In the BOH series What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Annie Downing isn’t afraid to blend bold hues and patterns. The Austin designer enlists an array of disparate motifs and unexpected combinations to infuse her projects with levity and character. “Playful colors and prints spark curiosity, happiness and contentment in both the onlooker and inhabitant,” she tells Business of Home.
Fresh off a recent trip to London, she was inspired to craft a mood board that celebrates the city’s sprightly yet sophisticated aesthetic. “London is so vibrant and creative—mixing classic elements with a contemporary flair,” explains Downing. “That’s a balance that I strive for in all my design endeavors.”
The end result is equal parts exuberant and eclectic, showcasing a medley of graphic prints, from retro florals to traditional stripes, in a rainbow of contrasting hues, such as deep aubergine and taxi yellow. “Layering such special elements creates a sort of ‘ecosystem’ where colors and patterns build on each other, and yet each item can stand alone beautifully,” she says.
Here, the designer breaks down the details, from geometric wallpapers to a tarnished metal finish.
1. CERAMIC DISH
“This ceramic piece I found in Italy embodies our love of working with local artisans. We adore commissioning bespoke ceramics for projects, adding a personal and storied touch.”
2. HEIRLOOM METAL FINISH SAMPLE BY THE URBAN ELECTRIC CO.
“This warm, tarnished finish patinas beautifully over time, adding depth and character. We’re obsessed with anything that gets better with age.”
3. BROKEN VINES WALLPAPER IN PÂTISSERIE BY ANNIE DOWNING INTERIORS
“This is a cheeky geometric motif that fades into dynamic linework when viewed from afar. This is one of my favorite colorways, bright and fresh with a little edge.”
4. LOST LOTUS WALLPAPER IN APRICOT BY ANNIE DOWNING INTERIORS
“Our latest wallpaper design, this pattern was inspired by a trip to India. The apricot tones are soothing, sophisticated, and perfect for creating a serene space.”
5. VINTAGE WICKER SNAIL
“Whimsy is essential in design, and this wicker snail brings just that. It recently found a home on a bookcase and adds a playful, unexpected element.”
6. SAVERNAKE FABRIC IN 003 BY FERMOIE
“A cheerful yet sophisticated pattern, this fabric is elevated by its delicate pink details. It’s an instant mood-lifter with a subtle charm.”
7. TWISTED BEESWAX CANDLE BY COLLEPINO AT IL BUCO VITA
“Inspired by my visit to Bevagna, a tiny village in Italy where I witnessed the ancient art of candlemaking, these twisted beeswax candles are as beautiful as they are functional. Their warm glow transforms any space.”
8. CORAL BELLS PAINT BY BENJAMIN MOORE
“A versatile pop of color! We’ve used it on the interiors of cabinetry for a fun reveal and even incorporated it into our wallpaper designs. It’s vibrant yet balanced.”
9. TAXI CAB YELLOW AND BORDEAUX RED FINISH SAMPLES BY THE LACQUER COMPANY
“These bold colors ground a space while adding shine. A touch of lacquer goes a long way in elevating a room’s design.”
10. OSH FABRIC BY ROBERT KIME
“This geometric lozenge design, drawn from Ottoman embroidery, is steeped in history. Anything inspired by travel—especially from Robert Kime—is a must-have for us.”
11. VERDE REALE CLASSICO MARBLE TILE BY ARTISTIC TILE
“With its mix of warm and cool veins, this stone complements our upcoming concrete tile beautifully. Mixing finishes like this creates depth and visual harmony.”
12. INSJÖNS FABRIC IN HALLON BY BEATA HEUMAN
“With a hand as soft as it is unique, this raspberry-toned fabric feels like gingham with a rebellious edge. A visit to Beata’s showroom left us brimming with inspiration.”
13. ILLUSTRATED TABLE MAT
“I found this table mat at Café de Flore in Paris and had to bring it home.”
14. SICILY FABRIC IN RED BY FERMOIE
“An almost-red color blended with softer tones, this fabric is both bold and balanced—a gorgeous statement in any scheme.”
15. RUFFLE FABRIC IN 006 AND 003 BY FERMOIE
“Playful and groovy, this youthful pattern radiates happiness. It’s a fantastic choice for adding an energetic vibe to any room.”
16. LEMON SOAP
“Picked this up in France, along with little soap ducks, for each one of my team members.”
17. CARSKIEY BROAD STRIPE FABRIC IN 020 BY FERMOIE
“Fermoie always nails it when it comes to color. This stripe is both timeless and striking—perfect for layering pattern and dimension into a room.”
18. NATURAL MAROC LEATHER IN DUCK EGG BY HOWE AT 36 BOURNE STREET
“We love mixing textures in our projects, and this leather is no exception. Perfect for a banquette or seat, its rich, smooth texture and the soft duck egg color make it truly special.”
19. TRIPTYCH TILE BY ANNIE DOWNING INTERIORS
“Handcrafted in Morocco, this tile is launching in August. It’s ideal for a pool house, bathroom or porch. We’re thrilled to share this versatile pattern with the world.”
