Bonnie & Neil latest: 1970's via the coast!

COAST is the latest collection from textile designers Bonnie & Neil and, as the name suggests, it’s inspired by the colours and textures of the seaside, both at home and abroad. Less of a straight-forward floral outing (the brand’s signature look), this range features tile designs and wave patterns across tableware, cushions, wallpaper, ceramics, cards, tea towels, linen throws and artwork. There’s 60 stunning new pieces and we’re hard pressed to choose a fave.

“Australia remains one of our main sources of influence, with Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland’s coastlines all reflected in this collection. But what we really wanted to represent, with the range, was the feelings that coastal living and holidays evoke,” says one half of the talented duo, Bonnie Ashley.

The ‘Ocean’ cushions are a highlight – they feature abstract waves in cobalt blue, black, khaki and clay colour ways. The 1970’s feel is palpable and it’s an aesthetic that is woven throughout the range. “This collection has a nod to the seventies in both pattern and colour ways with rich amber, red and brown complementing the earthy palette,” says Bonnie.

And for the first time, the brand has added wallpaper to their offering, with the aforementioned ‘Ocean’ design a standout. “We’ve had wallpaper on our agenda for some time so it’s exciting to finally release it!” says Bonnie.

The ‘Coast’ design takes a more literal approach with a statement seashell looking much more stylish than you’d imagine (seaside motifs can look pretty naff no?).

As for Bonnie’s favourite pieces she’s a big fan of the ‘Marguerite Velvet’ cushion in the pink and red colourway. “This design started as a series of oil paintings and we’ve collaged them together in repeat,” says Bonnie. The ‘Strawberries’ napkins are another of Bonnie’s favourite designs – so much so that they’ve already made their way onto the designer’s table at home.

Bonnie's favourite 'Marguerite' cushion in amber can be seen here on the sofa — Bonnie’s favourite ‘Marguerite’ cushion in amber can be seen here on the sofa

While the brand has long been celebrated for its unique aesthetic, few people realise that most of their products are handmade with screen printing an onerous yet central technique. “A number of our designs are printed as CMYK process which is a time consuming but technically rewarding process. Many people don’t realise that we hand screen print our products from our studio so there’s a whole lot of design attention that goes into each piece.”