Four new interiors trends for Autumn

Far more than a seasonal trend, sustainably made furniture is the future. Part of this month’s London Design Festival, the Planted show – which will send zero-waste to landfill and is built around the principles of biophilic design – at King’s Cross will showcase an impressive line-up of brands, such as Less is Better and Nikari, that demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and put the environment at the heart of their business by minimising impact during the production process. Top buys for autumn include the Sage Sit-Stand workbench designed by David Rockwell for Benchmark (ideal for those wanting a flexible workspace at home) and the Hardy collection of chairs, stools and coffee table by David Irwin for Another Country. www.planted-cities.co.uk; www.anothercountry.com; www.benchmarkfurniture.com

© David Irwin for Another Country

A desire for inviting, cocooning spaces: that’s what’s at the heart of this season’s rich new colour palette: terracotta, ochre, red brick and warm neutrals. ‘When combined together, these shades create a harmonious interior that evokes the natural world, ensuring a calming and restorative environment,’ says Sarah O’Sullivan, Home Partner and Designer at John Lewis. ‘It’s very user friendly as there is a natural balance between the shades. A terracotta tone for the walls adds a lovely warmth to a living space. Layer classic stripes and checks as a foundation for the soft furnishings, and pair with nature-inspired prints in ochres and navy to complete the look.’ www.johnlewis.com

© John Lewis

Dutch and British traders first began importing chintz textiles into the UK from India in the 17^th-century, and they were an instant hit. But somewhere along the way we fell out of love with the famed floral textile and it became seen as old-fashioned and twee. Not anymore. Although most obviously suited to more traditional living spaces, sleek modern chintzes work just as well too – try upholstering a chair or using for curtains to add a splash of pattern to a room. Go-to companies for chintz include Morris & Co, which is celebrating its 160^th anniversary with a collection of archive-inspired designs, and Colefax & Fowler where new fabrics include painterly Belvedere, which is reminiscent of a block print. www.colefax.com; www.morrisandco, www.sandersondesigngroup.com

© Morris & Co

Tying in neatly with sustainability’s more central role in our interior’s choices, is the ongoing trend for natural materials – whether artisanal clay-like ceramics, bamboo lampshades, washed linens or jute rugs. ‘ I encourage my clients to consider the benefits of organic materials which project calm and are grounding,’ says interior designer Natalia Miyar. ‘It is far more relaxing to be surrounded by luxurious natural fibres and finishes than hard shiny surfaces. Whether you live an urban lifestyle or somewhere rural the effect is the same. It is a misconception that natural has to be rustic.’ Natural materials don’t just add texture, interest and individuality: for instance, sleeping on a handcrafted organic mattress by Naturalmat is healthier too. She also advises ‘buying the best quality you can afford as these will last longer and age better; natural materials develop patina over time which becomes part of their charm.’ www.naturalmat.co.uk

© Natalia Miyar

Article written by Emma Love – @emma_love0001