Time was that it seemed like the whole of London was painted in Farrow and Ball’s famous shade of grey. Or a variation of it.
But if our recent trip to interior design exhibition, Decorex, is anything to go on, then things have taken a definite turn towards the dark side. Because charcoal is the way forward. And it’s incredibly versatile and looks absolutely stunning.
We saw it in paints (for walls and woods), papers and upholstery. And here as a backdrop to this fabulously understated four poster bed. As you can see, it can be set off to stunning effect with brass or copper fittings such as light switches, door furniture, lamps and ornamental metalwork. So much less chrome, which has ruled the roost for so long.
In terms of complementary colours, the possibilities are endless. Our favourites are lime green, aqua, pink and orange. But interestingly we also saw it paired with metalics. So, charcoal is the perfect foil for a powerful pop of colour. Whether in curtains, blinds, upholstery or cushions.
Top tip for using charcoal in the kitchen: charcoal kitchen cupboards can look stunning. Or simply paint the walls in this must have shade. And for a truly 21st century look, accessorise with brass or copper cupboard handles.
At Furnishings Studio, we’ve been passionate about soft furnishings since 1981. During that time we’ve worked with customers in homes and offices across London and the South East. We recognise that quality and bespoke soft furnishings are an investment and we use our expertise to help customers make informed choices so their window dressings or soft furnishings not only look good but are also fit for purpose.
That might mean incorporating a black out interlining in bedroom curtains or privacy blinds behind statement drapes in a sitting room to let in the light but keep out the interested stares of passers-by! Or maybe it’s advice on suitable fabric for upholstery in a conservatory hit by the full force of the sun. At Furnishings Studio we like to think that we’ve come across most scenarios and can provide a solution to suit.
When we visit to measure up and discuss preferences and requirements, we’ll bring a range of fabric samples from companies such as Colefax and Fowler, Pierre Frey, Zimmer and Rohde and Romo; and can provide information about current trends – both in terms of curtain and blind styles and also fabric colours and patterns. We have trade accounts with approximately fifty fabric and wallpaper suppliers and ten companies that specialise in manufacturing curtain poles, corded tracks and poles and electric systems.
Top tip for fittings: metal and wood poles painted to match walls are currently very popular.
We provide a fully itemised quote for all the options we discuss and, once that’s been accepted, we can get started. This is the bit we love – producing beautiful high quality, handmade curtains, blinds and soft furnishings. But perhaps the final word should belong to our fabulous fitting team who make our creations a reality through their skills and expertise with the tracks and poles, with working around odd shapes or fittings and fixtures and, of course, the bay window. In all its tricky incarnations!
So if you’d like to find out more about sprucing up your home for 2020 then why not get in touch and let Furnishings Studio help make your interior more superior?!
