There is a curious pressure these days for homes to be finished.
The right sofa, the perfect artwork. Everything in its place, styled exactly as if it were to appear on a screen or in a magazine. But real homes evolve slowly, gathering favourite finds, family pieces and unexpected treasures over time.
Our own homes rarely stand still. A painting is moved from one room to another. A jug that once held summer flowers becomes a holder for cooking utensils. Cushions migrate from the sofa to a bedroom. And our shelves are constantly evolving!
Often, the smallest change is enough to make a room feel entirely new.
Try this at home
Look around your home for items that are just taking up space where they are and give them a new life.
That basket you’ve tucked away could become a planter. An empty candle jar can hold herbs on the kitchen windowsill or garden flowers. A favourite ceramic bowl might become a catch-all by the front door.
Alternatively, for a big change without spending a cent, swap your artworks or cushions to a different room. You can always swap them back!
Memories of beach walks are providing plenty of inspiration this week.
Our newest artworks take their cues from oyster shells; their gentle asymmetry, worn edges and quiet palette. When interpreted through layers of painted paper, shadows evolve organically and each layer responds to the one below to create a unique artwork.
Meet the maker
Our African baskets are the ultimate multitaskers. Use them for storage or display in almost every room of the house. Ethically crafted by skilled artisans, their individual texture, colours and patterns make them a favourite at Mondocherry.
I found this old wooden bowl in an antique store many years ago, and it has quietly followed me from room to room ever since.
Over the years it’s held remote controls, keys and sunglasses, hand-painted Easter eggs, Christmas nuts, and even my favourite sewing threads. Its purpose has changed countless times, but somehow it always finds a place.
Perhaps that’s what the best objects do, simply evolve alongside the homes they live in.
From the archives
Our “White swan” paper feather artwork continues to be a favourite with our customers for its versatility to go with different decorating styles and to be moved from room to room.
