Ever wondered where interior designers go for a bit of inspo? The answer is Decorex. Held this year at London's Olympia, the huge exhibition hall was filled to the rafters with inspirational displays from the world's finest makers of fabrics, furniture and lighting.
After a virtual version last year, the annual trade show for the high-end interior design industry was back for 2021 – bigger and better than ever. There was a tangible sense of excitement in the air as interiors royalty gathered to check out what the manufacturers had been up to during their enforced period of hibernation.
Decorex is always a great place to spot new trends in the interiors world, and this year's event didn't disappoint. Running from 10-13 October, the show was loud and proud with colour, texture and maximalism. No place for shrinking violets here! 🌈
NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES
There were lots of exciting new products showcased at Decorex 2021, but one of our favourites was a gorgeous new wallpaper from Glasgow textile company Timorous Beasties.
Matzu Tree is a swirling, ethereal representation of wind moving through trees. A work of art in itself, we think it would look incredible on a chimney breast or applied wraparound stylee in a downstairs loo 👍
On the fabric front, we were blown away by The Monkey Puzzle Tree's newly launched design All Tomorrow's Futures.
Birds, fish and snakes cavort across this colourful fabric which brings with it a subtle environmental message about our impact on the planet.
Cameron Design House's new lighting product Halti also caught our eye.
Getting its very first outing at Decorex 2021, this sculptural ceiling light resembles loops of giant white beads. The ultimate statement lighting for a high-ceilinged space.
Now, you might not think door handles are anything to write home about, but when it's a new range from one of the UK's oldest family-run forges, you sit up and take notice. Croft launched its new Icon range of handles at Decorex and we think they're pretty darn cool 🤓 A linear, reeded design with a contemporary, industrial vibe. What's not to like?
CELEBRATING COLOUR
One of the most joyful aspects of Decorex 2021, apart from that cheeky glass of champers at the bar 🥂 of course, was the explosion of colour. From light switches to tiles to curtain poles, colour was king this year, shining bright at every turn. Perhaps as a much-needed antidote to lockdown, maximalism was placed front and centre, with many exhibitors going to town with some seriously inspiring colour combos.
Pooky Lights blew everyone out of the water with their vibrant pink stand. And their super quirky lamps weren't camera shy either 🌟 Our pick of the bunch is the spiky ceramic stucco table lamp which comes in gorgeous emerald or turquoise hues. And we're also a little bit in love with the curvy, shiny glory that is the Wobster table lamp ❤️
British fabric brand Linwood launched its opulent new Velvet Wonderland collection.
It's a vibrant range of luxury patterned velvets featuring luscious blues, greens and reds. An amazing way to add impact to a space with curtains or upholstery 💃
TEXTURE, TEXTURE, TEXTURE!
We've said it before and we'll say it again. Texture is the perfect way to bring additional character into your home, and this year's Decorex with awash with ideas of how to do exactly that.
If rugs are your thing, then the new collaboration between Zoffany and high-end rugmaker Riviere is worth a look. These two heritage brands have teamed up to create a unique collection of highly-textured rugs.
Hand-knotted in Nepal using the finest wools and silks, the new luxury range includes some amazing geometric and abstract designs.
Tweeds and tartans were also out in force at Decorex 2021. Scottish brand Anta had some wonderfully bright and bold tartan rugs on display made from 100% British Wool. And Harris Tweed was also flying the flag for their traditional handwoven Scottish fabrics.
When it comes to textured wood, we particularly loved the Frida lounge chair, part of a new collection from Belgian furniture specialist Vincent Sheppard.
Made from hard-wearing teak and rope, the elegant, circular shape works equally well indoors or outdoors.
SOFT SHAPES & CURVES
Another trend we spotted at this year's show was a move towards sculptural shapes and organic curves. London-based Sedilia was leading the way here with its curvy Sennen Sectional sofa.
Made from super soft cream bouclé, this sofa has wonderfully fluid shapes and a deliciously tactile quality 🐑
Also keeping ahead of the curve 😜 was Original BTC's elegant Drop Three Pendant.
Made from unglazed bone china, the organic shape of this beautiful pendant makes it the the perfect choice for lighting above a dining table or kitchen island.
Feeling inspired to level up your pad? Check out our range of high grade, planet-friendly paints.
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