Its party time. Summer is here at last. Although we dont have beach weather its great to get out and enjoy all the festivals.
This is a picture taken last Saturday at the Dubai Duty free derby at the Curragh racecourse. Im in the pink dress on the right.
While getting prepared and deciding what to wear I realised that I choose my clothes very much the way I like my home... that is full of colour . I also love flowers and gardening although as time goes on I prefer it when the garden looks well but someone else does the hard work. My point is... interiors , fashion and garden design they all belong together. If you like pink chances are you will wear it , accessorise at home with it and most likely buy pink plants .Let me show you a few interesting images to back up my theory.
By the way we didn't win best dressed but we didnt hang out with all the beautiful ladies in the judging area . Congratulations to the finalists and indeed the winner who took away a prize worth 20 k
The judges Bairbre Power, Amanda Byram & Melanie Morris had their work cut out choosing a winner.
What I wore.....
The  dress was the only new piece and was really comfortable with cape sleeves . My jewellry was my aunts and was left to my Mom. The hat was my late mothers with another brooch from my aunts collection at the back .The jacket was a french label from design platform bought 10 years ago and the umbrella and gloves are by chantel thomas , again 10 years old .  
Now for my theory 

SHANGHAI GARDEN FABRICS The grandeur of nature as graceful painterly landscapes and gardens
Atmosphere is what we strive to create – and the journey of these fabrics creates its own mythology as it travels, allowing you to pause for reflection along your path in beautiful tranquil gardens, on the riverbank or temple steps. Strongly influenced by classical Chinese landscape painting and calligraphy, The Shanghai Garden print collection epitomizes the extraordinarily delicate and painterly evocation of mountains, rivers, trees and blossoms. 

The skirt is by Critical mass London and is sitting on my cerise designers guild rug. I instantly thought of the Shanghai collection when I saw it 

Peony roses from Birr castle but also in my garden and many more at this time of the year . What a beautiful flower and they last cut for up to a week. Cut the ends and put in a bleached vase .

Designers guild Peony rug 
reduced this month to €525
 1.6m x 2m

Fabric from the aurelia collection called Jichang peony . A fantastic velvet for upholstery

One of the many Designers Guild cushions . They vary in price from €80 . This one is €110 with a feather inner. Although not the cheapest cushions on the market they are definitely a statment piece . 

The Jichang peony range with Aurelia velvet on the sofa 

Now do you see what I mean . Do you agree ? Do fashion , interiors and garden design all belong together? if you have any interesting pictures please share them with us on twitter or instagram
Have a great summer .
Paula x

This lucky client in Meath is about to get new curtains. The room was dated and a makeover long overdue. I will post before and after photos when we are finished / we cant wait and our client is excited to see the transformation. The room at the moment has yellow painted walls and that will be changed for the designers guild kashgar wallpaper shown above.There is some fabulous mahogany antique furniture in the room and the addition of the designers guild Octavia silk rug complements it beautifully. It brings new colour and life into the space while maintaining the old world charm. The brown leather sofas will be brought to life with the addition of some designers guild octavia cushions. The curtains at each end of the room will be changed to full length rasberry silk interlined curtains on a 50mmm wooden pole.
The work is in progress at the moment and I look forward to showing you all the completed project soon.

Paula x

Trimmings are back, just like deconstructed cheese cake by a gourmet chef, the trimmings menu is now vast and options endless. There are so many new braids and bobbles and from all the major fabric companies, that the options for unique design are limited only by your imagination.

The image below is a selection from the new Osborne & Little collection.
The selection of braids, cords and fringes featuring embroidery, knitted beads, pleating and distressed metal coins add the perfect finishing touch to contemporary Osborne & Little fabrics. The colours are inspired by the  French Riviera. navy, sky, aqua, peacock, coral and purple as well as calm neutrals such as linen, cream, taupe and stone.

