Vintage or ultra modern style statement - it's a matter of personal taste...

Today I wanted to share some of my bespoke work with you; two commissions in stark contrast to one another.

First, a vintage style super soft cushion pad made to fit a settle. A settle is a bench seat with a high back, usually made for two people, and often known as a monk's bench.

My customer Kate had been lucky enough to be given a fabric stash, and I was just able to squeeze enough from her favourite fabric piece to make this cushion cover. It is a gorgeous ivory with woven stain thread floral posies in bronze. We talked about how Kate wanted the finished cushion to look and decided on a duck feather inner as this would sag softly with use, giving the lived in "Bagpuss" effect over time. I made both the inner and cover using a welted style to give the cushion structure and definition. Cambric was used to make the duck feather inner along with 3kg of duck feathers. Cambric is a special waxed cotton which helps to prevent the feathers poking through making a cushion with a longer life span. I made an extra cover using a gorgeous candy striped cotton canvas in pistachio and pale apricot. And when Kate feels like a change, we'll get to see the new cover!

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Next, we have Laura's ultra modern designer fabric statement pieces.

Laura chose this Designers Guild Leopold fabric for her covered headboard, and had some pieces left over for pillows. It is a bold statement in a striking oversized geometric design in vivid chartreuse with black and metallic accents. The masculine print design is softened using pompom edging on the pillows, which also adds texture and frames the pillows perfectly. The use of black and white in the walls, soft furnishings and accessories creates a sophisticated yet witty and playful scheme.

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I don't think you could get two examples further apart in terms of the colour palette, design and finished effect. It just goes to show how widely individual tastes can vary and when it comes to interior design, your home really is your very own personal space.

*Thank you to Kate and Laura for providing the images used in this post*