Some call them imperfections, others call them quirks. One thing we can all agree on is that these little oddities regardless of what they’re on are what defines the object as its own. In other words, what makes you, you?
Symbol Oval Globe Pendant
Tarnished finishes which give a look of aging surface detail is going to be getting more appreciation in 2016 as the perfect imperfections trend takes hold. The non perfect finishes hold a distinctive character and sense of experience. That’s what makes them so…Perfect! You get the feel of something that’s hand finished and with it, all the care and devotion that went into it. You know it’s unique and not something off the belt.
A good example of how we’ve moved on from the requirement of perfection is clothing, specifically jeans. There was once a time where the crispest and bluest jeans were the desired look, nowadays you see jeans with faded colour patches and even faux or real rips in them. This is because we long to be unique, be ourselves and have character. This is now similarly becoming sought after in our homes too, visiting historic homes and seeing how once vibrant rooms have faded and got the “lived in” look has a sense of class which we now find ourselves striving to replicate.
How can you get this trend to grace your home? A few additions and repairs will have you well on your way. Some people see this trend as a revival of the arts and crafts, the rebellion of machined production and appreciation for human work. As things have become far more reliant on technology there has been an increase in desire for those special products that have not been mass produced on a production line. And you can see why when frayed edges, patchwork and faded patterns are great examples of perfect imperfections. Making your own patchwork rug or quilt out of forgotten sheets and materials is a great starting point, teaming this with handcrafted items such as ceramics and wooden accessories will create a scene of quality over quantity. It’s important not to break the look so opting for suitable lighting is very important, there are plenty of hand finished products with beautifully tarnished finishes to choose from. Taking inspiration from the industrial trend brushed and aged metals work best, they showcase the beauty of imperfections and help to blend a mix of styles.
Amina Moroccan Pendant
Metals don’t need to make a room feel cold, warm tones of bronze and copper are great options for living rooms and bedrooms. These are a great contrast to faded and washed out patterns. Should you decide to go for the colder colour metals consider pairing them with warmer toned patchwork accessories such as rugs, pillows and or quilts. Remember, nothing makes a place feel more homely than the “lived in” look. We love the look because it gives a great feeling of comfort and ownership, it can make you feel even closer connected to your own space.
The choice between genuinely hand made product and replica product comes down to personal choice and of course, budget. If you’re able to make the stretch to a hand made product then the quality is well worth the investment, if however this is not an option there are many machined products or ones which have just been hand finished which can provide a very similar effect.
Finding unique things has become difficult nowadays and we’re used to seeing the “same old, same old”. We however, strive to stock for those who have a confidence in their own style and look to source products with charm and character. Items with an aged appearance show just that. Below are a few options to consider:
Map Room Pendant Bar
The Map Room ceiling pendant bar has a rustic aged brass finish giving it a look of a life long lived. This is an ideal product for the perfect imperfections trend and would be great used over a dining room table or kitchen island. This is a hand made and hand finished brass product.
Yoko Ceiling Pendant
The Yoko ceiling pendant in a mottled bronze finish gives the tarnished effect that defines the perfect imperfection trend. The added texture makes it interesting and unique compared to the brushed, matte and polished finishes we’re all too used to.
Aztec Hammered Copper Lamp
The Aztec table lamp features a beautifully shaped copper base with a hammered texture. The texture displays dimples and dents showing a look of workmanship and with that, quality. It is a unique finish that is anything but ordinary.
Sometimes it’s the roughest edges and well aged surfaces that provide the perfect finish. Have you given your home this latest trend? Feel free to send us a picture! We’d love to see your results.
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