Traditional decor
A look into the history of styling in Morocco, India and Scandinavia.
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We have been inspired. The Canberra multicultural festival rolled into town once again. From the swirling of colours twirling around dancers of every style, to the diverse and ever changing melody of music, and the and the aroma of traditional foods. Walking through the festival, everything became inspiration for our styling.
Home styling is a form of art, and all art pulls inspiration from the world around us. Cultures, histories, environments and so many other things inspire art all over the world and each country and region has a distinct and beautiful style. Home styling is inspired by art, and in some ways reflects history in a more organic way than other forms. Space and functionality are primary features in home decor that are treated differently in every part of the world and can dictate an interior design. Climate affects not only the number of throws on a lounge, but the way light and colour and incorporated. Characteristics shaped by history, culture and environment are still seen in modern design trends today.
At Impressions we pull inspiration for our styling from everywhere, but today we are focusing on the way traditional decor and styling from three different countries and regions can inspire our everyday styling.
We are kicking off this list with a style that has been influencing our work recently; Moroccan style is know for it intricately patterned tiles and upholstery, horseshoe arches, and bold colour combinations.
Morocco is famous for its intricately detailed and patterned rugs. These rugs are designed to be layered, choose up to three rugs with complimenting colours and patterns to layer either directly on top of one another, or spread out over a space. The best place to buy Moroccan rugs is, you guessed it, Morocco, but if you can’t swing the trip there are lots of local stores that select a range of rugs and designs to bring over from Morocco, so you can get an authentic piece for your home. Few and Far has a great range of vintage and new Moroccan rugs that can bring an element of Moroccan style into your home without over powering a space.
Poufs are a great way to bring a small touch of Moroccan style into your home. Similar to an ottoman, but without structured legs, Moroccan poufs have simple to complex patterns and are often made of soft leathers. They can used as foot stools or low seats, and are usually placed anywhere from a lounge room to a kids bedroom, and even a bathroom. Recently our stylists used a _colour_ pouf in a sleek and modern bathroom, styled with plants and greenery to create a more natural and tranquil feel.
Indian, or Desi, interior design is electric and vibrant! Using colours in a unique and unapologetic way that differs from most of the world. Contrasting colours are paired with floral prints to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Desi furniture is is often made from strong and exotic woods such as teak, ebony and rosewood and holds delicately crafted patterns. Hand crafted Desi furniture is very popular in Australia and many suppliers sell authentic products. Rattan is also commonly used in Desi styling, often as side or centre tables. Whether it is hard or soft wood, the design and attention to detail in Desi craftsmanship is a key feature.
Linen is a huge part of Desi decor. With a rich history in textiles, the design and creation of luxurious fabrics such as silk and cashmere has been perfected in Desi style, both in clothing and decor, over thousands of years. Linen often sports floral prints featuring marigolds, lotuses and jasmine, as well as polarising colour combinations. While Australia design tends to favour combinations of colours that align on the colour wheel, Desi design opts for contrasting colours to maximise effect. Blending colours such as yellow and purple or blue and red.
Rittika is an interior designer and influencer based in Mumbai, who created #mydesiswag for her followers to share their Indian decor ideas and creations. Check out her instagram @rittika_ariyonainterior for some authentic Desi inspiration!
When you think of Scandinavian design you probably think of minimalism and neutral tones, but traditional Scandinavian decor is riddled with colour and patterns. The regions modern design is having a huge moment in the spotlight! With Scandinavian designers dominating the scene and inspiring art all over the world, we are going to take a step back and look at where this unique style came from and how it has evolved over time.
A key feature of Scandinavian design is it’s respect for functionality. Decor is durable, reliable and prioritises space, but combined with the arts and crafts movement of the 1900’s, the functionality of furniture did not mean compromising design. Natural woods are the main material used, combined with organic and neutral tones. Modern Scandinavian design is incredibly neutral, featuring white and grey tones, but traditionally colour played a big role. Unlike in Morocco or India, Scandinavia utilised smaller pops of colour and simple patterns. Symmetrical patterns, often of simple botanic illustrations, in the form of hanging art, wall paper and cushions, were used to bring bold colours into a room. Hand crafted art and accessories often featured a bold red Dala horse, now known as a staple of authentic Swedish handicraft. The use of individually hand crafted pieces stems from the arts and crafts movement, now, that same respect for craftsmanship and authenticity is reflected in contemporary furniture. The arts and crafts movement has modernised, now featuring minimalist furniture designers, yet the commitment and respect for design and craftsmanship has remained.
