Architecture

An Essential Classic with DelightFULL

Published

7 years ago

June 26, 2017

FWDmedia

FWD Life An Endless Classic With DelightFULL (1)

The modern mid-century style never seems to go out of fashion; constantly reinvented, yet always true to its form

Text: DelightFULL Photos: DelightFULL and Essential Home

Think back to the mid 20th century. Think back to the time when Hollywood glamour was at its peak and all the movie and jazz stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Etta James and many more were living the life in California. It was around that time that what we now know as midcentury modern design and architecture first saw the light of day. But, what is mid-century modern design, after all?

Tracing the Movement

Mid-century modern design is an architecture and interior design movement that began in the late 30’s with grand names leading the way. Architects such as Eero Saarinen, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Oscar Niemeyer, as well as nordic product designers like Arne Jacobsen and Charles and Ray Eames are just some of the names that helped make this style one of the most acclaimed in the world. To help you picture it, these designers conceptualized and delivered some of the most iconic mid-century furniture pieces of the modern world like the Egg Chair, all of Ray Eames chairs and his timeless Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman duo. You might be very familiar with one of Eames’ designs, seeing as it is one of the most famous chairs of all times, used in multiple interior design projects featuring various styles.

FWD Life An Endless Classic With DelightFULL (2)

And, of course, you have heard about Palm Springs before. But what does this desert and retro part of California have to do with the midcentury movement? Well, think of Palm Springs as the sacred place for mid-century modern architecture. If you were on a journey to find the best and most iconic architectural examples of this style, then one of the mandatory stops would definitely be Palm Springs. Examples of 1950s Palm Springs mid-century modern architecture include Frank Sinatra’s house by E. Stewart Williams and Kaufmann Desert House. However, you can find many more examples of this style across the US, such as the Farnsworth House in Chicago, and even some more in Europe. Although in a smaller scale, in Europe the mid-century modern movement rose thanks to the influence of Le Corbusier and the scandinavian architects that were in vogue at the time. As you are realizing by now, this an artistic movement that although inspired by many of the scandinavian and nordic design movements happening at the time, it gained its core strength in American soil, walking up to becoming one of the most popular interior design and architecture styles of all times. And, in spite of it having been conceived in the 20th century, this design movement didn’t see its end at the time. Instead, it made its way through the years, gaining more and more followers as the years went by, reaching a point of absolute admiration in the current years. So, one of the best questions we can ask ourselves at this point is, which are the main traits we should be expecting to find when looking for a mid-century interior design project?

Characteristic traits

First of all, look for solid woodwork. Teak, oak and chestnut are the most popular types of wood when it comes to mid-century design. You will find it in cabinets, sideboards and in many different types of upholstery items. You will also notice how all the sofas, accent chairs, ottomans and stools will have either wooden details or a golden brass finish, creating a nordic vibe mixed with all the Hollywood glamour we are used to.

FWD Life An Endless Classic With DelightFULL (3)

Strong and bold colors are also a very important characteristic of this style. When you think midcentury design, you will inevitably think about bold colors such as tangerine, avocado, mustard and pretty much any powerful colors that have ever existed. Neutral shades were replaced by an explosion of color that helped shape the rooms and give them a whole new life.

Another thing that clearly sets this style apart is the use of simple and uncomplicated lines everywhere. The designers embraced the motto ‘less is more’, thus creating clean-lined furniture with a few curves and smooth surfaces that were paired up to create minimalist interiors, as opposed to the pre-existing maximalism trend.

Finally, you have to look for textures and patterns. You will see that every mid-century modern interior features some kind of statement texture or pattern, which can either be a shag rug, a geometric patterned wallpaper, or even a ceramics or aluminum lighting piece. Which takes us right to the next topic on this journey through mid-century design…

FWD Life An Endless Classic With DelightFULL (4)

There is a particular mid-century and retro chic interior design brand that uses oak and chestnut woods in the most wonderful way, creating authentic mid-century designs, inspired by the golden Hollywood years. Essential Home’s pieces are also colorful, exuding an elegant and playful vibe, with clean lines, graceful curves and textures such as velvet that are a homage to the 50s, 60s and 70s. All in all, Essential Home is the personification of ‘glamour meets mid-century design’, with many oak details, as well as brass with golden and copper finishes, which definitely create a nostalgic feeling towards all the big Hollywood stars’ homes in Palm Springs.

And it shined

Another huge movement that took place by the time mid-century design started to appear and sweep everyone away was the mid-century lighting design movement. Once again, incredible designers shared with the world their iconic pieces. This is when the timeless Arco floor lamp by Achille Castiglioni and the Spider ceiling lamp by Serge Mouille were presented and set new rules and boundaries to the lighting design world. From then on, the world would come to know major mid-century lighting design brands, with inspiration drawn from the classics and some of the biggest icons of the pop culture. One of those brands is DelightFULL. Created in the early 2000’s, DelightFULL set out to be an example and a reference in the mid-century lighting design world. Their designs draw inspiration from the best the mid 20th century had to offer, creating an inspiring and magical feeling that takes us right back to the nostalgic 50s and 60s. With a retro chic feeling to it, channeling the DelightFULL’s high-end trait, two of the brand’s most popular designs include the golden brass saxophone-inspired floor and suspension lamps called Botti.

FWD Life An Endless Classic With DelightFULL (1)

As it is clear by the pictures, DelightFULL takes advantage of the more glamorous side of the midcentury modern design, choosing to play with materials such as brass and aluminum. The brass elements can also be finished in gold, nickel and copper, enabling all mid-century design lovers to achieve the best and most customized look they can think of for their homes. Additionally, materials such as marble are also featured in many of the brand’s designs, which only comes to show the importance of textures and materials in the mid-century modern design world.

Nothing in a mid-century modern interior design is done by chance, and although it may seem quite a minimalist and simple style, the truth is, details are everywhere and they are a very important part of the complete look. So, keep in mind that this is a style that has still much more to give and it is definitely here to stay and inspire everyone!

Digital Version: https://goo.gl/Bs9vlq

Up Next

In the Lap of the Earth

Don't Miss

The House With The Breathing Wall

Comments

Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

Published

2 months ago

March 12, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

Architecture

Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

Published

2 months ago

February 28, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

Architecture

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

Published

2 months ago

February 19, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!