Do you ever find that many interiors are boring and lack personality? If so, it’s time to stop designing your home with “resale” in mind. Otherwise you end up living in a generic uninteresting box that doesn’t even feel like yours!
Yes your house may not appeal to the whole community but who cares… you’ll love it and that’s all that matters – right? The most interesting interiors and best spaces tell a story, they’re meaningful to you and that’s what makes a beautiful and intriguing home.
Start with what you love
Art for instance, choose something YOU like, don’t worry about whether your friends will like it – some will, some won’t, so what!
Or opt for a photo that holds personal meaning, like a favourite place, a feeling, or scene. It could be a colour, an art style or collection of quirky objects.
Same, same, but different
Feel free to break away from sticking to a particular style or colour throughout your home – I often get asked, do I have to keep the same pendants in the lounge as the kitchen in my open plan house? – No, no you don’t! Add interest, your kitchen is a different zone to your lounge, they can have different feels.
“What if I have gun metal finishes in my bathroom, do I need the same in my kitchen?”… No! It’s the same reason, this is a different space. It’s even ok to have different finishes in the same bathroom for example, make all the shower hardware brass and the vanity hardware black.
Take some risks
Don’t shy away from making bold design choices, striking wallpaper, an unexpected splash of colour, or a piece of furniture in an unconventional shape.
Embrace statement pieces that you love, even if they don’t adhere to traditional design rules. The key to creating interesting interiors is embracing variety and making each space feel unique and reflecting your style and personality.
50 shades of grey
Ask yourself, is this colour what makes me happy? Do I want to be surrounded by grey, white or beige? Yes all these neutrals can be done well but is this your conscious choice, or are you too scared to try colour. I loved it when a client agreed to paint her office blue, it accentuated her art and make the outdoors come in – it was beautiful, calming and a pleasant change.
Embrace Imperfection
It’s ok if you make a mistake, or you change your mind after a few months… everything can be changed or fixed. Perfection can be overrated in interior design (and in people, actually). In fact, embracing a little imperfection can actually make your home feel more lived-in and comfortable.
The Japanese have a philosophy Wabi Sabi that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, maybe we could all take a leaf from that idea.
This could mean displaying a worn-out piece of furniture that’s been with you for years or embracing a more relaxed approach to decorating where everything doesn’t “match.” Often, the most memorable and interesting interiors (or people) are those that reflect real life — with its mess, charm, and human touch.
Taking risks, mixing different styles, and adding personal touches, you’ll create a space that feels authentic and alive. The goal is to design a unique home that makes you feel at home every day.
So, forget bland. Be bold, be you, and create a home that’s as original as you!
Sick of the same decor at your house? Wanting a change? Or sick of neutral? Give me a call to book in a consultation to discuss your ideas today