With the Chelsea Flower Show on this week, we’re celebrating all thinggs fabulously floral. Eileen Leahy shows you how to introduce some pretty prints inspired by the great outdoors into your home
One�of the quickest ways you can instantly add some warmth and visual interest into a room scheme is with�a sprinkling of florals. A dash of dahlia prints here and a little hit of hydrangeas there will really help to lift an interior and also beautifully – and effortlessly – reflect the natural beauty of the outside, inside.
There is, however, a fine line between creating an ethereal magical floral effect and going overboard into twee territory.
To ensure you don’t stray down the proverbial garden path with this decorating trend try opting for a subtle smattering of prints instead.
Fabrics
The current look for 2018 homes in the know is for bright, bold designs in hot hues – think fuchsia, tangerine and zesty lime.
But if you’re not feeling that brave, then go for paler pastel shades with spriggy prints on soft furnishings. And if this is still too much to embrace, reflect the look via a picture or some accessories.
If you’re seeking initial inspiration, a great place to start is by looking at some of the key fabric specialists.
They include Sanderson, Colefax & Fowler, Designers Guild and Nina Campbell. They will all help you get a feel of what colours work together and what will complement your specific space.
As our main, Laura Ashley image shows, the high street also has�plenty to offer when it comes to offering a sizeable selection of fabrics that you – or a haberdasher – can fashion into drapes and cushion covers.�
Other places where you can buy by the metre and do it yourself include Dunelm and John Lewis.
If you simply want to pick something up in a shop and then hang or drape it somewhere, then places such as Marks & Spencer, Next and HomeSense are all carrying lots of blooming gorgeous pieces, including floral print crockery, bedding, faux foliage and pretty pictures that will immediately help you achieve the look.
Next it’s all about deciding on a theme. Peony and Sage
(www.peonyandsage.com) and Cabbages & Roses (www.cabbagesandroses.com) are great for elegant and vintage styles. And for something more contemporary, have a look at Vanessa Arbuthnott’s (www.vanessaarbuthnott.co.uk) collection.
To ensure you don’t create an overly fussy or feminine feel – especially important if you are looking to achieve this floral scheme in a sitting room that you share with someone who may not appreciate that – then introduce some neutrals via your lighting or furniture to keep things balanced.
And for the perfect finishing touch, treat your space – and your senses�- to a fresh bunch of flowers or two. After all, nothing quite makes a room look and feel homely like the real floral deal.�
