Let’s sit soft…
Are you planning a bathroom renovation? You might be feeling overwhelmed with all the choices and decisions to make. That's where an experienced interior designer can come in handy.
There are crucial elements to consider while purchasing the ideal sofa for your home. While most people are concerned about cost, it's important to note that investing a little more upfront will save you money in the long run if you buy a high-quality sofa that will endure for many years. That is why it is worthwhile to explore British and European-made upholstery, which frequently has superior construction and materials. Regarding examples of high-quality sofas, these are few options worth considering.
The Ashford 3-seat sofa from Soho Home is a classic piece that would suit numerous interiors. It has a durable hardwood frame and foam core cushions enrobed in French duck feathers for optimal comfort and support.
The Odette Sofa from Love Your Home is effortlessly stylish and affordable, with simple clean lines and a timeless design. It also has skirting around the legs for added interest. The high back, high arms and one-piece seat cushion create the ideal combination of comfort and design.
Soane Britain's Vendome sofa is a more luxurious choice. This sofa is handcrafted from start to finish and is inspired by a 1940s design. The hand-carved frame is expertly produced in Dorset and then whisked away to neighbouring Somerset where skilled craftsmen upholster the piece using traditional skills and materials, such as wool, horsehair, natural latex and coconut coir, which provide superior comfort and support as well as being eco-friendly.
Pinch's Noelle sofa is an elegant tuxedo-style option, meaning the arms and back are at the same height, which works well in a myriad of interior styles. This British-made design will stand the test of time, with a robust timber frame and cushions made of natural and synthetic materials for maximum comfort.
Finally, handcrafted in Devon, the Stratford Sofa from Kingcome is a bespoke alternative that can be customized to your exact needs and tastes. This sofa is elegant and comfortable, constructed with a hardwood frame using traditional methods.
If you're still not sure where to start when it comes to selecting the appropriate sofa, try working with an expert interior designer who can walk you through the many alternatives. Sceptred Isle Design Studio is an excellent choice for an interior designer in North Yorkshire; the studio can assist you choose the perfect sofa for your home and also share trade-only discounts, making your dream sofa a reality. Investing in a high-quality sofa that is built to last can save you money in the years to come by prioritising excellent materials and craftsmanship. We can help you create an environment that is tailored to your style and personality, whether you favour a traditional, timeless sofa or a more modern, bespoke alternative.
Let there be light…
Are you planning a bathroom renovation? You might be feeling overwhelmed with all the choices and decisions to make. That's where an experienced interior designer can come in handy.
Lighting plays an important role in interior design. It can set the mood, highlight a room's features and create a welcoming atmosphere. However, many homeowners overlook the importance of lighting when decorating their homes. In this journal post, we'll discuss different lighting choices and how they can make or break a space. Lighting can be completely transformational. It can create a cosy ambience, add drama or enhance the colours and textures. Moreover, lighting is essential for functionality, such as providing adequate lighting for cooking, reading or working. As an interior designer, I always emphasise the importance of proper lighting design in any project.
Lighting Choices for Your Home
Ambient lighting provides general illumination and sets the tone of a room via overhead lights, chandeliers or wall lights. It should be soft and evenly distributed, avoiding harsh shadows and glares. Dimmer switches can help adjust the brightness and create a cosy atmosphere.
Task lighting is focused lighting that illuminates a specific area or task, such as reading, cooking or working. Desk lamps, floor lamps and under-cabinet lights are all examples of task lighting. The brightness and positioning of these lights should be adjusted to the job at hand to avoid eye strain and shadows.
Accent lighting highlights a particular feature or object, such as artwork, a fireplace or a plant. It adds depth and dimension to a space and creates visual interest. Accent lighting can be spotlights, track lighting or picture lights.
Natural lighting is the best source of light, as it provides a sense of well-being and connects us with the outdoors. However, not all homes have the greatest natural light, especially in urban areas or small flats. If you're lucky to have a room with a lot of natural light, opt for sheer curtains, soft-coloured walls and reflective surfaces that bounce light around the room.
I firmly believe that lighting is critical to a room’s design depending on how it is implemented -- too little can make a room feel gloomy and uninviting, while too much can create harsh shadows and glare. Here are some tips on how to use lighting to enhance your home's interior:
Layer lighting: Use a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting to create a balanced and functional space.
Choose the correct bulb for the space: Different bulbs have different colour temperatures and can affect the mood of a room. Warm white bulbs (2700K-3000K) create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, while cool white bulbs (4000K-5000K) are more suitable for workspaces.
Use dimmer switches: I am a devotee of the dimmer switch, as they allow you to adjust the brightness to create a relaxing ambience at will and should be used liberally throughout your home.
Avoid glare and shadows: Position lights to avoid harsh shadows and glares, especially in task areas such as the kitchen or home office.
Choose lighting fixtures that complement your decor; they are both decorative and functional elements that can enhance your home's style and personality, while creating the right atmosphere.
With this information, remember lighting is a crucial aspect of interior design that should never be overlooked. Proper lighting choices can enhance the functionality, aesthetics and mood of your home. As an interior designer, I highly recommend paying attention to lighting when designing or redecorating your home to ensure it meets your needs and reflects your style.
Soane, Britannia!
Soane Britain is a brand that prides itself on its appreciation of British craftsmanship. Their timeless furniture pieces are handcrafted in workshops across the UK, ensuring a level of quality that is unparalleled, making them a worthy investment for any discerning collector or designer. The brand's founder, Lulu Lytle, has been the driving force behind this appreciation, demonstrating her love of traditional skills and techniques in every piece the brand produces.
Soane Britain is a brand that prides itself on its appreciation of British craftsmanship. Their timeless furniture pieces are handcrafted in workshops across the UK, ensuring a level of quality that is unparalleled, making them a worthy investment for any discerning collector or designer. The brand's founder, Lulu Lytle, has been the driving force behind this appreciation since its founding in 1997, demonstrating her love of traditional skills and techniques in every piece the brand produces.
It is not only the production of these pieces that is important to Soane, but also the preservation of the skills and techniques that are involved in their creation. In fact, Lulu's passion for preservation has even led her to save the last rattan workshop in Britain, ensuring that these traditional methods remain alive for generations to come. Rattan is a unique material known for its strength and flexibility, and it has a rich history in British design, having been used in furniture-making for centuries. This sustainable material is both durable and flexible, making it an ideal choice for furniture design.
The rattan Ripple console table, a 'Hero' of the collection, is a prime example of Soane's rattan work. Its elegant curves and subtle details are beautifully crafted and available in a number of in-house finishes or you may specify a custom colour. The table's organic form is inspired by the undulating ripples of a sumptuous fabric draped over a table, and it is a testament to the brand's commitment to creating pieces that are both functional and visually striking. Whether it's used as a statement piece in an entryway or as a functional surface in a sitting room, the Ripple console table is sure to be a conversation starter and a versatile addition to your space.
The Venus chair is another iconic piece of the collection that showcases the versatility and beauty of rattan. The chair is made of a complex cane frame with trussed joints and artistic accents at the feet to support the shell-like seat. It is available with a rattan or upholstered seat. The chair is not only visually stunning, but also incredibly comfortable, making it a perfect for any interior.
But Lulu's creativity and expertise extend beyond rattan. The Rivoli cabinet, leather-wrapped and featuring brass legs, is a spectacular example of Soane's commitment to excellence in materials and design. This piece is a true showstopper, perfect for a grand stately foyer or a contemporary bedroom. The cabinet, which is inspired by a 1950s design, is expertly crafted from wood and then wrapped in high-quality leather by workshops located in the heart of Suffolk. The resulting piece is not only stunning and visually impressive, but it is also incredibly durable and long-lasting. In fact, it is sure to become a cherished family heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation.
Soane Britain and Lulu Lytle are true pioneers in the world of bespoke interior design. The dedication to preserving traditional techniques and materials while embracing contemporary style is truly inspiring. In addition, Soane's commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices is exemplary, ensuring that their pieces not only look good but also do good for the environment.
In praise of wallpaper…
Wallpaper is making a comeback in a big way! Once thought of as old-fashioned, wallpaper is now being celebrated for its ability to transform a room with color, pattern, and texture.
Wallpaper is making a comeback in a big way! Once thought of as old-fashioned, wallpaper is now being lauded for its ability to transform a room with colour, pattern and texture.
One reason for this resurgence is the renewed interest in traditional interior design. Designers and homeowners alike are looking to the past for inspiration, and nothing says classic like a beautifully wallpapered room. The use of traditional wallpapers from esteemed design houses like de Gournay, Soane Britain, Brunschwig & Fils, and Robert Kime are on the rise.
De Gournay, in particular, is known for its hand-painted chinoiserie and scenic wallpapers, which are true works of art. Soane Britain offers a range of classic designs -- perfect for adding a touch of refinement to any room. Brunschwig & Fils, on the other hand, is a go-to for bold patterns and bright colours that can be used to make a statement. And Robert Kime is known for his unique colour combinations and traditional patterns.
But wallpaper isn't just for traditional design schemes. Many contemporary designers are turning to wallpaper to add interest and texture to modern spaces. Bold graphic prints and abstract patterns can add a touch of whimsy to an otherwise minimalist room, while textured wallpapers can add depth and warmth to a space.
Another reason for wallpaper's renewed popularity is the availability of new materials and technologies. Today's wallpapers are easier to apply, remove and maintain. Many wallpapers are now made with non-toxic, eco-friendly materials, making them an excellent choice for clients looking to create a healthy home environment.
Whether you're looking to create a classic, traditional look or a bold, contemporary statement, wallpaper is worth considering. With so many beautiful designs and materials to choose from, the possibilities are endless.
Image Source:
Cover | Crisp Architects
Magnolia Canopy | de Gournay
Osmunda Silhouette - Ivy | Soane Britain
Gallier Diamond | Brunschwig & Fils
Wattle Blue | Robert Kime