Design Inspiration From Around The Globe

Recently One Kings Lane has published a very interesting article about decoration inspiration from around the world. I found it very engaging as I love eclectic spaces which combine interior styles from different countries. I believe the most important trend going in interior design world right now is that designers step away from “one style look” and more ready to experiment with different decorating tendencies and create “fusion” interiors which often combine in one space things, at first glance, absolutely incompatible.

Travelling can be amazing source of inspiration for an interior designer: you can see unusual colour palettes, find interesting furniture pieces and discover curious objets d’art. In this article I want to talk about what inspires me in my work and also share here places that made a huge impact on forming my design taste and style.

1.  Bright and pure colours of Seychelles. I was so fortunate to live for several years in one of the most beautiful corners of our planet: Seychelles, little islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean. When I arrived there first time I was really shocked by the vividness of colours around me: striking blue and turquoise of the ocean waters, dazzling white of the beach sands and emerald green of palm trees. Amazing and surrealistic picture… Since then, turquoise, teal and different shades of blue are my favourite colours and I love when they are incorporated in interior design.

2. Closeness to nature from Maldives. Maldives is another place which can be surely described as “paradise on Earth”. There you understand that the ultimate luxury in the modern world is to be close to nature and to feel yourself a part of it. Of course, I am not talking here about creating Robinson Crusoe hut in the modern loft located in New York, but rather about being conscious about the environment and using sustainable natural materials for interior design projects.

3. Eastern Charm from Azerbaijan. Baku was an unexpected twist in my life travel route and to be honest I never knew what this country was about. However, it has also influenced greatly my decorating style, first of all, because there I got to know amazing Caucasian rugs. Adding such feature to the room as handmade oriental rug instantly lifts up the mood and makes the space feel cozier and inviting, doesn’t matter whether it is a traditional country house or modern Scandinavian apartment.

Another amazing decorative objects which I discovered in this country was handmade copper dishware and hand-painted ceramics. Similar items can be found in oriental bazaars of Turkey and Iran and when you use them for decorating your home, they create an unforgettable oriental magic.

4. Artisan decor from Armenia. Next stop on my route was Armenia – one of the most ancient countries of the Caucasian region. Many arts and crafts exist in this country for many centuries. Here I learned that adding some rare artisanal objects to home decor will make space look very exclusive, I would say “one and only”. Many designers “hunt” their treasures on flea markets and garage sales – and here doesn’t even matter how much you spent to get the object, more important is its artistic value and unique flavor it is able to bring to your home.

5. Rustic appeal from Latvia. After meeting my husband Latvia has become my second home. I discovered for myself the baltic linen which I consider now the best in the world. If you are looking to create the rustic style at your home, Baltic countries can be wonderful to draw inspiration: natural stonewashed linen, clay pottery in earthy tones and love for all natural will make your house look very simple, yet sophisticated.

Does traveling inspire you and bring fresh ideas? Which countries have influenced your decorating style? I am dying to hear your comments – please share them in the section below!