New season’s florals a breeze

Florals and birds are colouring everything around the house. Here’s how they can work for you, writes Colleen Hawkes.

There’s a bit of a riot going on in home interiors this spring – a riot of bright colour and jungle-themed florals. Botanicals – leaves, flowers and exotic birds – are appearing everywhere, on wallpaper, cushions, duvet covers and chairs.

There are giant palm leaves, roses, peonies, parrots, flamingos and budgerigars all competing for attention.

But how can you grab a piece of the action without turning your home into a florist’s shop?

Interior designer Janey Larsen says even the word ‘‘floral’’ can strike decor dread into those who associate blooms, sprigs and sprays solely with chintzy, fussy, country-cottage settings.

‘‘But really, if they are used in the right way, it’s a brilliant way to enliven neutral schemes and bring a modern, chic feel to a space.

‘‘I don’t think there are any rules at all with florals – anything goes. There are florals for every style. Using the ‘unexpected’ and applying it in different ways really does make a unique home. Whether you dare to go bold and daring, or you opt for a more delicate pared-back approach, either is great.’’

Big-patterned wallpapers always work well in small spaces, such as powder rooms. This season, Amy and Stu of The Block NZ used such a wallpaper to great effect and won the room reveal.

Larsen has also used a large floral wallpaper in her guest bathroom.

‘‘I used an Ellie Cashman wallpaper. It’s a wonderful dramatic floral design, and a modern take on the English Country Garden style of yesteryear. It certainly has created that wow factor with guests – everyone comments on it.’’

The designer suggests one way to tone down the look a little is to start with a neutral palette, then go ‘‘softly’’ with a floral fabric in a cushion, or one chair in the corner, along with a