I was daunted at the thought of visiting Design and Decoration at Darling Harbour this week.  This is the trade only exhibition which showcases the latest and greatest in design.  One is usually confronted with a lot of not so good, to be sieved through in the hope of finding the gems.  Not so this year … not nearly as many exhibitors but lots of new and fabulous.  I have to say my favourite stand was the one above .. well done Crowley and Grouch.

I fell upon this fabric supplier who exhibited the most beautiful range of linen fabrics, both printed and plains … from Sth. Africa.

This furniture was extremely stylish, the designs just that little bit different … such generous proportions.  I do love stud trim on any piece of furniture !!

Excuse the out of focus images, however I was really on the run.  Love both the ikat cushions, colours and the metal furniture very different to anything I have seen.

I first saw and loved similar lamps at Blakes Hotel in London in the late 80’s. I have been trying to source or have made, this style for years … very difficult to get the proportion just right, but here they are.

Yes, new industrial style furniture is here to stay … and I am dying to use it somewhere.

Loved these lights.  In fact the lighting was the standout of the event this year.

This very glamorous African tribal look was rather inspirational !!

Have wanted groupings of this classic wicker on our verandah (to be moved out into the garden for autumn lunches) for years but never time to make it happen !!  This was so reasonably priced that I wondered why I hadn’t just got on with it.

For those of you who read my blog on peacock bedheads, you will be amused to see that I have found another supplier.  This colourfully painted (to order) cane furniture was divine .. particularly the oriental style bookshelves. I do have a soft spot for the classic cane armchair and ottoman in the foreground.