OUR COMMITMENTS
Saal Design stands in solidarity with the Black community and is committed to working towards dismantling systemic racism, especially within the interior design industry…
Saal Design stands in solidarity with the Black community and is committed to working towards dismantling systemic racism, especially within the interior design industry.
Like many of those who work in the interiors industry in the UK, I am white and middle class. However, I have spent the last 30 years raising my mixed-heritage children. I have witnessed my children and their father experience overt racism time and time again and it is something that, although I know I will never understand first hand, I am very committed to fighting.
My role during this time is not to lead, but to support and amplify. With that in mind, my daughter, Romy, who works alongside me at Saal Design, has offered to assist with this statement.
The lack of ethnic and economic diversity within the interior design industry has been a conversation we’ve been having internally at Saal Design for a while. I’ve been in the industry for over three decades and have seen very little improvement or development; industry events remain mainly white, high wealth spaces.
Over the last year, it was becoming increasingly apparent that, as a company, we would need to find ways to start this conversation publicly within our industry. It is with regret that it has taken the murder of George Floyd in the US and the subsequent developments of the global Black Lives Matter movement for us to finally do this.
Saal Design would like to be clear about what actions we will be taking to ensure that these conversations are not delayed or forgotten moving forwards:
We will be reaching out to industry leadership, asking them for a clear action plan on how they intend to improve upon the lack of Black and other ethnic minority representation within the industry.
We will be making recurring donations to anti-racist charities. If anyone knows of any great charities that support Black and other ethnic minorities in Art & Design, please let us know.
We will investigate how we can attract more Black and other ethnic minority applicants for work experience/internship positions.
We will commit to incorporating more educational content on our instagram/blog; so much of ‘British’ design has its origins in our colonial past, we will commit to telling these histories.
We are still learning and would love to develop this conversation with other designers and industry figures: please send us an email, or let’s talk in the comments. We hope this movement towards open, honest and difficult dialogues will begin the long journey towards real change and growth.
Many thanks,
Sarah Ahluwalia & the Saal Design team
COMPTON VERNEY: HOME & GARDEN SHOW
On Saturday 29th June, Compton Verney Art Gallery & Park will be hosting its very first Home & Garden Show - and I will be there as a guest speaker giving a talk on Curating The Home! The talk will be at 1pm and will discuss the process of creating a home that represents its inhabitants through thoughtful design. I’ll be talking about sustainability, art sourcing, trends and design philosophy and psychology…
On Saturday 29th June, Compton Verney Art Gallery & Park will be hosting its very first Home & Garden Show - and I will be there as a guest speaker giving a talk on Curating The Home!
The talk will be at 1pm and will discuss the process of creating a home that represents its inhabitants through thoughtful design. I’ll be talking about sustainability, art sourcing, trends and design philosophy and psychology.
Curating a home is about using design as a form of self-expression, in a conscious and considered way. It’s about the journey and discovery of each item or element – the chair found in the skip, the piece of art collected on holiday, the side table passed down through the family. It’s about using what you have and up-cycling while also discovering new artists and designers to support.
I’m so excited to be delivering this talk at such a historic venue at an event full of local artisans from across the region offering everything from handmade furnishings and bespoke upholstery. And I’m even more excited to say that I have one Family Day Ticket (2 adults, up to 4 children) up for grabs! All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is head to our instagram and follow the instructions. If you don’t have an instagram account, you can simply email us to enter.
Competition closes at midnight on the 25th and winner will be announced on Wednesday 26th!
It should be a fantastic local day out and the weather is looking great, so hopefully I will see some of you there! Come and say hello!
GOING GREEN
Every Spring, I drive my kids nuts as I comment on the fresh greenery that emerges almost overnight. There is something very exciting about seeing nature coming back to life and breathing again. Pantone made this ‘Greenery’ their Colour of the Year 2017 describing the colour as...
Every Spring, I drive my kids nuts as I comment on the fresh greenery that emerges almost overnight. The foliage bursts with such vibrancy that I can’t help but point it out in wonderment. There is something very exciting about seeing nature coming back to life and breathing again. Pantone made this ‘Greenery’ their Colour of the Year 2017 describing the colour as ‘A refreshing and revitalizing shade, symbolic of new beginnings’. I find it fascinating that this is a trend we can always rely on when we need it most.
