Inspiration Series: The Polish Folklore Beauties-Part 1

My entire career and passion for interior designer has been heavily influenced by foreign , exotic cultures, their folklores, art and materials used for generations to create regional produce. Sometimes the inspiration would come out of the blue from seeing a folk dancer in their authentic attire. There's something so pure and honest about carrying the tradition for generations, just as they have been for centuries. I have been obsessing about the South-East Asian and African cultures, as well as obviously fascinated by the European heritage. Until one day I had an epiphany: I have never even thought of my own Polish heritage!! I felt ashamed, the huge part of me of however-well-travelled, living -abroad Pole- felt betrayed and saddened for not even considering it. Was it because it was so readily available to me over the growing up years and however beautiful, not exotic enough? Or has my Polishness been diluted, urbanised? So many amazing Polish artists living abroad have kept the traditions and included the national inspirations in their art. My mind instantly wandered towards the mighty Fryderyk Szopen( or Frederic Chopin) and yes I'm aware that the French will claim he was actually French, but truth-be-told he was born in Zelazowa Wola near Warsaw, where he lived for more than half of his troubled life. His inspiration by Polish culture and folklore is audible in every single of his compositions: the Polish dances, folk tunes, Polish carols....

I decided I needed to rectify the recent lack of my national pride, the rich culture of my roots in my work. As if by destiny, I came across stunning photographs by ULA KÓSKA and make up artist BEATA BOJDA of Polish Beauties in contemporary settings. The ideas came flooding in -the series of contemporary Interior Designs inspired by those photos, my newly found fascination with Polish heritage and a bow and respect to femininity- the curves, softness, resilience, strength, sometimes the bold and brave combinations rounded off by warmth. The warmth every woman effortlessly introduces into the space which changes the house into HOME( no offence guys).

Part 1 -THE ICE QUEEN

This Living Room Scheme is based on colour and texture contrast. Predominantly light, it is accentuated by accents of black, charcoal and muted green. The base for the colour palette is made of three paint examples from Benjamin Moore's collection- soft off-white Chantilly Lace, warm neutral greige Balboa Mist and muted, calm Cushing Green. All of them evoke the feeling of peace and relaxation, with the addition of attention grabbing Closet Stripe wallpaper in Down Pipe by Farrow and Ball. The classic stripes are used sparingly only to catch the eye, bring an element of elegance and create a contemporary combination with the green and black additions like the "Envy" painting by Frida Wannerberger and Cross Sideboard from Heal's. The main focal point is the combination of large, comfortable Loaf Sofa in Moss Green. Its been framed with original Moroccan Berber Rug from RugVista, black and white marble Cezanne coffee table from Heal's and beautiful Nevo Pendant by Arturo Alvarez. All furnishings create layers of textures, neutral palette and organic shapes, focusing on natural materials like wood , stone and semi sheer Valjoire linen with a tumbled finish.

The Ice Queen is soft and gentle, but not afraid to stand her corner and speak out with bold and contrasting statements.