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7 Ways to add style and personality to your home!

interior design, Interior designer

Unless they are apartments in historic buildings, most homes are relatively similar and lack distinctive character.

That’s why it’s up to us to find ways to add style and personality to our home!

In today’s article, I will discuss 7 ways to make your home genuinely represent you by giving it style and identity!

1 – PAY ATTENTION TO CEILINGS

Ceilings are often one of the most overlooked parts of a home, as they are almost always left plain white!

Painting the ceiling a color different from the walls, clearly not white, can create an interesting contrast.

Using a darker color on the ceiling than on the walls will visually lower it, while a lighter color will make it appear higher.

That can be especially helpful if your ceilings are too high or too low.

For a cohesive effect, you might consider painting the ceiling the same color as the walls, creating a cozy, “nest-like” atmosphere!

(credits: @jack.laverick.ceramics; mkca.com)

For an unconventional look, you could apply wallpaper to the ceiling!

Another way to enhance ceilings is by adding decorative ceiling medallions to frame your chandeliers.

This decoration can add an extra touch to the room and works with any style; choose the pattern that best suits your space.

(credits: huitlaguna.com; houseofhipsters.com)

Another idea could be to install ceiling molding around the entire perimeter, possibly with LED strip lighting.

This approach adds an architectural touch, and the lights will create a soft, ambient glow, adding atmosphere to the room.

Depending on your style, you might also consider adding wooden beams to add texture and a natural touch that will warm up the space!

(credits: luceled.com; @kelseyleighdesignco)

2 – CREATE A FOCAL POINT

Every room in your home should have a focal point—a spot that immediately draws the attention of anyone who enters (if you want to know more I discussed it here).

Some homes or rooms have natural focal points, such as a large window with a beautiful view, a fireplace, or a unique architectural feature.

When these exist, it’s essential to highlight them in the best possible way.

But let’s be honest, these homes are the exception.

In most cases, you’ll need to create the focal point yourself!

The easiest way to create a focal point is by designing an accent wall, which you can do in several ways:

– Using Color

That is perhaps the simplest way to capture attention.

However, I recommend avoiding painting one wall with bold color while leaving the others plain white unless it’s part of a carefully thought-out design.

A better approach is to use the same color but play with different saturations for a more harmonious look.

(credits: kotiliesi.fi; quietminimal.com)

– Using Wallpaper

As I often mentioned, wallpaper has made a big comeback in recent years, and there’s now a wide variety of materials, colors, and patterns to choose from!

Using it to create an accent wall can be a fantastic idea.

It’s best not to leave the other walls white, as we saw with color.

Instead, pick one of the colors from the wallpaper design and use a desaturated version if the color is too intense.

(credits: tecnografica.net; wallsauce.com)

– Use wainscoting or molding

Another way to create visual interest and design an accent wall is by using wainscoting or molding.

Depending on your style and the message you want to convey, you can apply it to the entire wall or just part of it.

You can leave the wood trim in its natural color or paint it the same color as the wall—either way, it will add rhythm and dynamism!

(credits: tokopedia.com; houseresults.com)

– Artwork

Another quick way to create an accent wall is by using artwork, paintings, or photographs.

You can opt for a single large, impressive piece or create a gallery wall with multiple frames, maybe skillfully mixed with other objects or mirrors, if you like!

(credits: edilnet.it; Boxerjam)

Remember that a focal point doesn’t have to be a wall: it can also be an object, like a unique sofa, an eye-catching armchair, or even a significant piece of art.

Ultimately, it’s all about you, your personality, and what best represents who you are!

(credits: @kassandredekoning; Liljencrantz-Design)

3 – ENHANCE WALLS WITH WAINSCOTING AND MOLDINGS

In the previous section, I mentioned wainscoting and moldings to create an accent wall, but you can also use them to enrich all the walls in a room!

Depending on your style, you can design wainscoting or moldings that cover all four walls entirely or just halfway up, perhaps painting the lower section differently.

(credits: mrsashleyfrench.com; naturewall.com)

An option might be to install perimeter molding, possibly with LED strips, to create a dynamic interplay between the walls and ceiling.

If you have wooden baseboards, another idea is to make them more interesting by adding a small molding.

That can rest directly on the baseboard or leave a small gap between the baseboard and molding, painting everything the same color to give the appearance of a seamless design.

(credits: indiamart.com; bslstudios.com)

4 – PAY ATTENTION TO DOORS

Doors are another great way to add personality and style to your home.

I recommend avoiding completely smooth, all-white doors unless they are flush doors designed to remain almost invisible: they can feel quite cold!

You can find many textured doors with patterns and colorful designs that can change your home’s look.

If replacing them isn’t an option, consider repainting them and, why not, adding some dimensionality with moldings!

This simple upgrade can completely transform the feel of your space.

Also, look at door handles: their shape, color, and material should match your home’s style.

If not, consider replacing them for an extra touch of style.

(credits: artmarket_kz; downblisslane.com)

5 – LIGHTING

You might be almost tired of hearing me say lighting is everything in interior design!

But it’s true, so I’d rather repeat myself than leave things unsaid!

When I talk about lighting, I’m referring to three key factors:

– Good lighting for every room

As you probably know by now, a single central light isn’t enough—it might be okay for general lighting at best.

You need additional light sources to add depth and provide good visual comfort.

These light sources should also be functional for the activities taking place in each room.

For instance, under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen, a pendant light above the dining table, or a good reading lamp near a chair or sofa.

(credits: Studio design HDm2; @nestmas-StudioRemi)

– Color Temperature

The color temperature of lightbulbs will make a tremendous difference in your home, either making it cozy or not!

Avoid cold lights (above 5500 Kelvin), as they create sterile, unwelcoming environments.

You can use neutral lights (between 4000 and 5000 Kelvin) in moderation, especially for ambient lighting.

For a cozy home that feels warm, it is best to use warm lights, around 2700 Kelvin.

(credits: luxemozione.com; nomadbubbles.com)

– Types of Lamps and Chandeliers

Choosing the right light fixtures that illuminate accurately and enhance the room with that extra touch is paramount.

They should complement the rest of the decor in style, color, and/or material and be proportionate to the space!

It is not uncommon to see chandeliers that are too small.

If you must break the rule of proportion, it is better to go bigger and make the chandelier the room’s focal point!

(credits: katiehodgesdesign.com; behance.net)

6 – CURTAINS

Curtains dress a home and add warmth, so one should never overlook them to give style and personality to a space.

Exceptions are rare, like large windows with a stunning view!

There are many types of curtains, and when chosen carefully in terms of materials and colors, they can make the difference between a home that feels unfinished and a cozy and complete one.

Venetian blinds, roller blinds, Roman shades, sliding curtains, or draped ones; sheer or full coverage; single or double—it’s clear that the customization options are endless.

Curtains are also a great way to bring in color and texture, adding a lively touch that’s always welcome.

Favor natural materials like cotton, linen, and velvet; if you choose Venetian blinds, opt for wooden ones instead of plastic.

For roller blinds, consider bamboo if you don’t want fabric!

