International Design Inspiration that will Soothe Your Wanderlust
Okay, I admit it… the travel bug is biting hard right now. We may have just finished our ADU and backyard but the smoke in the air is getting rough and, well… it’s been a while, right? I feel the pull to board a plane to… anywhere!
Since all (or most) of us are going nowhere anytime soon, I thought I’d take this month’s blog post to share some international design inspiration. From East to West, I’ve picked out a few of my favorite internationally-inspired spaces, filled with color and culture that will soothe even the most wanderlust-y among us. At least for a little while. ;)
But first… the question I get asked all the time...
Where do designers go to get inspired?
I hear you. You love getting inspiration from your favorite interior designers… but where do us designers go to get our inspiration? I think every designer is a little different, but for me, it all comes down to 3 big sources:
1. Art
Did you know I was trained as an artist in NYC and SF before becoming a designer? It’s true! Art has always been close to my heart, whether it’s sketching, strolling galleries to find the perfect piece for a project (or just for fun), or commissioning installations from local artists and makers.
The talented Christina Watka installing a masterpiece for one of our projects.
2. History
I also find history fascinating — and no, I don’t mean snoozy history textbooks. I mean the history that you can visibly see when you walk into a space. The turrets and paneling of a Victorian style home. The stories waiting to be discovered in one-of-a-kind antiques. Even the Bauhaus perfection of mid-century furniture.
These details tell stories of the past, and it all inspires me!
3. Travel
Ah, travel… the best for last. I still remember 2019’s trips well — a chipper jaunt around London’s design destinations and a hearty helping of southern comfort inspo from New Orleans.
Remember this eye-catching space, The Gallery at Sketch in London? Still dreamy!
Which, since there are zero trips on the books right now, brings me to those international-inspired spaces I promised you. we’ll take a look at design inspired by...
Japanese Wabi-sabi
Ornate India
Edgy Morocco
Pretty in Paris
The English Country
Sounds fun, right?? Let’s go!
Japanese Design & Wabi-sabi
The elements of Japanese design can (and have) filled an entire book, but for the sake of keeping this post digestible, here are a few of the main features:
respect of natural elements
simplicity and minimalism
exquisite craftsmanship and detail
a purpose for everything
The Japanese concept of wabi-sabi takes these concepts a step further, embracing transience and imperfection as an art form. This can be seen in asymmetry, in the beautiful flaws found in natural materials like stone and wood, and in the role of negative space.
Designer Axel Vervoordt turned this former military barrack into a space that feels expansive, warm, and invites rest. Floor seating is characteristic of Japanese design as well. Photography: José Manuel Alorda (source)
Designed by Jay Jeffers (source)
This twist on Japanese-inspired design took a whole different direction. We see the same elements of asymmetry, floor-style seating, and natural wood. But… we also see modern lighting and bold color choices.
In any case, this space offers a fun style fusion that is sure to result in lively conversation!
Features of Indian Design
Traditional Indian design is typically marked by...
rich and vibrant colors
repeating patterns
rounded or domed shapes
an ornate approach to decor, including luxurious fabrics
intricate details
The scalloped frame of the nook is characteristic of Indian design, along with the abundance of pillows, luxurious chandeliers and drapery, and natural stone flooring. However, this space forgoes the rich colors and patterns for an updated look. Modern-style furniture, end tables and a console usher in a fresh blend of East meets West.
Features of Moroccan Design
Moroccan design is similar to Indian design in theory but visibly different in practice. In Moroccan design, you’re most likely to see:
geometric repeating patterns
neutral walls
jewel tones for furnishings and decor
luxurious textiles
natural stone
arches
Designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s home is a blend of Moroccan style and mid-century sensibilities. (source)
Martyn’s ode to Moroccan style can be seen in the ceiling pattern, touches of opulent gold (not to mention the palm trees), the ornate fireplace and mirror, the arched doorway and windows, and even the water fountain design outside. It’s definitely a bold space, but he makes it work!
Inspired by French Parisian
If you’ve been to Paris, you’ll know that the Parisians have a style all of their own. Traditional French style — which still pervades many apartments and homes there — includes:
ornate trim, millwork and sconces, from walls to ceiling
furnishings decked in traditional detailing
luxurious materials, like velvet, thick drapery, and gold
parquet flooring
pastels
French Designer Jean-Louis Deniot transformed this Parisian flat into a modernist masterpiece. We see French influence in the wall details, the pastel palette, the fireplace, and even the traditional high-backed chair.
Meanwhile, mid-century modern furniture (look at that navy beauty!), touches of bright blue, and Art Deco-style artwork transform this space into a true work of art. Wouldn’t you just love to recline on that sofa, Champagne in hand?
English Country Style
And now we head west to English Country. You can picture it, can’t you? Features like…
small
warm and cozy
provincial feel
muted palette
architectural details
Studio Laloc reimagined this adorable scullery, and it has plenty of English Country charm. From the apron sink to the chich skirted cabinet to the paneled walls, “quaint” is the word that comes to mind. However, she certainly takes a daring leap with the oversized pattern of the floor! LOVE.
I would call this space the masculine version of the scullery above: the English gentleman’s lounge. Again, the colors are muted, though darker, and there’s a cozy feel to the room. Architectural details are found in the doorways, but they’re far less ornate than Indian or Moroccan design.
I personally love the out-of-character chartreuse rug that adds a touch of brightness to this den.
And that concludes our trip from East to West! Which of these styles was your favorite? Which design styles resonated most with you? I would love to hear in the comments below.
And if you’re considering a redesign or renovation in your future, be sure to take your inspiration, wants and wishes into our consultation. Together, we can create a one-of-a-kind space that beautifully blends what you love with how you want to live and feel every day.
P.S. Be sure to get on our books ASAP — we’re filling up fast for projects starting Fall 2020!
Xoxo,
Susie