The 100% natural composition of this decorative fabric woven from flax and hemp fibres makes Levante a perfect, user-friendly choice for interiors inspired by nature.
The proportion of the flax and hemp fibres used to make Levante is 50/50. A special finishing called “grandma’s hand” (the Italian “mano della nanno”) provides the fabric with extraordinary softness. Another feature of the fabric is its texture with irregular, very fine, yet tangible creases typical of this type of natural textiles. Levante comes in 7 subdued colours of the natural world. Its double width makes it an excellent choice for high and spacious interiors. The fabric will go well with rustic, Scandinavian or Japanese style designs or any interior with an abundance of natural materials such as wood, stone or ceramics. It will be a perfect solution for raw - minimalist or industrial - interiors, lending them a touch of natural warmth and cosiness.
The Italian word “levante” denotes an easterly wind that blows in the Mediterranean Sea. This name was chosen to reflect the breathability of linen and hemp fabrics. Providing free airflow is not the only advantage of these natural fibres. Both flax and hemp textiles are exceptionally durable, do not deform and present high moisture absorption. They are suitable for allergy sufferers and have anti-bacterial and anti-static properties.
As for hemp plants, it is important to note that the cultivation of this crop has a low environmental impact. Compared to flax, hemp is a low maintenance crop - it can grow even in poorer soils, so its plantations do not compete with food crops. With hemp, all parts of the plant are used in a variety of applications, whereas in the case of cotton only the boll is used - so hemp cultivation is associated with a more effective use of natural resources. Hemp plants have a taproot system to absorb nutrients from the deep soil layers and thus do not cause soil erosion. Finally, hemp requires little or no watering and does not need artificial fertilisers.