International Inspiration...
Friday, July 13, 2012 at 8:00AM I've been traveling around the globe a bit on this show I've almost completed for MTV and in so doing have read about some really wonderful designers that live outside the US. Because they've inspired me, I wanted to share some of my favorite finds that are perfect for the summer...
One of the great things about traveling internationally is the design magazines at the airport. There are so many titles you haven't read and so many great ideas packed inside each one. I've had 8 flights in two weeks so far, so I've used the magazines to help get me through hours of travel. I read them slowly, very slowly... My absolute favorite has been Real Living magazine, from Australia. I don't think I've seen a better design mag on the market. Anyone know how to get this in the States?
Many of you have heard of Skinny Laminx, based in Cape Town, South Africa but I hadn't seen Heather Moore's new fabric collection called Flower Dreams. This design began with a paper cut out flower with a '60's pop feel. Hard not to love...
Her designs come in various colors and are screen printed using a durable multi use cotton and linen blend basecloth. They are woven in South Africa. See more of Heather's delicious designs and products, which include tea towels, cushions, aprons and paper goods, here.
Ingrid Jansen of the Netherlands has my heart. As she shares, "A few years ago I designed my first recycled wooden stool with a crocheted cover for my home. After some requests, I decided to make custom made stools for other people and that is how it all started."
What I love about homemade items is that no two will ever be exactly alike. These stools are each unique and handcrafted with a true care and passion. You can request your favorite colors and Ingrid will create something magical and instantly charming for your home... She also has expanded her shop to include pillows, garlands, blankets, hangers and frames.
This could be a good DIY project as well as Ingrid offers lots of inspiration...
I have a thing for textiles so I was quickly smitten when I saw the work of Maria Tanygina based in Sydney, Australia. The designs are bright and pretty, each offering up a personality all their own...
All of her work just makes me think of summer- a desire for a lovely tablecloth, a pair of tea towels...
Reader Comments (2)
How ironic that you post about Australia's Real Simple Magazine. I came across a copy not to long ago and was blown away by the contents. It doesn't even compare with our skimpy US version (which I read in about 15 minutes and then toss). I hope you show your readers a little more inside this great magazine! It can be purchased on Global-Magazines.com, but it doesn't come cheap. It's about $10 a month (that's with the conversion to US$) but i think it's worth every penny!!
i love those "flower dreams" fabrics, they're sensational!