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Decor & Design

Greek Chic

Grecian Glamour with Gergei Erdei

Pitcher Perfect

Picnic Planning Made Easy

Living Rooms

Biophilic Design with Plant Kween

Somewhere to Grow

FOUR STYLISH THEMES FOR YOUR GARDEN

AMARA New Arrivals

I T ’ S AL L AB O U T N E W

EVERY TUESDAY

From big names to the freshest talent, every Tuesday we launch hundreds of brand-new arrivals from the world’s leading homeware designers. amara.com/new

MISSONI HOME COLLECTION

ESSENTIAL HOME

BOSS HOME

KIM SEYBERT

AMARA Welcome

MOMENT in the Sun

unnier days are finally here, so it's time to welcome al fresco season. With stretched-out evenings and warmer weather on the horizon, I’m looking forward to all of the summer soirées to come. In this issue of Decor & Design, we’re inviting you to reconnect with nature with four fabulously stylish garden themes, tips on planning the perfect picnic and we chat with Brooklyn-based houseplant expert Christopher Griffin (a.k.a. Plant Kween) about keeping yourself and your little green friends at their best. For those looking to indulge in a little luxury, designer Gergei Erdei talks all things Grecian glamour, we take a look behind coffee table book revolutionists Assouline, and we spend some time with TV presenter, model and DJ Zara Martin. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of new arrivals, interior styling tips and a sneak peek at an exciting award launching later this summer. So, kick back and take a moment to relax in the sun and dive into our latest edition.

Sam Hood Chief Creative Officer

AMARA.COM |

AMARA Contributors

THIS EDITION’S

Contributors Gergei Erdei London-based artist Gergei Erdei launched his eponymous interiors label in 2019 after graduating from London College of Fashion. A former illustrator, embroiderer and ready-to-wear designer for Gucci, Gergei’s homeware collection features colourful and vibrant pieces ranging from table linens to cushions and handmade ceramics..

Johnny Ward Traveller, blogger and entrepreneur Johnny Ward is the face behind the successful travel blog onestep4ward. Johnny was the first person from Ireland to visit every country in the world and has since set out on a mission to become the first person to visit every country, North and South poles and climb the seven summits.

Christopher Griffin More popularly known to their loyal fans as the Plant Kween, Christopher is a Brooklynbased houseplant expert and Assistant Director of the NYU LGBTQ+ Center. As a Black queer non-binary femme, Christopher enjoys exploring creative and accessible ways to use plants as a vehicle to incite further conversations centring Black joy and resilience, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Martine Assouline Co-founder of Assouline, the brand that revolutionised coffee table books, Martine is a former model, lawyer and self-taught art director. Working with the globe’s foremost architects, culinary masters, designers, and artists, Assouline has over 1,700 titles published.

Zara Martin One of the most recognisable faces in the London fashion and beauty scene, Zara Martin has worked with a plethora of prestigious fashion brands and graced the cover of many magazines. A celebrated TV presenter, model and DJ, Zara has also been an Ambassador for Women for Women International since 2013.

AMARA Contents

CONTENTS

ASSOULINE

MACKENZIE-CHILDS, COURTYARD OUTDOOR OTTOMAN

Four Stylishly Themed Gardens

Grecian Glamour with Gergei Erdei

Could your garden do with a spruce up? We’ve come up with four super-stylish garden themes that will suit any space.

London-based artist and designer Gergei Erdei reveals how you take interior inspiration from an ancient world.

Rainbow Connection: Collections of Colour We take a look at some of the most colourful collections from our favourite brands and how you can bring a pop of colour into your home.

Behind the Brand: Assouline We catch up with Assouline co-founder Martine who tells us more about the lifestyle brand and their future plans.

For Every Room: Designed by AMARA

Project Spotlight: Thai Villa

Biophilic Design with Plant Kween

What's Your Perfect Picnic?

The AMARA Awards 2022

At Home with Zara Martin

Reconnecting with nature has never been so important, so we catch up with Christopher Griffin, a.k.a. Plant Kween, who shares their top tips for ensuring you and your houseplants thrive.

With picnic season fast approaching we chat with three renowned content creators for their top tips on hosting the perfect summer spread.

A look at this year’s KLC Student Interior Designer of the Year Award and a sneak peek at a very special award launching this summer.

TV presenter, model and DJ Zara Martin talks to us about her interior style, inspiration and being an ambassador for Women for Women International.

Find out how to style the Designed by AMARA brands in every room of your home.

We speak to traveller, blogger and entrepreneur Johnny Ward about how he funded his travels and built his dream home in Thailand.

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AMARA Outdoor Styling

GET THE GROW DOWN

FO U R S T Y L I S H LY T H E M E D G AR D E N S

From grand gardens to petite patios, we’ve come up with four super-stylish garden themes that will suit any space, and we plant get enough of them...

Mediterranean

scape to continental Europe and embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle without leaving your back garden. Create your very own sun-soaked space by embracing rich terracotta hues (the more oversized pots the better) and introduce pale gravel pathways, mosaic tiles and plenty of fragrant shrubs such as lavender, rosemary, and thyme. A wooden pergola will provide an atmospheric dining spot for those lighter evenings, and you could create your own rustic outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven and paredback furniture. Finish the space with a couple of potted olive trees and you’ll wonder if you’ve stepped into sunnier climes.

