When it works, no-one notices

“Good design is like a refrigerator, when it works no-one notices, but when it doesn’t it sure stinks”. (Irene Au)

Interior design can be very self-conscious, very ‘look at me’. And whilst that may get your home featured in a magazine, would you want to live in it? Or would you prefer the certain knowledge that attention has been paid to ensuring that everything quietly functions, in a space that feels natural and effortless? The aim is to create somewhere you can enjoy without noticing why it works - and without thinking that the designer has just left the room.

That is good design…..

Colour blocking

Yves Saint Laurent's 1965 "Mondrian Collection" is widely credited with bringing colour blocking to the forefront of the world of fashion, inspired by Piet Mondarian’s paintings. But interiors (obviously!) were there first. Colour blocking in Edwardian home design was a determined shift away from the cluttered Victorian style that preceded it, and its popularity has not diminished. This guest bedroom was on the lower ground floor; with a view of a small, dark light well. So it needed to feel that is was enough in itself - a cocoon, if you like. In this case, we took the whole room a step further with colour drenching - all walls, woodwork and cabinetry in this deep blue, inspired by the client’s art above the bed. The effect is calming and immersive, and works especially well in a bedroom. So, choose your mood and make sure you paint it matte.

Buying art - it’s personal

It is always a joy to incorporate my clients’ art in the final design. But when clients have little or no art, they often ask me to help source it, assuming that I will buy things that fit a space or go with the colour scheme. But buying art is not about size or colour - it’s about love. The Dodo (Tammy Mackay) above was my latest purchase. When I bought it, I had no idea where it would go, I just knew that I loved it. I last bought a piece by Tammy about 10 years ago, but when I met her this time around, I was amazed that she remembered me. I had explained to her back then the trick I use to help clients who have not bought art before - how they can identify the feeling and break their duck (or Dodo). If I get to shop with you, you will see how it’s done. And remember, if you love it, it will fit.

Image courtesy of Tammy Mackay

The Australians are coming

For some time now, interiors magazines have been featuring Australian projects. They are tantalising - light , contemporary, with their unfamiliar architecture far removed from the most British homes. Designers are drawn to them, not just for the overall design but also for the products they use. We are constantly looking for the new and original, but until recently those brands weren’t really accessible to us. But that is changing as more Australian brands are expanding into Europe, particularly into the UK. Driven by a growing global reputation for high-quality, relaxed, and sustainable design, they give an alternative to the Scandinavian products we know so well. The hardware in this image is from a curated selection at The Specified, along with Australian lighting, flooring and furniture brands. Keep your eyes peeled as our choices grow.

Image courtesy of The Specified

Busy June

June is a busy month in the art and design world. From 2nd June, the WOW! House will be back at Chelsea Harbour Design Centre, an immersive, annual interior design showhouse featuring over 20 full-size, uniquely designed rooms and outdoor spaces. Click here for a full walk through of last year’s experience. The London Festival of Architecture will run for the whole of June with a host of events, and the best of the best in terms of art and collectables will be gathered at the Treasure House Fair from the 25th to 30th June.

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