The English Home April 2022

Classic English decorating never goes out of style, but this season it is also in fashion. The return of timeless interiors reflects the mood of the moment as we crave uplifting, enduring and comfortable homes, and this new optimism is reflected in the industry’s latest collections. The new spring fabrics and wallpapers reference nature and travel in the historical tradition with elegant designs that draw upon archive prints and chintz updated in fresh, soft palettes and textures. Learn how versatile these new classics are and be inspired by our advice on how to use them to refresh interiors on page 72. The renowned interiors stylist Selina Lake has her own take on classic English style and in this issue offers insights on how to emphasize the best features of period homes…

SPOTLIGHT ON… Sunshine Design Duet English interiors icon Kit Kemp has collaborated with American design doyenne Annie Selke on a charming new collection of cushions, rugs, bedding and ottomans inspired by Barbados, New York and London – Kit’s favourite destinations. “I think we can all do with a good splash of British eccentricity and style,” says Kit, who is founder and creative director of Firmdale Hotels. “We’re known for adding character and style to interiors to make rooms look magical and sing. The opportunity to work with Annie Selke gives us a chance to create rug collections and lifestyle products for wherever in the world you live.” Dash & Albert founder Annie says: “This collection embodies the magic of Kit Kemp and the transformative spaces and experiences she creates.” Collection available from 7 March…

ABOUT FERN Drawn from Vanessa Arbuthnott’s captivation with nature during the spring of 2021, The Forest Collection comprises a plethora of fantastical fern forms. Initially experimenting with potato prints in her kitchen, Arbuthnott has created a block-print collection in a variety of scales and uplifting colours. Lampshades, Little Fern, Ochre; console skirt, Little Fern, Lichen and Simple Ticking Detail, Lichen; pouffe, Lattice Leaf, Ochre and Simple Ticking Detail, Lichen; cushion, Wild Fern, Ochre, all £59 a metre, Vanessa Arbuthnott TASK FOCUSED Bring light to the task in hand with versatile pendants in smart finishes from the new David Hunt Lighting SS22 collection which ranges from a selection of brass chandeliers to the more classic single wall lights, where sleek tradition meets contemporary twists. Buxton pendant, Brushed Chrome, £150, David Hunt Lighting COLOURS OF THE WORLD Each piece…

MIND THE GAP Given its impact on interiors, it is always surprising to find that the Transylvanian home furnishings brand Mind the Gap is only in its sixth year. Founders Stefan Ormenisan and Victor Serban, began by creating wallpapers and wall art before branching out into fabrics, furniture, lighting and accessories. Creators of ‘moods, stories and lifestyles’, the duo behind Mind the Gap are known for returning to their roots, with ranges inspired by their evocative homeland. A melting pot of people, cultures and religions, from Saxons and Hungarians to Gypsies and Jews, surrounded by mountains and forests, despite their lack of wealth the Transylvanian people would attach embroidered textiles to soften wooden furniture, and trimmed tasselled lamps to brighten the dark winter nights. This spring, look out for the Woodstock collection, encompassing…

For an effortless mood, mix classic cottage kitchen pieces with rustic designs and pretty patterns that will uplift the room. Blending styles keeps the scheme from feeling contrived and traditional pieces in soothing contemporary colours add freshness to characterful cottage features. Sourcing furnishings, lighting and practical essentials in wooden textures anchors the room with a befitting country connection. Layer this calming foundation with linens and fabrics in lively prints, such as checks and florals, alongside a sprinkling of brightly toned accessories. FEATURE SUZANNA LE GROVEPHOTOGRAPHS (DAYLESFORD) © NEIL WATSON;(OKA) © DAMIAN RUSSELL; (ANGIE LEWIN) © MIKE ELLIS…

Use the beautiful textures of natural materials to bring unexpected detail and tactile interest to the home. Team wood or stone in a rustic, original state with finely polished versions to add contrast. Opt for natural fibres such as sea grass and jute in accessories and furnishings including mirrors, footstools, or even an impressive four-poster bed. Natural materials give an earthy, grounding sense to a room and in the hands of skilled artisans, raw elements are elevated into chic objects of desire.…