In times of uncertainty we turn to nature for support and reassurance. Over the last 27 years in business I’ve seen it happen multiple times - during the recession in the 90’s, the beginning of the Iraq war and the Great Recession. In 2016, we had the double whammy of Brexit and the US election. When tired, polarized and overwhelmed, green symbolizes hope, rebirth and health. Nature is the one thing that unites us all, it is constant, truthful and strong. It persists.
The importance of green, especially in 2017, also feels like a backlash to technology and the media. People want to connect in a real way, with each other and with their surroundings. There’s a desire to go back to basics. To what is simple and honest.
This ‘Greenery’ trend applies not only to the colour schemes of 2017 but also to design practice and materials. For the last decade there has been a strong drive towards sustainable design solutions. However, with efforts to prevent climate change coming under threat, eco-friendly design appears to be an urgent priority this year. Consumers are becoming more aware and sustainable design is becoming more sophisticated. Projects of every scale can now balance aesthetic and the environment.
Scandinavian and Japanese interiors are currently very on-trend. They both look to nature for their inspiration and have long been associated with relaxation and serenity. Our homes are our safe places, where we can retreat from the outside world. It is becoming more and more important for these spaces to contribute to our well-being and the use of natural, renewable materials benefits us both mentally and economically. Studies have shown that the use of exposed wood in design schemes can help relieve stress and reduce fatigue. In Scandinavian design it is used to add warmth, both in appearance and as an insulator, to beat the winter blues. There has also been research connecting the durable and timeless qualities of these materials to people's levels of comfort. Our day to day lives are so far from our natural environment that the use of real stone worktops and real wood floors reconnects and grounds us.
Earthy greens and browns contrasted with fresh whites and paired with natural woods help the mind relax and work very well for spaces like home offices and bathrooms. All paint colours in the imagery of this blog post are available at Saal Design.
TIPS FOR GOING GREEN AT HOME…
Plants at home improve air quality and are very beneficial. They will also add that fresh ‘Greenery’ zing to your room! Bamboo Palm, Spider Plants and Boston Fern’s are great purifiers and humidify the air, while Peace Lilies are great for removing mold from spaces like bathrooms and other damp areas. Air plants are my current fascination. Aesthetically, they are beautiful and are extremely easy to incorporate into any scheme or space. Plus, they don’t require soil and don’t don’t attract any bugs!
LED lighting has advanced hugely over the last few years and is now an extremely efficient and economical design solution. They use up to 90% less energy than an incandescent or halogen bulbs of equivalent brightness. Lighting is available in a whole range of colour temperatures and can be dimmed to create the perfect atmosphere. Candles, after daylight, are the most natural sources of light. They are a very simple and effective way of bringing nature and warmth into your home.
Avoid volatile organic compounds (VOC) that are health hazards. These can be found in various paints, household products, furniture, carpets etc. Luckily, all our paint suppliers at Saal Design only offer low VOC content products.
Choose real and sustainable materials. When choosing new furniture or when redesigning opt for the real or sustainable material over the synthetic. Although they may be more expensive at the time of purchase, they will be more durable and offer you and your home far more in the long run.
For any questions or enquiries regarding the paint products featured in the imagery of this post please don't hesitate to contact us: info@saaldesign.co.uk or 01926 334 556.
Images supplied by Little Greene
INSPIRATION: ARTWORK
Before establishing Saal Design 29 years ago I studied Fine Art and worked as a watercolour artist and gallery curator. Art has always been my one true passion. However, I found the life of an artist unfulfilling. It was this that motivated my transition into the world of interiors...
Before establishing Saal Design 29 years ago, I studied Fine Art and worked as a watercolour artist and gallery curator. Art has always been my one true passion. However, I found the life of an artist unfulfilling. The hours of solitary studio time day after day were difficult and I craved human interaction and collaboration. It was this that motivated my transition into the world of interiors. As an interior designer I am able to collaborate with every client and create a different kind of art. I can apply all my artistic knowledge of colour psychology, pattern and shape and help someone create a home. This work was fulfilling and realised all of my passions.
Although my role had changed, artwork always remained one of my main sources of inspiration. Seeing a stunning piece of art wakes me up and revitalizes my mind. It feeds my work as an interior designer and encourages me to push the boundaries. I think artwork can do this for anyone, whether they have a creative mind or not.
