japanese interiors are usually simple and minimalist in nature.  It is refreshing to see how this Tokyo baby café uses this to its advantage.

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White minimalism is the key feature in the interior of the cafe. The simplicity of the design provides a tranquil environment. Designed by Japanese designer, Nendo, the café’s absolutely huge and absolutely tiny furnishings give both adults and kids two different perspectives.

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What elements of Japanese interior design could you infuse into your interior space?

Sources

Retail Design Blog

Design Boom

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New Season Alert: Find your Spring Style

It’s March 1. With a spring in our steps, we bring you style inspiration for the new season.

Without doubt, spring has to be one of our favourite seasons. Days are getting brighter and we have stepped nicely into the month of March. New colours, textures and patterns in the stores show it’s out with the old and in with the new. You might still hold on to your blankets and cosy fluffy robes for a little longer. Give it a few more weeks and the decor swap can begin. From simple pastels to refined neutrals, find inspiration for your spring style in our round up.

Stay trendy with soft pastels

Pastels are probably the most common colours used in springtime. They are the go-to favourites for updating many a décor. We can’t talk of them without mentioning the Pantone colours of the year. Why not incorporate rose quartz and serenity into your home? A good idea is to dress up dining chairs with fabric in these gorgeous hues. Last week, we shared ways to decorate with rose quartz

spring style_soft pastels

Image sources: Binti home blog | Decoholic | Telegraph

Make a statement with bold hues

Don’t be shy to go for an eye-popping colourful look. Go for bright colours like orange, red and magenta for your throws, vases and cushions. A popular combination this season is indigo blue and yellow. Be sure to choose colourful designs like the Aztec Rug in this living room.

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Image source: Barker and Stonehouse

Classic style with refined neutrals

Not everyone likes lots of colour so neutrals have a special attraction. Be careful though. Neutrals all over can look boring, so create character with patterned textures. The stylish combination of whites and browns has a sophisticated feel for this season with interesting textures and striking patterns.

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Image source: Decorsalteado

Whatever you do, welcome the fresh feeling of the great outdoors with flowers to amp up your spring style. Enjoy the abundance of pretty colours we get at this time of year.

Which of these three is your preferred style? We would love to know how you decorate this spring.

Related Articles

5 Swoon Worthy Designer Chairs for your spring style

Patterns in Interiors

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Decorating with Pantone Colour of the year 2016

If you have a keen interest in interior design, you would have seen the Pantone Colour of the year. It was announced last year. For the first time in Pantone’s history, the team decided on two colours – Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue. What a luxury. Instead of popularising one colour, they chose to present them as a combination.

These colours are reminiscent of baby gender reveal parties popular these days. They are soft and very easy on the eye. When paired together, they bring a sense of soothing freshness to an interior space.

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According to Pantone, “Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times.”

Today’s feature looks at one half of this beautiful Pantone colour duo – Rose Quartz.

Finding the right colours to allow this soft pink colour shine through is important. In today’s feature, we share two applications in a living room setting.

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For a bright and airy look, paint your walls in white or off-white. Pared back with minimal metallic accessories, the pink sofa pops is the centre of attention in this living room. The herringbone patterned flooring adds that extra touch of texture and interest to the room.

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For a look that is calm and sultry but isn’t too feminine, start off with darker walls. To add to the warm scheme, team with rich browns in the other furniture pieces and accessories. It is both simple and appealing.

If you’ve never decorated with this shade of pink before, this is your time to give it a try.

For more industry commentary on the Pantone Colour of the Year

Colour of the year 2016 – Pantone

The Painted History of Rose Quartz and Serenity – Huffington Post

How to decorate your home with Pantone’s Rose Quartz and Serenity – StyleCaster

Kitchens in Pantone’s Colours of the Year – The Kitchin

Image source: Style and Minimalism

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New Art themed Restaurant by Damien Hirst

Damien Hirst with some help from English chef Mark Hix has recently opened an art-themed restaurant in his new Newport Street Gallery in Vauxhall, London.

“Pharmacy 2 combines two of my greatest passions: art and food,” says Hirst of the new project.

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As he did with the previous restaurant, he has fully expressed his love for pharmaceuticals in the design of the restaurant space. The design oozes his reputable creativity and attention to detail.

The multi-millionaire artist, Hirst’s art work decorates the interior walls of the restaurant. The rear wall also houses a large medicine cabinet with real items.

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Large glass stained windows draw the eye in with a colour explosion of red and blue. We like how skilfully the pill motifs are used throughout.  The bar area, the floors, the chairs enjoy a bit of medicinal therapy. A great example of thoughtful design which is not clinical but uniquely tasteful.

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His aim to revive the original Notting Hill restaurant, Pharmacy is incredibly commendable.

Story via Dezeen

Photography: Pudence Cuming Associates

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Easy ways to add texture to your decor

There’s just something about the colder months that makes us want to hibernate at home for months. We don’t have that luxury and need to get out and about to make a living. The least we can do is to make our homes as cosy as possible for those anticipated relaxing days. Adding texture in your décor is one way of doing it. We share three useful tips to get you motivated. They’re super simple.

Create an organic look

It is startling the difference plants and flowers can make to a living space. Perfect for a minimalist or cosy look, you can create a fresh, organic look in your home. Lush greenery teamed with woven textures is a natural combination bound to work. You can even go big and over-sized like this example here. Smaller plants are perfect accents for your coffee table or the top of a chest of drawers.

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Add textiles for an instant update

We can’t talk about texture without mentioning our trusted favourites. Cushions, blankets, throws make it so easy to instantly create texture in your décor. Whether it’s a fluffy cushion or a cosy blanket, you can amp the cosy factor. You can introduce them in any room to give a relaxed look. Neutral coloured textiles work very well with most decorating schemes. For those who want added visual interest in a neutral scheme, use textiles with attention-grabbing designs.

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Keep it simple with accessories  

Thanks to the myriad of options available to us, accessorising our homes is so much easier. Providing function and beauty at the same time, wake up your room with textured pieces. Woven storage baskets for your throws in the lounge or towels in the bathroom. Mug warmers in the kitchen. Distressed wooden candle holders, you name it. Accessories are a sure-fire way to inject much needed texture into your home like a professional.

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What will you do to add texture to your home this week? Share your ideas with us.

Image sources

The Everygirl

Brown Design Inc

The Ultralinx

Live Love in the Home

Keep

Nordic House

Funksjonelt