1. BERTA CHAIR, TRAMONTINA 2. DAKOTA FIRE BOWL, IVYLINE 3. BLACK SMUDGE VASE, GLOBAL EXPLORER

ETHNICRAFT

Cottage

C IVYLINE

reate your own quintessential English country garden with the cottage look. A fantastic opportunity to have fun with florals, the best cottage gardens are relaxed yet colourful and always undeniably beautiful. Play with your plants to create a charming space that’s full of character, whether your favourites are softly coloured perennials, foxgloves and hollyhocks or a classic rosebush. Add interest to exposed-brick walls with vertical

climbing plants and line meandering cobblestones with white picket fences to keep the bounty of flowers off the pathways. Forget the rules and embrace the beauty - anything goes in your very own secret garden.

1. CIRCLE OUTDOOR DINING TABLE, ETHNICRAFT 2. TALA X FARROW & BALL THE MUSE PORTABLE LAMP, TALA 3. HENDRICK CHAISE LONGUE, MADE GOODS

AMARA OUTDOORS

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AMARA Outdoor Styling

MACKENZIE-CHILDS

Formal

ost often associated with grand manor houses and stately homes, the formal garden theme has a few key features that can be adapted to any space, large or small. The most important element? Symmetry. Formal gardens are neat, tidy and always symmetrical. Elegant pathways are typically lined with low hedges, wrought-iron benches are strategically placed 1 so as not to obstruct the landscaping and there is always a focal point, whether this is an oversized fountain or an impressive lounging area that will extend the indoors out. Create the ultimate spot for an al fresco high tea with an ornate furniture set and luxurious soft furnishings. Think luxe wing chairs and tassel-trimmed outdoor cushions. Impeccable and elegant all at once, formal gardens require a little more upkeep, but they’re worth the effort.

2 1. HAMPTON OUTDOOR ROUND PLANTER, IVYLINE 2. BREEZY POPPY OUTDOOR COFFEE TABLE, MACKENZIE-CHILDS

Contemporary

ontemporary gardens are simplistic, sometimes minimalistic, but never boring. The perfect choice if you’re stuck for space, contemporary gardens are lowmaintenance and ideal for urban areas. Featuring sleek, clean lines throughout, contemporary gardens typically feature angular raised flowerbeds, built-in planters, modern water features and clean, rendered walls. But the biggest appeal in a contemporary garden is how

FATBOY

they come alive at night. Through the use of clever lighting, you can create the perfect spot to while 3 away summer evenings, simply line pathways with spotlights, highlight your favourite plants to create an elegant display or hang festoon lights across a pergola to create the perfect summer dining spot.

Shop everything outdoor at amara.com/outdoors

1. KABUKI OUTDOOR LAMP, KARTELL 2. DESERT WOMAN OUTDOOR CUSHION, PODEVACHE 3. YUMBEL CUSHION, MISSONI HOME COLLECTION

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AMARA Trend Focus

GERGEI ERDEI PHOTOGRAPH WANDA MARTIN

After graduating from the London College of Fashion and working as a designer for Alessandro Michele at Gucci, Gergei Erdei launched his eponymous interiors label in 2019. gergeierdei.com @gergeierdei

GERGEI ERDEI

GRECIAN GLAMOUR WITH GERGEI ERDEI

Inspired by renaissance motifs, Roman and Greek mosaics, and beautiful European scenes, Gergei Erdei’s homeware collection will bring the joie de vivre spirit of the 1970s to your home with a touch of Grecian glamour.

AMARA: What do you love most about Ancient Greek design? I think Ancient Greek objects and architecture have a timeless and contemporary feel. I love the clean lines, the well-balanced proportions of ornate details, and the antique finish that only time can achieve, which is easy to incorporate into both maximalist and minimalist interiors.

All this comes back into my work with the painting techniques I use to illustrate the textiles or as the mythological elements I use for the prints. My main concept behind my work is to create something that you won't find anywhere else. I aim to fill every piece with romantic nostalgia for the past whilst making them completely suitable for contemporary environments.

ALEXANDRE TURPAULT

I always tell people to be brave and experiment with prints and patterns.” Gergei Erdei

How can someone incorporate it into their home? I always tell people to be brave and experiment with prints and patterns. I think the cushions are a great way to bring colour into your home as they’re almost like a painting. When you place them on a sofa they instantly uplift and elevate the whole interior and as they’re double sided, you can get a completely different

result within a flip. The placemats often tend to be great conversation starters with their statement prints. Paired with colourful glassware and rustic plates, they bring full artisanal flare to the table. amara.com/gergei-erdei 1. NAZARE CUSHION WITH FRINGING, ETRO 2. CORALLO CUSHION, GERGEI ERDEI 3. ATLAS SKY RUG, MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

AMARA.COM |

AMARA Trend Focus

MISSONI HOME COLLECTION

CELSO DE LEMOS

ADD A TOUCH OF GRECIAN GLAMOUR TO YOUR HOME... Expose All Long before air conditioning, stone walls served an important purpose in Greek architecture by acting as a barrier from the heat to keep homes as cool as possible. Although a key material to the Grecian look, not every wall in your home needs to be stone. A single feature wall in the kitchen or living room will create a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere. Alternatively, opting for stone wall decor and accessories is a perfect way to incorporate this look if stone walls aren’t possible in your home.

