Tuesday 26 May 2015

Brit Decor: Up close & personal




It's been an exceptionally busy whirlwind of a month here at Brit Decor, so I just wanted to share a recent interview that I did with Posh Flooring Supplies, which gives a bit of an insight into me, how I work as a designer, and the history of Brit Decor. 

In reality, I couldn't have done any of this without the support of YOU, so I think this is definitely the perfect moment to share the love - thank you for reading!

M





Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I am a thirty-something designer living in the beautiful Somerset countryside with my partner and two cats. I began my career as a Graphic Designer after graduating with a BA Hons in Graphic Communication, but since then I have gradually shifted my focus towards interior design in order to fulfil my dream of creating beautiful interiors - a passion which I share on my blog, Brit Decor. That's me in a nutshell!
How long have you been blogging?
I created the blog back in 2010 but it wasn't until 2013 that I began to post regularly and develop a readership. It was amazing to reach a point where I realised that this was the perfect vehicle for my creative output.


What made you start blogging?
Creatively I felt there was something missing in my life and I realised that blogging could be the perfect way of exploring my own creativity and sharing this with other like-minded people. Being completely in control of your own creative output is also hugely empowering!
What advice would you give to people looking to start a blog or magazine?
Quite simply - go for it! You can create a blog for free and it's a very user-friendly process. Even if you are not planning to make money from your blog, think in advance about your unique selling point - what will make your blog worth reading?
Where do you look for design inspiration?
Everywhere! I am constantly looking for inspiration and soak it up like a sponge - this might be through targeted exploration of interiors, shops, museums, architecture, magazines, or just day-to-day inspiration that I might take from looking around me - like an autumnal tree, or a moody grey sky.



Who are your favourite all time designers?
It's hard to avoid mentioning Sir Terence Conran - his contribution to British interiors has been pretty epic and I have always been a huge fan of his simple style aesthetic, right from the Habitat days. In terms of stylists, I'm a huge fan of Aussie stylist Mr Jason Grant. I just love his relaxed & utterly cool way of styling interiors.
What is your favourite interior design trend right now?
Always at the top of my trend list is Scandi-style minimalist neutrals, because this 'look' is always going to be successful due to it's versatility and uncomplicated aesthetic. Additions to this style which have really caught my eye this year are herringbone wooden flooring, for it's chevron pattern and rich texture, and the emergence of plywood as an interior feature. Although the latter was previously considered a bit of an under dog in the design industry, in 2015 we've seen just how successful plywood can be when applied to a minimalist kitchen, for example.



Are there any trends you feel will get a lot of attention in 2015?
Yes, bold and graphic prints are are bursting onto the interiors scene everywhere!
What are you interior design ‘pet hates’?
Hate is a strong word - I prefer not to be overly judgemental when it comes to interior styles because I think it's healthy, creatively, to keep an open mind. That said, I would probably draw the line at Lilac!
What would your dream home be like?
I'm torn on this one, having lived in and around the Georgian city of Bath for much of my life, I am inclined to go with a sensitively restored Georgian townhouse complete with original architectural detailing. However, if I could split my time between two countries, I'd probably choose a white sugar cube house somewhere on a Mediterranean island.
What are your favourite blogs right now and why?
One of my top reads has to be Curate and Display by the very talented Tiffany Grant-Riley - I'm always hugely inspired by her work.
What article on Brit Décor would you consider your favourite?
Wow, now that's a difficult one! Probably one of my 'Brit Decor makes' projects, where I get to explore a creative idea from conception through to creating the final item - and then share the entire journey with my readers, and hopefully inspire them too. A recent favourite was my attempt at making a Shibori dye cushion.


Please don't forget to check out the Posh Flooring Supplies website by clicking here!

Tuesday 12 May 2015

B r i t D e c o r : Photojournal / Bath #2











 All Images copyright of Mike Ahern / Brit Decor




In terms of narrative, this is a brief one from me today folks as I'm busily working on several client briefs this week, including a colour scheme for an old converted school building. 

Back in early April I promised to share more photos from my beautiful home city of Bath, here in the UK, and today I'm doing just that. Since downloading the #VSCO app, I've been snapping even more pics and busily uploading these to Instagram. Have you been using VSCO and if so, what do you think of it?

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this visual walk around Bath with me!

M






Tuesday 5 May 2015

B r i t D e c o r: Cafe Culture

Images / Mike Ahern




Every now and again I realise that certain areas of my life may need a little 'tweak'. My current adjustment has to be factoring in more rest breaks to a working pattern that is simply over-embroiled in work - not that I'm complaining about having plenty of work on the books!

At this time of year I find it far easier to at least strive towards a different work ethic and to literally just step out of the cottage and into the fresh air for a break from my computer screen and the phone. With the bank holiday weekend,  the opportunity for a lengthier 'time-out', meant that I recently stumbled across a cool new cafe/bar, Colonna & Hunter, in Bath's Milsom Place.

If I am honest, the first thing that usually draws me to a new cafe is the design aesthetic rather than the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle clinking of spoons, but that's why I'm in this line of work as a designer. However, before I inadvertently label myself as a completely un-cultured coffee drinker, the quality of the coffee (and cake) is pretty crucial for that return visit to happen, even in the hippest of hangouts.

No problem here then - the styling of Colonna & Hunter's new venture is a minimal mix of chalky whites and greys, peppered with bold sprinkles of dark earthy greens - a palette that lends itself perfectly to the slightly raw and industrial edge of the interior with its large roof beams, breeze block inspired table legs and a quirky selection of vintage seating.

Throw in some easygoing and friendly bar staff, some darn fine hot chocolate, and dare I confess, a divine chocolate brownie, and I'm sold! There's also an array of speciality coffee and craft beer to help while away a leisurely break. Thoroughly recommended!

Back to work...until next time.








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