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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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Novelty Cushions

Click here to see our patterned cushion range

One of the biggest ongoing trends at the moment is the novelty cushion.

What better and inexpensive way is there to bring your room to life. A cushion or even better a selection of cushions can transform any room and inject a sense of fun. You can mix and match styles of cushions in a way that other home furnishing will not allow. So bring your room right up to date and make it entirely your own by choosing from a selection of novelty cushion that can reflect your personality and make you feel cosy at the same time. You can select from our range of stand alone cushions or for a really unique take we offer a bespoke service where you can select any of our wonderful fabrics and we can make one for you or you can buy our fabric by the meter and get creative on your own!

Click here to see our cushion range

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

Create a Fresh Look Home

Click here for Key on-trend fabric designs – with leaf motifs

One of the big trends this summer is leaf prints. For those of you who follow our blog you will remember our Emerald based blog which showcased Emerald being this year’s wining pantone colour, which is the very reason why leaf designs are very much on trend.

This look works best with neutral walls and flooring, the clean backdrop is perfect for showing this classic look. As we know green is the most relaxing colour so is perfect when used in the rooms that we choose to relax in. below are some of our favourites from our made to measure  fabric section.

By using the leafy green with duckeggs and warm beiges you can create a warn and completely relaxed atmosphere. And, if you don’t want to buy into the whole look why not just add a few cushions for a fun and funky look!

Click here for Printed Cushions - designs inspired by nature

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

www.ukcurtainsandinteriors.co.uk

It’s all about stripes!

As predicted at the start of the year stripes truly are one of the hottest trends of 2013. So when Living etc magazine promoted stripes in their July issue we were thrilled because it gives us the perfect excuse to showcase our favorite picks from our ever expanding range.

Stripes are showcased this year from the catwalk to the living room. Whether used in a soft subtle way or strong and bold this seasons trend is not one to be missed. Check out our ready-made items such as curtains or cushions that will easily fit into your home and really do this fashion trend justice.

Stripes can be Timeless and simple and can update your room in an instance as they can fit quite easily into existing decor schemes. Stripes are also wonderful for sitting with and complementing other patterns that you may already have for example stripes sit wonderfully with large bold floral prints and can equally be used to complement some of these seasons graphic prints. Stripes can also be versatile whether it be vertical or horizontal, pinstripe or a broad stripe you are sure to find the stripe that is right for you and your home. 

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

Want a good night's slumber?

Well, according to a new study the answer is to decorate your bedroom blue.

The study of 2,000 British homes for Travelodge hotels reveals how a bedroom colour scheme can affect the quality and quantity of sleep!

The survey showed that Blue is the best colour for your bedroom if you want a good night's sleep.  Interestingly this colour scheme resulted in an average of 7 hours and 52 minutes' sleep each night.

So with a good night’s sleep only a click away what better reason to update your bedroom. At UK curtains and Interiors we have chosen our top blue bedding accessories to ensure you jump out of bed each morning ready for the day ahead.

Mirabel Aqua Bedding Collection

Luxury Bed Set

Abstract Blue Bedding Collection

Checkmate Blue Bedding Collection

Cambridge Blue Bedding Collection

Luxury Bed Set

by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

Big Floral Printed Fabrics!

Feeling inspired by the annual horticultural equivalent of Fashion Week, that is the Chelsea Flower Show, I thought what better time to celebrate the much beloved floral trend. Florals have a constant place in design and are particularly gorgeous when used with some of this year’s funky colours. Browse our print fabrics or rich floral designs for home decorating ideas. You’ll find designs from small blossoms to large posies, from cottage looks to contemporary illustrations.

Florals are so versatile they can be used in a variety of ways to suit all tastes. If you looking for a bold statement then look no further than our favourite picks below of this wonderful trend. These vibrant florals are a sure way to pack a punch and bring a burst of colour into your home.

However, if you aspire to a more romantic and subtle approach to this trend take a look at our gorgeous blooms below.

So no need to worry if you didn't get a chance to view the lovely gardens at Chelsea this year just visit our website and bring those bold, bright, lovely florals into your home in any way that your imagination allows.

Posted by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors

Childrens Bedroom Design Ideas

Your children are probably the most important people in your home, whether they are toddlers or teenagers. As their bedroom is more than just a place to sleep, consider their interests and involve them in deciding on a decorating scheme. Give your children a sense of control over their environment while you make all those important decisions in making sure that their bedroom has enough staying power to require minimal re-decorating as your children grow.

Did you know that our collections are brimming with children’s fabrics for all ages?

Our selection of children’s curtain fabrics is full of fun with amazing prints and spectacular designs. So much so, that sending them to their room will certainly not be a punishment they do not want to endure. Where better to let your imagination run wild then a kids bedroom? It is the perfect place to inject some bright and funky ideas which we would not dream of using anywhere else in the home. Below is a selection of our favorites to get you inspired.  Any of these children’s fabrics can be used to create a fun pair of curtains or for a more inexpensive option they are perfect for cushions which will inject a sense of fun and are easy to replace. And, add blackout lining to a curtain which will then block almost all light if it covers all parts of the window.

Not forgetting the very important issue of the teenage bedroom, and if you are in the middle of turning a child’s bedroom into a teenage living space then these up to date cool fabrics are bang on trend to please even the coolest of teenagers. 

So for truly inspiring collection of children’s fabrics look no further and remember our designers can help you create an idea-book for your next re-modelling project.

Posted by Louise, UK Curtains and Interiors