Envy

The mood

This trend is all about simple room schemes that reflect a desire to flee reality and take refuge in nostalgia and nature. Natural substrates and witty references to woodland and wildlife create a reassuring rural look that demands a warming cuppa and a good book.

Seek retreat in tones of forest green and bright berry. Play strong, saturated shades of pink, purple and catkin against softer, degraded khaki, ecru and bracken. Finally, don't be afraid to let your personality shine through - so rescue those treasured knick-knacks from the confines of the loft and display them with pride.

Using the palette

The colour experts at Dulux have identified a comforting new trend for the year ahead that features contrasting shades, such as pale Celestial Cloud 5 and bright Fuchsia Falls 2.

Taking its cue from the turbulent financial climate, Dulux predicts this trend will see a resurgence in the homespun comforts of yesteryear. It pays tribute to the worlds of folklore and faitytale, combining a childlike charm with the cheerful colour palette.

Fuchsia Falls 2
Adobe Pink 1
Expresso Delight 3
Steel Symphony 1
Purple Sage 3
Gooseberry Fool 2
Gooseberry Fool 5
Celestial Cloud 5
Indian Ivy 6
Bleached Lichen 1

Creating the look

This trend is all about contrast; soft greyed-off pastels against powerful brights, delicate floral patterns against crisp lines, and natural wood against raw metal. Storage is always a win or lose element to a room so choose pieces that will add to the eclectic feel. The natural wicker of this quirky little piece looks great against the drama of bold gloss.

With traditional techniques being key to this look, it's a great excuse to go textile crazy - with beautiful quilting, embriodery and crochet.

The woodland motifs of this trend have been filtering through for a while now with many high-end and high street designers featuring owls, frogs, squirrels and other furry friends in their work. These touches evoke the feeling of fun and warmth found in fairytales.

Credits

  1. Bed - www.bedsdirect.com
  2. Wall Plates - Andrew Tanner, www.lovetherain.co.uk
  3. Hand-knitted restored dressing stool - www.ruthcross.com
  4. Cable-knit throw and cushion - www.ruthcross.com
  5. Pillow cases - Kas at Selfridges
  6. Felt rug - Selina Rose, www.lovetherain.co.uk
  7. Woodland candles - www.homebase.co.uk
  8. Desk - Find similar at www.lauraashley.com
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