The Trend range below are my favourite at the moment.
The yellow tones are perfect to bring something new and different to party.
I'm really looking forward to using the 2" braid on the leading edge of ivory linen curtains. it would also be fabulous on the bottom edge of a roman blind.The good news is they are available in lots of colours and start at only €22m

Why not get started by adding some trimmings to your existing soft furnishings. a cushion perhaps?
Whatever way you use them just enjoy.
Paula x

You've been giving out for long enough.... looking for some easy ways to glam it up? We spend so much time in the bedroom we all deserve a comfortable relaxing space. Some of the easiest ways to get it right are staring us in the face. Before you read on without spending a penny try and guess the first 3 things I would recommend without spending a penny. No scrolling down.........
Ok, I wonder how many got it right?

1. Declutter
By this I mean be ruthless. get rid of all the clothes you never wear. All old and worn favourites. Those flares were grand in the seventies, oh and the parallels were lovely in the eighties.
Put all things from the dressing table in baskets or put them in a cupboard . Better still throw out all old and out of date cosmetics. Pack the summer clothes away, yes it is over and not due to come back for a few months yet.
2. Light it up
 Light a few candles. I am not mad into scented ones with the exception of the fresh cotton, jasmine or lavender.These give a wonderful fresh smell but each to their own.. you know what you like yourself. Please always light them in a glass hurricane or somewhere safe on a non inflammable surface away from soft furnishings.Another top tip is to always buy a good brand, cheap candles can explode and cause fire.
3.Flower Power
 Fresh flowers or foliage. Grab a few sprigs of evergreen shrubs and berries from the garden or put a flowering orchid plant in front of your dressing table mirror. Spend a few quid if you can on a few tulips, there is little nicer than these symbols of Spring to come.

Now when you have all this done you could consider the following.

Lighting 
What is your bedroom light like?
This is a great little fitting to give that Hollywood touch.
This one is great value at only €125 and is one of the best antique reproduction chandeliers on the market. The droplets are cut glass as is the centre. The frame work is available in antique white , chrome or brass. They are also available in 5, 8 and 12 arm options.
There are also matching wall lights for these chandeliers for only €75.
Acrylic and very light iron versions can be found in diy stores.
It is a good idea to put all bedroom lighting on a dimmer switch.( reasons obvious of course)

Wallpaper or paint
Try just one feature wall or go all out and do the whole room.
3 rolls of wallpaper should do an average feature wall and 7 a whole room. There are so many to choose from so it can be daunting. My suggestion is to pick one that will work with your existing bedlinen and find a supplier that will help you choose. Take pictures of your furniture and bedding and show it to your chosen retailer.

Furniture
If your furniture needs updating, depending on your budget of course, you could change the bed or for a new look on a small budget try replacing the lockers only. These little baby's are only €169 and are available in antique white , silver and gold. 
A good tip is to put a little mirror over the locker to make the room look bigger
Most bedroom furniture ranges come with lots of different combinations, tallboys, blanket boxes , dressing tables etc

Have a look at our storyboard below for some inspiration.
Happy decorating. Wishing you all bedroom bliss.
Paula x

Its not just Jennifer Aniston that is obsessed with Ralph Lauren. As if Ralph Lauren needed the exposure he got on the famous Friends sitcom ! The iconic brand has added these new ranges to their already vast and timeless home collection.  Checks and plaids are huge for 2013 and are seen in many of the famous interior labels, but none do it quite as elegantly as Ralph. I love it so much that we are even on first name terms. True story, not a word of a lie ! I'm giving you a sneak preview here, and it is everything the brand promises across their whole collection. Colour, texture, quality and design, the complete package ! With prices starting at €40 per metre to over €100 per metre, it is affordable luxury.The Ralph Lauren collection is suitable for all tastes, country classic or modern. Something for everyone.

