FLORAL FEVER

Floral patterns are a traditional mainstay of interior designs because they are visually stimulating and adaptable with a never ending variety of pattern, size, colour, design and structure.

Summer especially is the time to woo flowers in all shapes colours and forms. Using faded florals is the all new fad. It helps to create a lovely authentic country look.The soft outlines and colours of faded florals are far less strident and dominant than ubiquitous highly glazed chintzes and can therefore be easily blended into a decorative scheme using patterned materials and embellishments.

Give a classic chintz floral a modern slant by associating it with contemporary elements or by using it in an unexpected way. For example instead of regular curtains use a spectacular floral fabric as a single banner curtain, finished with a wide contrast border and hung from simple ribbon labs or rings. Using floral cushions is also a good way of introducing small quantities of different colour notes in a particular area. Some floral notes to keep in mind are:-

- A woven crewel-work floral pattern makes a suitable graphic addition.
- A large patterned informal floral print creates a bright, clean ambience.
- A tulip sprig print can be used to complement a larger more complex floraric, linking the two without conflicting styles.
- Combine florals with checks and stripes for a decidedly happening look.
- Lilac and lime, lime and green, pink and mauve make youthful partners in floral schemes.
- Infuse fresh colour with peppermint, pink and a similarly mixed palette of florals.