Inspiration From IDS

There is a special genius in staging the Interior Design Show in January. Winter has worn us down, the walls are closing in and there’s a desperate need for the new. IDS gives you license to dream and makes you feel excited about possibilities. So in an homage to Vogue editor Diana Vreeland, who wrote a column entitled “Why Not” and then followed it by gems such as “Use a gigantic shell instead of a bucket to ice your champagne,” here are some things from IDS that inspired me:

Why not… put Jason Wu in the bath? When he’s not dressing the First Lady he turns his hand to new bathroom accessories with a fashion-y spin for Brizo.

Why not… add a hit of coral to the shower? The Rubinet Faucet Company displayed this Romanesque set in gold and lipstick coral at IDS. Gorgeous.

Why not… cover one wall of your bath with a dramatic slab of book-matched marble? I love this wall by Olympia Tile + Stone.

Why not… walk on a work of art with an artisanal carpet, like this one from Modern Weave?

Why not… put down a stable-inspired herringbone floor in the kitchen, like this black version from Erth Coverings?

Why not… design your own custom wallpaper? It’s a commitment that’s likened to a tattoo — a personal statement that’s completely yours. I love this Paris map from Canadian company Rollout.

Why not… create a mural of coloured pencils in your office, instead of the ubiquitous inspiration board? This one was constructed by blackLAB Architects.

Why not… use a fresh cabinet to display your treasures? Winnipeg furniture manufacturer Bühler had some gorgeous cabinets at IDS.

Why not… upholster chairs in a boho water-colour batik print? This cotton-linen blend from Pearson Textiles is fresh and timeless.

For more on IDS, read Chloe Berge’s blog post about the opening night party.

Photo credits:
1. Jason Wu for Brizo Odin Faucet, Gracious Home
2-5, 7, 9. Wendy Jacob
6. Map of Paris, Rollout, photography by Jess Loraas
8. Bühler Furniture, photography by David Tonizzo