Pick something that matches the overall style and enhances it!

(credits: Alessandro Mainardi; hackrea.com)

7 – WOOD AND NATURAL ELEMENTS

Wood is a natural material that warms up any space and should never be missing in a home.

Wooden furniture can add a stylish touch to your home, and it doesn’t have to be traditional or antique; there are also ultra-modern options available if that’s your preference!

The natural colors of wood are also calming and relaxing.

If you’re not fond of wooden furniture, you can still incorporate wood using small accessories like trays or photo frames!

(credits: sinnenrausch.at; westelm.com)

You can also use wicker, perhaps with some beautiful baskets that double as storage!

These will also add style to your home.

Finally, no natural elements collection would be complete without plants!

They help give character to any room.

As always, real is better, especially considering the air-purifying qualities of some plants, but a well-made fake plant is better than none!

(credits: joyfulderivatives.com; canva)

I hope you enjoyed this article about adding style and personality to your home and found it helpful.

If so, don’t hesitate to share it with someone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get known.

If you feel that your home, or any part of it, doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer: fall in love with your place again and book your consultancy!

IMAGES NOTE:
Finding credits isn’t always easy, so if there’s any mistake and a photo is yours, and you’re not named, don’t hesitate to point it out to me, and I’ll correct it right away!

7 January 2025/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Feel like your home is depressing? Here’s what to do!

Interior designer

Your home should be the place where you recharge, relax, and feel good; but if it’s not that way, if you feel like your home is depressing and it doesn’t help you recover from the anxiety and stress that inevitably builds up throughout the day, then it’s time to take action!

Before we begin, I want to emphasize that I’m not a doctor; and I certainly don’t claim that making changes at home can cure severe, diagnosed depression.

That said, the suggestions I’ll give you certainly can’t do any harm!

– PAY ATTENTION TO COLORS

As mentioned multiple times, colors have a strong psychological impact on us!

It’s a highly discussed topic; you can find numerous books and studies about it.

If you’re generally interested, I’ve talked about it here.

In general: we can say that cool colors like blues, greens, and purples are relaxing colors, while warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows are enveloping and comforting.

As I explained in the video, each color has both positive and negative meanings, so for example, blue can be calming for one person and saddening for another!

Therefore, when choosing a color, focus not only on aesthetic preferences but also (and preferably) on how it makes you feel.

Also, remember that the same color can be more or less saturated; this, too, can change their impact on us!

Less saturated colors, leaning towards gray, are definitely more relaxing, whereas more vibrant and saturated colors will be more energizing!

(credits: marianaorsi.com.br; Enorm d’ Acheteromme)

– BRING NATURE INTO YOUR HOME

Every time I’ve talked about plants, I’ve discussed their ability to make us feel closer to nature and the capacity of many of them to purify the air.

There are numerous studies showing that plants help reduce stress and improve mood!

Furthermore, it’s equally proven that caring for plants and watching them grow helps to deal with loneliness and sadness.

In short, the benefits of having plants at home are numerous and scientifically proven!

And you know what’s great? You get these benefits even if you use artificial plants!!

I know I’ve always said it, and I’ll reiterate: proper plants are better, but if for a thousand reasons, you can’t or aren’t able to take care of live plants, then artificial ones are better than nothing!

Of course, I’m talking about good-quality artificial plants that can look real at first glance.

That somehow tricks the mind into providing the same benefits as live plants!

(credits: amdesigns.com; grace oaks designs)

– INCORPORATE NATURAL ELEMENTS

The concept is quite similar to what I discussed about plants!

Feeling connected to nature makes us feel better!

Unfortunately, the fast-paced daily life often doesn’t allow us to spend time outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, and sometimes we can’t even manage a simple promenade in the park!

That’s where bringing nature into your home becomes vital, and not just through plants!

Using natural elements like wood and stone, wicker and fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk can be a real boon!

If you have a lot of laminate furniture, it’s not like you have to replace all of it!

Think about clay pots, a wooden coffee table, wicker baskets, and throw blankets on the couch: adding these touches of nature will bring a bit of warmth to your home!

(credits: @tthese_beautiful_thingss; zara home)

– PAY ATTENTION TO CLUTTER

Clutter is an “energy drainer” and can lead to anxiety and depression!

A clean and organized home is paramount for feeling good in your space!

It is true that if you are feeling a little down, clean and tidy your house is not the first thing you would want to do!

However, it’s equally a fact that a chaotic home can bring one mood down even more, and one risks getting into a vicious cycle!

Maybe you’re not alone at home, so not everything depends on you.

In this case, I suggest starting with an area, a small corner that can become your sanctuary!

One initial step to get things in order would be to throw out items you no longer use or have no more purpose.

Clearing spaces of unnecessary things will breathe new life into your home and into you!

(credits: pinterest; jambk)

– WATCH OUT FOR SHARP EDGES

Shapes that are overly rigid and have sharp edges can subconsciously evoke feelings of anxiety.

It might sound unbelievable, but our brains perceive such shapes as dangerous, putting us in a constant state of alertness/survival.

To “soothe” the mind, it’s enough to introduce furniture and objects with curved, soft, and flowing shapes.

In fact, the return to curved forms has become an increasingly prevalent trend in recent years!

Of course, not everything needs to become curved – that’s a given – but being able to soften the environment will undoubtedly help!

It takes very little: a rounded mirror or even just a softly draped blanket over a “sharp-edged” armrest.

For furniture, doors, or windows, you can pay attention to the handles and replace them if needed.

Drapery curtains can definitely be a considerable aid for windows!

As you can see, you don’t have to change everything; a few details are enough!

When making new purchases, consider opting for items that aren’t sharp-edged to create a less rigid atmosphere!

(credits: ferm living; editionnoire.com)

– MAKE USE OF NATURAL LIGHT AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE

Natural light has positive effects on us: there are many studies about it.

In fact, populations in the northern regions, who experience darkness for several months a year, tend to have a higher tendency towards depression.

So, try to take advantage of the natural light that enters your home as much as possible!

Use light filtering blinds to avoid blocking the light, and opt for light colors on the walls to reflect it throughout the room.

You can also incorporate mirrors to amplify the light, especially if your home isn’t naturally very bright!

(credits: cityfarmhouse.com; Sarah Richardson Design)

– ATTENTION TO ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING

It’s paramount to consider the proper use of artificial lighting, both in terms of quantity and power and especially in terms of “color.”

Rooms should be illuminated appropriately based on the activity that takes place, and lighting should be as adjustable as possible in terms of intensity and color.

Let me explain: Imagine you have an open-space living area with a dining section.

When you’re having a meal, the lighting should be sufficiently strong to see your food clearly.

This light can also have a natural color temperature to maintain the true colors of the food.

However, once you move to the sofa to read or watch TV, the room should have softer illumination, and the color temperature should become warmer to promote relaxation.

If you want to learn more about lighting, I explain it here.

The same applies to the bedroom: if you’re searching for something in the closet or getting dressed, you might need slightly brighter and more natural lighting.