Paul Gauguin, The Wave, 1888
Frank Auerbach, Head of Gerda Boehm, 1965
Bowie once said that art was “the only thing” he’d ever wanted to own. “It has always been for me a stable nourishment. I use it. It can change the way I feel in the mornings,” he said. “The same work can change me in different ways, depending on what I’m going through.” Art has a powerful ability to effect our subconscious and this makes the task of selecting artwork for the home incredibly important.
ELEMENTS TO CONSIDER
Colour: The colour palette of a piece of art can affect us significantly. If colours contrast heavily with the rest of a room, it can make the viewer feel unsettled. It is important to take the characteristics and psychology of colour into account. Bright colours are generally happy and exciting and work best in rooms with a lot of natural light. Certain tones of blue make us feel more awake. Lighter colours and greens are calming. Dark colours create a more subdued, sultry atmosphere.
Jo Taylor, Blood Horse II
The light colours of this piece, along with the elements of blue and strong lines have a refreshing and energizing effect on the mind.
What does it mean: I find the most interesting pieces of art are ones that mean something to its owner. Whether it is an investment piece or a framed doodle, it is valuable and important. It has been selected with thought or from a gut instinct that couldn’t be ignored - it isn’t simply filling a space on the wall. Psychologist Samuel Gosling did a study that revealed that the space we create for ourselves can tell a stranger more about us in 15 minutes than if we spent quality time socializing with them over the course of weeks. Our homes are an extension of ourselves and what we choose to put on the wall tells a story.
Dame Barbara Hepworth, Sea Form (Porthmeor), 1958
Watercolour of a twig I loved the texture of and couldn't leave behind
Placement: Less is more. Try to give the artwork the wall space it deserves so that the eye can truly take it in. If you have more artwork than wall space then maybe try to rotate what you have on the walls instead of cramming them all on. This is also great even if you only have a few pieces. Seeing the artwork in a new space is exciting and gives the viewer an opportunity to appreciate the piece, quite literally, in a new light.
Please enquire for details
Nancy Knight, Abstract Watercolour
Even with this knowledge, the process of finding artwork can be a daunting one. However, art sourcing for my clients is one of my favourite tasks. I love exploring galleries and discovering new artists. It is a great honor to be trusted with something so personal. I also feel very privileged when clients ask me to work with art they have already collected. I love when a piece of art is the source of inspiration for an entire project. I have had clients come to me having invested in their first piece of art and we have gone on to develop a whole scheme and room flow to support it. They loved their artwork and now a had a space that enhanced and elevated it. I feel very lucky when I get to share art with a client and collaborate in this way.
Pablo Picasso, Portrait of Dora Maar, 1937
Kandinsky, Composition VIII, 1923
Pablo Picasso said ‘the purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.’ This is why art is my ultimate inspiration, it exercises my soul and gives me perspective. I believe it is one of the most important tools available to an interior designer and to the world.
If you are seeking any help with artwork or art sourcing, don’t hesitate to get in touch: info@saaldesign.co.uk
Some artwork that has recently inspired me:
MINIMALISM
Last week my daughter and I watched a documentary called ‘Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things’. The documentary focused primarily on Minimalism from a philosophical and lifestyle point of view - but it got me thinking about Minimalism specifically in the interior design world...
Last week my daughter and I watched a documentary called ‘Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things’. The film follows two men who changed their lives when they decided to become minimalists. The documentary focused primarily on Minimalism from a philosophical and lifestyle point of view - they describe Minimalism as a tool that can assist you in finding freedom and consciousness - but it got me thinking about Minimalism specifically in the interior design world.
Quite often the concept of ‘Minimalism’ is thought of as an extreme. I know the first things that would pop into my head were white, sterile and utilitarian. Often beautiful and stunning, but not in a way that I connected to personally. Not something I could live with day to day. However, I’ve come to realize that although that is Minimalism for some people, it doesn’t have to be for others. It isn’t about following a strict or extreme design process, but more about employing a sustainable and thoughtful approach.
