TIPS OUT OF EUROPE

Out of Europe

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OH, VENUS!: Inspiration crosses cultures and generations. Inspired by neoclassical sculptor, Antonio Canova (who was inspired by art from the ancient world), contemporary designer, Fabio Novembre breathes new life into a grand old lady who remains forever young.

Venus may be the Roman goddess of beauty but, as Fabio shows with this bookcase (available through Italybased Driade), she’s no airhead and her beauty is more than just skin deep. By melding this immortal figure (and, quite the figure it is) into a bookcase, Venus becomes surrounded by knowledge from throughout the ages – who’s the wise one now, Minerva? We may have found it impossible to get into Europe in 2020 but we can still make a little piece of New Zealand forever England, or Portugal, France, Italy or, well you get the picture! While some of these products and ranges may not available through New Zealand stores/importers, most can be ordered online and shipped here by direct arrangement with their European designers or manufacturers.

Best of British

BREXIT STAGE LEFT: Great Britain may have quit Europe politically but geography would beg to differ! Although Timothy Oulton’s furniture designs cover a wide range of styles, some pieces do more than just hint at military tradition. The son of a British major (and former antiques dealer), this London-based designer draws on classic regimental colour and the significance of discipline to produce many of the pieces in his collections.

Featuring designs reflecting English country house living, aviation, the formality of parliament and more, much of Tim’s furniture is reminiscent of a time when the notion that the sun would never set on the British Empire was the stuff of pure fantasy.

Using materials as synonymous with the military as brass and leather, his Regiment range of side tables, bookcases and Saddle Chair are great examples of this approach; they bring an air of pomp, pageantry and history to the modern home. More information: dawsonandco.nz or timothyoulton.com.

On the light-er side...

SWITCHED ON: When it comes to illuminating rooms, French designer, Erwan Boulloud, looks as much on the far side as the bright side of life.

What’s the point in having splendid furniture if we’re unable to show it off? With his lighting range, Monsieur Boulloud takes one of the most functional home fittings – lighting – and turns it into a spectacle all on its own.

Primarily including table and suspension lamps, the fittings in this range are no shrinking violets. Instead, they practically demand to be focal points rather than just highlighting other pieces.

More information: erwanboulloud.com.

Children’s hang-outs

COMFIER & COMFIER: Booboos are bound to occur as little ones tackle life head-on. But, a gentle swing in this comfy seat could be just what the doctor ordered.

Proving a hit in Europe, the Booboo Swing (the design of which is Inspired by (Alice in Wonderland) could well become part of a Kiwi Christmas (Lewis) ‘Carrol’ too.

Rather than a wild ride, the Booboo delivers a gentle sway, an ideal accompaniment to bedtime stories – the curiouser the better! Made from reinforced stainless steel, synthetic leather and velvet upholstery, it can be situated indoors or on a well-sheltered deck.

More information: circu.net.

Moooi for your money?

MOOOI BLUES: Whither we may wander in our homes, Marcel Wanders work could well be beneath our feet. Part of Netherlands-based Moooi Carpets’ Signatures Collection, Marcel’s Delft Blue rug is a modern take on a traditional Dutch treat, Delft pottery.

However, the Delft Blue rug is just one of many standout designs. With ranges featuring everything from flowers, wildlife and clouds (you’ll be walking on air!) to a celestial map (perfect for space cadets) and psychedelic patterns (careful not to trip!), Moooi’s Signature Collection pieces can be implemented as rugs or wall hangings; some designs are also available as full carpets.

More information: moooicarpets.com or ecc.co.nz.