How To Trends

The new naturals

Written by Karien Slabbert

An organic décor style blends textures and natural materials in unexpected ways. Discover how to incorporate nature-inspired products and colours into your home.

The inspiration: Sea, sand and shore

The look: Inspired by the ocean’s shore, neo-neutrals and layers of tactile interest epitomise cosy comfort. Create your personal cocooning beachfront respite by fusing muted tones, textures and organic shapes.

Common thread: Karin Cawthorne of KARE says the key to using neutrals successfully is by focusing on texture. “A feast for the eyes and to the touch, texture takes neutral from boring to bold,” she notes.

KARE

The mix: According to Elbe Truter, merchandise manager at Biggie Best, light, earthy-toned walls, furniture and curtains maximise natural light, leaving you feeling tranquil and serene. Wreath sheer white curtain and Louis armchair, available from www.biggiebest.co.za.

Biggie Best

“By sticking to a neutral, pared-back base of textured greys, taupes and whites, you can really add character to your home with just a few key pieces,” notes Truter. White sideboard, available from www.biggiebest.co.za.

Biggie Best

Add an extra layer of touchy-feely interest to your bedroom with a textured quilt. Chantel Moonbeam embroidered cotton quilt, available from www.linenhouse.co.za.

Linen House

Fur throws aren’t reserved for cuddling up on frigid winter’s evenings – they’re ideal for adding a touch of decadence to a private respite. Mink fur throw, available from www.hertexhaus.co.za.

Hertex HAUS

The inspiration: A new dawn

The look: The dynamic interplay between a starlit evening and breaking dawn. Peace and tranquillity are central to this trend. And what better way to add a touch of zen than by incorporating elemental textures, colours and fabrics?

Common thread: “These days, you don’t have to only stick to tones of beige as a neutral base palette,” says Cawthorne. She adds that a soothing, nature-inspired palette of greys, smoky pinks, greens, amber and dusty blue is a subtle way of introducing colour.

KARE

The mix: Tranquil Dawn, Dulux Colour of the Year 2020, here showcased as part of the brand’s Meaning Palette. Reminiscent of the colours of the morning sky, this fluid shade with its green, blue and grey undertones presents the ideal backdrop for natural elements, explains Nathalie Sweeney, Dulux marketing director: sub-Sahara Africa. For more info, visit www.dulux.co.za.

Dulux

Layering a statement couch with textured throws and patterned cushions will keep your home feeling cool and comfy in the heat of summer. Chesterfield couch and glass cabinet, available from www.biggiebest.co.za.

Biggie Best

Create a moody setting by combining angles and curves, contrasting texture and a roughly hewn statement rug. Hertex HAUS Mesta round crochet rug in Onyx, available from www.hertexhaus.co.za.

Hertex HAUS

Whether soft and soothing or dark and broody, Truter suggests pairing these tones with white-washed timber, luxe fabrics like linen, velvet, leather and natural, textured accessories. Three-drawer natural console, available from www.biggiebest.co.za.

Biggie Best

Colour, texture and graphic prints needn’t always be on a grand scale to pack a punch. Set of two screen-printed table napkins in Spekboom Amber, available from www.designteam.co.za.

Design Team


The inspiration:
Continental drift

The look: Dreaming of a farm in Africa or a Bushveld Shangri La? Warm tones and natural fibres are guaranteed to make your natural habitat come to life. So invite the outdoors in by incorporating wood, grass, bamboo and wool into your décor scheme.

Common thread: Whether you opt for a traditional palette or a bolder rendition, neutrals pair well with organic shapes and materials, says Cawthorne. “With a range of colours, textures and finishes out there, their interior possibilities are endless,” adds Truter.

The mix: Sustainable wood, cotton, raffia, bamboo, rattan and sea grass are ideal for adding a touch of organic earthiness to any space. 100% cotton rope handle basket, https://miamelange.com.

Mia Melange

To create depth and interest, anchor grained wooden, wicker and rattan furniture with warm tones and a careful selection of natural finishes. Find the look at www.blockandchisel.co.za.

Block & Chisel

While organic shapes and roughly hewn texture take centre stage in this African-inspired look, metallics such as brass and gold add a touch of contrast and vibrancy. Metallo paper bag (medium), www.uashmama.co.za.

Uashmama

THE AUTHOR

Karien Slabbert

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