esign houses are putting their best foot forward with this new mood for Fall. A blend of soft 
lines in luxe fabrics, comfortable shapes and high end upholstery it’s the decorating equivalent 
of a flared tailored suit, or a pinstripe jacket left open to show a floaty silk shirt. That mix of 
put-together yet relaxed, of smart yet not formal. It takes its lead from the austere and alluring vibe seen at private members’ clubs, and was all over the most trend-setting launches at Milan Design Week earlier this year. The palette is a rich spread of browns, taupes, creams and fawns, the shapes are gently curved, with no line too jarring or dominating. Focus is shifting towards entertaining in a new way, allowing friends to sit for hours, talk and eat, to be convivial and comfortable. Decorative motifs bloom across walls and floor coverings, a backdrop that shows how design can be art and life can fold in both. This is a club where everyone is invited, and where membership means you can sink back in style.