SPANISH HISTORY

I love a bit of architectural history and obviously learning new things, understanding how things are made, why particular eras developed and the list continues. Europe holds such an abundance of culture and architectural history that is mind blowing-ly awesome as the designs and architecture are so developed and rich. It is not just about making a beautiful building, it is about the era, the politics, climate,  culture and again the list continues. That is why I find it so inspiring and enriching to understand how particular countries and people inhabit spaces, design and build. So today I am sharing this beautiful interior that I came across during my researching hour, which will teach you something you did not know about design and architecture, even if it is just about texture in a home.

The images you see below are of of a "Prince in his Home" ( Un Prince en son Chateau). From what I understand there was a man who wanted to change his environment and move to Spain to enjoy a life made of sun. This English man by the name of Paul restored 12 houses in Los Castillejos in Andualusia, Spain. He restored them in keeping with Andalusain traditional architecture, but what is Andalusain tradition? Well, Andalusia is the second largest community in Spain and it's capital is Seville. It is rich in history and it's main architectural influence were from the Neolithic ear as well as the Muslim ear. These particular homes though retain Andalusain's other traditional design roots which are Roman & Arabic. This is why you get a very strong sense of a Mediterranean influence while viewing these images. It is believed that this traditional style is so prominent in this area because of the climate. Solid exteriors, painted in lime minimising heat, tiles, interior patio and or courtyard which makes for homes that are full of functional as well as decorative characteristics.

Even though it is such a neutral pallet it is full of textural elements that make it so warm. I actually love how the walls have the rough finish and exposed stone in areas. Elements such as the shower, windows, columns are all very unique in their design and shape. I love the idea of cutting into the columns and utilising them as a place for housing candles. Imagine it at night and how amazing it would be in creating a relaxing atmosphere as well as being a source of light. There is no denying that you get a sense of the surroundings and it's environment through the unique interior.


All images sourced from Planete Deco as well as Waranda. 

Happy Monday,

JDZ x

DREAMING OF A EUROPEAN SUMMER

It is so cold in Sydney at the moment and this got me day dreaming this morning of a european summer. I so desperately wish I could lying on a beach in Italy right now.

Speaking of Italy, a year ago while scrolling through Instagram I came across this beautiful image which I could not ignore. Little did I know that it was actually a famous piece of wallpaper by designer Piero & Barnaba Fornasetti. My winter blues and day dreaming have encouraged me to share the beauty and eleaborate discovery that is the Fornasetti Atelier and their very unique products.

I am going to focus on their wallpaper range but they are also very well known and recognised for their furniture, conversation pieces and interior decor. What makes this company so special I feel is the techniques and the history behind the product. The designs are very detailed and elaborate which makes for a great conversation piece in any particular place. They are so dramatic in order to create a magical and fantastical experience that is like no other.

" It is said that my pieces are created using secret methods... I laugh up my sleeve... my only real secret is the rigour with which I work." - Piero Fornasetti.

The objects and furniture made by Fornasetti was on of the largest in the 20th Century and I still think that is relevant today as I have seen their wallpaper specified many a times over the last year, especially in residenital design as a feature wall.

From some of the examples provided below it is easy to see and understand the source of the inspiration for their designs, which without a doubt comes from such a beautiful and cultured environment that surrounds them. They also no matter the pattern maintain a vintage feel.

The designs are not for everyone but it is very important to appreciate the process and thought behind them and with the right space, the wallpaper would be a work of art and show stopping.

Instagram @jdz1. Follow me now by clicking here 

Piero Fornasetti. Find out more about the Fornesetti family and
Piero's great quotes by visiting their website.

Detailed leef and key pattern

The malachite series is my favourite from the wallpaper collection.
Would be amazing to have a client that would love to use this in one of their interiors. 

Emerald green version of the B&W Malachite. Beautiful detailing and
rich in colour.
 Perfect for an interior that is wanting to have a little splash
of the in trend colour of 2013, Emerald green. 

Mediterranean city.

Cute monkeys that combine a unique colour combination.

You can purchase Fornasetti wallpaper here.
All images and information sourced from Google and the Fornasetti website.

JDZ x