Tag: decorating

How to decorate an Art Deco property like a pro

How to decorate an Art Deco property like a pro

If you have your eye on an Art Deco home, it’s fair to say that you’re probably looking at the best ways to modernise it without compromising its unique flair. Modernising a 1930s property can be a significant investment when it comes to insulation, energy efficiency and smart home hub installation, for example. Additionally, it can be a delicate balance for home buyers, as modern property styles focus on open-plan spaces, while traditional 1930s properties are more likely to have a different interior plan. Many home-owners worry that changing the room layout could take away the unique Art Deco feel.

In reality, there are ways to give a 1930s home a modern makeover while enhancing the unique style of its era. Here are some tips and tricks on how to decorate an Art Deco property successfully.

Vibrant colour schemes

Adding vibrant colours to an Art Deco property can instantly give the room a stylish and sophisticated feel. When looking for furniture or home accessories, look for items that stand out from the rest. Look for eye-catching pieces in deep greens, blues, and purples. Accentuate these items with polished black tables or chests of drawers for a modern twist on the classic Art Deco look. When it comes to colour, you want to make sure it stands out and pops. Art Deco furniture is expensive. However, with a little DIY, you can bring back an old unit to life and inject an Art Deco finish.

Focusing on shapes

When decorating an Art Deco property, shapes are an essential component of the look. Popular shapes include trapezoids, sunbursts, pointed edges, chevrons and more. These shapes create an eye-catching, bold and dynamic look.

One way to introduce these shapes into your décor is to add items with geometric lines. For example, furniture pieces with sharply angled legs and arms can give a room a modern yet elegant look. You can also paint those shapes on to your furniture. Mirrors with sunburst, diamond or geometrical shapes are another great way to incorporate the classic Art Deco aesthetic into a space.

Adding geometric patterns

Geometric patterns are one of the defining features of the Art Deco style. Whether you choose to add these patterns through wallpaper or even geometric rugs from Rugstore NE, they can be used to add both visual interest and texture to the space.

From simple patterns like chevrons and stripes to more intricate motifs like honeycomb, you’ll surely find something that complements your other décor elements. You can also use wallpapers and rugs to add depth and texture to your décor. It is important to keep in mind the typical colour palette and contrast of the Art Deco period:

  • Gold and luxurious lines on a geometric wallpaper
  • Bold black and white patterns for rugs and wallpaper
  • Teal, green, and blue tones can also work well

Bold artwork

Art Deco is characterised by its bold, luxurious designs, which should be reflected in the artwork chosen for an Art Deco property. The artwork should be large and eye-catching, often featuring a single, iconic image. It can feature geometric shapes, patterns and bright and vivid colours. Animal motifs and sculpted figures are also common in Art Deco art.

For an even more striking look, opt for artwork that is framed in gold or silver, which will further emphasise the Art Deco aesthetic.

High contrast palette

The high contrast palette of an Art Deco property is one of its defining features. Art Deco is typically known for its strong black-and-white contrasts and for introducing unique, bright colours such as green and blue. To make the most of this striking aesthetic, you can incorporate high contrast into your decorating scheme.

One way to do this is to paint contrasting walls or add contrasting mouldings around doorways, windows and other wall features. A light wall with a darker-coloured border or a dark wall with a lighter-coloured border can create a dramatic effect that draws attention to the area. You could also use a two-tone approach, painting two walls in different shades that contrast with each other.

Rich materials

When it comes to creating an Art Deco property, the materials used are just as important as the décor. Upscale materials such as marble-like, granite, metals and dark wood are perfect for achieving a high-end Art Deco look. Marble-like surfaces work well in the bathroom and kitchen, while granite is great for counter-tops and flooring. Metals bring a touch of glamour and shine, while dark wood floorings provide a sense of elegance and sophistication. Investing in quality materials will ensure that your home maintains its Art Deco style for years to come.

Can you make home improvement works to a 1930s property without losing the appeal of its unique era? The answer is yes, as long as you understand how to bring the Art Deco interior to life with the tips above!

