Graham & Green

Anyone who knows me will already know how much I love Graham & Green. I don’t know what it is, they just do it for me, every time. They are the perfect blend of contemporary and classic design, bringing old together with new, whilst combining their love of travel and the Far East with their quintessentially British style. For me, they’ve got the balance just right and the result is an elegant, classic brand with a modern twist. Just perfect.

It all started with their shop in Greenwich which I used to visit often with my mum, such a shame it’s no longer there! I still remember a beautiful big faux fur throw I fell in love with and tried to persuade my mum into buying. It was dark brown, super soft and luxurious, just like everything else in that shop. I was too young to understand that the price tags attached were often fairly luxurious too.
It has since been my go-to website for inspiration, a little mosey here and there and an occasional buy when I’m looking for something beautiful and elegant for my home. Unfortunately I have to stick to their accessories and decor bits as most of their furniture is a little over my budget, thankfully their sales are pretty good so I keep an eye out for them.

Anyway, this post wasn’t supposed to be all about my obsession with Graham & Green so I shall stop gushing. Following on from a previous post of mine on this year’s biggest Spring trends, one of my favourites in particular – marble, I absolutely had to write about G&G’s Spring collection. They have designed some of the most elegant and beautiful marble pieces, often paired with brass and gold finishes for the perfect touch of luxury. Of course I’m absolutely obsessed with everything and could quite happily fill my house with marble tables and lamps at the minute as it’s definitely my top trend so far this year. Let’s see if you’re as enthralled as I am, here are my top picks from this collection…

White Marble Shimmering Lamp £110

Linear Side Table Green Marble Top £295

Hex Side Table With Marble Top £250

Andre Half Moon Console £475

Agate Side Table £125

Natural Agate Coffee Table £275

Linear Table Light Green Marble Base £135

Cactus Lamp £95

White Marble and Brass Ceiling Pendant £85

Marble Heptagon Clock £35

Marble Cheese Board £30

Detroit Oval Coffee Table £195

Detroit Console Table £250

To view the entire marble range, or if you’d like to buy me an early Christmas present (I’ll have the Cactus Lamp please) then visit my favourite website Graham & Green.

South London Vintage Furniture Flea

Well my weekend wasn’t too shabby, went to this wonderful little flea market for the first time and walked out with a brand new dining table and chairs, well I didn’t actually walk out with it obviously but I bought it and had it delivered later on that day.

Judy Berger set up these markets in 2005 with the hope of creating an affordable way to shop all things vintage in London which, let’s admit, isn’t an easy task these days as prices have absolutely soared in the last few years.
The idea is to get together a bunch of awesome traders from all over the UK who sell affordable, original and beautiful vintage pieces, throw them all together in different locations across the city for a day or a weekend. This weekend the fair was in Clapham and as a first timer I conclude that Judy’s recipe for amazing, affordable and one-off vintage finds works. It really does!

I made the mistake of taking my 3 year old and 5 month old puppy along with me which meant that my idea of ‘a casual browse and a couple of laps around’ didn’t quite happen. I ended up carrying the dog who was too hyper to walk around, so out of fear of him jumping up and scratching some beautiful vintage chair, I cradled him like a baby while he licked my ear and got so much attention from everyone that he nearly burst from excitement. I think my daughter was a little disappointed when we got there as it wasn’t quite what she was expecting, I suppose the sentence “we’re going to the fair today” would confuse any toddler. I wondered why she was so up for going earlier that day, then when I saw her face drop when we arrived I suddenly realised. Oops!
All was not lost though, about 30 seconds in I spotted the most wonderful dining table and chairs, exactly the style I was looking for! A retro set made in the 50’s as a 18th century replica. The perfectly round mahogany style table isn’t a drop leaf like I’m used to, but tips with the flick of a handy little catch underneath the table top allowing it to fold into a streamlined piece of furniture so that it can be pushed against the wall completely out of the way. How amazing? The four beautiful chairs are complete with gold and green patterned seatpads, which works well with the light blue accents in my kitchen.

As you can probably tell, I’m really pleased with it (although it was tough getting rid of my Ercol table to make room), and I can’t wait to get the rest of my kitchen up to retro-scratch, which is the look I already had in mind before I even found the table. I will keep you posted!

And here I am blogging at my new table with my new mugs from  Hema. They were £4 for 2 so I got some navy blue ones as well to add to my green/blue accents.

Keep an eye on Judy’s Vintage Fair to find out when they’ll be coming to a town near you!

 

Farrow & Ball – new colour alert!

Everybody’s favourite paint brand are really spoiling us as they have launched not one, but nine new colours! I know, exciting isn’t it. I honestly fell in love with all nine of them as soon as I’d seen the collection, they really are exquisite and bang on trend but of course in the classic Farrow & Ball, traditionally British way. I’ve already pretty much worked every single colour into some area of my home in my head, you might be doing the same thing in about 5 seconds. So I won’t keep you waiting any longer, here they are in all their glory. Enjoy X

 

Shadow White no.282

Shadow White is a lighter version of Shaded White, which has long been a Farrow & Ball customer favourite. The names for both these colours are taken from the soft tone they take as they have been covered in a deep shade.
Shadow White is quite a subtle and easy colour to use as it doesn’t have a yellowy base, or even much of a grey one. This colour is really versatile and will work in any home and in most styles.
Pair with Shaded White and Drop Cloth, and experiment on ceilings and woodwork.

