Create the feel of a grand country property drawing space with just the proper balance of classic styling and laid-back elegance. The key to this style is usually to obtain a space that feels sophisticated but is comfy to relax in at the same time. The secret lies in a soft, refined colour palette and uncomplicated , timeless furniture in a light painted finish. It is then very simple to update this backdrop by adding a single accent colour. You can even take into consideration introducing pattern, but keep it subtle and understated – you wish this look to be simple on the eye. The warm creams and golds will come into their very own in the holiday season when they’re teamed with sumptuous purple accessories. Follow this step-by-step guide to adding a magical festive twinkle that can stand the test of time. Pick a neutral backdrop, employing a limited colour palette is crucial to achieving a timeless living room that exudes luxury. Work cream and gold with accents of rich purple for a look of elegance. A uncomplicated wallpaper that does not dominate is a superb option to make the space feel more lavish. Furniture must have a uncomplicated style – think tapered legs and an off-white painted finish for tables – and add to the luxurious feel with deep squashy sofas. For Christmas, add crystal, etched mirrors and shimmering lights for a magical finish. Embellish current pieces. A chandelier is just what each elegant living room requires , and it is ideal for upping the glamour stakes at Christmas. Hang sparkly decorations from the arms – crystal, glass and diamanté are perfect. Twine ivy with bows tied about the bottom of each and every fitting. Turn your coffee table into a festive focal point. Add a runner in rich purple, and arrange tealight holders along with a vase of flowers along it. Scented candles are ideal too – choose ones made by Yankee candle or True Grace candles. Use mirrored place mats to enhance the glam element, but make sure any floral arrangement is smaller so it doesn’t detract from the Christmas tree.
Filed under Interior Design by on Dec 5th, 2011. Comment.
To create a sophisticated country look you must stick to smart colours, exchanging those brighter colours which might be a home in a more modern property for more subtle shades such as ivory, taupe and grey. Keep to clean lines, no frills are allowed – on curtains, bedding or even cushions. Add modern pieces of furniture with a French-country feel , but you can give your country style residence a striking look by combining this look with one or two carefully chosen more contemporary pieces. The key is to choose furniture that fits in and doesn’t jar with the country look – like a simple leather sofa or streamlined oak table in the kitchen. Introduce a feature wall to instantly give a room a modern feel – just pick a paper that complements your scheme. Use your imagination and try to get hold of some unusual or one-off items of furniture or accessories, which really help stamp your personality on any property. Antique shops, craft fairs and even car boot sales can be a great source of materials and inspiration. Keep walls neutral and use accent colours to add interest. As I work with colour all day, I like to be able to switch off when I get home. Having consciously avoided making the house too “beachy” because of its location, I wanted a scheme that could be home to the many knick-knacks from the family’s travels. If I stuck to one colour palette or look, I’d find it too limiting. At the end of the day what I wanted to achieve was a blend of stylish comfort and practicality. I think that’s why I tend to go for natural materials that age well and look better when they’re a bit used, even distressed, as as I think they make for a more relaxing ambiance. And one thing you should never overlook is the choice of accessories for your new decorative scheme. Choosing a good selection of little personal items you love really transforms plain bricks and mortar in to a treasured home. There is an abundance of choice. My favourite go-to items for accessorizing are home fragrances – scented candles or maybe even a room spray or reed diffuser. There are lots of good brands but I tend to stick with the ones I know such as Yankee candles and True Grace candles.
Filed under Interior Design by on Dec 5th, 2011. Comment.