Wallpaper - Upping the Wow Factor

In recent years, the resurgence of wallpaper in domestic interiors has opened up another layer in the decorating realm.

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Modern day wallpapers are a far cry from the days of old.

Traditional hand-blocking technique in France - 1877

Whilst traditional printing techniques such as surface printing, gravure printing, silk screen printing, and rotary printing, continue to be used today, it is the emergence of digital printing technology that has allowed for almost any image or design to be printed onto wallpaper, opening up so many new design possibilities.

Digital Printing Press

A digital image printed onto wallpaper

While textile wallpapers such as silk, linen, and grasscloth are still being manufactured, the introduction of vinyl coated wallpapers has become a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications due to its durability and ease of use.

Application methods and adhesives have now also improved.  New paste-the-wall varieties make the job a little easier.

The Wow Factor

One area where wallpaper has proved to really elevate a room is the powder room.  What could easily be a boring (often white) small room can be given so much personality with the use of a bold wallpaper, a gorgeous mirror, a beautiful light fitting, and a couple of good quality accessories.

Often, where homeowners are hesitant to use wallpaper in their homes for fear of commitment, the powder room is a great place to start making a larger decorating statement.

Here are a few examples:

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So, are you ready to take the wallpaper plunge?

Original or Reproduction?

Say No To Fakes

The Cost of Replica Furniture on the Design Industry

In recent times, the replica furniture industry has broadened access to designer-looking furniture to the general public, allowing those on lower incomes to enjoy the design aesthetic that was previously enjoyed by the wealthy.

This industry seems to have taken off in recent years due to a much more style-savvy general public who want to gain a particular standard of decorating in their homes, but don't always have the budget to allow for the purchase of original pieces.

Whole businesses have dedicated themselves to solely selling a wide range of reproduction furniture and decorating items.

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Apart from taking away income from the original designers who worked hard on their furniture creations, the sub-standard level of workmanship of these replicas means that in the reasonably near future, they will most likely end up in landfill.

An original piece of furniture is designed to be of superior quality, craftsmanship, and comfort, with only the best and most durable materials being used in their manufacture.  A high level of care and attention to detail is taken throughout the whole process, and as a consequence these pieces are built to last - they can be handed down through generations for maximum use and enjoyment.

Let's Compare:

Here's an example of a Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair:

The original is only made by Carl Hansen & Son.

Answer: A

The original chair's toprail is made from one single piece of steam-bent timber, while the replica consists of several pieces joined together.

The seat of the original is made from highly durable paper cord and is of a uniform weave, whereas the replica is made from cheap synthetic or nylon cord.

The timber of the original is made from high quality sustainable Danish timbers with an even colour finish with no knots, while the replica has an uneven finish and knots visible.

If you don't see a label, or it doesn't look quite right, buyer beware!

Above images above from nordicdesign.ca

The price differences are also telling - the old adage 'you get what you pay for' certainly rings true here.

The Verdict

So, suffice to say this is just one example of many original designer pieces that are now being reproduced.

The good news is that real design doesn't have to cost the earth. 

Original Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair

If your budget doesn't quite extend to an original Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair, there are many other accessible and affordable designs out there if you just take the time to do a little research.  Even if it means saving up for that bit longer, it will pay dividends in the long run to know you have a piece that is of superior quality, and be able to enjoy and appreciate it for the rest of your years on this planet.

In an interesting twist, Matt Blatt (an Australian business founded on replica furniture and accessories), has recently started stocking a range of original designer furniture, lighting, homewares and accessories.  Click here to see their original designer range.

The Rise of Bespoke as a Design Trend

bespoke [bih-spohk] adj.

{ made to individual order; custom made }

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'Bespoke' seems to have become a more familiar word in the interior design world in the last couple of years.

Previously, bespoke design has been the realm of the wealthy or upper class, however with a more intense interest in our interiors and so much information available on television, in print, media, and the internet, the importance of good design is becoming more widely appreciated as having a greater potential impact on the way we live our lives.

These days we all seem to live such busy lives, often juggling several tasks at once.  If thoughtful design can be tailor-made to fit with our own unique lifestyle, then that design has the potential to have a great impact on the efficiency and enjoyment of our lives.  If a simple repetitive task that we perform everyday can be streamlined, imagine how much time it could save us over a year to re-allocate to more important matters.

What would you do with an extra 10 or 15 minutes a day?

Practicality

Bespoke design can also enable a more efficient use of space within our homes, therefore enabling more effective storage, or fit in something that was previously out of the question.  It means that we do not have to accept pre-made generic items that are out there for the masses, but we can tailor them to fit our lives, who we are, and how we live.

wyndhamdesign.com

Contemporary bookcase fitted around radiator - JV Carpentry

Clever Closet Company

Wardrobes

Think of the difference a bespoke wardrobe can make to your experience of getting ready in the morning - better organisation and cohesion so everything can fit neatly, functionally, and efficiently.  No more searching for those shoes at the back of the closet when you are hurrying to get out the door!