So, what is Minimalism? Minimalism is officially defined as a style or technique (as in music, literature, or design) that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity. However, it is subjective and can mean something very different from person to person, such is the nature of art and design. I believe Minimalism, at its core, is about reducing the clutter of things that are not necessary and/or are not really meaningful to you. Thinking about it like this made Minimalism accessible to me. As a designer, I love beautiful things across all spectrums of art and design. Over the years I have managed to gather a pretty good collection of items, from stunning coffee table books bought in New York while visiting my daughter to old antiques left to me by my mother. The idea of Minimalism would appear to challenge that and require me to clear these things out, reducing them to only a few. In my mind, this is not the case. These things add value to my life, they are the gallery of my life and experiences. In other words, they are meaningful and necessary to me. Just as much as someone else’s toy car or stamp collection is meaningful and necessary to them. This is where Minimalism can become your own. It isn’t about owning very little but about deciphering what adds value to your life and giving these things space by removing the things that don’t. It allows your interiors to breathe.
This made me think about my own approach to interior design and the way in which I like to collaborate with clients. When I work, my aim is to help clients find their own style. I must learn about what is important to them and what things are essential. When I have discovered this then I can help them create a home that looks beautiful and functions correctly, a home that works with it’s inhabitants.
I think this element of functionality is what interests me most. Minimalism is about being sustainable and economical, two things that I am very conscious of when I design. Now more than ever we are subjected to ever-changing styles and trends and it can be very costly and unsustainable to try and keep up with it all. That’s not to say they aren’t fun, I love nothing more than playing with new colours and designs. However when designing a client’s home, or even my own home, I try to identify the style or trend that is sustainable, that is going to last and stand the test of time. This includes using sustainable materials - check out our Inspiration: Wood blog post which discusses our thoughts about up-cycling and using salvaged materials.
The economical design solutions developed by people seeking a minimalist life inspire and amaze me. I live in a tiny cottage. I am forever looking for ways to accommodate everything without my home feeling cluttered or messy - I’m an interior designer after all! I find the Tiny Houses movement the most fascinating. Obviously, these are the extreme of economical design however we can definitely learn a lot from them about making the most of the space we have.
View more: Boneyard Studios, The Matchbox
Caption: Check out our Pushing The Limits post for more incredible economical design solutions.
I believe that the way we perceive our surroundings has psychological effects. I know personally that I struggle to be productive in a space that is cluttered. Before I can start any day in the office my desk has to be organized and clean so that my mind feels like it can function properly. Similarly, when working in a space that has been designed intelligently and economically I feel inspired. I think this is Minimalism’s key function in relation to interior design.
I would not describe myself as a ‘minimalist’ interior designer, just as I would not describe myself as a ‘traditionalist’ or ‘modernist’. I have an appreciation for all design styles. Overall, I think Minimalism in it's full-force (lifestyle and design) can be unrealistic and inaccessible. However, I definitely believe that approaching any scheme with minimalist values can only serve to improve and enrich.
PUSHING THE LIMIT
After stumbling across a TED talk, ‘The Art Of The Imperfect’ by artist Phil Hansen (watch here), we at Saal Design started thinking about the limitations that many people face when trying to decorate and design their homes...
After stumbling across a TED talk, ‘The Art Of The Imperfect’ by artist Phil Hansen (watch here), we at Saal Design started thinking about the limitations that many people face when trying to decorate and design their homes. Money, space and lack of functionality can seem to limit style and creativity and push you to the point of giving up. We’ve all been there…hair scruffed up, hands on hips and looking at the seemingly impossible space that you’re simply trying to make ‘work’. Hansen looks at these limitations and sees them as an opportunity to be innovative and we’ve decided to adopt this philosophy (or at least try to, hair will still get scruffy I’m sure).
So, with this inspiration, we thought we would share with you some clever, cost effective design solutions that will hopefully spark your imaginations and encourage you to look at the space and objects around you in a new light. Afterall, ‘Our only limitations are those we set up in our own minds’.
SIMPLE & SWEET
These days it can often be hard to decorate a space with original items and ideas without having to pay a premium. We all want our homes to be unique to us however this can sometimes be hard when everyone shops at the same home-ware store. My advice would be to actively add that personal twist by making items yourself (and this doesn’t have to be ‘craftsy’ or look like something your niece made you at school which is often the risk with DIY decor). There are plenty of sophisticated ideas out there with great tutorials so there really is no excuse not to join in if you want to make your home one of a kind without the hefty price tag.
This is a fun way to create an original and inventive cork board with a photo frame and lots of wine corks. Best get drinking!
