Ready. Steady. Spring!

My sister, Ozma and I started FARO seven years ago, fuelled by our passion for infusing people’s lives with beautifully made, colourful things to use and enjoy every day. We all have a tendency, to save stylish and sophisticated things for “special occasions” and people. It inevitably ends up being hidden away, forgotten or not enjoyed at all. I say, get it out and show it off! We should love using special things in our homes every day. 

As the clocks have gone forward, the days are becoming alluringly longer, and the sun begins teasing us by intermittently peeking through the clouds. We find ourselves craving the tonic of fresh air, warm sunshine and the zing of spring. Here in the UK, sunshine, of course isn’t guaranteed, so we need to make the most of every second it makes an appearance.

That’s why I keep a basket of cushions and wool throws right by the door so I can grab one and head straight into garden with a morning coffee or a spontaneous glass of Rosé (not in the morning….!). And, even if it is only for half an hour before the April showers drive us to run for cover, giggling with cushion and glass in hand, I know the mere moment was worth it.  

I’m making the most of the natural energy of spring rejuvenation with the optimism of good times and weather to come. Getting rooms ready, poised to welcome guests with a dining table adorned with a beautiful tablecloth and laid, ready for feasts, fun and laughter is almost therapeutic, don’t you think? I find this is a wonderful way to remind myself of all the lovely tableware I have and check what might need refreshing for the season ahead. A welcome bonus is the cupboard space it frees up and the vibrancy and style it instantly brings to the room.

Taking a moment to make the guest bed with crisp white linen and a colourful bedspread makes the biggest piece of furniture in the room become a real star performer. Swapping cushions around can also be very satisfying – an easy way to introduce a burst of seasonal colours as well as bring pretty patterns and textures into an intentionally neutral space.

With just a couple of mid-century inspired sumptuous silk ikat cushions, I love being able to transform our family living space instantly to a “Mad Men chic” vibe with the all-season comfort of this extraordinary natural fabric. Sofas that had lounging pre-teens now look so much more grown up and whisper invitations of an after-dinner drink and a chocolate (or two). And we certainly don’t have a shortage of chocolate in the house after Easter!

All our senses are invigorated as we open windows wide to the light scent of spring – that first freshly cut grass and dewy apple blossom. Combined with the enthusiasm of a spring clean and new linens it makes me feel truly renewed.  Changing room fragrances at this time of year to mark the change of season evokes scented memories of my childhood in the tropics. Cedarwood, frangipani and orange blossom are my favourites although I’m working on getting testy with tuberose too... Watch this space!

Don’t let the April zingy-ness stop with your interiors. A collection of quilted cotton jackets and gilets in block print fabrics with vintage silks and embroidered patchwork have made a firm foundation of my spring wardrobe. These work hard as a lightweight, easy to wear layer for changeable weather that make a statement and always gets loads of compliments. They’re so easy to pack and comfortable to wear when travelling too. They’re my faithful style companions from business meetings to nights out with friends, mooching around or even the alpine slopes!

Farheen with the fabulous Cathy Bullen at the Boule In Fete du Printemps. 

Let’s enjoy the gentle breeze, sunshine (when we can) and get all our beautiful things out to enjoy and celebrate the art of craftsmanship that made us fall in love with them in the first place. Let each piece remind of us of the wonderful memories of when we bought it and set the scene for new memories and happy times still to come.

After all, glorious summers always starts with a zingy spring!