Perfect Your Palette Whether you think of the whitewashed buildings with brilliant blue rooftops in Santorini, the crystal blue sea against the white beaches, or the national flag, blue and white are undoubtedly the colours we associate with Greece. A timeless duo that never goes out of fashion, a blue and white colour palette is easy to bring into the home without the need to get the paintbrush and rollers out. Swap out your bathroom towels and accessories for an instant refresh or give your bedroom and instant makeover with dusty blue bed linen and a crisp white throw.

Unlock Your Potential A statement print seen throughout Greek history, the Key pattern is the most prominent design in Greek style. Whilst most believe this print stems from Greek mythology, representing the labyrinth that imprisoned the Minotaur, others believe the design is based on the bending course of the Meander River. Versace are renowned for using Greek mythology in their iconic designs, using the face of Medusa across homeware and fashion collections. Luke Edward Hall’s collaboration with Ginori 1735 is adorned with a beautiful blend

ETRO

of Greek and Roman mythology providing the perfect nod to Grecian history without overstepping the mark.

Display your blooms in a vase shaped like the female form, protect your surfaces with marble coasters or update your shelfie with statue ornaments for an easy Grecian glamour look.

Bust a Move A country steeped in ancient history; towering columns and beautiful marble statues of Greek gods and goddesses can be found across Greece dating back thousands of years such as the ruins of Acropolis in Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Delphi, and Thessaloniki. Introducing marble accessories and statuesque ornaments into your decor will perfectly represent the country’s historic landmarks.

Bring the Outside in Known as a symbol of health, beauty and wisdom, olive trees have deep roots in Greek traditions and rituals. An olive branch was awarded to athletes winning Olympic games and was also used as a symbol of peace whenever a truce was agreed with an enemy. Bringing houseplants into the

home offers a natural aesthetic and promotes a healthy environment. Olive trees, lemon or orange trees are perfect for conservatories or sun-filled places whilst cacti and succulents offer greenery without much maintenance. Discover our full collection of Grecian home accessories here: amara/grecian-homeware

1. SANCIA GOURD GLASS VASE, AERIN 2. CIELS BLEUS SOUP BOWL, JONATHAN HANSEN X MARIE DAAGE 3. MEDUSA RHAPSODY VASE, VERSACE HOME

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AMARA Colour Focus

RAINBOW CONNECTION

COLLECTIONS OF COLOUR 1

A MODERN GRAND TOUR

ans of grey might want to look away: colour is back with a bang this season. Whilst neutral colour schemes will always be popular, a splash of something bold and bright might be just what your home needs right now. Whether you lean towards fire-toned reds and yellows, or enjoy those calming green and blue hues, there are many ways you can embrace the whole rainbow to inject a bit of personality into your space. If changing your wall colour from white to bright feels like too much of a commitment, introduce a new colour to the room using accessories. Cushions are the easiest way to do this: choose two or three colours and then mix plain cushions with patterned ones to bring the whole look together and add interest to a sofa. Use rugs and wall art to weave in some colour that will really ‘pop’ against a plain background. Decorative accessories like vases or candles grouped together by colour make an eye-catching display,

JONATHAN ADLER

especially when arranged in tonal order to create an ombre effect. Can’t pick just one colour? Multicoloured accessories are the perfect choice for the indecisive. Using multiple colours instantly brightens a room and adds a sense of fun to even the simplest of interiors. In busier spaces like the kitchen and dining room, be bold with your colour choices. Mismatched crockery sets where every plate or cup is a different

hue will bring an eclectic look to the table. Freshen up a simple white bathroom by swapping plain towels for colourful striped or zigzag designs. But if you want to keep it calmer in the bedroom, just the tiniest splash of colour here and there, from lamps, trinket trays or candle holders, should do the trick. For more colour styling advice, head to amara.com/editorial

1. MONOFIORI BALLOTON VASE, VENINI 2. PEACOCK DINNER PLATE, LES OTTOMANS 3. BUBBLES & BOTTLES, POLS POTTEN 4. MACCHIA TUMBLER, STORIES OF ITALY 5. MENAGERIE CUSHION, LES OTTOMANS 6. ELANGENI TABLECLOTH, LISA TODD DESIGNS 7. GRANDMA ESPRESSO SET, POLS POTTEN 8. CLOUD TRINKET TRAY, JONATHAN ADLER 9. CALYPSO STRIPE TOWEL, MACKENZIE-CHILDS

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AMARA Cushions

PILLOW TALK

CUSHIONS Soft and subtle or boldly beautiful, whatever your style, we’ve got a cushion for it. Available from some of our best-loved designers, our cushions are carefully crafted for optimum softness. And when they feel as good as they look, they’ll make any chair the best seat in the house.

