Promotional Feature: Interior designer Alice Foulsham finds the ‘Keepsake Garden’ trend particularly eyecatching...

Great British Life: An example of the Keepsake Garden trendAn example of the Keepsake Garden trend (Image: Archant)

I recently attended a home style trend forecast seminar at the Spring Fair in Birmingham. This was hosted by the people at Lifetime Brands, one of the global leaders in trend forecasts. The trend entitled ‘Keepsake Garden’ really caught my eye as I am a lover of florals and the idea of bringing the outside in with interior design. This trend focuses on Victorian florals, combining contemporary and traditional elements to create an original, light and romantic style.

The mixing of old and new styles often confuses people, especially when interior design is concerned, but it is perhaps the best way of creating an original scheme. Victorian florals are always going in and out of fashion, so they are a safe bet if you want your scheme to last. Bird cage prints and designs are everywhere at the moment, and are a key part of this trend. Try a feature clock with a vintage design and pick out accent colours in the accessories to bring everything together. Think big cabbage roses, beehives, birds and garden tools to really make the most of this style.

Great British Life: An example of the Keepsake Garden trendAn example of the Keepsake Garden trend (Image: Archant)

Although the colours are muted, they are still very important in this trend, as they always are with interior design. Upholstery fabrics in soft, pale blues work really well with these delicate prints, but stay clear of anything heavy like velvet. Try a cream fabric for the curtains with a pretty herb or plant design that will instantly brighten the room.

Woods must be soft and weathered, as anything too dark or imposing will completely distract from the scheme. Another important element is wire. If you’re lucky enough to pick up vintage wire accessories such as a bird cage or lantern then really use these as a focal point in your room.

Vintage fonts are gradually becoming more and more popular. The idea is to remind you of Victorian love letters with swirling calligraphy. These can be introduced with wooden plaques or vintage inspired wallpapers. There are even some fabrics available with printed text designs that look amazing when used as curtains or for feature roman blinds. With this style you can get away with mixing a lot of pieces, as everything is light, soft and delicate.

Great British Life: An example of the Keepsake Garden trendAn example of the Keepsake Garden trend (Image: Archant)

The Keepsake Garden trend will be increasingly popular throughout 2014 and is the perfect interior design style for any garden lover or anyone wishing to make our precious British Summertime last a little bit longer!

Alice Foulsham

Online Interior Designer

Just Fabrics

Unit 2

Honeybourne Way

Cheltenham

GL50 3QW

Tel: 01242 530423