But if you’re in bed watching TV (though it’s better not to have it but…) or reading a book, then softer and less intense lighting is preferable.

Warm light resembles sunset hues and aids in preparing for sleep!

For this reason, it’s a great idea to have multiple light sources as well as invest in dimmable lights and bulbs that can adjust their color temperature!

(credits: Meta Design; nomadbubbles.com)

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

28 August 2023/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Home renovation? Here’s what to do!

interior design

When one buys a house, it is very likely to have to do a minimum of renovation, tending to be at least the bathroom(s), often the kitchen as well, and review the electrical system.

When facing a renovation, however, the risk is running into mistakes that will make you waste time and money, as well as bring you a lot of stress!

Today I would like to share with you some tips to succeed in your renovation and get to have the home of your dreams.

– WHAT ONE USUALLY DOES…

I know: once you buy a house, you can’t wait to do the work, furnish it to move, and live in it FINALLY.

It is normal and understandable, but precisely this rush will lead to stress, loss of time and money, and the risk of not having the desired result, above all!

What usually happens is that you buy a house, decide to redo the bathroom, maybe the kitchen, throw up a wall here, pull up a wall there, and maybe overhaul the electrical system.

So you call a constructor company, chosen, if it is good, by word of mouth, if not searched online.

You bring it into the house, explain what work you would like to do, and ask for an estimate.

Maybe you bring in other constructor companies, to get more estimates to compare, then with the same amount of work, you choose the least expensive.

And finally, it’s off to renovation!

Assuming that everything works during the renovation, this could lead to problems later in the furnishing phase.

The first is that maybe you fall in love with a piece of furniture that doesn’t fit, and it would have been better not to knock down that wall or build that other one!

Or you still miss a socket where you would have needed it, and so, then, you have to compromise!

1 – START WITH THE 360 PROJECT

Once you have bought a house, the earliest first thing to do would be a detailed project, including furnishings.

By furniture, I don’t mean knowing precisely what sofa, for example, you will want to buy.

But knowing that in that room, you will want a sofa of that size, shape, and color.

The essential is to have a clear idea of what furniture you need and how you want to place it so that it is functional for your everyday life!

You may find that that wall you wanted to tear down is better to maintain instead!

Also, by knowing exactly where you want to place the various pieces of furniture, you can put sockets and lights in a way that is actually useful and practical!

The kitchen is one of those rooms that should be studied first and carefully so that you can get the connections put in the right places.

Don’t let the connections determine what the kitchen should look like!

Once you’ve studied the furniture layout and then planned for any structural changes, it’s time to create a mood board to figure out the style and colors you want in your home.

A mood board is a sheet where you put all the pictures of the furniture and accessories you would like to have; putting it all together gives a complete view of the final result.

(If you want to know more, I’ll talk about it here.)

Of course, if you already have furniture, you will have to start with its style and colors!

The mood board will not only help in buying furniture and accessories but also when choosing materials such as doors and tiles!

2 – CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONSTRUCTOR COMPANIES

Once you have the project in mind and seen the feasibility (especially if you’re tearing down or building walls) with a surveyor or architect, you can search for the proper construction companies.

A single contractor with turnkey or individual workers? Both of these choices have pros and cons:

with a single contractor, the various workers know each other and have already worked together, and you will have a single point of contact
with individual workers, you will have lower prices, very likely; the company will not add its percentage on the various professionals. The choice, I would say, is very personal.

Having a detailed plan, whether you choose individual workers or a sole contractor, will be very helpful because you will know what type of work, what materials you want to use, how many sockets and lighting points you want, and where you want them.

It sounds like a no-brainer, but this will get you a much more accurate estimate and not be dictated well or poorly by the experience taken of similar works!

As for materials such as tiles and doors, I suggest that YOU go in search of the ones you want.

I know it can be long and maybe even boring after a while, but this will bring you two huge advantages:

you will have a wide selection, and you can touch it!
you will know with certainty the value of what you have in your home.

If you go through the construction company, you will have a much more limited choice because they will only bring you what their dealers offer them, and most importantly, you will not be sure of their actual value.

You might pay dearly for something of low quality (I speak, unfortunately, from experience! I’ll tell you about it here!)

3 – ALWAYS TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE EXTRAS

When there is a home renovation, consider that there will be extras that could not be budgeted for before.

Generally, once you have an estimate, calculate at least 10/15% more!

However, in order not to run into nasty surprises at the end of the work, with significantly higher bills, I recommend that you always get a status of the extras!

Always keep track of everything so that you always know where you are going and have the option, possibly, to give up or modify some work!

Always be aware of everything, don’t get carried away by events!

4 – WAIT TO SCHEDULE MOVING AND/OR DELIVERIES

When you ask for an estimate and start the work, you are also given an end work date…

As small as the renovation is, like you have to expect extras, keep in mind that there may be delays!

That can happen for a thousand reasons; it is part of the “game.”

If you “trust” the agreed-upon date and schedule the move and/or new furniture deliveries for that time, you are actually at risk of throwing money away.

That’s because, as just mentioned, delays are almost inevitable, and if you’ve arranged everything, you’ll have to block and organize it all over again!

Now if it goes well, it will just be a hassle time-wise with increased stress.

But if it goes wrong, you may have to pay a penalty for canceling or pay to keep the furniture in storage at the store!

Don’t be in a hurry!

I know you are looking forward to living in your new home, but haste is always the wrong counselor!

It will bring you a lot of stress, charge you more, and maybe you won’t get the result you want and deserve!

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your consultancy!

15 May 2023/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

How to always have a scented home: 6 tips

interior design

Having a scented home is very important for one’s well-being; in fact, scents, like light and colors, act on our psyche, making us feel good or not.

We experience the home with all the senses, so also with the smell, and a scented home will elevate the perception of rooms by giving them a touch of style and sophistication.

So today, I’d like to see with you some ways to keep your house smelling fresh all the time; some of them will seem obvious, but I’d prefer to mention them anyway!

1 – ALWAYS VENTILATE

That may even seem trivial as far as being obvious, but changing the air by opening windows is the most important and the easiest thing to do!

It is paramount to do this daily, perhaps in the morning when the smog is not yet too intense.

Also, do it every time you have cooked; actually, it would be a good thing to keep them just open while you are cooking, in winter if you have windows set up, you can open them to flap so that not too much cold can get in, but smells can get out.

2 – ATTENTION TO HUMIDITY

The kitchen and bathroom are the two rooms where moisture is most likely to be created:

– in the former, especially when cooking;
– in the latter, either when showering or hanging out the laundry (for the lucky ones who have laundry rooms, the moisture will be created there!).

It is essential, here too, to ventilate because humidity brings some unpleasant smell and stale air.

Another small caution is to pick up the laundry when it is fully dry because if it is even a little damp, this moisture will give the clothes an unpleasant smell instead of a good scent.

In the closets, it is also advisable to put bags of dried lavender or Marseille soap flakes, it will scent the laundry even more, and the scent will invade the room whenever you open the doors and drawers.

