Wow!house, an annual event at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, is a treasure trove of innovative interior design ideas. This year's showcase, featuring the works of renowned British and international designers, has left the Livingetc team in awe. Here, we delve into five standout concepts that are sure to inspire and captivate, offering a glimpse into the future of interior design.
Silky Textures: A Sensory Experience
One of the most striking elements of this year's WOW!house is the use of silky textures. The Lalique Bar, designed by Elicyon, is a prime example of this trend. The 'Box of Delights' home bar is a small yet lavish space, adorned with bamboo silk. This choice of material is not merely aesthetic; it adds a tactile quality to the room, inviting visitors to touch and explore. The softness and natural imperfections of bamboo silk create a sense of comfort and warmth, making the space feel more inviting and personal. What's more, the repetition of silk textures throughout the room, from the ceiling to the chandeliers and wall insets, creates a harmonious and calming atmosphere. This trend is not just about visual appeal; it's about engaging all the senses.
Soft Green Palettes: A Calm Oasis
While many WOW!house rooms embrace dark and dramatic themes, a soft tonal green palette has emerged as an unexpected trend. Samantha Bartlett's kitchen, in collaboration with Martin Moore, showcases this trend beautifully. The soft green range cooker and Porta Romana chandelier create a peaceful and inviting atmosphere. This palette is a refreshing change from the bold and saturated colors often seen in contemporary design. The use of pale green, blue, and silvery gray in Sara Cosgrove's Morning Room further emphasizes this trend, offering a calming and serene space. The key to this trend is the balance between softness and depth, achieved through the use of lacquered finishes and subtle contrasts.
Tassels on Tassels: A Touch of Craftsmanship
Layered textiles are a common feature in WOW!house designs, allowing designers to showcase the rich variety of trimming and fabric brands. However, the intriguing use of tassels has become a standout feature this year. Studio Enass's garden room is a prime example, where tassels are used across various elements, from wall trims to tables and curtains. This trend adds a sense of movement and craftsmanship to the space, becoming an integral part of the design rather than just a finishing touch. The use of tassels in unexpected places and styles demonstrates the designer's attention to detail and their willingness to experiment.
Unexpected Contrasts: A Bold Statement
Rich color palettes dominated the WOW!house rooms, with deep browns, oxblood, olive greens, rust, plum, butter yellow, and lacquered neutrals. However, the standout idea is not just the use of these colors but the interesting contrasts that challenge traditional color schemes. Studio Duggan's room for Black Edition is a perfect example, where a mustard yellow curved cocktail sofa sits on a rich, cherry red zellige tile. The combination of green and purple in the main part of the salon adds another layer of excitement. These unexpected contrasts create a bold and dynamic atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore and discover the beauty in the unexpected.
The Beauty of Burl Wood: A Moody and Rich Atmosphere
Burl wood has made a significant impact at WOW!house this year, bringing a rich and dark feel to various schemes. Róisín Lafferty's Shepel Library is a prime example, where burl wood is used throughout the space to create a moody and glamorous atmosphere. This material is a testament to the power of a single material in defining a room's character. The emotional and immersive quality of burl wood adds a layer of depth and sophistication to the design, making it a standout feature of this year's WOW!house.
In conclusion, WOW!house is a celebration of creativity and innovation in interior design. The five concepts highlighted here offer a glimpse into the future of design, showcasing the power of texture, color, and craftsmanship. As the event opens to the public, it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in these stunning designs and gain inspiration for your own home. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a professional, WOW!house is a must-visit, offering a unique and captivating experience that will leave a lasting impression.