The Ralph Lauren home collection has fabrics suitable for multiple uses. Just 1 meter will get you a few cushions. Many of the fabrics are suitable for upholstery. Try covering a little foot stool...
 The ticking stripes and plaids are fabulous as Roman Blinds and use little fabric. Transform plains florals and velvet's into the most amazing custom made curtains. We would always recommend thermal or interlining to make the curtains sumptuous and ultimately prevent heat loss through glass by up to 30%.
So, if you fancy a bit of Ralph Lauren at home let us know if we can help you.
Paula x
 Call 046 95 49200 or 01 6274977 for more ..

Spring is trying its best to get to us! It really is, but we might have to meet it half way. In fact if we don't some of us might just crack up all together. Our homes should exude an aura of calm and comfort whatever the weather. Beside the obvious task of spring cleaning and de-cluttering, here are a few little tricks to help you get that "Spring feeling"

Try this little Balinese ritual of scattering a few flowers heads in a bowl with leaves. Done daily and almost religiously it is a constant reminder of the natural beauty around us. It awakens the senses and subconsciously and subtly brings a sense of gratitude and joy. Try a few daffodil heads as they are in abundance at the moment.

How to accessorise? You have the "proper" curtains, you have all the furniture, but often the last few bits are the hardest to find. Well fear not help is at hand. There are so many options available this season. From contemporary , retro or traditional , whatever your style you are bound to find something in our accessories download section. If you cant find it there, let us know what you are looking for and one of the companies we deal with should have something for you.
Here are a few samples of what is on offer giving you a rough idea of prices. If you find something you like email us and we can forward a price. We get deliveries weekly and can order in specially for you at no extra cost.
Mannequins from €20
Table Lamps from €25
Mirror €75
Victorian frames €10

So you see you can accessorise on a small budget so don't be afraid to browse and start a wish list.
Download your accessories brochure here.
If you want any help just ask.
046 95 49200

Honestly, I have often been inspired by a new fabric collection, but would it be sad to say that the new Ian Mankin collection actually gave me a thrill..........Like a child in a sweet shop with so much to choose from how can I begin to explain? 
Starting with the stripes! " Ticking, Blazer, Oxford, Panama,Empire, Suffolk, Harvest, Henley, Hopsack, Vintage, Candy, Regatta" These are only some of the names of the stripey fabrics. There are so many and in a great range of colours that we are literally spoilt for choice. Wide, narrow, regular, irregular, two coloured or multicoloured stripes. Colours include red in the most user friendly combinations I have ever seen. Red has been neglected for the past few years in my opinion but this range excels all expectations.  

To compliment the stripes, Ian Mankin has produced a full book of co-ordinating fabrics. Ginghams come in 6 different sizes. Floral damasks, jacquards and embroidered leaves complete the range and expand the usability of the brand. You can acheive a "look" with this range as masculine or feminine as you like, or in between. One of my favourites in the past was to mix refined fabrics like silk with hessian or naturals. Ian Mankin for the first time has produced a sumptuous velvet, that allows this trend to mix effortlessly.

Fabrics are all natural organic and from the last remaining mill in Lancashire. All are suitable for curtains and upholstery. They are a fantastic choice for Roman blinds. They represent the very best quality and value for money. We are truly delighted to represent The Ian Mankin collection.
Prices range from €25 to €55m

Wallpapers are available , plain , floral and stripe for €55 for a 10 m roll 

The plain wallpaper has a texture similar to woven fabric, the image here is not a true reflection of the quality.

Colour chart showing floral and plains , again not reflecting the true quality but the best image I have at the moment.
The wallpaper book is in stock now. 

Last week in a very cold and snowy Birmingham we visited the Interiors UK show. It is a trade only event showcasing the latest design, lifestyle and furniture trends from the UK and International suppliers. After much debate about flights, airport closures and delayed or cancelled train services, I have to say I was very impressed as all ran very smoothly. It was well worth the effort attending. The halls are divided into categories, furniture, living and lifestyle, design, decor, lighting and design elegance. The trick at these shows is to take plenty of breaks. There is so much walking, that at the end of a day the legs definitely say hello. Let me show you a few pictures of the trends and a few of my favourites from the show.