(credits: casa e giardino; giocandles.com)

3 – NEUTRALIZE BAD ODORS

Unfortunately, many things can leave unpleasant smells in the house; earlier, I mentioned cooking and moisture, but there are really many others: shoes, garbage, dirty dishes, and pets…

When you arrive home and take off your shoes, it is a wise idea to let them air out on the balcony for about ten minutes and then store them in shoe racks or boxes, thus preventing them from leaving odor around.

For the same reason, always taking out the garbage bags and cleaning the bins, as well as the refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machine become paramount to having a scented home.

For those who have pets, it becomes a priority to frequently clean the kennel or cage, change the sand in the litter box, and pick up the food bowls when finished because these are all things that leave unpleasant odors, you may not smell it anymore, but any guests will.

(credit: Dana Miller)

4 – CLEAN FABRICS FREQUENTLY

That may be something we pay a little less attention to, and if we change the bedclothes often, maybe we don’t do the same with bedspreads, curtains, pillow slipcovers, etc.

All fabrics you have in your home absorb odors and release them in turn!

So here is why washing curtains, blankets, pillows, slipcovers, etc., frequently becomes essential to have a home that always smells good!

That also applies to rugs and sofa covers; actually, the latter should be bought with removable covers for this very reason.

I know it is a bit tedious and time-consuming work: however, it could become a great opportunity and excuse to change the face of the house!!!

You could, in fact, having a removable sofa, take a second cover of another color or material, the same for the curtains, pillow slipcovers, blankets, bedspread, etc…

Every time you have to wash them, you could change them!

By doing so, you will not have to stay with a “bare” house due to the time of washing and drying, and precisely you will have environments that change often!

That might make this cleaning a little more fun!

(credit: marbec.it)

5 – PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND ESSENCES

There is nothing better than plants and flowers to scent the house!

Of course, we have said many times it is not always possible to have fresh flowers in the house, some do not like them, but there are some effective tricks!

The first is to have bowls of potpourri, to change frequently.

Or to create compositions of fake flowers on which to put two drops of essential oils every now and then!

For the kitchen, it will suffice to have a few jars of herbs that will give off their wonderful fragrance.

For the bathroom, I’ll give you a cheap and super effective little tip, put a few drops of essential oil inside the toilet paper roll: try it to believe!!!

(credits: littleyellowwheelbarrow.com; living.corriere.it)

6 – PERFUMERS AND CANDLES

Last but not least, use perfumers and candles!

You can find candles of all scents and shapes on the market!

That will not only smell good but also create atmosphere and give warmth to the room!

Then, of course, as just mentioned, there are also perfumers, and, again, there are many kinds.

There are burners, the terracotta ones, at the top of which you put oils that evaporate because of the candle underneath.

These, like candles, also give that extra touch because they create a little atmosphere.

Then there are essence diffusers: those that keep in the plug and the ultrasonic diffusers that give off fragrant vapor.

Finally, there are room sprays.

My advice is to keep the scents the same in the various rooms to avoid mixing too many fragrances that might then annoy!

Better to change fragrance every now and then than have different scents at the same time!

(credits:charmeandmore.it; maisons du monde)

I hope this article with tips to have a scented home was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested!

I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your advice!

31 October 2022/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Decorate home in style: 6 tips for doing it best!

interior design

Today, I would like to share with you some tips and tricks used by interior designers to decorate home with style!

A few suggestions are really very simple and usable right away in your home!

– SCALE AND PROPORTIONS

It is paramount that furniture and accessories are correctly scaled to the size of the room and in proportion to each other.

Furniture or elements that are too large will give a feeling of an overstuffed and confusing environment.

Conversely, too small will be lost, giving the feeling that something is missing.

So to furnish and decorate in style, it is really essential to measure the space and buy items with the correct size for that specific place and in relation to the rest!

(credits: artheco.it; Bronxes Studio)

– BALANCE AND SYMMETRY

Our eyes really like symmetry: it is something that subconsciously calms us!

Decorating your home in style using symmetry is undoubtedly a great thing to do…

BUT, as always, without overdoing it, because then it can get boring!

Perfect symmetry, if repeated over and over again, loses its appeal then, making the environment flat.

The key word is always BALANCE, so don’t be afraid to use asymmetry you only need to balance it visually!

Now let me explain:

If, for example, you decide to put a picture above the couch but not centered, you can balance on the other side with a beautiful floor or wall lamp.

Balancing visual weights will maintain a balance even without perfect symmetry!

The important thing is not to decorate only one side of the wall or place all the furniture in one area of the room without balancing it with something: otherwise, it will look like something is wrong.

(credits: neptune.com; Knoll)

– ATTENTION TO THE USE OF COLORS

The right or wrong use of color will make a big difference in decorating your home in style.

Color has deep psychological significance and is a fantastic ally for our homes.

You can use it on walls, furniture, and decorations, such as pictures, pillows, and vases…

Unless you want a total white or total black or total grey home, you certainly use some colors: in fact, neutrals are colors because they will have a definite undertone (actually, unless you use pure colors white, black, and gray, do too).

You can have a monochromatic home, that is, using the same color everywhere, changing the saturation and intensity: this creates rhythm and does not make everything flat.

You can also use color just in small touches, so in a room, which tends to be neutral, add a few colorful elements here and there (a pillow, an ottoman, an armchair… for example!).

Then, again, you can use different shades of this color to give that sophisticated and stylish touch.

Of course, you can also use more than one color by creating a well-thought-out color palette that allows you to have a balanced and harmonious environment.

If you are afraid to use color, proceed in small steps, with small elements first!

(credits: mooielight.com; Sean Litchfield)

– ALWAYS MAKE COMPOSITIONS IN ODD GROUPS

When making your decorations on a coffee table, a console table, the shelves, or a bookcase, always make compositions with an odd number of elements.

If you put only two elements next to each other, there will be a bit of a feeling of something incomplete; something put there somewhat randomly.

One is an odd number, so, especially on the dining or coffee table putting only one object, perhaps a vase with flowers, may be an option; the only caution will be that it be proportionate to the surface on which it is placed.

The fact remains that three is always the perfect number, although nothing prohibits making five-element compositions as well.

Small clarification, if you put books on top of each other and place an object on there, the whole thing will be considered as one element of the composition!

When making these groups, to make them attractive and sophisticated, always remember to play with different sizes, materials, colors, and finishes.

The elements should create a triangle or diagonal, as always, to give rhythm and dynamism.

Also for compositions, pay attention to the things mentioned in the previous point, namely, the proportions between the elements that make up the composition itself and this in relation to the place where it is placed!

(credits: boho-farmhouse-decor-home-tour-2020; Scout & Nimble)

– THROW PILLOWS

Throw pillows are a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to decorate your home in style.

It will also allow you to change the face of your environments whenever you want!

In fact, once you have bought different-sized and shaped interiors, you can purchase different slip-coverings that you can replace at every change of season, for example, or whenever you see fit.

The slipcovers do not take up too much space and, as just seen, allow you to renovate your home with ease.

I recommend considering throw pillows as any decorative object and so, also with them, as mentioned in the previous point, make compositions in groups of three, or at any rate, always in odd numbers on the couch or bed.