 

Drop Cloth no.283

Its name is in honour of all those loyal decorators who have used Farrow & Ball over the years, who would of course use dust sheets, traditionally known as drop cloths.
Said to be the strongest hue in the trio made up of itself, and the lighter shades of Shadow White and Shaded White, which together create a classic, versatile and understated colour palette which can be used in any style of home.

 

Worsted no.284

This colour takes its name from the Norfolk village of Worsted where the flat woven fabric of the same name, used for city suiting, originates from.
No.284 which is a little darker than Purbeck Stone but not as strong as Mole’s Breath, can be used as an all over colour for a room, or as the background colour in a scheme of clean accents.
Works well with Wevet, Strong White or Cornforth White as the stronger hue in the group.

 

Cromarty no.285

The purpose of the Cromarty Firth estuary is to alert sailors of any impending gales or wind, and so this colour conjures up traditionally British images of Shipping Forecasts and swirling mists.
Cromarty is easy to use as it is neither too blue or too grey, but soft and pretty and lighter than similar colours such as Mizzle, Blue Gray and Pigeon. This colour works perfectly in a more muted palette.

 

Peignoir no.286

Peignoir is a feminine and sensual colour. Named after the sheer floaty undergarments worn by ladies while brushing their hair in the mid-20th century. This isn’t the first Farrow & Ball colour to be named after an item of clothing, you can learn more about the origins of these fashion -inspired hues – Chemise, Blazer and Babouche, here Farrow & Ball colours.
Peignoir is the softest of pinks with a dose of hazy-grey making it the obvious choice for a bedroom injecting a hint of romance and creating a traditional boudoir feel. This colour sits well in today’s soft, muted pastel trend as well as being perfect for more traditional homes.
Pair with one of the Contemporary Neutrals, and Brassica or Brinjal for a stronger look. All White will give this colour a crisp and modern feel.
This is definitely one of my favourites from the new collection, so much so that I very nearly chose it for my daughter’s new room which I am decorating at the minute. I decided it was a little too feminine and grown up for her, so I might save it for my own bedroom (if I ever get round to it). In stead, I went for Annie Sloan’s Henrietta Chalk Paint which is a lot more girly, and well…very pink! I will post the results as soon as it’s all finished.

 

Yeabridge Green no.287

The true ‘avocado green’, Yeabridge Green is fresh and clean an will uplift any colour scheme, and any room for that matter. It has less yellow than Churlish Green but more than Breakfast Room Green, and works really well with Stiffkey Blue.
This is another one of my absolute favs, which makes sense as it originates from my  favourite era of all time. Found behind the original gun cupboard in Yeabridge House, an 18th century Georgian Hamstone farmhouse, it had been left untouched for years but somehow was still as vibrant as the lush Somerset grass that surrounded the property.
I’m trying to find some corner of my house to paint this magnificent green as I write this post, it’s just too good to pass up. I’m thinking my stairway might work as it will put a smile on everyone’s face as they walk in. I’m considering Stiffkey Blue for a feature wall in my front room (look out for post on this), so the two colours should work well together (not in the same room though as that would be a bit of an eyesore!).

 

Vardo no.288

Named after a traditional horse drawn gypsy or Romany wagon which would usually be painted a similar colour over red with intricate detail. This colour is bright, vibrant and full of life. It is a colour that works really well with whites.
Pair with Pavilion Gray for a light and elegant scheme, or with Down Pipe for a darker and more atmospheric look.

 

Inchyra Blue no.289

Another one that I love, and surprise surprise, another Georgian-inspired hue. This one hails from Scotland where a bespoke colour was made for Lord and Lady Inchyra at the beautiful classic Georgian Inchyra House. The colour was originally painted on the exterior doors of the property’s exquisite barn, restored in 2013.
Inchyra Blue has depth and it able to stand out against the dramatic and moody Scottish skies. To some this colour reads grey and to others green, either way it is the perfect alternative to charcoal for walls in more contemporary homes. Its other function, for which it is suited very well, is the exterior of older and more traditional properties.
Pair with Black Blue or Vardo for a confident and moody scheme, or with any of the Architectural Whites for a more subtle scheme.

 

Salon Drab no.290

The word Salon refers mainly to the small outer room of a drawing room which is known for being an intellectual conversational hub. Colours named after rooms have always been popular sellers at Farrow & Ball, and ‘drab’ simply describes a colour as lacking in brightness.
Salon Drab is already proving to be a popular colour which works really well with both the yellow and red based neutrals as well as with Skimming Stone. It is stronger and cleaner than Mouse’s Back and far less red than Mahogany.
As a classic 19th century warm and rich drab, its appeal will mostly be for those wanting to recreate the look from this era, although it can also be perceived as being the perfect ‘chocolate’ for the modern home.

