Manhattan Style

MANHATTAN   STYLE

Manhattan Style is a unique style that blends energy, constant change in the dynamic fast pace that is typical of Manhattan.  

This is a unique style characterised by the dynamic New Yorker with global ideas to result in an eclectic classic style forever moving with the times.

This is a style about innovative looks, a blend of traditional pieces as well as contemporary modern furniture with clean and classic lines and simplified living spaces.

In Manhattan it is not enough to decorate. Whatever is the style, a statement has to be made to stand out. Manhattan style is not about period rooms but a combination of many period styles.

This style has a long, versatile history -  it recognises the role of architectural features and encourages the use of features in the interior of the house to compliment the space. They also encouraged the use of ornaments that were applied to these structures superficially. Mirrors and mirrored walls are light reflective and add glamour.  

How to achieve the look:

Use a  palette of light and neutral colours for walls and fabrics, and consider metallics and dark timber or black for furniture and finishes to create bold eclecticism and drama that characterizes Manhattan style.  

If you're doing a full renovation, use detailed fluted columns, timber paneling on white walls, oversized skirting boards, and dark Walnut or Black Japan flooring.

For furniture, used giant floor lamps, plush velvet sofas and drapes, strong and unique artwork in heavy frames with clean lines - the styling should look classic and simple with a strong look that is as vibrant as its name.

Hot Baths!

 'Clients are currently requesting freestanding baths  - they love the simple lines and the elegant shape' Fofi By Design

If you have the space, consider a freestanding bath tub, these epitomize classic style with a modern twist. Teamed with natural stone tiles and elegant tap ware, you have a timeless look.

You can choose a classic claw foot bath if the style of your home can carry it.

A classic Claw Foot Bath

Or you can go for a more modern look in an oval shape for a more streamlined, luxury hotel look. 

An example of a modern freestanding bath

Hexagonal or round mosaic tiles are a huge trend at the moment and are a great way to repeat the round theme. Mirror ball style pendant lights are also stunning in the bathroom this season. This repetition of shape will help to unify your bathroom.

Another great addition is the Goose Neck freestanding tap. This is the latest trend in tap ware since it allows you to keep the wall clear, thus creating a more streamlined look. 

An example of a Goose Neck Freestanding Tap

For more information visit Reece, Recollections or Roger Seller. Or come in and talk to one of our designers at Style Plantation.

 

Provenance

"My clients are becoming more interested in objects with a history of ownership or location - the provenance" - Fofi By Design.

This is due to the cultural value of such objects and simply to have a story of how an item is made. Furniture items are being revamped + modernised to appeal to a younger clientele.  This is the better way to source quality, unusual and often extraordinary pieces along with being classic and timeless.  Below is a Chinese cabinet finished in a silver metallic paint, it will add instant glimmer to your space from the Orient.

Invest in 20th century European design in glass & ceramics, Circa C20 has one of the best collections to be found in Sydney. The collection ranges from the elegance of French deco glass to the organic shapes & muted tones of Scandinavian modern and the funkiness & vibrant colour of Italian design. 

  

Some of the most beautiful antique pieces are of 18th & 19th century French furniture. Each piece is of good quality and terrific visual appeal and for its potential to enhance both classic and contemporary settings.  Consider a gilt-wood wall mirror. 

Elegant French Louis XVI Gilt Wood Mirror

For the diary - The HIA Home Show!

The HIA Sydney Home Show kicks off next month and it promises to be even better than last year!

The show will be held at Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre and will run from Thursday 19 May - Sunday 22 May 2011.

The show features the latest home trends and building solutions including kitchens, appliances, bathrooms, building and renovation products, furniture, interiors and more.

According to experts, the big design trends of 2011 will stem from consumers reassessing what they need to live comfortably, seeking innovation, finding a local balance in a global world and searching for personalised products.

Style Plantation is leading the ever-expanding movement towards the need to source products of a regenerative and sustainable nature to enhance your environment.

 We look forward to meeting our fans, answering your queries and helping you find exactly what you are looking for from our extensive range of products.

Tickets are now available online - see Tickets for details and check out the website for details

Sydney Home Show

 

Bring your home to life with greenery - By Caroline Whelan

One of the easiest ways to green up your home is to bring the outdoors in! All plants, including small ones like herbs, are natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and expelling pure oxygen.

1. An indoor tree

Get hold of an over sized potted plant - Dwarf fern plants are great for small spaces and don't need much light. Palm Trees also work well in a warm environment and will give a dramatic look to your home.

2. Leafy walls

Foliage-motif wallpapers work brilliantly with small potted plants dotted on a bookcase. Try ferns and ivy that can drape down from the top shelf.

 

3. A living wall

Living walls are on trend and are easy to install. They are so simple to maintain and are fantastic for small outdoor courtyards. 

4. Planters as window treatments

Planters constructed across a window allow you to grow lots of small plants at various heights and, with many at eye-level, makes it easy to enjoy them. Try them in a corridor or staircase.

5. Wire

Wire planters have replaced bulky pots that encroach on your space. A wire-framed design has a lighter feels and allows you to look through it, making it unobtrusive in a small place.

6. Make the most of the humidity in the bathroom

The steamy, humid environment of a bathroom is perfect for certain plants. Tropical plants work especially well in this environment and help bring a room to life. They also help to create a calm and relaxing environment . Always choose multiples of the same plant to create a uniform look.

7. Create an indoor window box

Big plants will form a natural screen, offering some leafy privacy.

8. Bookend a bed with matching plants

Plants are not often seen in the bedroom but they should be! Lush plants can create good colour contrast to deep-grey walls.

9. Get creative with climbers

Think about trailing a climber over a birdcage or something equally decorative.

10. Fresh way with fresh herbs

Ditch the tacky black pots and grow your herbs in the kitchen in a self watering pot. Beautiful and useful!