SPACE SAVING
Lack of space doesn’t have to mean lack of design or functionality. It just means that we have to work harder and get clever with our creativity. I’m constantly amazed with space saving design solutions, from the simple to the spectacular. Here are some designs and ideas that have inspired me:
THE LIMITLESS ITEM
During our research for this post we carried on coming across one item time and time again. It’s cheap, easy to find, functional and can adapt to most styles and designs. What is this incredible item? The wooden pallet. We were amazed at how this industrial throw away item could transform itself to create cost effective and innovative spaces and furniture. Take a look at some of our favourite finds whilst we run down to the tip to salvage some for ourselves!
This idea to use wooden pallets to create a cinema room at home is no doubt our favourite. With a bit of paint and some beautiful cushions they can look really sophisticated and create a unique and relatively inexpensive space. Plus, you’re recycling so you can feel good about that too!
INSPIRATION: LIGHT
It can be very easy to underestimate the power of lighting in a design scheme, whether that be from a stunning statement fitting or some subtle downlights. Lighting is closely connected to our emotional and psychological reactions, therefore, if a scheme is wrong many of us will feel it straight away- which will, in turn, impact how the rest of a design is received. I find lighting so inspiring to work with as it is so diverse...
It can be very easy to underestimate the power of lighting in a design scheme, whether that be from a stunning statement fitting or some subtle downlights. Lighting is closely connected to our emotional and psychological reactions, therefore, if a scheme is wrong many of us will feel it straight away- which will, in turn, impact how the rest of a design is received. I find lighting so inspiring to work with as it is so diverse. It can be the spectacle of a room, enhance a design or even give a room an alternative atmosphere at the flick of a switch.
BESPOKE LIGHTING
At Saal Design we have been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to design bespoke light fittings for our customers. The fittings have really added an extra special touch to each design and enriched the branding of our commercial projects.
HIGH IMPACT
Stunning light fittings are very much pieces of functional art. They can be mesmerising and intriguing and will add a unique touch to any design. It is very easy to find over indulgent statement pieces that drip in opulence however, I often think that simple elegance is far more dramatic and effective.
INDUSTRIAL
Industrial designs are currently very popular within interiors and especially within lighting design. I like this style as it combines strong design with the raw necessity of light. As I said in my previous post, Old Meets New, I love combining older styles with contemporary ones and I find it very satisfying using industrial fittings as a part of this. There is something very fun about using a product that was originally created for its functionality within an environment of high design.
CONTEMPORARY
Good contemporary lighting design can be timeless. I think contemporary lighting offers a wide range of applications from a bedside or desk light to a pendant fitting and can really add that finishing touch to a space.
HIDDEN LIGHTING
Sometimes the best kind of lighting is when you don’t even notice its source at all. Hidden lighting is a really fun way to subtly decorate and light a room simultaneously.
LIGHT OF THE FUTURE
Lighting design is evolving rapidly and huge steps are constantly being made towards energy efficiency and greater lighting control. I am constantly inspired by the aesthetic and technical developments and always look forward to discovering new pieces of lighting art.
INDOOR OUTDOOR
During the summer I love to be outdoors as much as possible whether that be lounging around with a book or cooking up a meal al fresco. I don’t believe that garden furniture should differ hugely from what we have inside, why have something that is awkwardly wooden and uncomfortable when you can have something plush, well-designed and durable? This year there are some beautiful outdoor fabrics and furniture ranges that can help do just that...
Over the last month of rain and clouds I’ve been trying to make the house feel a bit more uplifting by introducing some colour and bringing the Spring flowers inside, the ones that survived the snow at least! However, the days are now getting slightly warmer and, touch wood, the sun is gracing us with its presence more frequently and I think it’s time to venture outdoors and get creative.
FURNITURE
During the summer I love to be outdoors as much as possible whether that be lounging around with a book or cooking up a meal al fresco. I don’t believe that garden furniture should differ hugely from what we have inside, why have something that is awkwardly wooden and uncomfortable when you can have something plush, well-designed and durable? This year there are some beautiful outdoor fabrics and furniture ranges that can help do just that. All of the furniture featured below is suitable for Indoor and Outdoor applications saving space and money without compromising on style. Please feel free to contact us for more information if you’re interested.
