April is the month we can finally start to look forward to warmer weather here in the UK. Fresh from my travels down under, where it is the end of summer, I can share my reflections on what we can learn from the Australian approach to creating a relaxed spring/summer interior style at home.

Casual and uncontrived
Australian homes always seem to me to have an easy, unforced informality about them. How do they achieve this? Australia is known as the renovation nation; so many people plan to do a ‘reno’ at some point. Traditional houses have doubled in size, with contemporary designs creating multifunctional spaces, making the best use of space and natural light.

There is always plenty of built-in storage, so clutter is kept to a minimum and spaces feel relaxed and unfussy.

Natural materials
The Australian approach to interior design focuses on sustainability and using natural materials. Wood and natural stone for floors, marble for kitchens and bathrooms, and polished concrete for kitchen surfaces. Curtains are made from light, natural fibres like cotton, linen and hemp. Furniture styles using cane and rattan reflect their way of life – seamless indoor to outdoor living.

Neutral colours and textures
Laid-back living lends itself to neutral colours such as soft white and taupe. Pops of deeper colours such as yellow ochre or burnt orange reflect the hues of the Australian outback. Coastal homes often reflect their location with cool whites and coastal blues abounding. The use of texture is key to this style, with panelled feature walls and ceilings currently trending.

Island influences and artisan made accessories
Everywhere I went around Sydney, homes reflected the influences of nearby South East Asia, with beautiful handmade accessories, often picked up from the many local interiors stores. I loved the artisan made basketware, oversized ceramic planters and huge wood framed mirrors. I learnt that whatever you do, make it big to create impact.

Lobster-pot rattan lampshades hang from the ceilings and batik ikat cushions brighten up sofas. Similar items can be sourced from ethical brands here in the UK – check out Nkuku and Kalinko. I fell in love with a range of handmade ceramic tableware in the most beautiful colours made by Mud Australia. Fortunately, they have a shop in London.

Add original modern art
One of the biggest impressions I came home with was the amount of original contemporary art and photographic images on the walls, adding an element of personality and quirkiness to homes. Much of Australia’s contemporary art is rooted in the first nation and there is a real appreciation of artwork produced by local artists.

There is much we can learn from travel; it opens our eyes to diverse styles and different ways of approaching things. I will certainly be adding some Aussie zing to my home this summer.