Luxury in interior design isn’t about exorbitant re-decorating and gilt-edged objets. The essence of luxury is comfort and elegance – which certainly doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Everyday luxury in the home can be achieved by carefully choosing key staples which will last.
Beautiful textiles are a clever way to create a sense of luxury. An old piece of furniture can be refreshed with a gorgeous throw or new upholstery. A hand-printed linen bedspread can turn a bedroom into a chic boudoir.
Australian textile design is thriving, with a plethora of emerging talent, as well as established favourites. Melbourne-based duo Bonnie and Neil have forged onto the international stage with their fresh take and vibrant use of colour. This ‘Abstract Splash’ floor cushion is 100% linen and is perfect for the Australian colour palette.
Another way to create luxury in a home is through tactile items such as tableware and bed linen. Based between Australia and Europe Shilo Englebrecht continues to cause a stir with her painting and textiles. Shilo laid bare her eclectic sources of inspiration and process at the 2017 Decor + Design show, where she was interviewed by Australian House & Garden editor Lisa Green as part of the AH&G International Seminar Series. Her range of napkins and bed linen is brought to life by conceptual swirls and licks of paint which are heavily influenced by nature. She has recently produced a series of stunning printed panels, which can be used as wall-hangings or bed throws.
Legendary Australian textiles company Warwick Fabrics continues to produce gorgeous designs which can entirely revitalise a piece of furniture or an interior. The family business was founded in 1966 by Tom Warwick. He is still Chairman, although day-to-day operations are run by sons Leighton and Cam. With offices in the UK, New Zealand, India, South Africa and the UAE, they are a leader in the field.
With a diverse range of fabrics, they can be used across for a huge range of purposes. We love their latest ‘Alchemy’ print. Upcycle an old chair or sofa using this floral upholstery and breathe new life into a room.
While Australia makes an impact on international design, we continue to be inspired by global icons of design. LA-based interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard is famous for his layered, luxurious interiors for clients including the Kardashians, Cher, Tommy Hilfiger and Eva Mendes (to name but a few). However, if you don’t have the budget to employ Martyn’s services, you can purchase from his stunning MLB Textiles range. Cover some cushions with this delightful ‘Mykonos’ print, throw them onto a white wicker chair and you’ll feel like you’re sailing through the Greek isles.
Martyn Lawrence Bullard will be headlining the 2018 AH&G International Seminar Series at Decor + Design. Subscribe now to be notified when tickets are available, as well as to receive updates on the rest of the line up. Don’t miss Australia’s No.1 Interior Event, July 19 – 22 at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre!