The Inspiration: Havana’s Bacardi Building

The Bacardi Building, completed in 1930, stands as a beacon of Cuba’s Art Deco heritage. This architectural marvel was the very first skyscraper in Havana, constructed with imported European stone and marble and adorned with intricate metalwork and tiling. At the heart of its design lies a signature elegance that reflects the opulence of the Art Deco movement.

Crowning this fabulous building is the Bacardi fruit bat, an enduring symbol of the rum company that once called the building home. Today, the bronze bat remains a symbol of Cuba’s vibrant cultural and industrial history. Restored in 2003, the Bacardi Building continues to inspire artists and architects today. 

Inspired by an intricate Art Deco balustrade within the building, Birdie Fortescue and the team have meticulously transformed this beautiful ironwork into our delicate Remolino motif.

The Remolino Design by Birdie Fortescue

The swirling lines of the Remolino design find their place on two key pieces within our Havana Collection. Both now feature in our Winter Sale with 30% off!

Remolino Embroidered Velvet Cushion

Available in red, blue, and green, this generously sized square cushion features intricate embroidery that captures the essence of Art Deco sophistication. Its luxurious velvet finish makes it a standout piece for any interior, especially in the colder seasons where warmth and comfort are key! 

Remolino Block Print Lampshade

This pleated lampshade brings the motif to life with a lighter finish, block printed by hand. Also available in red, green and blue, this lampshade is perfect for pairing with any lamp, or styling as a pendant fitting with our lamp to pendant adapter.

Styling the Remolino Cushion

The versatility of the Remolino Embroidered Velvet Cushion allows it to shine in both contemporary and classic interiors. Read on for top tips on how to style it!

1. Pairing with Geometric Patterns

The curves of our Remolino design harmonise beautifully with geometric prints. Try pairing it with our Ladrillo or Rueda Tile Print Cushion for a balanced look. These complementary designs create a cohesive yet dynamic arrangement, and both are in our Winter Sale collection!

2. Mixing Trims for Texture

Incorporate cushions with a variety of trims to add depth and interest to your scheme. Ric rac, fringing, and scalloped edges are great options that bring texture and a touch of personality. For example, layer the Remolino Cushion with our signature Edo Stripe Cushion and our smaller El Vedado Cushion with scalloped edges for a whimsical yet on-trend look. 

3. Layering for Depth

For sofas or beds, start with larger cushions, like Remolino, at the back or either side. Add smaller patterned cushions in the centre - Ladrillo is perfect, then finish with smaller rectangular cushions like our San Juan Embroidered Velvet Cushion or the Azulejo Rectangular Block Print Cushion at the front.

4. Warming Winter Refresh

If you haven’t already it’s a great idea to swap out lighter cushions for darker, cosier options for winter. We love to incorporate velvets and super soft throws - especially with the frosty weather! Pair our Remolino Embroidered Velvet Cushion with floral prints like our Peony Block Print Cushion or soft geometrics such as the Viale Block Print Cushion. Why not add in a Bordered Throw or our Ori Wool Throw in cream, which is now in the Winter Sale for a warming layer of comfort?

The Remolino Block Print Lampshade 

Block printed by hand in India, our Remolino Swirl Print Pleated Lampshade features the same design as its matching cushion cousin. With a pleated finish and coordinating binding, this lampshade is available in three colours and several sizes, making it easy to style with your existing home accessories.

Perfect Pairings for the Remolino Lampshade

• For an understated look: Pair with our Painted Wooden Column Lamp. Its sleek silhouette complements the lampshade while being the perfect size for a small table or shelf.

• For a statement base: Style the lampshade on the Mosaic Lamp, where the inset mosaic of the base contrasts with the swirling design, creating a bold yet balanced look.

• For a classic option: This lampshade also works wonderfully with our Ceramic Beehive Lamp, its rounded shape echoes the curves of the pleated Remolino Lampshade.

Styling Tips for Your Lamp

1. Create Focal Points

Place the light in a prominent spot, such as a side table, console, or your kitchen countertop to illuminate your interior and add a functional ambience. Why not position your lamp in an alcove or darker corner to provide practical lighting, making a feature out of a potentially unused space. For your sitting room, our Remolino Lampshade paired with the Rattan Table Lamp on a side table or mantlepiece provides soft lighting - perfect for relaxing in the evenings or entertaining guests.

2. Mix and Match

If you are styling a pair of lamps as bedside lighting, try a mix and match approach with different lampshades and contrasting bases on either side. We love to pair a Remolino Lampshade with a Small Twisted Table Lamp on one side of the bed - these lamp bases are perfect for this arrangement due to their slim proportions, leaving plenty of space for bedside essentials. On the other side of the bed, style our stunning scalloped Calcada Lampshade on a Beehive Ceramic Lamp, make sure to stick to your colour scheme for an eclectic yet balanced look.

3. Add Layers of Light: 

Utilise lighting at varying heights to create a layered ambiance. This approach adds depth, highlights your home decor, and creates functional zones within the room. If you are looking to refresh the lighting in your dining room, we recommend pairing our Remolino Lampshade with the Beehive Ceramic Lamp on a console table to the side. For the ceiling, if space allows, our Rattan Pendant Light makes a stunning addition to illuminate your tablescape!

The Remolino Impact

Birdie Fortescue’s Remolino design is more than a tribute to Havana's architectural legacy - it’s a celebration of craftsmanship and storytelling. The versatile print makes it the perfect finishing touch, whether as a striking lampshade on a feature lamp or as a cushion on an accent chair. 

From minimalist settings to richly layered interiors with prints and textures, each luxury collection and product is thoughtfully designed by Birdie, blending inspiration from her travels, expertise in interior design, and collaborations with skilled artisans. From our Norfolk studio to your home, these timeless pieces are created by Birdie and curated by you.

Explore our Winter Sale and find the perfect piece for your interior!