Envy

In these dynamic, affluent times, extravagance is given an ironic twist by playing with pattern, scale and proportion. Here, we enter through Alice's looking glass into a story that mixes ultra modern, large scale objects with a refined, restricted classical palette. This dramatic, exuberant, tongue-in-cheek mood is particularly well suited to an older period interior (high ceilings, plaster-relief detailing on walls, panelling, extra wide woodwork). It teams beautifully with intricately patterned tiled floors and extravagant chandelier lighting. Objects are playful, pattern is exuberant, the mood theatrical and flamboyant. Nothing here is easy on the eye - it is alive with contrasting colours, pattern and details. Everything in Envy is larger than life. It is unapologetically masculine with a distinct sense of the profligate times of Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome where ego, excess, glamour and indulgence were key.	Add flashes and splashes of gold, bronze and azure blue to a dramatic backdrop of rich black, pearly white and deep grey (matt on walls and woodwork, glossy on accessories) to instantly create a scene that oozes glamour and excess. Add set to my scrapbook
	The grandeur of neoclassical details and motifs weave their magic here in this extravagant, ironic mood. Palladian-style columns, plaster relief and mosaic patterns (whether painted or tiled, on walls and floors) work wonderfully with the more modern pieces like the buttoned neo-classical chair and our sensually-turned standard lamp. For those finishing touches look to Versace and Wedgwood for inspiration (like the new Plato Gold coral patterned tableware), gold and metallics in lighting and accessories and velvets and damask prints in textiles. Thick crystal goblets and mirrored glass will also add to the grandiose mood. The result is witty, modern, thought provoking, visually intriguing and elegant. Credits Moooi armchair, writing desk, lamp from Ferrious, 0161-228-6880 Turquoise velvet cushion, candlesticks from Ilva, 0845-2458285 Table from Stocktons, 0161-273-5331 Tall black glasses from Habitat, 0870-4115501 Betty Jackson black crockery, grey crystal glasses and gold bird from Debenhams, 08445-616161 Gold etched stool from BHS, 0845-1960000 Gold vase from Heals, 020-7896-7555 Black cutlery from antiques market sprayed with black primer 60's Chandelier - Antiques find

Credits