Interiors Through the Ages as Featured in Dorset Living

Trends come and go throughout the years, and interiors are no different. From furniture favourites to beautiful bathrooms, the past 25 years has seen a revolution in all areas interior design.

As Cookes Furniture celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Christchurch store, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to explore how our homes have transformed to the dreamy décor of today…

Florals were big and bold in the Nineties. Clashing was considered cool, and it was certainly a case of the more the merrier. From sofas and curtains to rugs and carpets, florals were the pattern of choice and colourful prints could be found in every corner of the home.

Fast forward to present day, and the popular pattern hasn’t gone anywhere, yet is much more stylish and subtle. Rather than opting for wall to wall flowers, make a statement with one key piece, such as floral furniture, a feature wall or soft furnishings.

Whether it’s modern chintz, bright, oversized blooms or even tropical prints, there’s a floral trend for every taste. A chic sofa is just one easy way to achieve a contemporary look, with pieces like the Parker Knoll Isabelle sofa or Alexander and James’ Betsy Chair, both available at Cookes Furniture, bringing unique upholstery into the living room.

There is no denying that the Nineties was the time for pine to shine. Orange-stained, knotted wood featured in every room of the home, whether it was kitchen tops, dining chairs and tables, or dressers and drawers in the bedroom. Durable, cost-effective, pine brought an airy, fresh and natural feel to the home, and remained popular throughout the decade. As the natural world continues to inspire interiors, wood also remains a key trend going into 2019. Yet, pine has been left firmly in the Nineties, with a more rustic and industrial look now leading the way. Think solid, reclaimed materials, and unrefined textures to take your wood into the 21st century and beyond. Cookes Furniture’s Quantum dining table stylishly incorporates this on-trend rustic wood with dramatic black powder-coated legs to create an up to date, urban effect, perfect for those show-stopping dinner parties.

Magnolia paired with orange, hunter green, bold blue - the Nineties were a decade of daring décor and eye-catching colours. From walls finished with swirling stencils and borders to a rainbow of throws and furnishings, primary colours weren’t confined to the children’s bedrooms, but extended right throughout the home. Popular contemporary palettes feature modern neutrals, earthy tones and rich shades, bringing a subtle yet luxurious look to any room. Spiced Honey, Dulux Colour of the Year 2019, is set to be huge and will provide the perfect update for any bedroom with its timeless warmth and cosy feel. Invest in bespoke furniture, such as the Venice Bedstead, to achieve an on-trend and truly bespoke bedroom. Available in a range of luxurious fabrics and colours, its sleek, romantic curves and diversity of design will help create that Spiced Honey haven.

For more inspiration on the latest trends, visit Cookes Furniture’s Christchurch store on Somerford Road or browse online at www.cookesfurniture.co.uk.