Colour custodians Pantone have announced their ‘Colour of the Year’ for 2025 with the warming, rich neutral hue Mocha Mousse (17-1230) being selected for the lauded position. Both humble and luxurious, this versatile shade is something Katharine Pooley has used across many designs for a calm and comforting feel. In a recent Alpine chalet design, we created a soft mocha hue across all the timber finishes and added accents of this beautiful colour in pretty paisley cushions from De Le Cuona, pairing them with some leather accessories from my boutique's collection.
Mocha Mousse is a mood. It is versatile enough to blend seamlessly into neutral palettes while standing confidently as a statement shade. I chose a similar hue for the silk wallpaper of this Primary Bedroom in our St. James’ project in London. As a base colour it provided an earthy and grounding backdrop for a peaceful space. I paired it with complimentary hues of soft ivory and light lavender-grey, as well as natural textures like the rock crystal table lamps, to keep the room fresh and peaceful.
Its velvety brown tone is accented with gentle pink undertones that adds a sensual and inviting dimension, perfect for living spaces. The pink notes enrich its warmth, giving it an elegant edge and enabling it to delicately compliment other shades. Comforting and dignified, Mocha Mousse is not so far removed from the creamy neutrals we’ve witnessed dominating the interior design industry in the past few years. In the living room at our Hyde Park project, you can see soft tones offset the bold shapes of the bespoke chandelier and vintage chevron floorboards. Mocha Mousse is nestled in the smaller accents, offsetting the vibrancy of other features in the room, balancing a diverse grouping of tones across warm and cool.
Mocha Mousse exemplifies the aesthetics of simplicity and essence of everyday luxury. Its presence invites us to savour the small joys, celebrating the simple yet profound connections we find throughout our daily lives. In accessories or accents across a room, the colour adds dimension and impact. Our Orla Vases in rich mocha tones are beautifully handcrafted. The glass accessories infuse a sensorial, sophisticated warmth ideal for an entryway.
The shade is an evocative rich brown infused with opulent warmth. Whether it appears on flooring, wall panelling, joinery or doors and architraves, it is well suited as a colour for interior architecture finishes. In our Marble Arch project we used it on the veneered cabinetry in the kitchen, the floor and the dining table finishes. It paired perfectly with the commissioned pieces from West Australian ceramic artist Pippin Drysdale.
Ultimately, luxury means exceptional comfort and ease, its form is dynamic to each individual's personal preference. This is what my clients want in their home, and what they look to me for realising in their design. The earthy colour reflects humanity’s growing efforts to better align ourselves with the natural world and return to an appreciation of the simple things in a world increasing in complexity.
About Katharine Pooley
Katharine Pooley is renowned worldwide for her extraordinary interiors, as well as for the dedication and elegance with which she embraces all aspects of life. Established 20 years ago, Katharine’s London-based, interior design and architecture studio creates innovative designs and exquisite, award-winning, spaces. Named as ‘British Interior Designer of the Decade’, Katharine’s design vision is limitless and unconstrained by genre. Overseeing her team of 50 interior designers and interior architects, Katharine’s personal approach ensures every detail of every project and product is exquisitely realised and impeccably finished. Projects range in scale and style, from traditional townhouses and country estates to contemporary homes, hotels, luxury spas, modernist beach villas, historical palaces, traditional castles, ski chalets, private jets and yachts.
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Forter Castle is a treasured 16th Century family home set in the heart of the Highlands. Scotland's natural, weathered surroundings come to life in the wintry months. The view of the surrounding hills with a dusting of snow atop the heather and orange bracken is captivating, and for years, my family and I have been drawn to spend many a happy Christmas within the historic castle and its grounds to make for an idyllic, cosy stay.
The castle epitomises Christmas for our family and decorating for the festive period brings the greatest joy.
Forter is always beautiful, but it truly comes alive during the festive season, especially upon entering the Great Hall, softly lit by the roaring fire, candlelight and the glistening fairy lights on the Christmas tree. The military ceremonial swords (made by my Father's business, Pooley Sword) glimmer above the fireplace and the centuries-old leather bound books appear to glow in the subdued light.
