Bandhini’s new collection: a riot of colourful cushions inspired by American glamour

It’s a big change from Bandhini Homewear Design’s usual mix of neutrals and textures but this latest collection is no less beautiful. I saw the cushions for myself last month and they really are stunning.

Designer Tai Schaffler admits she was nervous about the change. “But it was time for us to get out there and positively surprise our clients. We still have some beautiful classic black and beiges this year (we wouldn’t be Bandhini if we didn’t). The response so far has been incredible. There has been a lot of love for our yellow and velvet cushions.”

The collection, which was shot at the Mary McDonald-designed LUXE Hotel in LA, has been inspired by the cultural differences between America, where the products have been sold since 2010, Australia, where everything is designed, and India, where it is made. “This year is inspired by the 1940s of Palm Springs and the Hollywood Regency,” says Tai. “I personally traveled Australia in 2013 to showcase our collection. On these tours, I talked to a lot of interior designers and asked them what they expect and want for the next year. It is important to me to listen to our clients and let them know they have a say in our next season’s designs.”

Tai’s two favourite pieces from this collection are the Tunis Ikat (I heard it’s Darren Palmer’s too) and Sea Urchin cushions (below).

Bandhini have another, smaller range coming out at the end of the year, inspired by culture, and you can see them at Decoration + Design in Sydney and Melbourne. They’re also working on commercial projects for Hayman Island and Cape Lodge in the Margaret River. In the US, they’re working on a couple of projects with American designers and continuing to sell through department store Neiman Marcus.

The collection is available online and in selected stores Australia wide, or through one of their agents if you’re a designer.