Therefore, even with throw pillows, it is good to use different sizes, colors, patterns, and textures in the composition to give some rhythm and dynamism.

Be careful how you mix patterns, keep in mind the colors, but also the scale of the designs so that each piece blends well with the other (I talk in detail about how to mix patterns here).

Avoid, unless you are in an armchair, leaving a pillow alone, it would seem to be put there a bit haphazardly!

A well-designed composition will immediately give a sophisticated and elegant effect.

(credits: Enorm d’Acheteromme; lifeoncedarlane.com)

Little Tips:

– to get pretty filled pillows, get interiors a little bigger than the covers.

– if you like to give a magazine look to your pillows, get interiors that you can shape well (not too dense, to be honest), and then once it’s pretty filled, you can karate chop it with your hand in the middle!

It is very trendy, but, actually, it gives that feeling of something more studied.

(credits: Etsy.com)

– WALL DECORATIONS

Decorating walls with style is not as easy as it looks, and mistake is really just around the corner!

On the wall, you can put mirrors, pictures, or photographs; you can put one or two pieces or a whole gallery, and, in all cases, the first thing, the most important, is to hang at the right height!

Mirror or pictures, or, better, the center of them, should be hung at eye level, being around 145 and 170 cm from the floor; it will depend on your height, of course!

If you hang the picture or mirror too high, it looks like its own thing, separate from everything else.

In the case of a composition, this measure should be taken for the center of it.

The distance between the various elements on the gallery wall is also significant, which must always be the same and is around 5 cm, both in height and sideways.

If the paintings are too close together, it will create confusion, while if they are too separate, they will look like stand-alone pieces and will not form a cohesive and harmonious composition.

(credits: etsy.com; posterstore.it)

Small cautions:

Regarding mirrors, as seen on other occasions, you can also dare to use huge mirrors, perhaps resting on the floor; they will double the light and give an incredible touch of elegance and style.

For paintings, on the other hand, I recommend avoiding buying elements mass-produced because they will not bring originality.

Of course, I understand that one cannot always afford an auteur painting, but if you look well, you might find a large number of emerging artists who have really cool and distinctive works.

Another way to have original paintings is to create them yourself: if not painting, you can use fabrics, for example… don’t limit your creativity.

The important thing, however, is to look for elements that represent you and tell who you are so that you can decorate in style, your style, your home!

(credits: Sarah Richardson Design; hepsiburada.com – Voovart)

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your advice: just contact me!

10 October 2022/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Wallpaper: how to choose?

interior design

It’s been some time now that wallpaper has been back on trend, but, as you know by now, it’s nothing like what our grandparents used!

With modern technologies, there are wallpapers of different materials which can now be adapted to any environment, even unthinkable ones such as kitchen and bathroom, even in the shower interior!

Even in terms of colors and patterns, there really is such a varied and wide choice that getting lost is a snap!

How to choose the best wallpaper?

EVALUATE THE MATERIAL

The first thing to figure out is WHERE we want to put the wallpaper; this is important to understand the most suitable material!

As I mentioned earlier, today, wallpapers are made of different materials, not only pure paper; in fact, there are also fabric wallpapers, vinyl wallpapers, fiberglass wallpapers, etc.

Depending on where the wall to be decorated is, there will be the best material:

– for example, to use wallpaper as a kitchen backsplash, the ideal is to use fiberglass one, in the bathroom, and even in the shower vinyl or PVC paper will be suitable.

– in all other rooms that do not have as much humidity and thermal stress, all kinds of paper will do, although perhaps the best is a nonwoven paper composed of fabric and vinyl, making this paper durable, washable, and also very pleasant to the touch.

(credits: wallsauce.com; Lime Lace)

(credits: london-art-naiadi-wallpaper; Jenn Feldman)

ATTENTION TO THE CONFIGURATION OF THE ROOMS

For the correct choice of paper, it will be essential to consider the condition of the room where you want to put the wallpaper.

Patterns, especially, should also be chosen according to the size and lighting conditions of the room.

For example, if the room is small, better to use wallpapers with light contrasts and designs that are not too small to avoid over-saturating.

You could even dare with decidedly oversize patterns because that also tricks the eye and makes you perceive larger spaces.

In small spaces also better not to put the paper on all four walls.

The thing that actually, I personally advise against regardless, is to avoid “trivializing” the choice of wallpaper, but mainly because the eye also needs solid colors to rest!

However, it is clear that, in huge environments, you can dare a little more!

(credits: archiproducts; cartadaparatiartistica.com)

For the other walls, you can use colors similar to the paper ones to harmonize it better or neutral and simple colors to enhance it more.

Wallpaper is a great way to emphasize a wall, and create a focal point, so choose the most important wall in the room, the one where you want to draw the eye!

N.B. the focal point doesn’t have to be the wall…it could also be the ceiling!!!

That would undoubtedly give a strong personality to the environment!

(credits: wdesigncollective.com; Magnolia Network)

FOLLOW THE STYLE

Having figured out the best material, the room configuration, and on which wall (or ceiling) to put the paper, you can choose colors and patterns!

Wallpaper is a piece of furniture in its own right; it must coexist with the rest harmoniously.

Then it will be necessary to look for papers with colors included in the palette selected for the house and from the patterns that can enhance the chosen style.

For colors, the “rules” for choosing solid colors apply, so in addition to referring to the palette, it will be based on the feelings you want to experience.

Light-colored papers will visually enlarge spaces, while dark ones will create more intimate environments.

You can also combine it with the other elements using the color wheel and its various combinations (I’m talking in detail about this here).

(credits: wallpaperdirect.com; cutewallpaper.org)

As mentioned earlier, for these reasons, it will be paramount to look for something that enhances the style you choose and can perfectly complement your type of decor.

In general:

– Black and white papers fit well or poorly with all styles and match any floor easily

(credits: estahome.it; uwall.it)

– Geometric wallpapers combine well with modern and contemporary style

(credits: ebay.com)

– jungle-style cards go well or poorly with all styles, even maybe it may sound strange to you!

(credits: artofit.org; tecnografica.net)

– Damask and floral cards give a retro and romantic touch.

(credits: nattyandpolly.com.au; leroymerlin)

I recommend you to think carefully about your choice so that you don’t have to get bored soon, and by the same token, get something you love madly!

(credits: mobilipolizzidesign.it; sancarwallcoverings.com)

WARNING…

If you decide to use wallpaper in your home, as always, I recommend not to overdo it; not only is it better not to paper all four walls, but it is also good to avoid putting it in every room of the house.

That is because otherwise, this choice will become less distinctive and original!

Also, if you choose striking patterns, don’t repeat them too often because instead of characterizing the environment, they can annoy the eye.

(credits: stan-concept.com; bricoflor.it)

Many brands study custom designs so that the pattern is proportionate and in scale to the size of not only the wall but also the rest of the room.

Finally, I recommend not skimping on choosing suitable wallpaper; if you choose low-quality materials, it will be ruined soon!

If you want to make the investment, do it well by choosing the most suitable material!

(credits: tecnografica.net; edilcomes.com)

I hope this article was helpful and you loved it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your advice: just contact me!

3 October 2022/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Bed headboard, 8 different possible choices

interior design

A defining element in the bedroom is the headboard because it somehow determines the style and mood of the whole room.

I have already covered the topic of the bedroom with tips on how to decorate it in general and how to decorate the bed wall in particular; today, I would like to focus on this detail, which can actually make a real difference!

Of course, there are bed frames that already feature a headboard, and honestly, you can really find all kinds and tastes of them.

But, if you are an imaginative person and want to customize the headboard to your liking, you can do so, just buy a sommier bed, that is, a bed that has only the base!

Let’s now see some types of headboards to choose from!

1 – WOODEN

Wood is a versatile and, if desired, low-cost material for a headboard.

The easiest solution is to use wooden planks vertically or horizontally!

(credit: shop8.onlinestoresoutlet.ru; colorsandcraft.com)

You can use bamboo rods or thin logs, or even, you can use pellet pallets.

With pallets, you could also create side niches using their thickness.

(credit: booking residence-capraggia.de; shop04004.shadrychant.com)

In all cases, you can leave the wood raw, pickle it for a shabby style, or stain it with the colors you have chosen as a palette.

You could also make a low boiserie that takes the length of the wall, or even, for an original idea, you could think of using one or two old doors!

(credit: mondadori editore; var-dags-rum)

2 – PADDED

You can find pre-made ones on the market, you can have it made by an upholsterer, but if you want to, you could make it yourself by creating something really unique!

All you need to do on your own is a wooden panel, some foam, and the fabric you like.

You can make it smooth for a more modern room, but if you have craftsmanship, you can also do some work like the quilted effect for a classic bed!

(credit: Holms Homes; overstock)

It must be well-padded for a more elegant and refined effect.

You can choose a headboard in fabric, velvet, as well as leather, or faux leather for a more impactful effect!

There are also modular panels and modules on the market for a unique and original bed headboard!

If you like, you could even cover the whole wall with these modular modules!

(credit: archiproduct.com; Alessandra Fedorova)

3 – WITH CUSHIONS

If a fully padded headboard seems too much, but you like the idea of something soft, you might want to think about hanging pillows!

They will be cushions (two separate ones or a single one doesn’t matter) with large loops to be stuffed into a rod and hung on the wall!

The rod can be a simple curtain pole and can be of wood or metal: the important thing is that it is at least as long as the bed.

(credit: @sarahmontgomerydesign; drom living)

4 – WROUGHT IRON

It is not mandatory to have the entire wrought iron structure: you can only have the headboard!

Here too, there is plenty of choices, from simple and linear headboards to very elaborate ones.

You can also have a padded wrought iron headboard or attach cushions to it, to maintain the charm of the iron as well as the comfort of the padding!

(credit: cosatto; aliexpress)

5 – MASONRY

It is possible to create a small counter-wall, in masonry or plasterboard, which can be as long as the wall, or just a little wider than the bed, at the desired height.

In this counter wall, you can make niches that can act as bedside tables.

If this wall is high enough, you could think of a long niche at the top.

(credit: Jover Construcciones; @vevamall)

Finally, the thickness of this wall will serve as a shelf to rest what you prefer, from decorative objects to lamps!

Of course, these niches can also be illuminated, thus creating a bit of play and atmosphere.

(credit: estudiomatmata.es; Ons Haarlemse Huisje)

6 – WITH FURNITURE

Do you like the idea I gave you before but don’t want to do the masonry work? You can use a piece of furniture!

It can be a low, perhaps modular bookcase: you would always have the top shelf and space to use as a nightstand, actually freeing up space near the bed.

(credit: iStock; uoifa.com)

7 – DRAWN

Why not draw it? Nowhere is it written that the headboard must be something physical!

If you are an original person, you can draw a headboard of the shape and size you want: using stickers or washi tape.

(credit: clemaroundthecorner.com; audreysjl)

This solution would allow you to change the headboard whenever you want, just detach the tape and create a new one.

You can use the stencil and, again, give your headboard the shape you want or just use color blocking!

(credit: Sarah Cooper; historiasdecasa.com.br)

8 – WITH TILES

That is not a solution you often see, but you can also make the headboard of your bed with ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware, the same used for the coatings of bathrooms and kitchens.

Like the masonry option, this is a more “invasive” and, I dare say, definitive solution, but also of considerable scenographic impact.

The modularity and various tile sizes allow you to create a wide variety of wall designs.

Here you can really give space to your imagination!

A not insignificant advantage of this solution is that it is really easy to clean, thus being very hygienic!

(credit: beriestain.com; Patchwork Harmony)

Which of these ideas did you like the most? Let me know in the comments!!!

Whichever type of headboard you choose, remember that for a regal and distinctive look of the bed and the room in general, the headboard will have to be huge!

I hope this article was helpful and you enjoyed it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share the article with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored and it will help me get my name out there.

And if you need advice for your home, do not hesitate to contact me!

18 July 2022/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Furnishing a small house? the 5 common mistakes to avoid!

interior design, Interior designer

Furnishing a small house is actually a challenge, but it can be done with a little bit of cleverness and attention.

There are at least five general common mistakes made when furnishing a small house, and I’d like to discuss them in this article, giving you some tips and tricks to avoid or fix them!

Ready? Let’s see them together:

1 – DARK AND HEAVY FURNITURE

One of the most common mistakes is using heavy and dark furniture.

Furniture with substantial, solid structures and dark colors visually shrinks the spaces, making them feel a bit suffocating!

It’s better to avoid them by opting for furniture with light profiles, such as chairs and tables with thin legs.

Try to choose furnishing elements through which you can see the structure; this is a trick to deceive the mind: if you can see the space beyond a piece of furniture or an accessory, it will seem like the environment is larger!

Additionally, lighter furnishings will make the environment feel more airy, elegant, and, therefore, more pleasant!

So, NO to bulky, heavy, and dark furniture, and YES to ones with light, open, and bright structures!

(credits: moebel.ladendirekt.de; lago.it)

(credits: Room & Board; hackrea.com)

2 – SMALL RUGS

Another general common mistake is opting for a small rug; this never works well, not even in a large house, but it becomes detrimental in a small one.

A small rug will give the impression of a smaller space because it creates boundaries.

That will cause the mind to be somehow drawn to those boundaries, separating the part of the rug from everything else.

The rug should be large enough to enclose, contain the furnishings, or at least be under the front legs of the furniture.

That will show fewer edges of the rug and, consequently, fewer boundaries!

So, NO to small rugs (it’s better not to have them at all); YES to large rugs that go under the furniture!

(credits: rugsusa.com; Margaret Boatner)

3 – DIFFERENT AND CONTRASTING FLOORING

Having different floors with strongly contrasting colors is another classic mistake.

Contrast is a fundamental element in interior design, but it must be used wisely!

Different and contrasting floors are great when you need to visually divide an ample space containing two functionalities, such, for example, as an open-plan area with a kitchen and living room.

