The roots of ikat stretch back thousands of years, with evidence of the technique found in diverse cultures around the world. Believed to have originated in Asia, ikat weaving techniques spread along trade routes, influencing textile traditions in regions as far-reaching as Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America.
What sets ikat apart is its unique dyeing process, which involves resist-dyeing the yarns before weaving. This meticulous technique results in blurred edges and a distinctive, slightly hazy appearance, giving ikat its signature look. Each piece of ikat fabric is a work of art, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans following age-old traditions passed down through generations.
Throughout history, ikat textiles have held deep cultural significance. In many societies, ikat fabrics are used in rituals, ceremonies, and celebrations, symbolizing wealth, status, and identity. The patterns and motifs found in ikat often carry symbolic meanings, reflecting the beliefs, myths, and traditions of the communities that create them.
Despite its ancient origins, ikat remains a popular choice in contemporary fashion and design. Fashion designers around the world incorporate ikat fabrics into their collections, infusing their designs with a sense of global chic and cultural authenticity. Interior designers also turn to ikat for its versatility and visual appeal, using it to add a pop of color and pattern to interiors ranging from bohemian to modern.
The resurgence of interest in traditional crafts and artisanal techniques has further fueled the popularity of ikat textiles. Conscious consumers seek out ikat fabrics for their handmade quality and ethical production methods, supporting local artisans and preserving cultural heritage in the process.
In today's fast-paced world, where trends come and go in the blink of an eye, ikat stands as a timeless symbol of craftsmanship and cultural exchange. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal and ability to transcend borders, bridging the gap between past and present, tradition and innovation. As we continue to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the world's textile traditions, let us not forget the humble yet extraordinary ikat, whose threads weave together the stories of countless cultures and generations.
Check out a few of these gorgeous fabrics from Fabricut, available for purchase at Seachange!
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The West Indies Colonial style is a timeless design aesthetic that originated during the British colonization of tropical regions. It is characterized by its blend of traditional British furniture with tropical elements.
The colonial style, while aesthetically pleasing to many, carries with it a complex and often controversial history due to its roots in colonialism and imperialism.
Colonial architecture and design originated during the period of colonization, where European powers established dominion over various regions in Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Caribbean. The style is a blend of the colonizers’ design preferences with local materials and traditions.
Today, the use of colonial style in design and architecture can be controversial, especially when it does not acknowledge or respect the history and cultures from which it draws. It is important for designers and homeowners to be aware of these implications and to approach the colonial style with sensitivity and respect for the cultures and peoples affected by colonization.
There is a growing movement towards responsible and ethical design that acknowledges and respects the history and cultures of the design elements used. This includes researching the origins of design styles, avoiding cultural appropriation, and ensuring that design choices do not perpetuate stereotypes or contribute to the erasure of indigenous cultures.
Here are some guidelines to successfully modernize the Tropical British Colonial design in a home, creating a space that is both stylish and comfortable. Remember to blend the old with the new and always focus on creating a space that suits your lifestyle. Responsible and ethical design choices can help to ensure that we are respecting and honoring all cultures and histories in our design practices.
Tropical British Colonial interiors are known for their spacious and airy feel. Maximizing air flow was key to staying cool in the days before air conditioning and fans. To modernize, consider opening up your space by knocking down unnecessary walls and allowing for a more open floor plan. Ensure that there is plenty of natural light coming in through large windows or French doors. Use light colored curtains and blinds to reduce heat indoors and save on energy costs.
The traditional Tropical British Colonial style features dark, heavy wood furniture. To modernize, mix these classic pieces with contemporary furniture. Look for modern pieces with clean lines and lighter materials. You can also update old furniture with a fresh coat of paint or new upholstery.
Rattan, bamboo, and teak are materials commonly used in Tropical British Colonial design. Incorporate these materials into your modern design through furniture, light fixtures, or accessories. This not only adds a tropical touch but also brings warmth and texture to the space.
One of the defining features of Tropical British Colonial design is the use of lush, tropical plants. Fill your home with a variety of indoor plants to bring in the tropics. Consider large potted palms, ferns, or even a small indoor tree. Not only do they add color, but they also help to purify the air. We prefer local plants and cuttings over more traditional arrangements.