Colour is Key There’s a fine art to styling cushions and it all comes down to colour. Pick out a colour in your interior scheme and bring it to life through scatter cushions in similar tones. Don’t be afraid to clash prints and mix up patterns, if there is a clear theme running throughout it will look effortlessly put together. 1

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1. BIRDS OF SUMMER CUSHION, VERSACE HOME 2. EMBROIDERED TIGER BOUQUET BOLSTER CUSHION, KAREN MABON 3. JAIPUR STRIPE CUSHION, MACKENZIE-CHILDS 4. KNOT CUSHION, DESIGN HOUSE STOCKHOLM 5. WALLIS OUTDOOR CUSHION, MISSONI HOME COLLECTION 6. CANNES LINEN CUSHION, PALOMA LIVING 7. VELVET CUSHION, LES OTTOMANS 8. TEMA E VARIAZIONI REVERSIBLE CUSHION, FORNASETTI 9. GEOCENTRIC CUSHION, NIKI JONES 10. KAIMANA CUSHION, WILLIAM YEOWARD

amara.com/cushions AMARA.COM |

AMARA Behind the Brand

PROSPER AND MARTINE ASSOULINE PHOTOGRAPH STEVE BENISTY

Founded in 1994 by husband and wife duo Prosper and Martine Assouline, the eponymous lifestyle brand is created for those seeking style, culture, and art de vivre. Working with the globe’s foremost architects, culinary masters, designers, and artists, their exquisite collection of books soon became a coffee table book sensation. With over 1,700 titles published, we caught up with Martine to find out more about the brand and their future plans... eu.assouline.com

PHOTOGRAPH SIMON DETRAZ

BEHIND THE BRAND: ASSOULINE

AMARA: Describe the brand in 3 words. Stylish, luxurious, cultural. Can you tell us the story of Assouline? The idea behind Assouline was ambitious, we wanted to elevate the style and design of books and push the boundaries of the very classical interpretation of culture at the time. By creating a distinctive editorial style, we’re publishing books that are also thought of as objects with a true creative identity and a respect

for savoir-faire. Since launching our first title, La Colombe d’Or, in 1994, we now offer a vast collection of books and accessories fit for a contemporary library. What’s been a standout moment in your brand’s journey so far? There have been three standout moments for us: our first boutique opening thanks to Ron Frash, the CEO of Bergdorf Goodman, who understood our vision before others; the day we decided to categorise our books into collections; and the

We like to think of the book as a beautiful object, similar to how Chanel would design a dress or Pharrell Williams would write a song.”

What do you find the most challenging aspect of creating a book? The most challenging aspect of creating a book is finding its direction. Once we have found the direction, we then find good materials to help create the story of the book.

Martine Assouline, Co-Founder

What’s your favourite book from the whole collection? My favourite book is New York by New York. There are hundreds of books on New York, but none like ours. Some others include Cecil Beaton: The Art of the Scrapbook, The French Riviera in the 1920s, Swans: Legends of the Jet Society, Capri Dolce Vita, The Impossible Collection of Fashion; The Impossible Collection of Art, Frida Kahlo: Fashion as the Art of Being, Hair, and so on.

arrival of our son Alexandre, who now builds the business side of the company. The topics for your books are broad but very niche – how do you decide what subject to publish next? Prosper and I decide on the titles we are most interested in working on. When we are ready to share the project, we then brainstorm ideas with our close team. I love to dive in and determine the best ways to create the book; it’s a very special moment when we find the book’s flow. I personally select the images that will compose the book’s melody, and those choices help build natural visual understanding. How long does the whole process take, from commissioning a book to publication? The average is about eight months. Some books can take years for multiple reasons, but it’s very rare. What makes an Assouline book special? The style and the way we compose a book. We like to think of the book as a beautiful object, similar to how Chanel would design a dress or Pharrell Williams would write a song. It is all a question of style and method. Assouline books are known for being incredibly eye-catching, so should you judge a book by its cover? As Prosper used to say, “a book spends more time closed than open.” Both are important for different reasons.

direction. We have been doing it since day one through our bookends, bookstands, candles, and Assouline branded objects. We have a strong sense of style, and plan to adapt it beyond books. Visit amara.com/assouline to shop the full collection.

What’s your best-selling book to date? Our most sought-after work is the Chanel slipcase (set of 3), which we regularly update in volumes. Our next best-seller is the highly acclaimed Dior series, which we initially began producing years ago and is yet to be completed in terms of volumes. Can you tell us somewhere unexpected that you’ve seen an Assouline book? The first thing that comes to mind is an Instagram post someone sent to me. It showed our Athens Riviera book placed in a small Greek house on a small Greek island. For me, that was pure gold.

PHOTOGRAPHS SIMON DETRAZ

How would you style an Assouline book in your home? It depends on my mood and our new titles. We are constantly changing our libraries and coffee table books to keep the room fresh. I also love the stylish combination of propping a big painting up against the wall and putting stacks of books on the floor strategically around it. What’s on the horizon for 2022? We are planning to start developing the brand into more of a lifestyle AMARA.COM |

AMARA Private Label

FO R E V E RY R O O M DESIGNED by AMARA

Luxe

leek and sophisticated, Luxe is a confident yet timeless interior design style. Featuring a paredback colour palette that’s elevated with a sprinkling of opulence, Luxe will leave your home bursting with glamour. Despite popular belief, luxury interior design isn’t just about all that glitters but rather minimal, high-quality finishes. Want to achieve the luxury look in your home? It’s easier than you think... Opt for neutral tones to form your foundation and introduce pops of colour throughout. A black statement piece of furniture is perfect for creating a focal point in a light and bright room. To create depth, layer the look with subtle animal prints and sumptuously soft textures like faux fur and velvet. To complete the look, cut through textures with crisp white marble accessories and metallic finishing touches.

