THE PERFECT HOME SHOULD BE AN INTIMATE SPACE in which to relax, unwind and entertain guest, surrounded by beautiful 

objects and designs.

With this in mind, designing furniture for discerning clientele should combine not just comfort and functionality, but also beauty, sensuality and sophistication over short lived trends.

It is always my aim to create pieces based around these qualities, but it seems more important to do so now than ever before. In the context of the current economic crisis and as a response in general to the mass-production and run-of-the-mill of design styles we have seen over recent years. I feel that we need to elevate the quality of products and make them special and unique. We should treat them as if they were jewels or artworks. A single piece of furniture should be designed with the highest criteria of charm, versatility and individuality, they should evoke a sensory and emotional response from both it’s designer and owner.

Because of this, I believe we will see a renaissance of traditional craftsmanship, sophisticated research and creativity this year. This philosophy can be expressed through the finest attention to detail using timeless materials, fabrics and finishes.

There will be a re-emergence of the use of natural materials; but this time, they will be treated with sophisticated techniques, such as varnishing and lacquering, to boost longevity and their natural beauty. Sumptuous materials such as leathers and precious woods can enrich ssurfaces with their attractive polished grains, especially if combined with metal or upholstered details.

Precious metallics such as gold and liquid silver will also be popular for their muted sophistication and natural radiance.

This quest for uniqueness and preciousness will also be reflected in fabric styles. Natural fibres such as silks, velvets and luxurious linens are both timeless and sumptuous; they have an instantly beautiful sheen, very different from the cold shine of synthetic yarns, and provide grater warmth as well as interesting natural characteristics.

Fabric pattern will also be inspired by nature, decorative designs such as stylised plant motifs, animal prints and sinuous shapes provide harmony and elegance, especially if complemented with strict geometrics, linear and checkerboard designs. The dimensions of pattern can create an optical effect on a piece of furniture; larger pieces, such as chaise longues and sofas suit more compact designs, while cushions and chairs look particularly striking with larger patterns. Mix dark with light and texture with soft weaves for a multi-faceted canvas that will appeal to our senses.

Combine this rich scean with earthy-inspired colour combinations of dark green, charcoal grey and tobacco, with highlights of bright fuchsia, red and sky blue. A natural palette brings an aesthetic, sophisticated coherence to a room, defying age and transient trends.

 The element of exclusivity can also be achieved through the creation of limited edition pieces. Like artwork,  people dream of owning an antique of tomorrow, especially if these ’special furnishings’ are highly sought after for their limited quantity, timeless materials and priceless craftsmanship.

I would love to have your questions and/or comments.

This blog is from ANDREAFAY INTERIOR DESIGN Ltd.

ANDREAFAY is a writer on design trends and travel, she lives in Muswell Hill, North London.