BACK TO BASICS
I think our gardens and outdoor spaces are just as important as our interiors and in some ways most of the work is already done by the ultimate designer, Mother Nature! A beautifully landscaped garden that links your house to its natural surroundings is wonderful however you don’t have to reach for the shovel or spend a fortune to enjoy the outdoors- the main things are comfort and atmosphere. Luckily these things are quite easy to achieve even in the most basic of environments- I’d much rather be sat somewhere that is warm and comfortable rather than in a beautiful looking space with hard seats and no atmosphere. The key items to create the perfect outdoor space are cushions, throws, lanterns and fires.
IN THE COURTYARD
I’m currently in the middle of designing my very own courtyard garden leading out of my kitchen (with the help of Alice Blount Garden Design) and I am aiming to create a space that is a fun outdoor extension of my home. I want an area that I can both relax and entertain in. I think a courtyard garden is one in which you can really get creative and dramatic and make big changes quite quickly. Courtyards need not be dark and gloomy when they can be little boxes of paradise to escape to. In my cottage courtyard, I’ve taken inspiration from my travels to Morocco and India, two of my favourite places to visit, and am trying to create my own fusion style of classic English with exotic overtones.
Now let us all cross our fingers for a Summer of sunshine so we can all actually get outside to do everything!
INSPIRATION: WOOD
Wood is definitely one of my favourite materials to work with and something that constantly inspires me. I think that the authentic purity of wood is something that is hard to find in other materials. There is a certain comfort in creating with a material that has been used and been consistently useful for centuries...
Wood is definitely one of my favourite materials to work with and something that constantly inspires me. I think that the authentic purity of wood is something that is hard to find in other materials. There is a certain comfort in creating with a material that has been used and been consistently useful for centuries.
BESPOKE FURNITURE
At Saal Design we have been lucky enough to be able to create some beautiful bespoke furniture and woodwork for our customers. The wood used and crafted has enriched every design, whether it be by giving it a strong foundation, a magical solution or simply that indescribable wow factor.
IN THE BEDROOM
I recently saw these wooden headboards whilst I was searching for some fresh ideas and instantly wanted a willing customer to design one for. In relation to my previous ‘Old Meets New’ post a lot of these are rejuvenated pieces of woodwork which add a beautiful unique quality to each of the rooms.
A GOOD TABLE
I love a good table and I find it hard to beat a well-crafted wooden one. It is something that can make a bold and practical statement.
FLOOR
Of course one of the best features in a house can be the one that everyone walks over. A wooden floor can give so much to a space. I recently had a new wooden floor in my living room and upon completion the whole house felt like it had been transformed. At the moment, I am really liking the wider panels and innovative finishes.
TRUST IN WOOD
Unlike in fashion, when a new trend comes along every 6 months it is not so easy in interiors to simply ‘get a new wardrobe’. The aim is to find those staple items that one will love for years and years. Wood is one of those staples. It is adaptable and reliable and a material that I’m sure will continue to a inspire me as a designer for many years to come.
EASTER
I love Easter. For me, it has all the comfort of a family Christmas without all the stress…what could be better? Recently, I’ve been embracing the holiday more and more and I think it’s a really good excuse to have a bit of fun at home. Here are some of the things I do to get in the mood and really make Easter weekend an occasion...
I love Easter. For me, it has all the comfort of a family Christmas without all the stress…what could be better? Recently, I’ve been embracing the holiday more and more and I think it’s a really good excuse to have a bit of fun at home. Here are some of the things I do to get in the mood and really make Easter weekend an occasion:
EGGS
My favourite easter decoration has to be the classic egg- from the beautiful speckled ceramic to the bright and bold. I love to incorporate them into a spring flower arrangement or have them nested in bowls around the house. This decoration is all about subtlety, be careful not to over egg it. (I had to use that pun somewhere!)
COOKING
One thing that can give your home that extra special touch is something that no designer can draw up or include on paper- the smell of good old home baking. We love to get creative with our baking at home during Easter so I thought I’d share some of our favourite bakes that make Easter Afternoon Tea even more delicious.
SIMNEL MUFFINS
Ingredients
250g mixed dried fruits
grated zest and juice 1 medium orange
175g softened butter
175g golden caster sugar
3 eggs , beaten
300g self-raising flour
1 tsp mixed spice
½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
5 tbsp milk
175g marzipan
200g icing sugar
2 tbsp orange juice for mixing
mini eggs
Method
- Tip the fruit into a bowl, add the zest and juice and microwave on medium for 2 minutes (or leave to soak for 1 hour). Line 12 deep muffin tins with paper muffin cases.
