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Ikat: Design from across the Globe

ELLE DECOR: MATERIAL GOODS: IKAT
Photographer: William Abranowicz 

First – a textiles lesson.

Ikat is a dyeing technique used to pattern fabrics, and is one of the oldest known methods of textile decoration - the earliest examples of Ikat discovered date from the 10th century!

Though scholars are uncertain of its exact origin, the method can be traced throughout Asia and Africa.

The name is derived from the Malaysian word mengikat, which means to tie or to bind. This unique look is a result of a weaving and patching process, involving tie-dying. And no, I don’t mean that slapdash DIY tie-die from the 70’s Woodstock era, but an intricate process passed down through generations.

The outcome of this technique is a vibrant mesh of bold colour and pattern that has certainly been a big trend in fashion, with names like Christian Dior and Gucci showcasing it on the catwalk.

Well, if it’s good enough for Dior its good enough for me!

Unfortunately Ikat design in fashion is notoriously difficult to wear. If you love bold patterns and colour, but don’t want to take the risk of looking a little too ‘show-stopping’ bring Ikat into your home instead to add a touch of exotic flair.

These magnificent fabrics are culturally diverse and seeped in history. So if you dream of travelling the world but are tied closer to home, why not bring the world to you?

You don’t have to trek to the corners of the globe – just click on the photos below to steal some Ikat design for yourself, without having to leave your sofa!

Ikat Natural – create a more liveable interior with ikat look fabrics in a neutral colour palette

Click here to view our entire natural fabric collection

Ikat Brights – make a bold statement using vibrant colour and combination of Ikat inspired patterns
Click here to view our entire orange & terracota fabric collection

by Annabel, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

Weekend Style Update

Looking for a speedy project that could really make a difference? We have some brilliant ideas that won’t break the bank.

To create a statement window, updating your drapes could not be easier as we have so much choice at UK Curtains and Interiors that you won’t want to stop with just one room. Check out our ready made curtains offer, a quick way to update and refresh your room we have so many products on offer in various colours and designs there is sure to be something there to please you. Ready made curtains are so quick to order and your room can have a whole new look in no time.

Click here for information on Camilla Pink Readymade Curtain

Another way of a quick refresh is to completely update your bedroom with our endless range of bedding. We have everything from affordable and cheerful prints to luxury cottons that are a great way to spruce up your bedroom in the quickest way possible.

Click here for information on Fleur Bedding Collection

For a quick and easy update, why not add a collection of cushions to your favourite sofa or armchair. By mixing cushions of varying size and colour you can create a real statement at a very low cost.

Click here to view our cushion range

So, whatever your budget there is a solution for you. Remember to have fun, updating your home should not be a chore be playful and don’t be afraid to mix it up!

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

Interior design: Big tips for a small space

Click here to get inspiration from our collections

As we all know, in this day and age space is a big issue.

We are finding it harder to find homes with the space we were hoping for, and often find ourselves having to compromise for more compact living arrangements.

Many of us have that one room that doesn’t get the attention it deserves because of its size. But now, more than ever, it is so important to make use of every last inch of space available.

Decorating a smaller room can seem like the biggest of challenges, but you have more freedom than you think. It is a general belief that when working with a small space it is better to keep décor minimal, and with a neutral palette, but we disagree. You wouldn’t dress head to toe in beige and brown, so why treat your home any differently?

Remember - small doesn’t have to mean subtle, or insignificant.

Click here for interior design ideas from our made to measure range

Using curtains and blinds, or home cushions in clashing patterns and a variety of colours actually works very well in a smaller room. When a large space is filled with colour and pattern it can be overwhelming. Just remember to stick to the same colour scheme throughout to stop the room feeling claustrophobic. If you simply can’t bare to stray too far from your beloved neutrals, try one shot of colour. Far too often bathrooms are made spartan in their design and colour scheme, but bathrooms don’t have to be boring. Try a vinyl floor, blinds or shower curtains in a bright unexpected colour.

Homes & Gardens Magazine May 2013 issue

A variety of textures in a small space also keep the eye moving. Using throws and pillows in differing styles and fabrics bring interest without the need to fill a room with unessential knick-knacks that take up space.

And while a focal design feature may get lost in a larger space, a small room perfectly highlights it. A rich, jewel coloured sofa with matching colour accented pillows and curtains will bring a sense of real eye-catching opulence!

Click here for home decor ideas from our vast fabric range

So give a small room a chance, and make sure it is never used for storage again. Even if your house is more shoebox than palace – when it comes to interior design there is no excuse to give your home anything less than the royal treatment.

by Annabel, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

Go Mad with Fabric!

Click here to browse our wonderful selection of fabrics

Patterned textiles can add a decorative touch and pull a room together. What could be more fun than selecting your favourite fabrics and using them together? Do not apologise for this bright and bold trend, instead mix it up as much as you dare to add charm and character that can really pack a punch. Keep backgrounds simple and paired down and this look will work a treat. As we already know the colour pallet this season is vast so almost all colours work well within this trend and can inject a sense of fun to any home. Remember to stick to similar or complementary colours and you won’t go wrong. Check out our favourite picks for this bold punchy trend.

Click here to browse our wonderful selection of fabrics

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

Style your home in bright colours this summer!

Click here to explore Poppy Red and Earthy Oranges Colour combinations

How exciting that the colour direction for this spring/summer is at its most dynamic with funky brights taking centre stage. Colour can lift your mood instantly so why not create a colourful haven at home.

As we all balance different areas in our life, our themed colours in this season's palette can create a perfect balance, they sit well together and create a cohesive look. Being the start of summer, we thought this is good time to give you a little refresher on the colours for summer 2013 and how to use them.

As you know, green is undeniable one of strongest colours with the wonderful Emerald Green being Pantone colour of the year. Green can offer the perfect balance in a home and bring a harmonious warmth to any room. This year’s colour predictions from Pantone offer 3 levels of green from the wonderful emerald to a soft leaf green with the added warmth of the complimentary Dusky Blue. Dusky Blue is a good option for a lighter summer neutral.

Click here to explore Blue and Green Colour combinations

Other bright’s this season that must not be overlooked are the bright Poppy Reds and Earthy Oranges, this palette works well within itself but can be equally fun when matched with Warm Violets or Zesty Lemons to bring out those brighter oranges.

We cannot of course forget the natural palette and a Warm Linen is a good base for any of our bright’s this season. In fact, a Warm Linen can sit perfectly with all of this year’s colours and offers a light base from which to build.

You can choose from so many ideas at UK Curtains and Interiors from plain brights to bold colourful prints. So why not have some fun and don’t be afraid to mix it up! Remember to sign up to our Newsletter and be the first to know about our amazing offers and design tips.

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

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