 

So there you have it, nine exquisite new colours to add to Farrow & Ball’s already impressive catalogue of traditionally British hues that will look good in any contemporary home as well. For the full range of colours they have to offer, and more information on their new colours visit their website Farrow & Ball. Also, remember the same colour can often look quite different depending on the light, so it’s always useful to pick up some samples and test them on a room first.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April – to spring or not to spring?

Gone are the days when Spring trends were all about bright yellows, fuchsia pinks and flowers and birds. We’ve turned a corner, and learnt that everybody’s favourite season is as much about nature and brining the great outdoors into our homes in a slightly more subtle way, as it is about being bright and floral, unless that’s what you like, in which case, feel free of course.

If, like me, you are looking for some fresh ideas for your home now that Spring is upon us; then read on. This year’s spring trends are all about simplicity and elegance, neutral and muted colour palettes and accents of luxurious textures. Here are some of 2016’s top Spring trends, and where to find them.

Monochrome

A trend that pops up often, or never really goes away. You can’t go wrong with this one, but you can update it this Spring in one of two ways. Some sources are telling us to throw the chevron prints out as it’s all about muted colour palettes and simple monochrome patterns this season, whilst others are telling us to opt for graphic monochrome: sharp masculine lines and graphic prints. Here are some of my favourite pieces from this trend so have a look and decide which monochrome style you prefer, for me, the simpler look wins.

Top buys for this trend…

Diamond Weave Throw
Anthropologie
£88

Diamond cut matte black vase
Kelly Hoppen
£99

Classic black and white mason jar bathroom set
Etsy
$45

An array of textures can help to add interest to a more simple monochrome scheme.

Daborn armchair
Habitat
£650

Stripe blanket with blue pom
Graham and Green
£149

Sue Timney cup and saucer
Marks & Spencer
£9.50

If you’re into the ‘go big or go home’ way of thinking, then this kind of scheme might be for you.

 

Matte

This trend ties in quite nicely with monochrome, as matte finishes work really well with black. It makes sense; matte finishes offer an interesting textural element to more neutral and simple schemes which might be lacking the ‘wow factor’ in comparison to brighter Spring trends of yesteryear (cheers for that one Rachel Green). The wonderful thing about matte is it works well alongside other textures and an array of colours, particularly metallic so if you’ve got any still laying around from last year’s trend, don’t get rid just yet!

Top buys for this trend…

Damon Arm Chair
Wayfair
£118

Tom Dixon Beat Wide ceiling pendant light, grey
John Lewis
£285

Pineapple matte black
Pols Potten
£48

Marble

Probably one of my favourite trends this Spring is marble. It oozes luxury but still manages to reamain elegant and classic. The price tags that come along with this look are usually quite ‘luxurious’ too, so for that reason it is wise to stick to marble accents and accessories. Please please pair marble with brass, copper, or anything gold to create a contrast between the cool stone and the warmer gold colours – the results are phenomenal! Here are a few things I’ve got my eye on…

Top buys for this trend…

Regione marble cheese board
Anthropologie
£88

Marble heptagon clock
Graham and green
£35

Double tiered marble cake stand
Oliver Bonas
£78

Crochet and macramé

Last, and for me, least. I have to admit, this is not my favourite trend. I’ve never really been a boho-chic kind of girl so I won’t be inviting this style into my home any time soon, although I do see the appeal. It’s laid back, it’s versatile and I suppose a splash here and there might add a touch of Spring into the home. If you’re into it, here are my picks…

Top buys for this trend…

Festivities basket
Anthropologie
£42

James’ giant apple pouffe
Rowen and Wren
£244

Palacio hammock in jacquard
The Range
£141.99

 

If, you’ve spent the entire time skimming through this blog trying to get to the bit with all the bright colours and bold patterns, well here it is. For those of you who have no interest in being simple and neutral this Spring, then here’s a collection of some of my favourite ‘jungle looks’ that seem to be cropping up everywhere at the moment. Enjoy X

Abigail Ahern for Debenhams
Ostrich applique cushion
£40

Abigail Ahern for Debenhams
Elephant applique cushion
£35

Africa chair
Habitat
£45

Pink coral cactus round metal table
Oliver Bonas
£65

Blue ikat pouffe
Graham and Green
£150

Patterned cotton tablecloth
H&M
£14.99

Leafy jungle cushion
Rose & Grey
£49.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First post-me and my granny rugs

Well, here it is, my very first post (eeek!). I thought I’d start off by sharing with you my latest purchase and recent obsession. My new granny rug. I have a bit of a thing for them and I have a feeling that I’m not going to be able to stop at just the two.

The pink rug in my bedroom was the first in the collection and I think I was drawn to it because it reminded me of a very similar pink, round rug that my grandma used to have. Anyone else remember those? Yep, I love them!

If you like my old lady style and want to granny up one of your rooms, both rugs are from Wayfair which used to be known as Joss and Main. Look out for their sales, and my next granny rug purchase of course!