Stimulate the senses and spirit this

“That is one good thing about this world... there are always sure to be more springs.” L.M. Montgomery

Studio Jute is an Isle of Wight based Interior Design practice specialising in creating timeless interiors. Their holistic approach covers concept to completion, with designs that support the client’s lifestyle and have a positive impact on wellbeing.

STIMULATE SENSES AND SPIRIT THIS SPRING

There is nothing like the arrival of spring to lift the spirits. Shoots bursting through the ground, new animal life beginning, longer, lighter days – all a distinct reminder of the wonders of the natural world as it seemingly starts afresh around us. This energy is contagious; spring represents new life, new beginnings, and the opportunity to try something new. Stepping outside into the first of the spring sunshine, we experience its wonderful sensory qualities. The scent of bulbs blooming, the sound of birds singing, the feel of soft grass underfoot, all these small sensations can spark memories and associations long forgotten. After months of gloomy days and less time spent outside, we all look forward to throwing the doors open and letting spring envelop our homes. Aside from a refreshing spring clean, how can we bring a little piece of the moodenhancing impressions of spring into our homes? Think about all the senses, not just the visual. In interior design we often start with a mood board – not just a pretty picture board, but an important tool in communicating the feeling we want to achieve. What will the space feel like to touch? What will the soundscape be? How will the light move around? Can we improve the air quality? Even what we would like it to smell like and why! When we begin to dig a little deeper into our wants and needs and how to achieve them, we create a space we feel fundamentally connected to, and when we feel connected, we feel at ease and happier in our surroundings. This sense of belonging and contentment positively impacts our wellbeing, leading us towards happier and more fulfilled lives. Here are some ideas on how you can refresh your space to appeal to your senses.

SIGHT

Biophilic design is a great way to connect your interior to the exterior. Utilising natural motifs and shapes promotes a sense of wellbeing found when in nature.

Simple repetition, symmetry and organic forms are all great ways to introduce natural elements into man-made environments. Using natural, organic, and recycled materials will enhance the benefits of this method.

William Morris Acanthus fabric, ANNE GINGER SOFT FURNISHINGS. Nature-inspired accessories, ACACIA BAY. Carving Tom Ball, YARMOUTH GALLERY. Spring Greens on canvas, CELIA WILKINSON. Light fitting, ACACIA BAY.

SOUND

Acoustics play a big part in how comfortable you feel using a space. Soften hard surfaces with curtains, rugs, and wall coverings. Innovative use of natural materials, such as linen wall coverings; they not only look beautiful but create a cocooning effect. Layer wool carpets, seagrass rugs and full-length curtains to absorb sound waves.

Wool carpet, ABBOTTS FLOORING. Vescom linen wall covering, PAUL WALDEN INTERIORS. Linen curtains, ANNE GINGER SOFT FURNISHINGS. Nature-inspired accessories, ACACIA BAY. Seagrass rug, ABBOTTS FLOORING.

SCENT

Not to be overlooked, our olfactory system enables us to recall memories more clearly than those not linked to scent.

Create your own bespoke fragrance by layering your favourite scents, burn clean soy candles alongside locally blended essential oil reed diffusers. Cleanse the air regularly with the clever Maison Berger lamp, sit this alongside air purifying plants such as Peace Lilies to ensure a healthy environment.

Essential oil reed diffusers, WIGHT APOTHECARY. Lamp Berger aroma lamp, BAYLISS & BOOTH. House plant, THE FLOWER GARDEN. Soy wax candle, WIGHT APOTHECARY via WIGHT ORIGINALS. Plum & Ashby candle, THIS & THAT.

TOUCH

Textures are so important for making a home feel alive. Create variety and tension by mixing rough with smooth, hard with soft, heavy with light.

A beautiful linen sofa will always be a delight to sink into. Enhance the experience with a fabulously uplifting and environmentally friendly throw. Tactile accessories, such as handmade pottery, locally sourced and carved wooden trinket boxes, all connect us to nature each time we use them. Don’t forget other surfaces – a coat of lime wash paint adds depth like no other.

studiojute.co.uk

Oak table, hand carved trinket box and utensils, JIMS WOODCRAFT via WIGHT ORIGINALS. Ocean sunlight throw, XV STRIPES. Handmade stoneware vase, TREGEAR POTTERY. British made sofa, BAYLISS & BOOTH. Autentico lime wash paint, BAYLISS & BOOTH.