Now that we’re waking up to that distinctive autumnal crispness each morning, I’m dreaming of making summer last a little longer. Clutching my swimsuit tighter, reluctant to pack it away and replace with sensible coats and scarves.
Thankfully summer can last forever in your living room; tropical palms, ocean blues and sunshine-bright colour will set the scene. My personal endless summer is decidedly Miami, circa 1983. The foliage is lush, the buildings pastel, the blue rinses plentiful.
‘Table in Wonderland and Family’ by Charlotte Juillard and David Raffoul / Sparkk ‘Great Shalimar’ in Steam (1132-01)
When I’m feeling the winter blues, I thus surround myself with palm fronds like Sparkk’s Great Shalimar, as well as geometrics with smooth, sweeping curves like Armstrong and Monument.
Sparkk ‘Monument’ (1036) in Boy Blue and Silk Blue / Photograph by Michael Chase
Rendered in cheerful pastels, these rhythmic Art Deco patterns evoke the leisurely bustle of South Beach: the swirls of umbrellas and lapping of waves. Of course, cushions are the easiest way to instantly change the feel of a space: the fresh lime and sorbet colours below instantly transport me to a beachside locale and the refreshing drink I’d likely have in my hand.
Anthropologie’s Stitch-Striped Pillows / Sparkk ‘Armstrong’ (1150) in Spearmint
If you’re seeking the tropics with a more contemporary slant, perhaps a coastal Australian home is the perfect inspiration. The soft furnishings and patterning in the Sorrento beach house below are minimal, letting the subtle warmth and creaminess of the colour used offset the stark concrete throughout the interior.
Sparkk ‘Pelago’ (1105) in Slate and Bud / Sorrento beach house by Rob Mills Architects, via Design Hunter
From the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic now, this ‘warm minimalist’ home uses creamy near-neutrals to soften the concrete wall, as well as some crisper whites to mirror the pristine sand and waves breaking right outside.
Beach house designed by West Chin Architects, via Design Hunter / Sparkk ‘Dakar’ (1070) in Silk Blue and Midnight
If you’re after a bit more colour, I love peeking into the homes of Australian creatives. Leah Bartholomew’s home has the perfect Gold Coast backdrop, but the little details within really extend the summer vibe. Here, simple touches like a pastel painted wall and strong graphic cushion work so well.
Sparkk ‘Christo’ (1018) in Mirage, Aegean and Ink / Leah Bartholomew’s Coolangatta verandah, via The Design Files
Similarly, Natalie Walton and Felix Forest have capitalised on an amazing coastal location, bringing ocean and surfing motifs indoors to mix with welcoming bright colours and an overall relaxed interior. Relaxation – a feeling which perhaps evokes a summer holiday best. Below is just a glimpse of Natalie and Felix’s assortment of interesting furniture and belongings, their whole home seeming like a never-ending collage.
Natalie Walton and Felix Forest’s Cronulla lounge room, via Let’s Stay / Sparkk ‘Maze’ (1094) in Wanaka, Hot Pink and Baby Blue
Now, rustle up some cushions (we can help with that), visit our new retail cushion website www.sparkkshop.com.au , a quick paint refresh or some tropical wallpaper. Then go forth, and enjoy your endless summer!