Finish off your modern Tropical British Colonial design with the right art and accessories. Look for local artwork that features tropical scenes, botanical prints, or wildlife and has ties to the local area. Use locally sourced accessories like baskets, wooden bowls, or vintage trinkets to add character to the space.
Finally, ensure that your space is comfortable, livable, and sustainable. The modern home is all about comfort, so invest in good quality, comfortable furniture. Add plenty of soft furnishings like cushions, throws, and rugs to create a cozy atmosphere. Choose fun fabrics and frames to create a beautiful space that is perfectly unique.
Photos Via Architectural Digest
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High-quality teak and marine-grade materials are essential for outdoor furniture due to their durability, resistance to weathering, and overall aesthetic appeal. When investing in outdoor furniture, it is important to consider the materials used in construction to ensure that the furniture is durable and able to withstand the elements.
Teak wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture due to its natural resistance to rot, insects, and decay. Teak wood contains natural oils that protect it from water damage, making it an ideal material for outdoor furniture. Additionally, teak wood has a beautiful golden color that ages gracefully over time, developing a silver patina that adds to its charm.
Marine-grade materials are specifically designed for use in marine environments, where they are exposed to saltwater and harsh weather conditions. These materials are made from corrosion-resistant alloys or treated with specialized coatings to prevent rust and other forms of corrosion. By using marine-grade materials in outdoor furniture, you can ensure that it will last for many years without rust or corrosion, even in coastal or humid environments.
In addition to their durability, high-quality teak and marine-grade materials also offer a timeless and elegant aesthetic that can enhance any outdoor space. Teak wood has a classic look that blends well with any outdoor decor, while marine-grade materials such as stainless steel and aluminum have a sleek and modern appearance.
Overall, investing in outdoor furniture made from high-quality teak and marine-grade materials is a smart choice for anyone looking to create a durable and stylish outdoor living space. These materials offer exceptional durability, resistance to weathering, and aesthetic appeal that can enhance the enjoyment of your outdoor living area for years to come.
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Did you know that Seachange is an authorized Hunter Douglas dealer?
Hunter Douglas is a leading manufacturer of custom window treatments, including shades, blinds, and shutters. The company was founded in 1946 and has since become known for its high-quality products and innovative designs.
Window treatments, such as curtains, blinds, and shades, serve a variety of purposes in a home. In terms of beauty, window treatments can add a decorative touch to a room by providing a splash of color or pattern, or by complementing the overall design aesthetic. They can also help to frame a view and bring the outdoors in.
In terms of energy savings, window treatments can play a significant role in regulating the temperature in a room. Blinds and shades can also be adjusted to control the amount of light and heat that enters a room.
The right window treatments can not only enhance the appearance of a room, but also help to reduce energy costs by making a space more energy efficient.
Energy efficiency in your home reduces the amount of energy needed to power your home, which can help to decrease the demand for fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas. These fossil fuels are non-renewable resources that are extracted from the earth and burned to create electricity, which releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. These greenhouse gases contribute to climate change by trapping heat in the earth's atmosphere and causing the planet's average temperature to rise.
By using energy more efficiently, you can help to reduce the demand for fossil fuels and the amount of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere. This can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the environment for future generations. Additionally, making your home more energy efficient can also save you money on your energy bills.
We can help you select the perfect products, as well as provide professional delivery and installation.
]]>As the year comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to thank all of our clients and customers for their business and support. It has been a pleasure working with you to create beautiful and functional spaces that reflect your unique style and needs.
We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your home improvement journey and are thrilled to see the transformations that have taken place. Your trust in our team and our process has been integral to the success of our projects, and we are deeply grateful for your confidence in us.
We look forward to continuing to work with you in the new year and beyond, and we wish you all the best for a happy and healthy holiday season. Thank you again for your support and partnership.
]]>Decorating a beach house can be a fun and exciting task, as it allows you to create a space that reflects the laid-back, relaxed atmosphere of the beach. Whether you're looking to furnish a new beach house or give your existing space a makeover, there are plenty of ways to add coastal elements to your home.
One of the key elements of beach house decor is the use of light, airy colors. Think soft shades of blue, green, and beige that reflect the hues of the sea and sand. You can bring these colors into your space through paint, textiles, and accessories.