MARBLE TOP SIDE TABLE

Feeling inspired? Treat yourself at amara.com/luxe

GLASS AND AGATE SOAP DISPENSER

LEATHER STRIPE CHEVRON QUILTED CUSHION

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AMARA Private Label

Retreat

ffortlessly calm and collected, Retreat is a refreshing look that’s made for every room in your home. Inspired by Scandi interiors, Retreat will transform any space into a welcoming haven. In need of a little hygge? We’ve got you covered... Combining a soothing colour palette with organic materials and comforting textures, this style lends itself perfectly to creating a tranquil bedroom. Invest in some high-quality, fresh white bed linen to give your room that plush hotel look, then layer with a cosy throw and scatter cushions for that sink-in feeling. To complete the room, add some soft lighting, such as wall lights or table lamps, and you’ll have your very own haven in no time. Like what you see? Create your own sanctuary at amara.com/retreat

HERRINGBONE TUMBLER

FELT LEATHER HANDLE BASKET

STACKED ARCH MARBLE BOOKEND

SCALLOPED CANE MAGAZINE RACK

Global Explorer

old and adventurous, Global Explorer is anything but ordinary. An eclectic treasure trove packed with artisanal homeware; this look will fill your interior with the feeling of unforgettable experiences. Want to be a little more courageous in the home? Let us show you how with Global Explorer... Start off the look with a soft palette that’s brought to life with rich earthy tones and add some subtle drama with pops of fuchsia, mustard yellow, or black and white accessories. For that true artisanal feel, introducing some handmade elements will elevate the room. Think handwoven baskets, tasselled cushions, or handsculptured objects. If CARVED you’re lucky enough to STRIPE VASE have collected pieces from your own travels, now’s the time to let them shine.

In need of an adventure? Get the look at amara.com/global-explorer

WOODEN PLATTER WITH PINCH POTS

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AMARA Project Spotlight

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Thai Villa by Johnny Ward

raveller, blogger and entrepreneur Johnny Ward is the face behind the successful travel blog onestep4ward. From quitting his 9-5 to jet-setting across the globe, Johnny talks to us about how he funded his travels and built his dream home in Thailand... After travelling around America, Thailand, and Australia, I decided to start my own travel blog, onestep4ward. With it quickly gaining attraction, I was able to save and get one step closer to building my dream home. I first moved to Thailand over 20 years ago to teach English in Chiang Mai, north of Thailand. I fell in love with the country and the city, so it was always my dream to go back and build a life there. After a lot of hard work and saving, I was eventually able to go back to Chiang Mai to buy some land and create my dream home. The whole process took a year or so. I bought a plot of land that was around 1200m² and located 15 minutes outside the city. From here, I had to find an architect, designer and project manager. I visited all the luxury villas in the city, and every time I fell in love with one, it turned out to be the same company, The Loft Construction. After three months of planning, fighting with the budget and constantly adding stuff, I opted for wraparound balcony and chose to forgo the fifth bedroom, which is now a library area. Despite the lack of financing available in Thailand and the global pandemic, the whole project ran quite smoothly, with almost no construction delays. The building work started on February 5th, 2021, and now 55 weeks later, we're 99.5% done. The budget? I went way over. I doubled my initial plan, and even after the original CGI drawings and the new budget, I still went over by 25%. We proudly park our 2002 Honda Civic in the car port, knowing that those kinds of sacrifices have allowed us to have our dream home in our 30s. @onestep4ward onestep4ward.com

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AMARA Bathroom

POWDER ROOM PRETTIES

B AT H R O O M AC C E S S O R I E S Bathroom styling has never been so easy thanks to our complete accessory sets. We’ve got floor-to-ceiling style covered with everything from toilet brushes and soap dispensers to tissue boxes and mirrors. Whether you want a classic look or prefer to make a statement with something unexpected, we’ve got the perfect set for your space.

GLOBAL EXPLORER

The Finer Details When it comes to ensuite styling, it’s all in the details. For a glamorous look, splash out on luxurious agate and Swarovski crystal embellishments, or keep it pared back with crisp white porcelain and matt black stoneware. The right accessories can elevate even the humblest of abodes. 1 3

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1. BAROCCO & ROBE BATHROBE CAPRI BLUE, VERSACE HOME 2. CLASSIC TOILET BOWL BRUSH, JULIA KNIGHT 3. JAZZ BATH MAT, MISSONI HOME COLLECTION 4. TENBY SOAP PUMP, PIGEON AND POODLE 5. COURTLY STRIPE TOWEL, MACKENZIE-CHILDS 6. JOSEPHINE HOODED BATHROBE, MISSONI HOME COLLECTION 7. DOT HAMMERED BATHROOM ACCESSORY SET, GLOBAL EXPLORER 8. NERO SOAP DISH, AQUANOVA

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AMARA Biophilic Design

PLANT KWEEN, CHRISTOPHER GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPH PHOEBE CHEONG PHOTOGRAPHY

Known to their 361,000 Instagram followers as Plant Kween, Christopher Griffin is a Brooklyn-based houseplant expert. Serving lush content, botanical wisdom and fabulous ‘lewks’ to our feeds since 2016, Christopher’s presence has always been rooted in a journey of self-care, joy-sharing and community building all through the wonders of those little green creatures we call plants.

