BASIL
GENTLE TOUCH OF AUTUMN
The turn of summer and autumn is the time when we react emotionally to abrupt changes in atmospheric conditions, the first chill after hot summer days, and gloomy weather which makes us stay indoors. With each day we increasingly miss sunlight, dislike humidity in the air and feel that days are getting shorter.
This is the time when we begin to notice how much we need our house and appreciate the cosiness of interiors we occupy. During this season, we most profoundly absorb the surroundings with our senses, which create our aesthetic and physical experiences. When taking in the reality, we first rely on our sight, closely followed by the sense of touch, which provides us with the widest range of sensations.
As for the material sphere of life, the touch is the most important determinant of choice. We like to stroke and touch the objects we surround ourselves with and admire.
Our houses are zones of the most profound intimacy, where we seek balance, rest and protection. Therefore, when looking for cosiness, we choose warm colours instead of intense contrasts; we prefer soft light, smooth edges, snuggly fabrics, natural materials etc. It is most interesting to see an intimate and sensuous relation forming between household objects and their owners.
There is a good reason why creative teams and designers working on new homeware items have focused on people and their senses for years. Household fabrics and textiles, as those closest to the body and sensuous experiences, are certainly the focal point of research and creative processes.
There is nothing more stimulating to the senses than a fabric which makes us feel comfortable wherever we are. This is the first material we seek when we need comfort and safety.
Interiors that are our safe heaven must provide us with cosiness and gentleness in the form of light filtered and softened by fabrics, a soft blanket, a comfortable sofa or soft-touch cushions. We need all this to enjoy and fully immerse ourselves in the snugness of our house. High-quality fabrics co-create this comfort zone, where we can enjoy snug life.
When touching a fabric, we experience pleasure in the gentleness, softness, suppleness, delicacy or flexibility of the drapable, pliable material. Cosy textiles create the aura of an interior, determining our experience of warmth and personal, intimate atmosphere. They shape its mood, ambience and sensuousness, providing an exceptional background for tableware or appealing, scenographic decorations.
Nowadays, the clear reference to wellbeing, related to our deep wish for a home that gives us peace and harmony, is stronger than ever. Spending more and more time indoors, we want our house and all household items and materials to be our companions. We choose those that soothe our senses at all levels, from aesthetic experiences to the most delicate skin and bodily sensations.