Both images via Bravo London

Stairwell Spaces

Another excellent use of sometimes otherwise wasted space is to utilise storage around a stairwell.

Image via Avar Furniture UK

Reading Nook

A Design Statement

Bespoke storage can also make a beautiful design statement too.  Who wouldn't love to have one of these in their homes?

Above images via Filip Janssens


So, I think we can see why the bespoke trend has gained momentum in the last few years - greater efficiency, tailor-made spaces, and the potential for a design statement are all great reasons to make use of any available opportunities.

Artist Profile - Max Angus

A LIVING LEGEND

At nearly 102 years old, Max Angus is Australia's oldest exhibiting artist.

From a young age, Max says he always knew he was destined to be an artist.  "My father was a house painter and decorator, he always brought home offcuts of wallpaper and my brother and I started drawing on them."

Max Angus via

Max resides in Hobart, Tasmania, where he is a master of watercolour, and captures the rugged beauty of the Tasmanian landscape and wilderness.  He has also favoured native birds, and bushfires, but probably his biggest inspiration has come from Lake Pedder (see pictures 3 and 4 of exhibition collection below), of where he travelled on many occasions, and passionately advocated for its saving from damming for the hydro electricity scheme back in the late 1960's/early 1970's.

With an amazing career spanning 70 years since his first exhibition, Max has tried his hand at many forms of art, produced thousands of paintings, a collection of books, and held many sold-out exhibitions.

He continues to venture out into his cherished Tasmanian environment to take advantage of the light and landscapes that inspire his watercolour works.  He has enjoyed doing this on a regular basis throughout his life, and will brave the elements to gain the benefit of a more realistic portrayal of his subject.

"Watercolour is capable of expressing the most formidable landscape that you can find, yet it is also capable of expressing the delicacy that lies in the atmosphere"

Max Angus via 

Max in his art studio

Max also happens to be my Great Uncle, and is one of the most fascinating, interesting and inquisitive men you will ever meet. He has won the hearts of many Tasmanians - not just for his artistic contributions - but his intelligence, eloquence, passion for the environment, and amazing storytelling abilities. 

Even today he still has a great passion and optimistic outlook on life, which along with clean Tasmanian air, a healthy diet (moderation in all things, maybe except painting!), a supportive family, some good genes (his mother lived to 97 years old), and doing what he loves each day has led to a very fulfilling, productive and successful life.

His beloved wife Thedda is also turning 100 years old in January 2017, and the pair have been married for 76 years.

To mark his 100th birthday celebrations in 2014, he held an exhibition (sold out) at the Colville Gallery in Hobart titled 100 Years - an exhibition of old and new work.

He also held another exhibition late last year, Max Angus 101 Birthday Exhibition, showcasing 27 of his landscape paintings created in the 12 months since 100 years.

The following paintings are some of my favourites from that most recent exhibition:

All images via Colville Gallery:

 

                               Mountain Waterfall 2015                   Spring Morning Lake Dobson 2015

 

                             Morning Lake Pedder 2015                  Morning Shower Lake Pedder 2015 

   

View to Cape Bernier East Coast Tasmania 2015

Foreshore Bay of Fires 2015

Yacht passing the Iron Pot, River Derwent 2015

Sheds, Battery Point 2015

Yachts racing on the Derwent 2015

At Lake Dobson National Park 2015

Max has won several awards for his contribution to the art world, including being made a member of the Order of Australia in 1978.  He has also won several art awards, including being an Archibald finalist in 1974.

He continues to be an inspiration not just to me and my extended family, but he is also firmly held as a treasured Tasmanian in the eyes of many.

  

Artwork Selection for a Contemporary Beach House

THE ARTWORK

In close consultation with my clients, we have chosen this beautiful artwork for the main living room wall of the contemporary renovation of their recently purchased beachside holiday home on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula.

Slipstream 2015

Slipstream 2015, acrylic on canvas, 160cm x 190cm, $14,000 AUD
Flinders Lane Gallery
Agneta Ekholm

THE PROJECT DETAILS

The home reflects a more relaxed version of their urban home – focusing on a combination of appropriate colours for the location – blues, greens, whites and greys.

Think lovely Jardan furniture pieces:

The Sweeney

Driftwood:

James BO Insogna

Beautiful beaches:

The Beach

THE CONSIDERATIONS

The clients wanted this art piece to blend well with the surrounding furniture and colour scheme, rather than dominate.

It was therefore a natural progression that an art piece that reflected both water and wind was selected. 

THE SCALE

Artwork to scale

Artwork to scale in-situ on 3.7m gallery wall.

THE ELEVATION

Diagram perspective of actual living room situation.

THE FRAMING

In order to best suit the contemporary style of the home and painting alike, I am recommending a floating gallery box type frame in a natural timber (oak) which is understated, but finishes the artwork perfectly.  This means that there will be no glass in front of the painting, and provides an overall minimal look.

