It’s the passion and joy out of simple things in Italy that gets me. You see it in their design – this self expression of bold colour and big patterns.
Where Scandi says “less is more”, Italian design says “more is more”.
If you think about it, Scandinavian design whispers. It’s restraint, functionality and the beauty of clear space. White walls, whitewashed floors and blonde oak all designed to reflect the precious light. There’s a quiet confidence in knowing when to stop.
Italian design definitely doesn’t whisper. It gestures passionately with both hands. It’s terracotta walls that glow like sunset, hand-painted ceramics in electric blues and stripes in lemon yellows that make your heart sing.
Maybe it’s the sunshine?
I feel like Australians are also no stranger to a burst of colour (hello Ken Done 80s). Perhaps that’s why I’m so here for all things vibrant and am LOVING that Italy is having a big moment in fashion and interiors.
Once upon a time I went to Italy.
Then, while living in London, I went to Italy again and again… and again. So many times that my partner and I had to ban ourselves for fear of missing out on the rest of Europe. The ban didn’t last, years later while living in Copenhagen we took our kids to Italy and they fell in love with it too.
Resistance is futile.
When it comes to textiles, Dedar Milano is a firm favourite.
I got a first glimpse in 2019 at Salone de Mobile and took so many photos it was, honestly, embarrassing.
Then this week…
I spotted this gem of a golf cart with Dedar Strange Loves fabric. Swoon. And just like that my entire obsession with Dedar was rekindled.
I wonder if I could convince my in-laws, who have a golf cart, that we should reupholster it? Too much?
They wouldn’t be surprised at that suggestion, ‘too much’ is my middle name, but I may have to use my own back garden instead as a guinea pig instead.