PHOTORAPHS PHOEBE CHEONG PHOTOGRAPHY

BIOPHILIC DESIGN WITH PLANT KWEEN

@PlantKween

lant parents everywhere, rejoice. This year, it’s all about bringing your home to life with the biophilic look. Inspired by our inherent human need to connect with nature, biophilic interior design is all about bringing the outside world in and creating a healthy space for us to live, work and learn. With nature’s finest being at the forefront of our minds, we chat with Christopher Griffin, a.k.a Plant Kween, who shares their top tips for ensuring you and your houseplants thrive... I've learned so much about myself during this botanical adventure. I've learned how to better care for myself

through caring for my plants. Am I drinking enough water? Is my body getting enough sunshine? Are my roots and foundation sturdy enough to support my new growth? What are the things I need in order to keep growing and thriving? I realised that I am basically a house plant with complex emotions. I tend to sprinkle my plant routines throughout the week, giving me little nature breaks throughout the day. When I water my green gurls, I make it a party! I blast music, I put on a fun outfit, I pour myself a little cocktail and I tend to my plants. It's a whole entire mood, and it's fun for me! So,

When I water my green gurls, I make it a party! I blast music, I put on a fun outfit, I pour myself a little cocktail and I tend to my plants.” Chistopher Griffin, PlantKween ask yourself, how can you add a little pizzazz to your planty routines? How can you make them fun for you? If you are just starting out on this journey of lush greenery, I hope you are ready for a wonderful viridescent ride. I encourage you to go into this

journey with a curious mind, eager to learn about the plants you are bringing into your space. Go into it understanding that you will have some plant fails (all plant parents do) but you learn from those mistakes and you do better next time. And make it fun for yourself! Caring for plants can be tedious and seem like a chore if you treat it that way! Build a plant family that vibes with you. There is no green thumb, you simply have to match the plants to the level of care you can provide. If you are a person on the go and may forget to water your plants, stick with cacti, succulents and other

desert plants. They don't need that much attention and actually thrive in neglect. If you are a person who loves to nurture then you may want to check out ferns and orchids, as both of these kweens need a bit of attention in order to thrive. Plants are like potential friends; you want to make sure you are both compatible. Find out more about biophilic design at amara.com/biophilic-design 1. VANDA ORCHID & DIANTHUS WITH METALLIC VASE, RTFACT 2. ROSES IN GOLD CUBE VASE, RTFACT 3. ORCHID, DIANTHUS & GREENERY IN GOLD VASE, RTFACT

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AMARA Picnic Prep

SUMMER SPREADS

W H AT ' S YO U R PERFECT PICNIC? With the evenings getting lighter, the temperature climbing, and our gardens bursting with life, this can only mean one thing: summer is just around the corner. With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee coming up and a four-day weekend on the cards, what better way to celebrate than with a traditional British picnic? From girly get-togethers to family feasts and an al fresco date night, four renowned content creators have shared their top tips on how to create the perfect picnic.

SUNNYLIFE PHOTOGRAPH @KELLYREEVESPHOTOGRAPHY

The Fat Funny One

ounder of The Fat Funny One, Jess uses her social media to discuss everything from motherhood and fashion to confidence and beauty. Mother of four, podcast host, public speaker, and author of her debut book Own It, Jess is an advocate for body positivity and mental health and uses her award-winning platform to share her own pearls of wisdom.

AMARA: When and where would you have your picnic? Hyde Park by the water. It’s where my husband and I had our first date. What food and drink would you serve? All the crisps. I love crisps and dip and think they’re required for every picnic. I’d also have a Greek salad, watermelon, and sparkling fruit juice for a top tier picnic.

Who would be there? Me, my husband, our four children, and our dog, Marshall. I would love to recreate our first date but with all of them with us. Real plates and glasses or plastic/paper? We have a plastic picnic set which keeps everything together in a fabulous case that can be reused time and time again. What’s your one picnic essential? A picnic blanket. I really don’t like to sit on the grass and no picnic is complete without somewhere to sit! Jess Jones @thefatfunnyone

At Dad’s Table

dam Shaw is a trained chef, father of two, and founder of At Dad’s Table where he shares fun, healthy, and easy family recipes with his 50,000 followers. His debut cookbook, How to Grow Your Family, takes expectant and new parents from pregnancy through to family meals one dish at a time.

