STUDIO SHAMSHIRI
TAILORING TEXTILES TO THE SPACE
Before we even get to colours and patterns, simply choosing the right type of fabric is so important. Looking to add some warmth and texture? Go for natural weaves like cottons and linens, or a high pile option like bouclé. Prefer more pizzaz, a bit of opulence? Silks and velvets are your calling card!
Of course, too much of the same fabric can also start to feel matchy-matchy, which is why we suggest playing around and not worrying too much about the rules. Case in point is this wonderful living room by Studio Ashby (pictured below left). A subdued, heather grey linen couch is offset by deliciously cozy armchairs in a deep rust velvet. Silk cushions and a woolen throw are mixed in to create a real sense of depth and texture, without leaning too far in any one direction. Drool!

STUDIO ASHBY

STUDIO OXLEY
HARNESSING THE POWER OF TEXTURE
Fabric is so much more than just what goes on your couch or your curtains. Used correctly, it has the power to be the single most important design element in defining the aesthetic of a room. Have a look at the master bedroom from Srishti’s family home pictured above right. Pure velvet really brings out the mossy green tones of the headboard in a way that linen or cotton or even polyester velvet could never. It sets the tone for the room, instantly making it feel plush and adult. For balance, we added heavily embroidered beige linen curtains to really dial up the texture and provide a tonal contrast while keeping the colours warm and soothing. The artwork above the bed is another little design trick we love – a framed piece of silk, so cost effective yet still luxe! The silk provides yet another layer of texture and that interplay is what lifts this space and holds the viewer’s eye.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT FABRIC
This is in some ways the hardest (but best) part. Where do you begin? As always, we suggest having an idea of the story you’re trying to tell with the room and go from there. Texture, colour and pattern all have an impact on the personality of your space, not to mention quality. A pure linen will look and feel different to a polyester linen blend. We suggest starting with the larger elements – think sofas, curtains, headboards – and whittling those down first, before getting to the stuff you can play around with a bit more, such as cushions and accent chairs. In fact, investing in delicate or expensive fabric for larger items is not always the smartest choice. More surface area means more room for stains and spills, so a poly blend or stain-resistant option may be the best bet for a large sofa. The pure silks, jacquards and embroidered weaves can be saved for smaller items or less heavily-trafficked areas to really maximize their impact and longevity.
SOURCING SECRETS
We’re lucky enough to be surrounded by fabric everywhere, but let’s face it: a lot of the options in Singapore are just plain boring. Neutral colours and poly blends abound, with nary a print in sight… unless you know where to look! Our favourites Tatum Company and Bode are always our starting points for projects where we know we need something extra special, particularly for statement pieces.
Unfortunately for us design geeks, a lot of European fabric is stunning but tends to have a price point to match (sigh!). The good news is, we also have access to the best that Indian textile houses have to offer, often at a fraction of European prices for craftsmanship that is truly world class. We’ve mentioned our go-to’s Cottons & Satins before, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We stock a plethora of samples from many other wonderful Indian designers we work with and would be happy to share – schedule a consult with Studio Oxley or drop by to learn more!