The best spring colour for your interiors

My garden and the natural world have been a huge source of design inspiration over the years. In my opinion, without floral and botanical fabrics, our homes would be very dull places. Here are some of my best tips for using florals.

With spring finally here, I’m excited to see my garden blooming and full of fecundity. The birds are busy sipping nectar, my beehive is coming to life and I hear frogs singing in the evenings. 

For me, though, it’s not enough to enjoy flowers in the garden – I like to see florals brightening up indoor spaces and adding liveliness and texture to cushions, curtains, tablecloths and linen, too. While there is a huge variety of florals in all styles, from bold and bright to subtle and understated, there are a few fabrics and design methods I come back to year after year.

Botanical calm

Most people will be familiar with the work of English textile designer and artist William Morris. While his designs date back to the 1800s, they are much loved classics that never seem to date. When I’m looking to create a sense of tranquillity and peace in this hectic world, Morris’ repeating botanical patterns offer calmness and connection with nature.

Crisp minimalism

Villa Nova's 'Still Life’ collection is a modern floral that I absolutely love for its crisp, minimal colour combinations. The pattern is influenced by foliage found in a kitchen garden recreated as painterly forms and sketches, with the dappled light effect giving me a sense of summer days under a canopy of trees.

Modern contrast

Aside from specific designs, I am also a fan of pairing floral fabrics with checks and stripes for a modern sense of contrast and fun. Florals in different scales can also be layered for a look that is both contemporary and classic. Make unexpected matches throughout the home, such as by using the same fabric for your table napkins and chair cushions – your guests will love it!

Whether you prefer the clean lines of a modern floral or the more intricate patterns of Morris, I would love to explore just the right floral for your home this spring. Browse some of the spring specials available over on The Fabric Room or come in for a chat to see how we can bring some colourful florals into your home.

In this Ōamaru home I retained the original hardwood floors and Art Deco fireplaces, adding William Morris wallpapers alongside the homeowner’s antique furnishings and objets d’art to complete the look.