The delight of the unexpected

Edition No.06 | Winter

Table setting with colourful felt fruit in a bowl

We have a soft spot for things that are just a little unexpected. Felt fruit in a beautiful bowl, a message in an antique serving spoon, or something quirky tucked amongst the books on a shelf.

In the most interesting rooms, somewhere amongst all the beautiful and useful items, there are items that make you look twice and put a smile on your face.

These little surprises give a home personality. They don’t need to match or even have a purpose beyond bringing a little delight. After all, the loveliest homes don’t take themselves too seriously!

Ceramic rabbit beside books and a vase of leaves

Try this at home

Choose one shelf or side table and remove one “safe” styling piece and replace it with something that makes you smile instead.

Perhaps it’s a child’s drawing in a beautiful frame, an object you collected while travelling, or a quirky ceramic animal you’ve never quite known where to put!

Often it’s the least expected object that becomes the conversation starter.

This week in the shop

Tinkerbell vase

Fourchette and Cie

Felt mushrooms

Mondocherry blue paper artwork inspired by oyster shells

On our studio table

We rarely know exactly where a colour palette will end up when we begin. We paint, layer, and try combinations until something clicks.

Often it’s the colour we almost didn’t choose that makes the artwork work. The colour that was brighter or quieter than all the others, or that just brings the whole artwork to life.

Meet the maker

Studio Roof has a gift for finding delight in unexpected places. Their colourful 3D creatures, flowers and birds begin as beautifully illustrated recycled cardboard before being transformed into sculptural objects that perch happily on walls, shelves and windowsills.

Part art, part design object and part conversation piece, they remind us that homes don’t always need to be serious. Sometimes all they need is one joyful surprise.

From the archives

Colourful Mondocherry botanical paper artwork above a wooden dresser

At first you see flowers and foliage. But then look a little closer and discover a tiny bee, a ladybird, perhaps another detail you missed the first time. All our artworks deserve a second look.

The delight of the unexpected

Edition No.06 | Winter

This week in the shop

From the archives

Read more