Framing Images


PROTECTION

As a result of this, I am recommending that the windows in this room are treated with a UV protective film to reduce any possibility of fading from the sun, and the use of light-filtering day-blinds/sheers will also help with this situation.


THE ARTIST

This painting was from Elkholm's 2nd exhibition with Flinders Lane Gallery (FLG) in 2015 entitled 'Unfold'.

Unfold

"In a way nature is always the starting point.  It acts as a mirror on the soul; a reflex.  In nature I find something that triggers a kind of personal state of mind."

Agneta Ekholm

Serene, vast, immersive - Agneta Ekholm's sensitively layered paintings evoke a myriad of emotional and cognitive responses.  The organic compositions suggest movement or the play of light, glass-like formations or flowing water, through the fluid and gradual process of creation, and luxurious ebb and flow of paint, direct their ambiguity and abstractness.  Seemingly delicate, the works exude a false fragility that only adds to their sensual elusiveness.

'Ekholm is taking us into the tidal stream of nature, to a site of restless creation.  Observations of the natural world are central to the logic of these works.  From the smooth surface of a rock, worn down by the erosive power of wind or wave, to the dancing light of the aurora borealis, the same elemental values, the same geometric principles, are present.  This larger, organic design system can be witnessed within core of the artist's language, transformed into a series of human, painterly gestures.'

Phe Luxford, 2013.


Agneta's works are held in major public and private collections nationally and internationally, including Artbank, the Embassy of Finland (Australia), Sony Music Corporation, Google (USA) and the Rydges Hotel Group.

Artwork Selection for a Beautiful Edwardian

THE PROJECT

I am currently working on a beautiful Edwardian home project located in South-East Melbourne.  We are nearing completion of an extensive renovation, and have re-decorated the home with a clean and sophisticated European aesthetic.  My clients are in the later years of their careers, and the children have all moved out of home, so they wanted me to deliver a home that exuded luxury and sophistication - something that truly represents them at this stage in their lives.

THE DETAILS

The interiors consist of fresh crisp white walls to keep the focus on the historic period details, with some darker walls and cabinetry for moodiness and sophistication.  Beautiful timber parquetry flooring, and a palette of blacks and darker blues in the furniture/soft furnishings, with a considered highlight of rich colour accents for further depth aim to take advantage of the light-reflective opportunities.  Surfaces are high-quality and luxurious, with velvet, marble, brass, and beautiful timbers.

THE INSPIRATION

Some examples of artwork in properties with a similar aesthetic in which I have drawn inspiration:

Large scale textured abstract painting in sophisticated dining room

Gilles Trillard photographe

A bold, but well-considered piece of modern art perfectly complementing the magnificent architectural details of this beautiful period home.

Parisian Apartment

An example of rich and luxurious furnishings resulting in a sophisticated outcome for a period apartment in Paris.

THE CHOSEN ONE

Ocean Drift Escape I & II 2016

Caroline Rannersberger

Ink & acrylic on linen

198cm x 97cm ea

priced individually

$10,000 AUD

Flinders Lane Gallery.

I have chosen these 2 beautiful artworks by Tasmanian painter and printmaker Caroline Rannersberger as I think they perfectly blend with the chosen colour scheme and sophisticated aesthetic we are aiming to achieve.  The colour is rich and the texture substantial, and the light bounces off them highlighting the beautiful deep blues and greens which are also reflected in the sofa, lounge chairs and soft furnishings.  I think that they are the perfect blend between traditional and contemporary art styles, which fits exactly with the concept of the interiors as a whole.

THE FRAMING

In order to follow through with the sophisticated aesthetic of the home, I am recommending a floating gallery box-type frame in a black glossy finish which is understated but luxurious, and will finish the artwork to perfection.  There will be no glass in front of the painting, and the overall look is minimal.

THE ELEVATION

Diagram perspective of actual living room situation.

THE ARTIST

'Her layered way of building up the works result in highly textured surfaces.  Rich in pentimento, the artist balances areas of density with transparency.  The effect in some paintings is almost opalescent, like looking through a crystal and catching flashes of submerged colours and shapes.'

Essay by Marguerite Brown MAArtCur 2016

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'Deeply in tune with the landscape, Rannersberg's works evoke the moody windswept landscapes of Bruny Island.  Varying greatly each is a testament to the artist's honest response to her setting, with the tonal works emotively reflecting the different weather patterns and atmospheres of the day'.

Caroline Rannersberger, Sentiment and Sedimentation, By Lucy Stranger, March 8, 2016.

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Rannersberger's work is held in the collections of the National Gallery of Australia, The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT), and Artbank.  She obtained a PHD in Visual Arts from Charles Darwin University (2010), and in the past 5 years she has been a finalist in numerous Art awards and prizes.  These paintings are part of a series Illuminous, being exhibited at Flinders Lane Gallery in Melbourne from 19th July 2016 - 6th August 2016.

Caroline Rannersberger

Caroline Rannersberger at the Neck (looking towards the Houndstooth, Bruny Island).

Photographer Richard Bennett.