Due to the substantial scale of the room, I have always had to source an enormous Christmas tree for maximum impact and this year, the tree is a real, locally-sourced potted tree, which will be replanted in the New Year. I love how the rich colours of the decorations are enhanced by the antique bookcase I found years ago from Georgian Antiques in Leith. The tree is peppered with large, dark green metallic magnolias from Fortnum & Mason's Piccadilly store, amongst cherished decorations I collected on my travels, with a majority from my favourite Christmas market in Austria.
At Christmas, the dining table is cloaked in a tartan tablecloth, with a contrasting red Ralph Lauren tartan porcelain dinner service, antique silverware and my coveted antique crystalware and silver Scottish thistle candelabras. It's always in the details, and I planned to make the Christmas table look extra special with gorgeous namecards, menus and the labels for 'Pooley's Panettone' - expertly created by Sophia Montagu-Pollock. The napkins are neatly wrapped with a burgundy velvet ribbon from VV Rouleaux and the green crackers from Fortnum & Mason add a touch of magic.
The ceiling is hand-painted by Edinburgh-trained mural and trompe-l'oeil specialist, Jennifer Merredew. The artwork bears the legend of the castle imbued on the beams, which are painted in colourways linking to those used in the 16th Century. Soft Highland-themed shades of heather and gorse for the interior and the upholstered dining chairs match the tablecloth in 'Gunn' tartan.
Miniature marzipan capped Christmas puddings and cakes along with sugared almonds from Fortnum & Mason adorn the table, finishing the setting, which I am sure won't last beyond Boxing Day.
'Robert's bedroom' is one of the castle's seven bedrooms and is especially wonderful at Christmas as it can be reached through its very own designated private staircase direct from the Great Hall. The cranberry-hued woollen throw paired with the sage and claret rug woven by hand in the Highlands by Anta, make it one of the cosiest rooms in the castle.
Trays laden with festive nibbles and mulled wine are usually presented after dinner or after a long walk through the surrounding Cairngorms National Park. My family love to spend our evenings playing charades, plenty of storytelling and dancing by the fire before retiring to bed. I love to stay in the 'Laird's Bedroom', which is the only bedroom to extend to the width of the castle, matching the size of the Great Hall. Within the room, there are pocketed places to relax - a pair of large leather chairs to curl up and read by the fire with my Jack Russell, Herbie and there is a little study nestled within the turret with views overlooking the picturesque grounds I will never tire of.
My Father first fell in love with the castle over 40 years ago, whilst on an adventurous journey through Glenisla on his way to ski in Glenshee, when he stopped in his tracks and set eyes on the site of two mature trees growing amongst stones and rubble of the castle ruins. Learning of the former castle's history through the Ogilvy (Airlie) family, he became entranced by the idea of breathing life back into it and what an incredible vision he had. Every Christmas, we raise a toast in his honour for creating such a wonderful family home for us to enjoy. Wishing you and your family a very Happy Christmas. May your celebrations be peaceful and full of joy.
- Katharine Pooley
December hits, and you can practically hear the mountains calling. As the world gears up with festive lights and holiday cheer, the summits tell a different story. Fresh snow blankets the peaks, enticing you into its romantic embrace and inviting you to trade the chaos for the calm.
I'm not your typical skiing aficionado. My journey into the world of slopes started fashionably late - 18, to be exact. In the early days, Mayrhofen in Austria was my snowy sanctuary and to paint you a picture, imagine slow lifts, freezing temps, and equipment that wouldn't make the cut these days.
Fast forward and my love affair with skiing blossomed over the years. So much so that ended up purchasing a house in Telluride, Colorado. They have a saying there - “the winters bring you, but the summers keep you,” and too right. This corner of the world is where the US Ski Team practices their moguls because the runs there are absolutely spectacular. This is where I really came into my own on the slopes, once taking three months out to spend the entire time and I hold dear memories of the Colorado Rockies close to my heart.