- Preheat the oven to fan 180C/ 160C/gas 4. Beat together the butter, sugar, eggs, flour, spices and milk until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes) – use a wooden spoon or hand held mixer. Stir the fruit in well.
- Half fill the muffin cases with the mixture. Divide the marzipan into 12 equal pieces, roll into balls, then flatten with your thumb to the size of the muffin cases. Put one into each muffin case and spoon the rest of the mixture over it. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until risen, golden and firm to the touch. Leave to cool.
- Beat together the icing sugar and orange juice to make icing thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon. Drizzle over the muffins and top with a cluster of eggs. Leave to set. Best eaten within a day of making.
AMERICAN SUGAR COOKIES
Ingredients
132g unsalted butter, softened
225g superfine sugar, or granulated sugar, processed in blender or food processor for 30 seconds
½ tsp. Salt
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 tsp. Vanilla extract
½ tsp. Almond extract or emulsion, optional
375g plain flour
Method
Cream butter, sugar and salt until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes with mixer set at medium speed. Add yolk, beat well. Add whole egg, vanilla and optional almond extract and beat until well-incorporated. Add flour; beat at low speed just until flour is mixed in; do not overmix. Divide dough in halves or thirds and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm, at least one hour and up to 2 days.
Preheat oven to 190°C. Dust work surface and rolling pin with flour. Roll dough to 1/4″ thick, sprinkling with additional flour as needed to prevent sticking. Cut into desired shapes and place on parchment or silicone-lined pans. Bake in preheated oven until cookies appear dry on the surface and are light golden brown on the edges, about 10 minutes (very large cookies may take up to 12 or 13 minutes). Remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks and cool completely before decorating.
FLOWERS
Bring in the flowers and catkins and create some colourful arrangements. Have some fun with it!
5 STEPS TO SPRING
Finally, Spring has decided to arrive to give us some sunshine and warmth! With the days getting longer and brighter my garden is starting to come back to life and this highlights everything that needs to be done inside. It is a time to come out of hibernation, freshen up and prepare for the year ahead and I have 5 simple things you can do to make your home Spring perfect...
Finally, Spring has decided to arrive to give us some sunshine and warmth! With the days getting longer and brighter my garden is starting to come back to life and this highlights everything that needs to be done inside. It is a time to come out of hibernation, freshen up and prepare for the year ahead and I have 5 simple things you can do to make your home Spring perfect.
PAINTWORK
As the very welcome sunshine makes its way into my home it tends to reveal some very unwelcome scuffs, scrapes and smudges. Even after a top to bottom spring clean walls will always expose a room that is slightly worn out. I find that a touch up of the paintwork can make all the difference. It’s quick and inexpensive (usually a sample pot is enough to do the trick) and can bring a space back to life. The only hard part is keeping the children and/or pets away long enough for it to dry!
SCENTED CANDLES
I always imagine that a house has been holding its breath all Winter so as soon as the weather is warm enough I love to give the house a good airing. Then I like to switch my scented candles. During the Winter, I find that woody spiced scents give the perfect atmosphere however for Spring the lighter, fresh smelling candles are much more appropriate. I love Manuel Canovas’ world famous luxury candles and Designer’s Guild’s range but as a designer I am always looking for something different and new for my home. I have recently discovered a local company, Narbeth Candles, that produce handmade candles in the Cotswolds. Gail Narbeth, who makes the candles, has worked hard to develop an exclusive range of unique scents. The candles burn really well and aren’t too overpowering which can often be a problem. Their ‘Desert Rose’ candle is available at Saal Design (£15) and is the perfect scent for Spring.
FLOWERS
This one is a simple one…bring your Spring flowers inside! Fresh flowers around the house always lift my spirits and allow me to enjoy my garden even when it’s still a bit too cold to be out there.
COLOURS
Make the most of the light and use it as an opportunity to mix things up and experiment with some colour. Pastels tend to be the ‘go to’ palette for Spring and the result is often very tasteful but sometimes a bit boring. Personally, I usually find bold use of colour more impressive. You don’t have to be too dramatic to give a room some seasonal vibrancy- the odd splash here and there should be enough.
