Cambridge Edition September 2019

INTER IORS

aking its cue from a Japanese style of living, schemes that embrace a simple yet elegant look have an enduring appeal. Warm up a pared-back design with the layering of textures. Think minimalism with heart. Chunky knitted throws, sheepskin rugs and copper lighting juxtaposed against white floors, the palest pink walls and neutral linen sofas to add cosiness and interest. “Wabi-sabi is the Japanese philosophy based on the acceptance of imperfection,” explains Judy Smith, Crown’s colour consultant. “It’s very much of the moment. Chalky tones of clay and soft pinks make a colour palette that is natural, championing the imperfect and the handmade. The final look is minimal, but still characterful, with colours blending into each other in total harmony.” For added warmth, use slate grey, petrol blue and the lightest ‘mist’ green on walls, doors and skirting boards. Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select and Aura paint colours offer a range of on-trend hues to choose from. Meanwhile, light shades of flooring create an airy and open feel. “Whitewashed or limewashed floorboards make a room appear larger,” says Sarah Escott, Amtico’s design manager. “They reflect the natural light from outside onto the ceiling. If the room decor is kept minimal, white floors will enhance textures and colours, providing the perfect bright background.” Giving a sophisticated finish is Paint & Paper Library’s new Monochrome paint collection, which launches this month. It includes six nuanced pairs of black and white shades, which is fitting with the minimalist approach. Marketing director Ruth Mottershead explains more: “Many of the world’s most elegant interiors, old and new, have used black and white colour schemes to achieve maximal

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