If anything can lift our mood, it’s thoughts of sunnier climes. We spend so much time thinking about getting away from it all, it’s easy to forget that with a little imagination and free-spirited flair, we can be just as relaxed and creative at home.
After all, exuberant patterns, quirky accessories and woven textiles channel the current trend for exotic statement pieces, and introducing shape, colour and crafts into our decor schemes.
So, as the sunshine season draws to an end, make sure those feel-good vibes linger, with a touch of Indian Summer style at home. These top picks are just the ticket…
1. Lunara Jute Istanbul Round Circle Orange, £100 (150cm x 150cm), The Rug Seller (back in stock September 10; other items part of room set)
Re-imagining our flooring and padding around on natural jute not only feels right, but it’s an eco-friendly option too. Bordered with a pop of orange and embellished with tassels, this rug can be mixed with Indian and Moroccan influences and styled with a pair of babouche slippers.
2. Portobello Left Hand Facing Corner Sofa, from £2,249, Heal’s (merino wool throw and other items from a selection)
We’re getting bolder with our use of colour, and this three-seater corner chaise has an eye-catching silhouette, with its curvaceous arms and slim black legs. It’ll add warmth and texture to a pared-back interior and you can make a feature of the extended seat, with a soft throw or tray of colourful sweets nearby.
3. Bivain Elephant Festival Large Silk Cushion, £120, Charlton Island
Inspired by Indian festivals and the country’s dazzling colours and charms, this striking silk twill cushion is a definite must-have for quick sofa makeovers and a glam, Bollywood vibe. Includes feather pad.
4. Peacock Rattan Chair, £540, Ella James
Bang up to date with this summer’s Seventies revival, this striking Peacock chair features an elegant high back in an open weave design and can be beautifully styled with tactile touches, such as a faux fur throw. A timeless classic and jewel in the crown for an exotic retreat.
5. Raffia Tassel Storage Pots – Black, Set of 3 – £55, Bohemia Design
Resplendent in raffia, these woven, tasselled pots can be grouped with ethnic pottery or hand-painted vases, filled with jewellery and beads so they spill out, like you’d see in a lively flea market. Convenient enough for general storage, too.
6. Light Blue Floral Print Bone Frame, £24.95, Graham & Green
This Indian inspired design comes beautifully decorated in a blue and white floral print on natural bone, and can even be mounted with a postcard or swatch of exotic fabric for added interest.
7. Reba Raffia Pendant, £115, Graham & Green
An exciting eclectic find, this striking cluster pendant adds warmth and texture, with natural raffia discs flanking the light bulb to create ambient lighting. Ornamental, functional, and surprisingly effective.
8. Round Callanish Dining Table – Dry Pebble Grey, £1,895 (was £2095); Small Zabiya Decorative Vase – Blue, £25 (was £30); Large Zabiya Decorative Vase – Blue, £30 (was £35), Kitsai Cushion Cover – Blue, £60, OKA
Taking into account how much more we’re enjoying entertaining at home, we think this stunning sculptured table makes a sound investment – especially when you consider that it’s space-efficient, and will look just as gorgeous in a dining area as it would on a flagstone courtyard. Rattan garden furniture will work just as well as a set of dining chairs too.
9. Steps And Ladders Fine Art Giclee Print – Wall Art, £25.05, Etsy
This far-flung print not only fits into the scheme of things, but could easily revive a plain white wall – especially if you juxtapose it with terracotta stoneware, or clear vases filled with tall grasses.
10. Matilda Sideboard, £1,150, Beaumonde (decos from a selection)
A statement sideboard and object of desire, here, flashes of strong colour and intricate rope detail are framed by solid mango wood. With unusual textured detail, tassel handles and scope for storage, it has a lovely craft and artisan feel that chimes with global, boho vibes.
11. John Lewis & Partners Fusion Storage Bag with Leather Handle, £45, John Lewis
Ideal for books, magazines – and even those rolls of vintage wallpaper or scented lining paper you’ve squirrelled away! Eclectic and nifty, who says storage solutions need to be dull.
12. 2 Pack Ethnic Batik Floral Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set, from £25 (single) to £45 (king), Next (other items from a selection)
Warm tones and a decorative Batik floral print in ochre not only feels restorative, but new bedding is a versatile and affordable way to quickly update a bedroom. And you can always think about introducing some quirky pieces, such as macramé wall hangings – team them with woven pendant lighting and flicker of candlelight, if you want to turn up the heat.
Read more: 7 ways to work the wow factor in your own home
