Modern patchwork

When I designed the Anzu Patchwork range of cards and Cosy candle, aside from being inspired by Indian chintzes, embroidered Chinese silks, Chantilly lace and this picture of Truman Capote below, there were also a couple of companies that really influenced me.

Squint and Bokja both produce modern versions of patchwork. Squint is an English company based in East London, that covers furniture with a mix of English damasks, Japanese kimono silks, and 19th century French trimmings to create a modern twist on patchwork.

They produce chairs, chaise longues, lighting and cushions. Click here to view their website.

Another inspiration was Bokja designs. Bokja is a Lebanese company based in Beirut that uses rich embroidery and sumptuous fabrics from across the region to create truly individual pieces.

Click here to visit their website.

Cosy

It's been such miserable weather recently and exactly the kind of weather we had in mind when we worked on designing the Anzu Cosy candle.

Inspired by rainy days when you might snuggle under a patchwork quilt (this one was done by the talented Jane Brocket over at yarnstorm.blogs.com),

curl up on a sofa with a good book (this one is by Squint),

and laze in front of a roaring log fire. The Anzu Cosy candle has warm woody and floral heart notes on a bed of sweet amber and musk lightened with citrus notes of lemon.

We wanted the candle to echo classic English style, and think it would fit perfectly in these cosy English interiors - Chatsworth Library above and the studio in Charleston below.

Skin and Bones

I just went to the Skin and Bones exhibition, which sets out to show the parallel practices in fashion and architecture. I wasn't always one hundred per cent convinced of the connection, but there were some amazing pieces in there including this Alexander McQueen dress above. I loved it so much it inspired me to paint this little abstract pattern piece below.

Following my interest in patchwork, there were also photos of the Santa Caterina Market Barcelona which is covered with a patchwork ceramic tile roof.

Image courtesy of MoMA, New York

The exhibition is only on until tomorrow at the Embankment Galleries, Somerset House so hurry now if you want to see it. See www.somersethouse.org.uk