Feeling blue: interiors trends for 2012

We already know that Danish design is in for 2012 and the experts have long declared that navy is the new black, but there are some other design styles worthy of mention for this year.

Interiors whiz Steven Dunne, currently based in London, told Cork Homes, "I have noticed that blues are coming into fashion, and I like to use nice petrol blues and rich royal blues to give punch to a scheme. Interlined silks are also very much in vogue right now too. One of my favourite classical styles is the 1920s, art noveau had changed the stuffiness of the decades leading up to the 20s. There was lots happening in design in this period and great excitement and freedom throughout Europe. You had designers like Irish born, Paris- based Eileen Gray who were very fashionable. Nowadays her pieces are collectors items and go for big money.

"In Cork, my favourite places to shop for furniture would have to be Caseys on Oliver Plunkett St., and for soft furnishings, curtains and accessories it would have to be The Drapery Shop on Emmet Place.

Douglas interior designer Suzanne Walsh is also feeling the blues. "Dark tones of indigo and soft shades of turquoise and duck egg, along with soft greens, lilacs and peach are the colours for this spring from the catwalk through to interiors.

"Metallics are in so add a little bling to your scheme and accessorise with a new vase or lamp. Mix and match quirky pieces to create your own personalised look. Changing your cushions is a inexpensive way to create instant impact. Retro wallpapers are also big this spring and there is so much choice now that whatever your taste, you will find a paper to suit, Window Interiors in Douglas carry a vast range of beautiful wallpapers."

Tips from the top

Steven advises buying small amounts of an expensive fabric and using it to create scatter cushions for your sofa, then choosing a neutral inexpensive fabric for your curtains. "This will still give you the luxiourious look you want for less money." he says.

Steven Dunne,
Interior Designer
stevemdunne@hotmail.com

Reupholstering your antique furniture with bright luxurious fabrics can create unique pieces that are chic and timeless. Suzanne says, "I adore Parisienne-inspired interiors, they have a timeless elegance that is always in vogue. Mix the old and the new and pick up unique pieces that will characterise your home."