The WOW!house decorator showcase in Chelsea is a treasure trove of design inspiration, offering a glimpse into the world's best designers' creations. This year's edition, featuring designs from Francis Sultana, Studio Duggan, Elicyon, and Salvesen Graham, showcases a range of styles and techniques that are sure to captivate and inspire. Here's a breakdown of some key takeaways and insights from the showcase.
Making an Entrance
The entrance hall, designed by Francis Sultana, sets the tone for the entire showcase. The use of 'gallery white' paint, Benjamin Moore's White Diamond, creates a sleek and streamlined backdrop, while the Icy Blue ceiling adds a touch of contrast. The room is filled with luxurious pieces, from gilt swans to Cindy Sherman portraits, showcasing the designer's signature style. This entrance hall demonstrates the importance of making a statement at the beginning of a space, setting the tone for the rest of the design.
The Power of Color Combinations
The Turnell & Gigon drawing room showcases a chic blue and brown color combination. Designer Albion Nord's use of dusky sky blue and tobacco shades on the walls and ceiling, combined with hand-blocked linen, creates a soft and inviting atmosphere. The mix of pale elements, such as cream linen sofas and pale-toned artwork, further enhances the light and airy feel. This color combination is a subtle yet effective way to add depth and interest to a space.
Curated Clutter and the Joy of Living
The 'withdrawing room' designed by Sean Symington for Zardi & Zardi showcases the beauty of well-curated clutter. The room is filled with a mix of expertly papered walls, a wall-hung tapestry, and a pedimented bookcase, all contributing to a sense of richness and character. The mix-and-match upholstery and cushions, upholstered in various fabrics, add to the eclectic feel. Symington's philosophy of embracing the joy of living with beautiful things is evident, creating a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Sophistication and Fun in a Bar Area
The Lalique home bar by Charu Gandhi is a stunning example of contemporary design. The use of backlit crystal panels, a Lalique chandelier, and crystal wall lights creates a sophisticated and glamorous atmosphere. The playful touch of tiny cupboards with crystal handles, revealing surprises when opened, adds a layer of fun and surprise. Gandhi's design embodies the art of living well, making it a perfect bar space.
Pattern and Symmetry in the Bedroom
Design duo Nicole Salvesen and Mary Graham's primary bedroom showcases the art of mixing patterns without overwhelming the space. Using six patterns from their new collection, they created a gentle and balanced look inspired by an 18th-century English country house. The four-poster bed, draped in fabric and adorned with soft pillows and patterned cushions, becomes the focal point. The use of symmetry in the side tables, lamps, and chairs either side of the bed helps to create a harmonious and visually pleasing effect.
Pops of Color and a Soothing Palette
New York-based designer Young Huh's Benjamin Moore Minhwa salon incorporates pops of color and a soothing celadon palette. The walls are inset with 55 boxes inspired by Korean folk art, each painted in different high-gloss colors or decorated with scenic paintings. The ceiling features a trompe-l'oeil print, giving the effect of a three-dimensional panelled ceiling. The use of celadon shades and pale-blue coffered ceilings creates a calming and uplifting atmosphere.
The Allure of Terracotta Marble
The Ca'Pietra bathroom, designed by De Rosee Sa, offers a refreshing take on marble. The terracotta-colored stone, Ca'Pietra's Versaille Rouge marble, wraps around the vanity unit and bath, creating a unique and textured look. The crazy-paving-style floor and ribbed Murano-glass wall lights add to the relaxed glamour. This bathroom showcases how terracotta marble can be a stylish and unexpected choice, moving away from the typical Carrara marble seen in bathrooms.
Wooden Kitchens and the Art of Living
Designer Samantha Bartlett's kitchen, inspired by warm, natural tones, features fumed-oak cabinetry, bronze handles, and Verde Natura quartzite worktops. The built-in banquette creates a cozy breakfast nook, perfect for enjoying a leisurely morning with coffee and the papers. This kitchen design emphasizes the idea of living in and enjoying the space, making it a functional and inviting area.
In conclusion, the WOW!house decorator showcase offers a wealth of design inspiration, showcasing a variety of styles, colors, and techniques. From elegant entrances to well-curated spaces and the use of unexpected materials, each room tells a story and provides valuable lessons for interior design enthusiasts and professionals alike. The showcase is a testament to the power of creativity and the endless possibilities in the world of design.
