Author(s): Elizabeth Wilhide

Architecture

After years of minimalism, a new generation of designers is restoring spirit and vitality to the contemporary interior using vivid colour, bold pattern, and more than a touch of exuberance. As we pass the mid-point of the Noughties, Liz Wilhide takes a look at the new ideas and themes that are directing current interiors' trends, and discovers the new decor is about exciting twists on traditional forms using up-to-date imagery and cutting edge materials and techniques - a baroque chair made in Perspex, a chandelier twinkling with LEDs, a Toile de Jouy wallpaper featuring gritty urban scenes.