This week has been all about Design Trends here at Charcoal. The Design Team has been asked several times by journalists to give their 'take' on the new interior decorating trends for the coming Summer months. And the answer to that question, is that 'we don't do trend' here at Charcoal Interiors. As far as we are concerned, spending a fortune on a new dress that suits the season trend, but never to be worn again is disasterous enough, let alone decorating a room, or worse, whole home in the latest trend of the moment. This can be a very costly exercise and doesnt really give much scope for change. Like that dress worn once, but now discarded and purse that much emptier, following the trend can lead to disappointment.
In respect to Interior Design, choosing the right furniture, wall colour, artworks and accessories is all about balance. Taking the time to choose quality, classic pieces and mixing them with lush textures and rustic tones will leave you with a timeless canvas of which you can then add your seasonal pieces, i.e floral soft furnishings in Spring/Summer and warm, delicious textures for the cooler months. This way, you end up with an inspirational space in your home, that quite frankly you will never tire of.
Decorating for Individuality
When you are decorating your home, choosing décor that represents your personal sense of style is much more important than sticking with a singular decorating style throughout every room. Combining different styles of design can be one of the best ways to create a home environment that is uniquely yours.
Your home décor should reflect your personality and taste. Including both rustic and contemporary elements in your home can be the perfect way to reflect your appreciation for both modern and traditional design throughout your home. A perfect visual example of a rustic mix with contemporary is in the image above, supplied by our great friends, Unique Fabrics http://www.uniquefabrics.com/international-collections/andrew-martin/chaucer We love how there is an individuality to the room with the art and collectibles, balanced with the timeless sofa. The addition of colour for Summer is evident, yet not overpowering. The transition from Summer to the cooler months is effortless.
YUMMMMMMM....RICE PAPER ROLLS
INGREDIENTS
6 X 18 cm rice paper
2 tbs fresh coriander, chopped
250 g cooked chicken, shredded
1 carrot cut into matchsticks
40 g snow pea sprouts
½ green capsicum
125 g vermicelli
1 tbs grated lemon rind
1 tbs soy sauce
1 tbs lemon juice
METHOD
In a bowl combine juice, sauces and ring with 1 tbs of water and set aside.
Place all ingredients separately on the bench
Fill a bowl with warm water and dip one rice paper at a time into the warm water. Let soak for 30 sec or until soft and then place on the bench.
Place a small amount of each ingredient (except sauce) in the centre of paper. Fold one end over and roll up to enclose
Repeat to make 6 rolls and serve with dipping sauce.
IT'S COCKTAIL FRIDAY DAAAAAAAHHHLING....
Getting into the Spring of it....with a Passionfruit Mojito
Ingredients
- 2 parts Passion Fruit Mojito mix
- 1 part white rum
- Ice
- Club soda
- Mint sprigs
- Lime slices
Directions
- Combine in a pitcher 2 parts Passion Fruit Mojito mix, 1 part white rum, and ice. Mix, then pour into ice-filled glasses. Top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime slice.
Relax, put your feet up and most importantly....Enjoy!
Wishing everyone a very Happy Weekend! Be sure to come and visit us over the weekend. Our sale is drawing to a close....so be quick for some great savings on quality furniture, rugs, lighting and accessories.
Until next week!....
