Inspired by the Bahamas, Amanda Lindroth’s new line of home furnishings (launching exclusively with Chairish) brings the islands to life with all the charming touches of rattan and wicker you might expect. But look even closer and you’ll see plenty of unexpected, truly clever twists on the classics: a picture light covered in caning; a gorgeously curved waterfall coffee table with an undeniable sense of modernity; and many more. We spoke with Amanda about her inspirations behind the collection, her favorite pieces on Chairish, and her advice for creating island-inspired spaces where “coral is a neutral.”
Who or what were some of the style inspirations you looked to when you were putting together your collection?
Much of our inspiration comes from the islands; its style, flair for entertaining, and celebration of outdoor living. Our new collection is an extension of the Island Table line we introduced in 2017, incorporating many of the same materials, colors, sense of whimsy, and wit.
What’s your favorite piece from the new collection?
We like to say the Paradise Canopy Bed is the Grande Dame of the collection. Its height brings drama to a room.
What are some of your signature design elements that you find yourself turning to again and again?
Natural rugs and materials, fluffy English upholstery, books, antiques, and small paintings.
What’s your best advice for designing rooms that feel inspired by the islands, but not at all theme-y?
Keep things simple and comfortable. Use color. For us coral is a neutral. Find pieces that celebrate your surroundings, which is what the islands are all about.
Rattan is always a popular material on Chairish, and we’ve seen a lot of different applications for it. Are there any unusual ways you’ve seen it used?
In the Bahamas we have limited design resources, so we are always looking for ways to renew or restore pieces we love. When rattan pieces have become worn, I’ve seen them painted all colors under the sun but recommend darker colors, like black. I like to use rattan with more traditional antiques to lighten the mood and mix and create a more inviting atmosphere.
What do you love about adding textural materials like rattan to a tablescape?
I think rattan and wicker evoke a sense of nature– its beauty and simplicity.
What are some of the destinations in the world that inspire you most?
The islands, certainly, as well as Florida and England, where I lived for many years.
Favorite paint color?
Benjamin Moore Southfield Green. It is our version of the fabulous “Oliver Messel Green” of Barbados.
Favorite color combo?
Pink and green!
Favorite pattern and how you love to use it?
This changes constantly, but anything Quadrille!
Favorite decorating cheap thrill?
Candlelight.
Favorite design risk you’ve ever taken?
Most risks we take are solutions to problems – a bolder color to help a sad room or a crazy solution to covering a radiator. For some, a risk is spending more on an unusual piece that will make a room, or saving funds by “risking” a cheap straw mat to cover floors instead of a traditional rug. There are calculated risks taken in each project, and when they work they can make a space.