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Here’s how to soothe the interior design itch when it presents itself

Here's how to soothe the interior design itch when it presents itself

You may have heard of the ‘seven-year-itch’, the oft debated psychological myth/principle that states those in relationships or marriage will tend to feel bored of one another, or feel like they need a fresh start, after seven years together. Of course, this is hardly a solid rule, and perhaps complete nonsense. We point to the countless examples of relationships that last, happily, past this arbitrary time-frame in order to prove our case.

However, it’s not as if this vastly regarded anti-rule came from nowhere. From time to time, we do feel tired of the same-old-same-old, and this can challenge us to see our circumstances in a new, appreciative light, or make a change if possible.

If you have any interest in interior design, you may know this feeling well. If you find that even when everything has been placed correctly you still feel like adding and subtracting, alternating and changing despite there being nothing wrong or outdated with the final product; well, you may need to soothe that interior design itch, too.

But how can you go about this? In this post, we’ll discuss all of that and more.

Itemise your expenses

Itemise your expenses when you purchase goods during your design. When you can calculate how much everything cost, the expense you went to in order to refit certain elements, and perhaps the fee you paid towards specialist contractors, you’re less likely to flip out your current design just because you feel like a change, and look to more minor efforts, like re-orienting the space. It might sound like a silly approach, but it really does help soothe those impulses.

Practical changes over visual switches

It’s good to make practical changes over more visual switches, so that when you wish to change something, you know that it’s for a purpose. So for example, it might be that you’ve been thinking of changing your kitchen cabinets. You don’t really need to, as they look great, and work well.

But let’s say you’re planning on changing your current oven and stove top for a modern options, or even a retro-modern option, like an induction hob or Aga model respectively. Could the new aesthetic of this essential appliance justify painting the surrounding cabinet and refitting the handles to something new? As you can see, this is a fun visual change predicated on a larger refit, and doing all the jobs at once should save you some cash.

A full suite

It’s good to consider the full suite of renovations in one go, as opposed to ‘picking’ at a space until it no longer feels cohesive. After all, it may be that you’ve designed a room to look ‘just so’ and uniform, and then all of the little changes you make will render it less cohesive, which may help it seem outdated and in need of a further change.

That said, it’s good to promise to yourself that when you focus on interior design, it will be for mid to large size projects, unless there’s absolutely a need to change furniture or furnishings. This way, you can look forward to certain times every year where you give a room another shake, and indulge appropriately then. For instance, perhaps a complete porch renovation is needed, and will also give you the justification for changing the textured flooring with a better variant. This balances out your design intention in the best way.

With this advice, you’re sure to soothe that interior design itch in the best way.

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4 areas of your home you should consider redecorating for a modern contemporary feel

4 areas of your home you should consider redecorating for a modern contemporary feel

When it comes to your home, there are many areas you can consider redecorating to give it a modern and contemporary feel. From the living room to the bedroom, here are four spaces in your home that you should look at and see how you can update them to create a more stylish space.

Living room

For most people, the living room is the heart of the home. It’s a place where family and friends gather to relax, watch TV, play games, or spend time together. And because it’s such an important space, it’s crucial to ensure that your living room is comfortable and stylish. Fortunately, there are several ways to achieve this goal. One option is to choose soothing colours for the walls and furniture. Another is to hang art that reflects your personal taste and style. No matter what approach you take, remember that the living room is a place for you to enjoy spending time with those you love. With a little effort, you can make it a space in which everyone enjoys spending time.

Bedroom

A typical bedroom contains bedroom furniture such as Mattresses & Beds (ranging from a cot for an infant, a twin bed for a toddler or child to a queen- or king-size bed for an adult), a night-stand or bedside table, one or more dressers (or perhaps, an armoire) and a mirror. Depending on the size of the bedroom, the occupant may have access to another room as well that can be used as part of the bedroom; in larger bedrooms, this second room may serve as an office (“study”), dressing room (“walk-in wardrobe”), lounge area (“sitting room”) or nursery. Bedrooms with attached bathrooms are usually referred to as en suites. Particularly large and stately bedrooms might be referred to as chambers.

Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most critical rooms in the house, so it’s worth spending some time redesigning it correctly. Families gather to cook, eat, and spend time together in the kitchen. It’s also a place where friends gather to chat and share meals. As such, it’s crucial to create a space that’s both functional and inviting. One way to do this is to add sleek cabinets, stainless steel appliances and a granite worktop. These materials give the kitchen a contemporary feel that’s stylish and practical. In addition, they’re easy to keep clean and maintain, making them ideal for busy families. With a few simple changes, you can transform your kitchen, making it an easier and more enjoyable space in which to work.

Bathroom

The bathroom is often one of the most neglected rooms in the house regarding design. However, it’s also one of the most important rooms, often where we begin and end our day. A well-designed bathroom can help to set the tone for the rest of the day; a poorly designed bathroom can leave us feeling stressed and frazzled. When rethinking your bathroom, there are a few things to remember. First, consider the lighting. Soft, diffused light is soothing and relaxing, while harsh light can be jarring and stressful. Second, choose neutral colours that will create a calm atmosphere. Finally, add a touch of luxury with soft and fluffy bath towels and accessories. You’ll start each day off on the right foot by creating a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom.

Have you started redesigning your home’s interior yet? If not, now is the time! By following the tips we’ve outlined in this post, you can create a modern and stylish look for each of the main rooms in your house.

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7 ways to give your home a minimalist makeover

7 ways to give your home a minimalist makeover

The minimalist style is fashionable in-home décor trend. It gives a home a clean and organised look that makes a space relaxing to be in. You don’t need to try too hard or make any substantial changes to give your home a minimalist makeover. Here are 7 things you can do to make going minimal simpler.

Clear your clutter

The minimalist style is all about clean lines and tidy spaces. You need a place for everything and everything to be in its place.

Consider storage options for furniture that doesn’t fit the style or space. Expert storage solution providers such as Stored Away can keep your old furniture out of the way until you decide what to do with it. You could always bring it back later if you change styles again.

Mute your colour palette

Bright and bold colours won’t work well if you’re going for a minimalist look. Tone down feature walls by repainting or papering them in muted, natural shades.

Stone and sand colours are perfect. Accent them with deep browns where appropriate. This makes a minimal room feel warmer.

Add minimalist art to your walls

If you do want some colour in your space, you should introduce it via art on the walls. Prints by artists such as Mark Rothko and Bridget Riley have a very minimalist style but will often use strong colours or patterns.

Monochrome prints look good in minimal spaces. Black and white photographs can help create an atmosphere. Use them to define spaces. Hang a painting of a still life with food above your dining table, for example.

Use textures to warm things up

The clean and clinical look of the minimalist style can make a living space seem cold and uninviting. Style is important, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort.

Clever use of materials can make a room a warmer, friendlier place. Balancing a living room’s crisp lines and muted colours with a soft and comfy suede sofa or fluffy cushions works well.

Make the most of natural light

Fussy curtains and blinds don’t suit the minimalist style. Letting in the light helps the natural colour tones bounce light around a room. This makes a space seem larger and airier.

The downside is a lack of privacy. Use sheer, monochrome curtains to cover windows if you must. This will still let a lot of light into your interior without compromising on the simplicity.

Pick quality accessories

The minimalist style makes furnishings and household objects stand out. Bear this in mind when picking out accessories like lamps or wall art.

This is an opportunity to focus on quality. You want to keep the level of clutter down so you have a little extra to spend on the few things you need. Use what you have available to buy a few, high-quality things.

Find a place for pattern

Floor rugs and sofa cushions are good candidates for introducing pattern into a space. Use them to add some contrasting colours to accent the minimalist shades in your living room.

Simple geometric patterns suit minimalism. Try to avoid complex patterns of many colours. These can seem a little chaotic in an ordered, minimalist space. Messy patterns spoil the vibe.

Try a few of these simple tips to get a more minimal look in your home. They make it easy to give your interior a modern, stylish makeover.

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