Since having children, a place we love visiting which is a little bit closer to home, is Lech in Austria. Lech is a very charming and idyllic town, nestled in a part of the larger Alberg ski area. There is diverse terrain for different skill levels, from gentle bunny slopes to challenging runs for enthusiasts. The Tyrolean architecture in the area spans from medieval castles and fortresses to traditional wooden chalets adorned with flower-filed balconies. Cobblestone streets and a welcoming sense of warmth paired with a blend of boutiques and cosy cafes in the village centre make it a delightful visit.
We normally go for 10 days before Christmas and they call it millionaire skiing because there's nobody on the slopes and it's fresh powder. It's gorgeous and it's very romantic before Christmas. There are beautiful horses and sleighs, and hot chocolates. There's also the most amazing toboggan where you put a torch on your forehead and snow down which is a delight.
Finally, the captivating slopes of Verbier in Switzerland. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Verbier is a haven for winter enthusiasts seeking both adventure and refinement. Part of the Four Valleys ski area, what sets Verbier apart is not only its world-class skiing but also its cosmopolitan flair. The village exudes a chic atmosphere and the alpine architecture here seamlessly blends traditional Swiss chalets with modern luxury, offering a visual feast that resonates with any design enthusiast.
For me, a love for mountains and an affinity for interior design are not disparate realms. The same appreciation for colour, texture, and balance that guides my design choices is mirrored in the palette of snowy landscapes. The tactile sensation of freshly fallen snow underfoot, and the delicate interplay of light and shadow on mountain peaks - these are things that inspire great design.
Alpine regions are essentially a living canvas, each snow-laden slope and rugged peak contributing to a dynamic masterpiece. Just as I carefully curate elements in a room to achieve a harmonious balance, nature orchestrates itself on the grand stage of the Alps. The tactile experience of immersing oneself in such areas is akin to crafting a room with layers of comfort and sensory richness - design is not merely visual but a holistic sensory journey.
Lech, Austria We always stay in Lech Lodge. A lovely lady called Sabine has looked after us for many years. She cooks your meals when you come home in the evening, she puts the fire on and brings lots of drinks for all the family. It's just such a luxury and the kids love it.
Telluride, Colorado The Sheridan Chop House is an incredible place to dine. It was designed by industry icon, and British designer Nina Campbell. 221 is also amazing. From their bread to pickles, ice cream to roux -, they take great care to create everything in-house. Also - their wine list is a dream.
Verbier, Switzerland Verbier is fun. It offers the thrill of tobogganing down the longest run in western Switzerland or you can opt for a more leisurely dogsledding excursion. Cap off your day with après-ski at the legendary Farm Club, an institution 45 years young where David Bowie and Diana Ross have both hit the dancefloor.
View our Chalet Project here.
Since its inception 16 years ago, Katharine Pooley has grown from a British firm undertaking predominantly domestic projects to an internationally lauded design studio encompassing architectural design, interior design, product design and property development. The company is currently working on significant developments in Europe, the US, Asia and the Middle East.
For 35 years, Arteriors have been proud to work with artisan craftsmen from across the globe to create the highest quality furniture, lighting, wall décor and accessories.
To cater for our extensive and always growing network of interior design clientele, each season we cherry pick pieces of inspiration from around the world, curating product collections tailored to a wide range of design led interiors.
For the past few seasons, we’ve taken direct inspiration from a range of global destinations to produce statement pieces that combine unique location-specific elements with our signature aesthetic.
An architectural movement that proceeded to inspire art and interior design for generations, Bauhaus combines contemporary geometric shaping with unique materials. Material of choice for this collection is luxurious leather. This is seen across an assortment of upholstered furniture, as accent detailing on accessories, and as part of lighting designs. A variety of finishes and forms creates distinctive, design-led products that showcase the juxtaposition of using a material ordinarily associated with a more traditional aesthetic within sculpted and soft designs.
Collections that imbue luxury in the traditional sense of the word are inspired by Monaco and Bel Air. Both exude opulence and grandeur with highlight features such as sumptuous velvet seating and rich mahogany furniture with extravagant chandeliers to bring to life this vision of luxury.