But in a small space, it’s somewhat similar to the principle we just discussed with rugs: different floors with different and contrasting colors create boundaries and visually shrink the space.

When space is limited, uniformity is crucial, so if you want to use two different floors, choose ones with the same tone.

The transition from one floor to another will be subtle, making the various zones feel like a single, larger space!

For this reason, where there are rugs, it would be ideal for them, besides being large, to have the same tones as the floor.

You’ll notice the different textures, but you won’t see barriers that sharply divide the space into diverse areas!

So, NO to great contrasts on floors, YES to uniformity; it’s okay to change textures, but try to maintain the same tones as much as possible!

(credits: progressprofiles.com; materiesuperficiarredo.it)

4 – FAILURE TO PLAN THE SPACE

Not planning the spaces when furnishing is a common mistake, but it becomes particularly noticeable when space is limited!

It’s crucial to make, in small environments, the most of the space according to your lifestyle.

So, every time you want to buy something, ask yourself:

– How do you use that space?

– Who lives there?

– What are your real needs?

That is essential to buy only what is necessary to make your spaces functional and efficient.

Let me give you an example: if two people live in a small house, there’s no need to get a 3-seater sofa or a sectional; a comfortable 2-seater sofa will suffice, along with maybe some extra seating that can be used near the table when you have guests!

Of course, you’ll need to ensure that all elements harmonize with each other for stunning spaces!

Multifunctional elements are essential for furnishing a small house:

– As in the previous example, a seating option that can serve as a relaxation spot near the sofa but also be used as a chair near the dining table when needed.

– A coffee table that transforms into a dining table;

– A pouf that doubles as a coffee table or storage unit;

These elements allow you to need fewer items and have more free space!

So, NO to furniture chosen just because you like it, YES to planning the spaces according to your needs.

(credits: graziademonte.com; instagram.comp60U_nKM-AFtaken-by=jackieruedaphotography)

5 – USING ONLY FLOOR SPACE

Yet another common mistake is using only the floor area, but the space is three-dimensional, and in small environments, we really need to take advantage of every available surface.

So, walls, but also ceilings where possible!

Think vertically, perhaps with shelves or wall-mounted furniture as storage space; in the kitchen, you could consider attaching a fold-down table instead of a traditional one.

Use wall lights instead of floor lamps: you’ll properly illuminate while leaving more floor space.

Of course, pendant lights, but you can also consider hanging a seat from the ceiling or lowering it to create additional storage space if the height allows it!

Even plants, instead of placing them on the floor, you could consider hanging them.

Thinking vertically will allow you to have everything you like and desire in your home without cluttering the floor and enabling better use of space.

You’ll thus have a functional home for your lifestyle, but also beautiful and, above all, comfortable!

So, NO to everything resting on the floor, YES to unleashing your creativity by making the most of every available surface!

(credit: carousell.sgpbohemian; elle.se Johanna-bradford)

I hope this article about furnishing a small house has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

If you’d like, here are some more small tricks to make the most out of living in a small apartment!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

10 May 2021/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

10 tips to make your home look more “luxurious”

interior design, Interior designer

The idea of having a luxurious home appeals to everyone, no doubt, but it is also a fact that you cannot always afford to spend large prices on furnishing.

However, some little tricks will allow you to have a home that looks more luxurious and perhaps designed by an expert!

Let’s look at them together:

1 – WALLPAPER

No, don’t think about the wallpapers our grandparents had! There are all kinds and for all tastes on the market today!

(credit coverdesign.it)

Without necessarily opting for the super-colored ones (which should not be banned, we’d miss it), think of a neutral color, but one that carries different textures.

(credit demart.it)

It is not mandatory to cover all four walls: you can also do just an accent wall or a bookcase background.

The visual impact of the wallpaper is powerful and immediately gives the idea of something sophisticated and elegant.

2 – BOISERIE and MOLDING

We saw it in the 2021 trends, and again, it has nothing to do with what our grandparents had.

However, adding details like these means bringing in textures, but most importantly, that touch of elegance!

These elements create visual interest and immediately make the room look “richer.”

(credit it.decorexpro.com)

Again it is not mandatory to use it, as with wallpaper, on all four walls, but you could use it in only one that will become the room’s focal point!

Beware that this kind of decoration is suitable for classic style but also a modern and contemporary style!

3 – CHANDELIERS

Chandeliers are items that can enhance the aesthetics of a room if properly chosen and placed.

The chandelier usually makes the ambient light, but if properly placed above the table or on the island, it will indeed help create a focal point by emphasizing that specific area.

(credit Nicole Franzen; zephyrandstone.com.au; roeserhomes.com)

Depending on the chandelier you choose, you will undoubtedly add a touch of personality and style.

Always consider, when choosing, the colors, style, and materials you have chosen for the walls, furniture, and accessories!

Try to create cohesion with the other elements in the house!

When the chandelier falls on a rectangular table, remember to get it lengthwise or put more than one so that you can suitably illuminate everything!

(credit Pinterest; Poliform; Pinterest)

4 – ACCENT SEATING

We often have the habit of buying sofas and armchairs in agreement; however, putting an armchair or seats with contrasting shapes, materials, and colors with the couch will give the room a different, more luxurious perception.

Doing this is also a great way to bring a touch of color and different textures to that room and, thus, effectively break the monotony and make it more interesting!

The room will look more elegant, sophisticated, and studied!

(credit villa Bellaria umbria Ph Kristian Septimius Krogh)

If the seating is totally different from the sofa, remember to “justify” it, perhaps by picking the color in the pillows, pictures, or other decorative objects.

That will make the environment harmonious!

You can find many different seats on the market and at all prices; what they have in common, as mentioned before, is that they will give emphasis and character to any room!

(credit Ikea)

5 – PILLOWS

Pillows are another beautiful way to bring in textures and colors.

Putting a couple of pillows on the sofa that, as written a few lines ago, recall the different seat, or some color present in the decorations, will give a sense of harmony and keep everything well balanced.

(credit Pinterest; halfwaywholeistic.com; Pinterest)

Putting pillows on the bed is also a good idea; you can place them in various ways, creating beautiful compositions.

That will give importance and elegance to the bed.

(credit Vivere lo stile; Brittany Niemer; Etsy)

Taking off and putting on pillows every day takes a little time, of course, but it is an investment that the final result will amply repay!

6 – CURTAINS

Curtains dress the home, bringing, too, textures and colors.

They bring warmth and elegance.

A pretty rod anchored high up, just below the ceiling, and soft, well-draped curtains that come to lean on the floor will make any room look decidedly more sumptuous.

(credit interiordesignexplained.com)

It is not mandatory to have highly pricey curtains: even at Ikea, you can find beautiful low-cost ones, but the dramatic effect they give is really unique.

(credit alexanderpollock.com.au)

If space allows, you can put drapery curtains also in the bathroom and kitchen, giving elegance and that extra touch to those two rooms as well!

7 – MIRRORS

The mirror is functional for reflecting oneself, but it is also an object that stands out in any room.

Properly placed, it amplifies light and can even give the illusion of a larger space than it actually is!

(credit Tomasella.it)

Spaces seem to flow better because its ability to reflect creates a kind of continuity, but most importantly, it provides a focal point that draws attention and enhances the room.

Mirrors resting on the floor, uniquely shaped mirrors will be able to give that extra touch of character and style!

(credit Living-corriere)

8) USE SYMMETRY

The human mind needs balance, and symmetry is a form of it.

When you furnish and decorate, try to create symmetries; you don’t have to do it all the time: it might even be boring after a while, but for example, putting two equal table lamps at the ends of the console could be one way.

(credit sarahshermansamuel.com)

Using symmetry with objects or some furniture will immediately give the impression of something definitely researched.

(credit callastudio.com)

9 – ATTENTION TO DETAILS

Details can change the face of rooms: so pay attention to finishes such as handles or faucets!

(credit Franke; Frattini; gaiainterni.com)

I have already spoken about this in a previous video, but the same kitchen, sink, or cabinet with different faucets and handles will give different impressions!

On the market, you find endless variations of materials and shapes, both as faucets and handles and at all prices, but these are details that can actually make a difference and make your home feel more luxurious!

(credit Ikea; Gucki; Ikea)

They are easily changeable elements that, correctly chosen, can give your home a touch of elegance and style.

10 – PLANTS AND FRESH FLOWERS

Plants bring color and textures into the home, and fresh flowers bring fragrance; all of these things elevate our perception of the ambiance.

Plants, as mentioned other times, bring us back to nature, allowing us to feel better; in particular, the scent of fresh flowers helps lower anxiety.

(credit @homepolish)

So plants and flowers have a dual function: they bring beauty, elegance, and well-being too!

Orchids, lavender, eucalyptus, and gardenia add a touch of elegance and a pleasant scent to any room!

If you don’t like cut flowers, you can also bring fragrance with candles and diffusers; those will also be very effective in enhancing environments.

Avoid fake plants and flowers except for the occasional small arrangement here and there!

Then if, like me, you’re not exactly a green thumb, know that there are very easy-to-care-for plants that are “big talkers,” as Simona Borgia, the urban gardener, says in this video!

One more note, it seems almost silly to say, but clutter is really the opposite of luxury!

So everything must be suitably stored and nothing out of place!

The clutter otherwise could ruin all the study and work done!

I hope this article was helpful and you love it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

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25 January 2021/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet

Living in a Mansard: 4 suggestions to furnish it at best!

interior design

How to furnish a mansard?

Living in a mansard has a certain charm because of its unusual shape, but for the same reason, decorating it is not so easy!

Today let’s see together some tips and tricks to make attic rooms comfortable!

Before we get into today’s topic, let’s make a little history: the mansard and this term come from the French word “mansarde,” which in turn comes from the name of the architect François Mansart (1598-1666) who first designed this type of housing.

There are pros and cons to having a mansard room or apartment

Pros:

– it is an original and striking environment because of the sloping ceilings, often with exposed beams;

– thanks to the skylights, it tends to be a bright environment;

– with a bit of imagination, you will be able to find unusual settings not found in “normal” apartments.

Cons:

– it is not easy to find suitable furniture in stores;

– you have to be more careful about the climate and relative temperatures.

The roof is definitely exposed, and the risk is to have a room or house very hot in summer and very cold in winter;

– despite having a large floor plan, it might look small, having areas perhaps not walkable!

With good design, however, these cons can be, if not eliminated, at least curbed!

What makes particular a mansard is the difference in heights within it, which can be very different, making a furnishing project more or less difficult!

(credit fantasticfrank.se)

There are mansards that at their lowest point reach 2 meters and definitely make the task of furnishing it easier.

But there are also mansards that perhaps barely reach a meter in height and complicate things a little.

In this case, figuring out how to furnish the attic flat becomes more complicated but not impossible!

Speaking of heights, I make a very small digression: if you have an attic and would like to make it an apartment, you should know that there are very strict regulations to make that space habitable.

These regulations mainly concern heights (but not only), more precisely, the average height between the highest and the lowest point.

They vary from region to region, so I recommend contacting a technician who can give you the correct guidance!

Back to us, let’s look at some ideas that can help you better understand how to furnish a mansard!

1) CORRECTLY MATCH ROOMS TO HEIGHTS.

That is, put the rooms in the right place!

By this, I mean placing in the highest areas those rooms where you are often standing, like the kitchen or the bathroom.

(credit. architecturebeast.com) (credit arch.Claude Petarlin)

In the lower areas, on the other hand, you can put, for example, the living room (especially the sofa area) or the bedroom…

(credit Westwing) (Christian Schaulin tramite Elle.com)

That may create an irregular floor plan, but, after all, this is another thing that gives charm to this type of housing!

2) USE CUSTOM-MADE FURNITURE

Here more than ever, making the best use of space is vital!

As we have seen among the cons of this type of housing, it will not be easy to find suitable furniture in traditional stores.

Therefore, it will be necessary to create custom-made furniture and carve out cabinets and storage in the lower areas that you could not otherwise exploit!

(credit Archon) (credit vtwonen)

The cons turn into pros because you will have unique and original furniture designed not only for the conformity of the room but precisely for your needs!

3) ATTENTION TO LIGHT

These rooms should be very bright, as always natural light is preferred.

If it is a room, skylights will be okay, but if it is an entire apartment, it is good to have vertical windows and maybe, at least, a small veranda!

(credit Arch. Bartolucci)

That will allow a glimpse of the outside the risk, otherwise is to feel a bit stuffy!

As for artificial lighting, however, some tricks will improve living comfort:

– light from below and above, especially if you have a wooden roof!

– be careful with chandeliers except in the highest areas!

While passing under them without problems, the chandelier is still a bulky element that creates a visual “barrier” that will optically shrink spaces.

Electrified rails, adjustable spotlights, sconces, and LED strips will allow you to bring light where you want it with little clutter.

(credit menzoarchitetto.it)

(if you are interested I talk about lighting in general here)

4) ATTENTION TO COLORS!

If the mansard is very low-lying, the ideal is to use light and bright colors, at least as a base.

That will optically expand the spaces giving more breathing room.

If you want to use it, the color will be good in the furniture, accessories, and textiles.

(credit dodk.net)

On the other hand, if the mansard is high, you can dare a little more by coloring some walls too.

In this case, do it in the brightest parts of the house and avoid too dark colors.

(credit cristinavelani.com)

If you have a wooden ceiling and want to keep it that way, keep more neutral colors for the walls; so you don’t risk weighing the environment down.

You can think of whitewashing the wooden ceiling to give it more breathing room, all or part of it; for example, if you have beams, you can decide to whitewash the battens between the beams while keeping them unchanged.

(credit Architettura & Urbanistica Sigurtà) (credit Living corriere)

These 4 tips are the basics that will help you better understand how to decorate your mansard, but if you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to write in the comments so I can better help you!

I hope the article on how to furnish a mansard was helpful and you loved it; in case, let me know in the comments!

If you need any help just contact me!

28 September 2020/0 Comments/by Virginie Simonet