Prints are often seen as bold and loud, and when it comes to home decor, some of us might shy away from them as we don’t know how to mix them seamlessly into our existing interiors. Which is why we wanted to see how prints could be used in a modern home, with the help of stylist James Siow. James’ challenge was to transform a 600 sqf two-bedroom apartment in Tiong Bahru using homeware from Finnish brand Marimekko, famously known for their pretty prints.

Marimekko Home Makeover Bedroom
Subtle prints like these bed sheets are great to spruce up bedrooms.

We learned from Marimekko’s Singapore brand manager, Lionnel Lim, “Prints can look neutral too – you just have to pick the right colours.” The apartment is owned by 38-year-old Eric Lee, a partner of a fashion and accessories distribution business. Due to his frequent travels, the flat was brushed up for the short term rental market and updated with a soothing white and wood scheme complete with a contemporary open-concept kitchen. The thing left of its past is the terrazzo floor of the dining room and the 80-year-old window grills.

Marimekko Home Makeover Bathroom
An standout wall adds depth to a bathroom.

So for our photo shoot, James put his artistic eye to good use around the house, showing us simple ways of using Marimekko’s characterful textiles to bring the various rooms to life. Enriched with bold bright tones in abstract shapes inspired by nature, Marimekko’s long-lived designs are digitally translated onto tablecloths, cushions, bedspreads and mugs. “Marimekko’s bold prints are beautiful, timeless and functional. They are great for livening up spaces, giving them a character and an interesting reference to nature,” Lionnel says.

Text: Sylvia Ong 

Photo: James Siow