Inspired by a true tropical paradise and timed to launch with the approach of the summer season, this collection sings with the use of natural rattan and raffia, and elegant use of lighter hues are reminiscent of such coastal destinations. We’ve strived to be innovative with material choices, incorporating open linen weaves, coconut shells and wooden beading within our decorative accessories.
The beauty of minimalism is redefined in a collection influenced by Shibuya. Striking, modern shapes and a muted tonal colour scheme are juxtaposed by a selection of woods and ceramics that break up an otherwise monochrome palette. The highlight product from this range that most imbues a sense of Tokyo’s architecture and cultural influences is the Stella cocktail cabinet. With a silhouette reminiscent of a Japanese kimono, fashioned from panels of oyster oak, epitomising the aesthetic of this distinctive collection.
A combination of traditional European influences appear to jostle with a contemporary aesthetic in our product range inspired by Montreal. The charm of this city is this combination of centuries-old architecture with elements of contemporary flair, recreated in product design through a mix of finishes including wood, blackened iron, and pale ivory.
Through decades of meticulous research, and by working alongside skilled craftsmen from around the globe, we’re continuously inspired to experiment with aesthetics, materials and techniques. A selection of location-inspired pieces are available in our Chelsea showroom, and form part of our Spring collection.
Cover image: Pierson Wall Plaques £855; Perez Coffee Table £2,331
About Arteriors
For over 30 years, Arteriors delivers impeccable style and artisanal quality craftsmanship within the lighting, furniture, wall décor and home accessory categories to discerning customers worldwide. This three-decade journey in pursuit of extraordinary product – from the understated to the unexpected – had been and remain at the core of what Arteriors do each day. Arteriors’ business has matured and expanded into a timeless lifestyle brand that has become premier resource for interior designers and retailers worldwide.
Today, Arteriors continues to reinterpret materials, forming objects of perfect proportions and scale, resulting in bold interiors that bring ease to everyday luxury.
‘Wave’ wallpaper by Katie Ridder
Over the past six months, A-Gent of Style started noticing around him the ancient Asian pattern of the wave and also fish scales. Suddenly, these two scalloped designs seem to appear everywhere before him and A-Gent soon realised they were ubiquitous – in shops or restaurants, in the streets, in fashion, design and home magazines, online of course and many other appearances. What turned into a game of ‘spot-the-pretty-fish-scales-pattern’ almost ended up in an obsession and even hallucinations.
This is a compilation of all the images and photographs A-Gent of Style has accumulated featuring waves and fish scales in all their various shapes and representations.
Now, you too might start noticing them everywhere.....Will you catch the bug!?
Marion Cotillard in Jean-Paul Gaultier, Oscars, 2008
Jarrod Lim’s ‘Koi’ Chair
‘Pot Pourri’ wallpaper by Neisha Crosland
Le 1947 restaurant by Yannick Alléno, Le Cheval Blanc, Courchevel
‘Owl’ lantern by Soane
Korla’s ‘Grand Kyoto Koi’
Gate at Piccadilly Circus tube station, Glasshouse Street exit
‘Easton’ fabric by David Hicks, 1968
Danish cabinet by Julian Chichester (as seen at Decorex 2013)
‘Caducee’ clock by Jean Dunand, 1913 , estimate €100,000-120,000 at Felix Marcilhac auction, Sotheby’s, 11-12 March 2014 http://bit.ly/1dvv2Hl
‘Ecailles argent by Le Manach
Le Manach’s ‘Ecailles’ (as seen at Paris Deco Off 2014)
Dinner setting by Miles Redd
Urban Outfitters rug
Australian Aboriginal design
‘Coordonne’ tiles
Hartmann Risler et Cie (Rixheim), 1800
Gents at The Zedel restaurant, London
Finally, a shelf at home with some of A-Gent of Style‘s favourite packaging. Not strictly waves or fish scales, more of an (Art Deco) fan shape this time but that’s another blog post!
Author: Interior Designer Fabrice Bana, founder and editor of A-Gent of Style
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