French Elegance was a recurring theme, this is a picture of one of my favourite looks. Lots of grey tones,  baroque mirrors , bird cages, chandeliers and the "window" style mirror are all huge this year. Even if you couldn't handle the full monty with this look, the large mirror will work well in a modern apartment, creating an illusion of space. It is also a great mirror for a room, landing or bathroom without a window. Indecently the mirror is available in ivory and white also, and was shown in various sizes .

Plush decadence is how I would describe this timeless look. Velvet is always a winner. Team with lots of nickel, glass and glamorous lighting. Hurricanes and candles feature as always. Glass or chrome furniture or even dark wenga work well with this look. Use this trend right through the house for a seamless polished interior.

Retro is back. This polished retro range in walnut veneer is a blast from the past , but has been reinvented with lots of colour injected into the drawers. Shown here with a Designers Guild upholstered chair and easy to find retro accessories.

Dining, sitting room, kitchen & occasional painted furniture available in lots of colours. Very versatile with so many different pieces available you will be spoilt for choice .
One of my favourite pieces is a monks bench with high back, coat hooks and a lift up seat for storage, perfect for a  busy hall or looks good enough to keep in the kitchen.The prices are fantastic with little bedsides for about €100.

I hope you like what you have seen so far.There was so much more at the show, so I will revisit this topic and bring you more soon .
Until next time, dream on about your next project.
Paula x

It's time for new beginnings. Not only for the body, mind and soul but for our living spaces too.
I cant function if there isn't some sort of order in the house. I even know a lady who told me if the house isn't tidy when her hubby gets home, he quietly disappears until it is......It's not just about a tidy house though, we feel better when things are where they should be. Which is better, a grubby wall or a freshly painted one? Which is better, blinds & curtains hanging neatly, or half up, half down or torn or broken.
Are there still Christmas tree needles appearing even after you know you have hoovered them all up, if so then you are normal, where do they come from? Read on for a few tips on how to replace the object of great beauty that was once your adorned Christmas tree and love your room again.

1. I would suggest at this stage if the room needs painting, put a weekend by, strip the room and go for it. You don't even need a weekend. I remember years ago my husbands parents painting the room around us. As "Mrs" removed all the pictures "MR" painted, and "Mrs" put the pictures back up as he went along. All done and dusted in an evening. Or even better, just get the painters in.

2. Have you looked at the floor recently? It might be time to paint that too. Ivory is the colour right now, it looks fabulous but takes at lease 2 days to dry between coats and I would recommend 3 coats. Carpet is back too and has great insulation properties, This is my favourite at the moment and is quick and easy to do. No mess or fuss and it feels and looks good.

3. Next I would look at the lighting. if you are happy with the light fitting , you might want to consider a dimmer switch if you haven't one already. And if a new fitting is required I am all for "The Chandelier" right now. We recently did a job with chandelier and matching wall lights on a dimmer and the difference it made was amazing. Also lamps on dimmers or a standard lamp in the corner is good, although hard to find a nice one.

4. Do the blinds or curtains need attention? Blinds can be reversed and repaired, and don't forget if you have children, to make sure they have child safety devices fitted. Also check the cleaning instructions and do whatever is necessary to dust or clean your curtains. I recommend regular light dusting and hoovering, dry cleaning and washing them is my last resort. If you keep then dust free washing shouldn't be necessary.

5. Invest in some nice storage trunks or baskets to put throws , books , toys or magazines. Even remote controls are a pain when thrown around . A little box or basket is all that is needed to keep these in the one place.

6. Picture frames are a great way to make a statement and fill a wall space, all the photo labs will print directly now from your smart phone, so its never been easier.

So you see, it doesn't cost the earth to make a few simple changes .
Why not go for it? We all deserve a nice place to sit and relax all year round, not just at Christmas
Any questions just ask.
Paula@wildthings.ie