Author: Ann Little

Affordable Elegance for Your Interiors

When it comes to interior design, creating a luxurious and stylish home doesn’t always need a big budget. With the right approach and carefully curated pieces, it’s possible to achieve a luxe look. As experienced interior designers, we have a wealth of knowledge about where to source items that cater to a variety of budgets.

From statement side tables to soft furnishings, each element plays a key role in creating that high-end feel. Read on and find out how you can add elegance and sophistication to your home.

Side tables

Side tables are more than just functional pieces; they can add elegance and style to any room. Whether you opt for a sleek marble top or a minimalist metallic frame, a well-chosen side table can instantly elevate a space. They’re perfect for balancing the room while providing a platform for decorative accents.

Our picks:

The Kingston Side Table in white marble from Cult is stunning. The elements of marble and brass, combined in the striking design, can’t fail to wow. A golden finish will always add a touch of luxury to a room, and the Rui Metal Side Table from Sklum does this perfectly.

Lamps

Lighting is essential to creating a luxurious atmosphere, and table lamps can do wonders for adding warmth to a room. Look for designs that feature interesting shapes, finishes like brass or gold, and high-quality shades. A pair of stylish lamps can transform your space into something that feels high-end, even if the pieces themselves are budget-friendly.

The mango wood sculpted lamp from Graham & Green  brings a touch of nature with its natural finish. Also from Graham & Green, the Salma Matte Black Table Lamp is a sculptural beauty, that would work wonderfully in a monochromatic colour scheme.

Rugs

A beautiful rug can anchor your room, providing both comfort and style. Opt for textured rugs, such as plush wool or soft jute, to add a rich, tactile element. Larger rugs or layered rugs are especially effective in making a room feel grander and more luxurious.

The geometric pattern on the Roxy Black and White Rug from Rugvista brings interest to a room, and could be used to complement blacks, whites and greys, or to contrast bold colours. The bold designs of the Abstract Curving Pattern Rug from La Redoute adds texture and detail to a room, and, made from wool, it feels sumptious underfoot.

Art

Art is a powerful way to inject personality into a space while also giving it a refined, gallery-like feel. You don’t need to splurge on original pieces—affordable prints, well-framed photography, or even DIY art can create the same high-end impact. The right artwork, whether bold or minimalist, can transform a blank wall into a focal point.

Green Canvas Part 2 from The House Outfit is a lovely print, available in a variety of sizes, and, when paired with a frame that complements your colour scheme can make a real statement. High street retailers shouldn’t be underestimated when it comes to interior design. The Green Geometric Abstract Framed Print from Dunelm features artwork from AnthologieUK and comes ready to hang.

Knobs, Handles and Hardware

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to give your home a luxury upgrade is by switching out old hardware. Sleek brass, matte black, or polished nickel handles and knobs can make cabinets and furniture feel instantly more expensive. It’s all in the details, and hardware can make a surprising difference in the overall aesthetic.

Coming in a variety of finishes, the Kepler Knurled T-Bar Handles from Plank Hardware can transform the look of cupboards and cabinet. We favour the fabulous brass finish. For something extra special, we love the Small Solid Brass Striped Half Moon Handles in Gold from Pushka Home.

Soft furnishings

Nothing says luxury like layers of soft, sumptuous fabrics. Cushions, throws, and covers are the perfect way to add texture, colour, and warmth to any room. Mix and match velvet, silk, and faux fur for a rich, inviting feel. Best of all, these items are easy to switch up for the seasons or when you want to refresh your decor.

These French Flax Linen Scalloped European Pillowcases from Bed Threads come in a variety of colours – we love the sage and olive – and would add a little flair to any bed. You can achieve a similar look for your sofas with the Linen-Blend Cushion Cover from H&M with it’s black scalloped edges contrasting against the cream. The Onega x Velvet Cushion Cover from La Redoute is something a little different combining the natural linen with an elegant velvet.

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Embracing Black in Interior Design

When most people think of black in interior design, they envisage dark, gloomy spaces that feel small and uninviting. But that’s a myth! Black can add depth, sophistication and a modern edge to your home when used thoughtfully. We’re going to help you achieve that and showcase a recent client project where we’ve put it into practice.

Once thought to make spaces feel confined and dark, black is now recognised for its ability to add depth and drama. Due to its recent popularity, there is a wider variety of ways to use black with most suppliers now offering black in their ranges.

Black can frame architectural details or artwork bringing focus and clarity to a space adding a tonal punch to an otherwise neutral wall.

Black is used here to frame the window and the picture which adds interest to what might otherwise feel like a bland wall. Picking out black elements in the cushions brings cohesion across all elements of the room.

We aren’t suggesting that rooms are decorated entirely using black floor to ceiling, as that would be too intense and overwhelming, however if you have a high-ceilinged room, a black ceiling can really draw your eye up and make a feature out of the area, which when paired with other tones and finishes is really impactful.

Black works well with soft neutral colours such as whites, beiges and greys, although it is versatile enough to work with virtually any palette. You can use it within a monochromatic scheme, or make bold pairings with a jewel tone, such as emerald green or topaz yellow, or metallic finishes.

How to Use Black in Your Design

While we have given you an overview of black within interior design, here are some ways you can realise the stunning effect of black in your home.

  1. Pair with soft natural finishes such as brick or plaster to create a softer pallette
Using black on the window wall prevents any overwhelm, and it gives a great contrast against the natural stone of the brickwork. Pops of colour with the gold cabinet and pot plants work brilliantly, and it provides a stunning backdrop for this room.

2. Pair Black with Light Colours 

Combine black with light neutrals like whites, beige, or soft greys to prevent the room from feeling too dark. This contrast makes both the black and lighter colours stand out, giving the room a balanced and modern look.

This is a perfect example of how black can work with a neutral colour pairing.

3. