Displaying posts from March, 2016

When did “traditional” become a dirty word? Why are we obsessed with boho scandi, mid-century modern, crisp concrete minimalism or funky inner-city hipster cool? This traditional yet modern Santa Monica house by architect Tim Barber is the perfect family home. Stylish and sophisticated but also practical and child friendly. And as much as I like the interiors it’s the exterior and outdoor spaces that have me rethinking my mid-century boho hipster scandi minimalism.

London’s most inspiring spaces and hosts. That’s the claim made by The Plum Guide who hand pick the best of the best vacation rentals in the UK capital. The most beautiful designs, the coolest locations, the best hosts, those special homes you know you really want to stay in. The Plum Guide makes sure the spaces are amazing and then send in their photographers and stylists to make sure the listing images have you salivating. Don’t take my word for it. Visit the site and check them out in full screen. Like Swing, a two bedroom warehouse apartment in Shoreditch, home to a photographic artist and an architect. I know I say it all the time but this time I really mean it… I’d never want to leave.

Having a modern decorated home is fine, but it can be a bit bland. Smooth surfaces and clean walls were once a minimalist fashion statement, with their only use being as a good backdrop for a colorful piece of art. Adding some designer texture into your home can create a focal point, or an overall theme to a room, depending on how far you want to go. For some ideas to inspire you, here are some stunning ways to add texture to your home.

Home Furnishings

Simply adding attractive furniture and lighting can bring a room alive, with no actual need to redecorate. Adding mood lighting will change the atmosphere from bright and alive, to calm and soothing. A well placed antique desk or sideboard can add functionality as well as style.

Even using a simple wicker basket will lift a dull corner, as well as giving you some storage. You can also use oil lamps, or modern lamps that give the same effect without having to worry about safety concerns from a naked flame and fumes. The soft, flickering light will cast dreamy shadows and create a relaxing vibe, which is perfect to help you unwind. The advantage of making these little changes is that you can alter them if you want something different.

Wall-art and Crafts

One of the simplest ways to introduce texture into your home is to add wall art. This can range from framed needlepoint designs, to metalwork or wooden craft pieces. There will always be something for everyone, depending on your artistic tastes. Even if you just fancy a painting, a modern artwork can give a burst of color to accentuate or compliment.

Wood Tile Panels

Use wood tile panels for an instant effect. These are made to lock together so you don’t have to space them yourself. The advantage of using wood tile panels is that you will get a professional look without having to use a tradesperson to fit them, though if you aren’t very handy at home improvements, then by all means hire someone to fit them from you.

You can source reclaimed barnwood wall planks to give an eco-friendly finish to your home. They will certainly transform your kitchen instead of using normal tiles. Alternatively, create a feature wall in your lounge. Being reclaimed, they won’t have that newness to them, which can often look a little too fake.

Natural Materials

Instead of having normal flat, painted walls, why not use natural materials such as stone or timber. This look can be complimented by using natural materials for the floor, such as stone tiles instead of carpet. The overall effect is to give an organic feeling of warmth that only natural materials can do. Nicely aged wooden furniture and accessories will help tie the overall feel together in a way that synthetic materials are unable to do, as they can feel cold and lacking in this respect.

Adding texture to your home to create something stunning isn’t that hard to do, and doesn’t have to mean a full makeover. Just a few additions here and there can make the world of difference.

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This post was written by a guest writer

It has been quite some time since we featured the designs of Canadian design talent Kelly Deck (the last post). She continues to dazzle with classy, sometimes modern spaces with drama added in small doses with dark colours, artwork or funky lighting. The photo above (and below) blew me away. So simple yet high impact. Gorgeous.

In my dreams I live in a farmhouse surrounded by vineyards. It’s a simple but oh so stylish pile. Rustic yet sophisticated, traditional yet modern, surrounded by friends and family, celebrating the beauty in life. My dreams might just look a little like Healdsburg Ranch by San Francisco-based design firm Jute.