Bougie Blooms at DFS embraces the dark blooms aesthetic(Image: @ DFS)

Dark florals are bang on trend for autumn interiors

by · DevonLive

Florals are an interiors trend that have stood the test of time. Perhaps it’s because they are so versatile and have seen many variations over the years. We’ve had tropical patterns, botanicals, country roses and maximalism to name just a few. For 2024, the focus is on dark blooms which reimagines florals in a contemporary way by combining bold patterns, rich velvet textures and classic heritage pieces, to stylishly reenvision the traditional.

Lauren Kavanagh, Art Director at Hovia said: “Dramatic dark florals are an excellent choice to create a sophisticated interior rich in depth and character. A mural can be a striking starting point - consider a classic art mural to instantly elevate the elegance of your space.

“If you’re leaning towards a more traditional aesthetic, patterned wallpaper is also a fantastic option. Intricate heritage-style designs introduce both texture and a touch of timeless beauty. Opt for darker tones like wine red, deep teal or forest green to create a bold yet refined atmosphere.

Flower arrangement wallpaper mural(Image: @ Hovia)

“Layering floral motif scatter cushions offers a subtle way to incorporate dark blooms, with delicate floral accents adding a cosy, inviting touch. Framed artwork is another simple way to bring this style into your space, and it’s often easy to find beautiful pieces through thrifting.”

High street stores are also featuring this trend and Marks & Spencer has announced its debut collaboration with the National Gallery which draws inspiration from original works of art which are part of the national collection. The 34-piece collection includes textiles, accessories, lighting and tableware, alongside accent furniture. The M&S X National Gallery collection is inspired by the rich palettes and luminosity within iconic National Gallery artworks and floral masterpieces by artists including Jan van Huysum (1682-1749) and Rachel Ruysch (1664-1750).

Delving into the rich tapestry of print and colour, the M&S design team have reinterpreted intricate artistry into modern, timeless designs. Pieces are elevated and vibrant, with decadent details of cascading blooms and jewel tones throughout. Leaning into an aesthetic of antique heirlooms and opulent feasts, highlights across dining include gold candelabras and painterly floral plateware. Meanwhile across textiles and lighting, expect ruffled edges, sumptuous velvet and statement fringing.

M&S X National Gallery collection including the velvet floral table lamp(Image: @ M&S / Jon Day)

Karen Thomas, Head of Home Design at Marks & Spencer, said: “It has been a joy to delve in to some of the greatest paintings in the world. We’ve been able to explore the rich floral artwork and take inspiration from their depth and vibrancy of colour to create bold new combinations and striking new pattern placements, reimagining iconic paintings into products for our M&S customers to enjoy in their home.”

One gorgeous item from the M&S X National Gallery collection the velvet floral table lamp (£69). The shade is crafted from luxurious floral velvet and is finished with a fringed trim. One buyer said the lamp was elegant and fabulous quality, and another that the colours of the shade were beautiful when it’s turned on. Though one buyer commented the lamp was little smaller than they thought and didn’t give off much light.

Alternatives to the lamp could be the Clarke & Clarke black/pink Tahiti table lamp (£110) from Next, the handmade velvet flower cone lampshade (£49.99) by The Lampshade Jungle on Not on the High Street, or the William Morris black floral fabric lampshades from £40.

If you’re looking to introduce dark blooms into your interiors then create a focal point with patterns and florals and layer in rich fabrics via rugs, and then add chintzy accessories, such as bold lampshades. To finish off the look, use furniture with a heritage design.

Dark floral cushions offer an easy way to incorporate this look(Image: @ DFS)

DFS have a range dark florals with its Bougie Blooms aesthetic. DFS Head of Design and Innovation, Lou Petersen, said: “Bougie Blooms is a fun and fabulous trend that’s a celebration of unrestrained joy. It steps beyond Cottagecore and Grandmillenial trends, by offering a bolder, modern edge to a heritage style. The magic lies in how florals are integrated into a space to add glamour and create impact.

“Ground the look with bolder, darker colours, such as the grandeur of a forest green sofa. Introduce traditional British furniture classics with a contemporary nuance and then be brave with your florals! Bougie blooms can be incorporated on anything from scatter cushions, to footstools to wallpaper. Pair with contrasting geometric patterns for an even bolder version of this look.”

Archive floral cushion in navy from John Lewis(Image: @ John Lewis)

A beautiful example of dark blooms is the archive floral cushion (£50) in navy by John Lewis. This longstitch floral cushion comes in a choice of vibrant shades. Buyers commented on its quality velvet with detailed embroidery and one said: “Worthy of a piece from a designer shop but not with a designer price tag.” However another remarked that the stitching unravelled after a couple of weeks.

Alternatives to this could be the Kennington floral black square throw cushion (£12.99) from Wayfair, floral tapestry cushion (£12) from Dunelm, or a Dame floral scatter (£20) from DFS.