Bridge For Design Summer 2014 Bridge For Design Summer 2014 Issue | Page 58

DESIGN TRENDS | view point

LIVE A VERY SIMPLE LIFE
Kristina Lindhe explores the global appeal of Scandinavian New England Style

M

aybe it’s the timeless all American
East Coast aesthetic of the
Hamptons, maybe it’s the architecture,
the colours, the tradition built on
superior craftsmanship, or it could be
the optimistic look of the New England
lifestyle that gives this trend global
appeal.
I am from Sweden, but the Hamptons
feels like home. In the past, there were many Swedish settlers
on the East Coast of America, so it’s also no wonder that this
look has elements of Scandinavian design. In the Hamptons,
beauty is often simple and uncomplicated but always features
an elegant fusion of nature’s colours and premium textures.
Visits to the east coast of the USA evoke strong feelings,
the white houses, the white picket fencing stretching along
the long sandy beaches, Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard,
Harvard and Yale. New England is more than a location, it
is a lifestyle. The style stands for something positive - light,
fresh and natural. It is classic with a fashion twist in h ues of
blue, white, red and beige combined with stripes and checks.
This look is all about staying true to the American
tradition of superior craftsmanship, a trend that builds on
the understated elegance and inspiration from this part of
the world and so is timeless in design. There are people all
around the world, in all countries, that enjoy this style of
life. With the New England look the possibilities to combine
colours and styles, whether you live in the city or in the
countryside, are endless.
We all want to feel the heritage and seek things that last for
a longer time than before. The Hamptons is all about simple

This area of the coast also invites wonderful seasons that
obviously translate to a variety of international climates.
Think crisp bedding, waking to the bright Spring light and
then taking a morning beach walk in the fresh air. Bursts of
colour combined with the lightweight textiles and patterns
that embody the Hamptons aesthetic.
Another of life’s simple pleasures is the joy of outdoor
dining at the weekend with family and friends in the Summer
time. Table linens in a charming mix of plaid, chambray and
stripes that give the gathering a warm feel, simple yet elegant
ceramics lets the focus be where it should - on the meal and
guests.
arrived be inspired by the aquamarine colours from the pool
towels with uplifting colours and soft textures allow for long
lazy days in the sunshine.
the trees in bright orange, yellow, gold and red hues against
the crisp blue sky. It’s a season where it’s OK to stay inside so

and a great book.
And decorating your home is a real seasonal pleasure where
everyone can join in. The table is set, candles are lit as close
friends and family arrive with excitement.
New England is a design style that is an emotional, seasonal,
international and personal way of life, for everyone. B

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These elements add to the global appeal of the Scandinavian
inspired New England style.

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Bridge for Design Summer 2014

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