AMARA: When and where would you have your picnic? I love an early evening picnic on the grass in summer, just as the sun is setting. Preferably with some live music playing in the distance. What food and drink would you serve? I love a spread of olives, roasted vegetables, homemade dips like tzatziki, hummous or baba ganoush, artichokes and so on. A real antipasti picnic. That being said, my absolute guilty pleasure is a pack of cocktail sausages! PHOTOGRAPH EMILY BUTTERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Who would be there? I should say my wife and my two pocket-rockets Basti and Benji who are 4 and 2. However, if I'm totally honest, it would be lovely for my wife and I to have an evening to ourselves, even if it’s just in the garden. Real plates and glasses or plastic/paper? If my boys are there, definitely recyclable. If it’s just my wife and I, some real plates and glasses would be lovely. What’s your one picnic essential? Apart from the cocktail sausages? It has to be Pimms, surely? Adam Shaw @at_dads_table atdadstable.com AMARA.COM |

AMARA Picnic Prep

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LES JARDINS DE LA COMTESSE

SE9 Edwardian Terrace & Surgeon's Table

am and Jenny moved into an Edwardian Terrace in South East London in 2019. Between working as an actuary and a surgeon, they have renovated and redecorated their home with a big focus on restoring the building's original features. With an impressive

Instagram following boasting over 45,000 followers, Sam and Jenny share their interior styling tips and delicious culinary creations across their home and food accounts.

Who would be there? Now that we can all get together again, we would invite all our nearest and dearest family and friends.

AMARA: When and where would you have your picnic? Definitely summer time – either in Greenwich Park, London or the Harbour beach in Tenby, Pembrokeshire.

Real plates and glasses or plastic/paper? We would go for real plates and glasses packed neatly into a big picnic hamper.

What food and drink would you serve? We would serve homemade sausage rolls, coronation chicken sandwiches, hummous and vegetables, crisps, a lemon and poppy seed loaf, sparkling elderflower cordial, and prosecco.

What’s your one picnic essential? Blankets, so everyone can sit down comfortably or wrap up warm if it gets cold. Sam & Jenny @se9_edwardian_terrace @surgeons_table

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Shreya Kalra

hreya Kalra is a first-generation fashion blogger from India. Currently living in Amsterdam, she is the founder of What’s The Plan NL, a networking initiative for the women of the Netherlands. With over 50,000 Instagram followers, Shreya creates beautiful digital content around her fashion wisdom, lifestyle, travels, and her dog.

AMARA: When and where would you have your picnic? Spring in the Netherlands is absolutely stunning. I would probably choose a park where my dog can run free and have a little picnic under a cherry blossom tree. Sounds idyllic to me. What food and drink would you serve? I’d go for easy peezy elegance. A variety of cheese, lots of fresh fruit like an assortment of berries (no cutting or chopping), crackers, nuts, and lots of prosecco or rosé.

Who would be there? I’m thinking... a picnic with my girlfriends.

Real plates and glasses or plastic/paper? Ceramic plates and reusable plastic glasses that come with my picnic basket work best. 8 1. SMALL LENTE ACRYLIC BOWL, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 2. AIMONE BOWL, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 3. TESSA FRUIT PLATE, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 4. AUTUMN RED TARTAN HAMPER, RETREAT 5. TRAMA TALL TUMBLER, KARTELL 6. ITALIA ACRYLIC TUMBLER, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 7. MILLY ACRYLIC TUMBLER, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 8. PURE NEW WOOL POLO PICNIC BLANKET, TWEEDMILL 9. DOUBLE FACE ACRYLIC TUMBLER, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 10.PREMIUM COOLER BAG, BUSINESS & PLEASURE CO 11. ULTIMATE PICNIC TOOLKIT, HEATING & PLUMBING LONDON

What’s your one picnic essential? A game! With more than enough space to stretch out, board games, card games, or memory games are my go-to picnic essential. Shreya Kalra @shreyakalra1

Shop our full collection of picnicware and accessories at amara.com/picnicware AMARA.COM |

AMARA KLC Awards

K L C AWAR D S KLC X AMARA STUDENT INTERIOR DESIGNER AWARD

As part of our drive to support emerging talent and be engaged with the interior design community, AMARA is delighted to host an exclusive Student Interior Design Competition with KLC School of Design. Helping to support the next generation of emerging designers, this competition is open to those students studying at KLC only. KLC is a leading career-focused interior and garden design school based at the heart of THE JUDGES London's Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. Offering unrivalled teaching, welfare This year’s expert panel of judges includes Founder and and careers support for almost 40 Principal of KLC School of Design Jenny Gibbs; Founder years, KLC has been helping and Chief Creative Officer of AMARA Sam Hood; and Head people successfully achieve of Buying at AMARA Kate Wales. Each brings with them a a career in the interior or wealth of experience, knowledge and love of interior design. garden design industries.

THIS YEAR’S COMPETITION

THIS COULD BE YOU With a long history of successful graduates, KLC’s online courses help realise the aspirations of those looking to move into a long-lasting career in interior or garden design. Charmaine White, Founder and Creative Director of The White House Interiors studied Interior Design at KLC in 2008 and shares her experience. KLC were fantastic in preparing me for my career in design. The beauty of the course was that you could learn at your own pace. I was lucky enough to secure a few internships with top London design studios whilst I was studying, which meant I could put the theory of what I was learning into practice.” Charmaine White