Cushions available to buy at Saal Design
PREPARE FOR SUMMER
For me, Spring is the ‘organised’ season. As the focus starts to shift towards outside and the garden it’s good to start thinking about what you will need for the Summer. Furniture usually has a lead time of roughly 6 weeks so if you need some for your garden then Spring is the time to order. There are some lovely new outdoor products and fabrics this year and I'm excited to start having some fun with them.
OLD MEETS NEW
As a designer, I like to work from the skeleton of a building and incorporate the client’s lifestyle and preferred aesthetic. I feel that recently we have started to lose our architectural identities. Formulaic buildings are popping up all over the world stripping their surroundings of cultural roots. This is not to say that there aren’t any fantastic architects or fresh projects out there (large commercial architecture has produced a variety of groundbreaking structures) but I believe it is very important that the small or old isn’t forgotten among the big or new...
As a child I grew up surrounded by both innovative and traditional design. My father, Jim Roberts, was an architect famous for pushing architectural boundaries. He worked primarily within the commercial sector however his passion projects where in the restoration market. I would sit in our home of beautiful antique furniture and muse at my father's drawings. I specifically remember his futuristic plans for a cylindrical high-rise building, the Rotunda in Birmingham- which once completed I discovered to be a perfect launch pad for paper aeroplanes. This background has heavily influenced my career and especially my passion for combining traditional and contemporary design. It is a style that is difficult to master as each element has to balance perfectly, however when achieved can be incredibly rewarding.
The Rotunda, Birmingham, originally designed by Jim Roberts and later restored by Glenn Howells Architects.
As a designer, I like to work from the skeleton of a building and incorporate the client’s lifestyle and preferred aesthetic. I feel that recently we have started to lose our architectural identities. Formulaic buildings are popping up all over the world stripping their surroundings of cultural roots. This is not to say that there aren’t any fantastic architects or fresh projects out there (large commercial architecture has produced a variety of groundbreaking structures) but I believe it is very important that the small or old isn’t forgotten among the big or new. Architecturally, I think now more that ever it is important to adapt our run-down buildings to the 21st Century rather than replace them. Unfortunately, creating these spaces can, admittedly, come at a higher cost than building anew but hopefully people are starting to see the long-term benefits and necessity to invest.
This fun extension adds a modern twist to the beauty of this old convent. Convent of Sant Francesc in Santpedor, Spain.
Modern minimalism with its order and pristine finish can be stunning however I feel there is always something that I'm drawn to in a building that has been around for a while. I find that buildings that have had a previous life, or even many previous lives, carry a magic and character that is near impossible to simply create or ‘design’. The beauty of traditional/contemporary design is being able to pick and choose, we can eliminate all the bad bits and play with the good. We can have our cake and eat it.
I love the exposed 300 year old farmhouse masonry with the smooth resin floor and calming interiors. Personally, I’d have added some colour but this sanctuary is a great example of a successful marriage of old and new. Casa He, Italy
There are a lot of benefits for the interior and exterior by introducing simple luxuries such as light. In many old buildings the windows are pokey and there is little natural light to see the structure’s internal beauty but that can now be improved by building with glass and incorporating portals of sunlight to reveal it all. We can have fun and extend from existing structures as well as open them up inside to create beautiful modern spaces (otherwise known as playgrounds for the interior designer).
A whole wall of glass has been added to this barn conversion which, with a mixture of clever lighting design, dramatically showcases the salvaged structure and contemporary interiors. Stow On The Wold
As an interior designer I believe my passion for this combination of old and new is fuelled by its allowance for a customer to make their mark on the design. It is very fulfilling to create a space that is aesthetically beautiful, practical and personal to an individual. Antique furniture doesn’t have to make way for a modern house and vice versa. I find it fun to play with mixing textures, colours and shapes. It is an exciting process and can be very liberating in comparison to ultra-modern and strict traditional. I guess you could compare it to the feeling of breaking the rules and getting away with it.
Converted warehouse Sitting Room featuring Tom Dixon furniture and a mixture of antique and contemporary light fixtures. Shoreditch House, London
An example of a modern structure with antique interiors. Casa Fez, Porto Portugal
I think that in a time where design and technology is advancing so fast it is very comforting to have spaces that allow you to appreciate the past as well as the present and future.
OTHER POSTS
The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Recent studies have shown that people are starting to spend more time in their bedrooms than in their living rooms. It is a room that can have a big impact on our physical and mental well-being and it is important that this is taken into account during the design process...