Another important aspect of beach house decor is the use of natural materials. Wood, wicker, and rattan are all popular choices for furniture, as they lend a casual, beachy vibe to a space. Consider incorporating natural fiber rugs, baskets, and other accessories to add texture and warmth to your beach house.
Seashells, coral, and other natural elements can also be used as decorative accents in a beach house. We prefer natural elements and a neutral palette over bright accessories that scream "WE"RE AT THE BEACH!!" Display shells in bowls or vases, or use them to create unique artwork for your walls. You can also incorporate nautical elements, such as rope, anchors, and lifesavers, to add a touch of coastal charm to your space.
In addition to these decorative touches, it's important to make your beach house as comfortable and functional as possible. Choose furniture that is comfortable and easy to clean, and invest in quality bedding and towels to ensure a good night's sleep and a spa-like feel.
Finally, don't forget to add plenty of plants and greenery to your beach house. Not only do living plants add a touch of nature to your space, but they can also help to purify the air and create a peaceful atmosphere.
With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating a beach house that feels like a true oasis.
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We were able to access pieces from a few of our favorite manufacturers and bring in layered neutrals to achieve the contemporary look our client was looking for.
Custom sheer draperies brighten the living space, while textured blackout drapes create relaxing sanctuaries in the bedrooms.
We used solid woods, layered textiles, and mixed metals to create a modern and subtle beach vibe.
Many thanks to Paula Lorentzen for the referral!
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In a time of unprecedented transition, the color giant devised a new fusion of blue and violet red to highlight the collapsing boundaries between our physical and digital worlds.
At a time of NFTs, the Metaverse, and endless Zoom meetings, Very Peri reflects the increasingly blurry boundary between our physical and digital worlds. In fact, the Pantone Color Institute realized that such an unprecedented time called for the introduction of a completely new color rather than one pulled from the massive brand’s extensive palette. “We just needed to open our minds to a new vision, so I think part of that was realizing [that] maybe we have to transform our process as well,” Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, tells AD PRO.
The end result is a warm, whimsical color that fuses a reliable blue and a violet red undertone into one exciting shade that Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, refers to as “the happiest and the warmest of all the blue hues,” citing its “sprightly, joyous, dynamic presence.” (Recent past Pantone colors of the year include 2021’s Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, 2020’s Classic Blue, and 2019’s Living Coral, among others.)
Photos and text via Pantone and Architectural Digest.
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When I began looking for art for Seachange, I wanted to carry local artists and I wanted to find artists who were not already represented in the area. I met Sarah in 2001 when she was a student at Antilles and I taught her photography class. When I saw what she is doing now, I was so impressed and knew it was the perfect fit. I love the dreamy, calming palette and I think you can really feel the deep connection she has to the ocean in her work. We are both passionate about protecting the environment and we decided we wanted the proceeds of this project to support that.
"In an era when manufacturers and consumers alike are hyperaware of the circular economy, the metal offers perks aplenty: Aluminum is lightweight, durable, noncorrosive, applicable in indoor and outdoor settings, and infinitely recyclable. (According to the Aluminum Association, nearly 75% of all aluminum produced is still in use today.) Though the material has long been a go-to for outdoor environments, this new wave of aluminum designs is thinking indoors first."
In our search for outdoor furniture that is both high quality and modern, we recently began carrying OASIQ, a New York City based furniture brand known for designing thoughtfully, responsibly and intelligently.
"OASIQ is interested in producing furniture that is not a throw away, that will grow with them and can add each piece into their collection as the customer sees fit. Our furniture is purposefully designed and caters to the young at heart, the seat height varies for customer’s ease of mobility and playful elements such as the Hamilton Rocking Horse is the cornerstone of our inclusive design philosophy. It’s simple. We love watching people take pleasure in our furniture in the great outdoors or the indoors."
The CORAIL aluminum line from OASIQ is what originally caught our eye, with it's powder coated options ranging from black and white to candy colored pastels. These unique pieces work indoors or outdoors to bring a modern simplicity to any space.
Corail barstool in pastel blue, Perla aluminum mirror, Santa end table in black cast aluminum, Zander outdoor aluminum bench, Corail lounge chair in grey.
For more, check out this great Q&A with the OASIQ designers on Modeliste
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