For this year’s competition, the brief is to create three or four soft accessory items to be a part of the newest Designed by AMARA brand, Boheque. A step away from the ordinary, Boheque will launch your interior into a celebratory fête of glamour. With dreamy soft jewel tones, opulent textiles and a maximalist aesthetic, our upcoming de rigeur private label brand is an Aladdin’s cave of clashing prints and luxurious opulence. Think Studio 54 meets manor house extravagance. Entries can include cushions, throws, bedspreads or poufs and could feature connecting patterns and textures used across all products or singularly. Our judges will be looking for designs that complement the brand aesthetic and mood board. One winner and two runners-up will be announced at the KLC Graduation Ceremony in July 2022. The winning designs will be incorporated into the new collection for 2023 and be displayed at the KLC Graduation in July 2023. Find out more at amara.com/klc

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF KLC AMARA SPECIAL OFFER Enrol on KLC’s Online Certificate Interior Design course this spring using the promo code AMARA40 and save 40% off the course fee of £1840 and pay just £1104 or instalments of just £60 per month. PLUS, you will also receive a FREE 1-2-1 Tutorial between Projects 1 and 2 worth £100!

AMARA Content Creator of the Year

Content Creator of the Year Awards WE WANT TO HEAR FROM ALL CREATORS WITH A PASSION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN AND HOME DECOR.

These awards are an exciting opportunity to shine a light and celebrate the most creative, inspiring, and authoritative content in the interiors industry. These awards focus on recognising talent across four categories:

- BREAKTHROUGH - CAUSEWORTHY - INNOVATOR - ENTERTAINER -

ENTRIES OPEN IN JULY

If you’d like to stay in-the-know make sure you sign up to our newsletter. amara.com/newsletter

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AMARA Beach & Pool Accessories

MAKE WAVES

B E AC H & P O O L AC C E S S O R I E S

BUSINESS & PLEASURE CO

Whether you’re chilling out poolside or stepping onto the beach, sink into softness with the perfect towel. If you’re heading to the coast, look for oversized options that’ll keep the sand at bay and choose a bold print that’ll be easy to spot from the shore.

Feeling Beachy Keen

Seas the day with the right accessories. Create a stylish shady spot with tassel-trimmed beach umbrellas and make memories that’ll last a lifetime with towels so big they can fit the whole family. When it comes to inflatables, we’ve got everything from shark surfboards and mermaid tails to designer rubber rings. Whatever floats your boat. 8

SUNNYLIFE

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5 1. KRYTHME BEACH TOWEL, KENZO 2. JAMELIA BEACH TOWEL, MISSONI HOME COLLECTION 3. PLAY ON RUBBER RING, VERSACE HOME 4. PALLA ACRYLIC PITCHER, MARIO LUCA GIUSTI 5. DELUXE LIE ON FLOAT, SUNNYLIFE 6. THE 2-PIECE CHAIR, BUSINESS & PLEASURE CO 7. THE POOL - GREEK EYE, SUNNYLIFE 8. HOLIDAY BEACH UMBRELLA, BUSINESS & PLEASURE CO

amara.com/beach-towels amara.com/pool-accessories AMARA.COM |

AMARA At Home With

ZARA MARTIN PHOTOGRAPH MOEEZ ALI

TV presenter, model and DJ Zara Martin has worked with a plethora of prestigious fashion brands including Chanel, Versace and Fendi. One of the most recognisable faces in the London fashion and beauty scene, she talks to us about her interior style, inspiration and being an ambassador for Women for Women International. @zaramartin ALBERTO PINTO

AT H O M E W I T H ZARA MARTIN

AMARA: Describe your interior style. Comfortable, eclectic, and babyproof. Tell us about your home. It was an old embassy that got converted into apartments, the ceilings are high and the big period sash windows let all the beautiful light in. I always love coming home, which makes me feel extremely grateful.

What do you love most about it? The space, the energy, the neighbourhood, and the communal garden to name a few. What do you wish you could change? In an ideal world I would be living in an Alberto Pinto designed château in the south of France, but other than that, I get bored of furniture quickly so I could change the rugs or the sofas.

Which room in your home is your favourite? I live in a duplex and the downstairs gets a lot of action during the day, so I love going upstairs to where the bedrooms are. It's so calm. What’s your home’s colour palette? Grey with a splash of colour. What was the last thing you bought for your home? Versace slippers, the Jonathan Adler Eden backgammon set, and kitchenware (I’m obsessed). What’s your most treasured possession? My wardrobe. What was your biggest interior design mistake? Not filling my previous home with flowers, they instantly transform a space. I now have a FLOWERBX subscription, so I get a delivery of fresh flowers on a regular basis; they’re the best.

ALBERTO PINTO

Would you say your own personal style influences your interior? Of course, your home decor is an extension of your own style. Which is why sometimes one needs a little spruce up or makeover.

International to be there to support women in rebuilding their lives after conflict.

You’re an ambassador for Women for Women International, why is this charity close to your heart? As an organisation, they are creating lasting and meaningful changes. They help women develop the tools to support themselves and their families, which is extremely powerful. In light of recent events, we have seen the urgent need for charities such as Women for Women

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? I was recently on a panel for Women for Women International with Venetia Archer, who founded the Ruuby app, and she said “leap and the net will appear” which really resonated with me.

SAMBONET

JONATHAN ADLER

Who or what inspires you? My son, Axel.

Of course, your home decor is an extension of your own style. Which is why sometimes one needs a little spruce up or makeover.” Zara Martin

Head to amara.com/women-forwomen to learn more about Women for Women International.

FISKARS

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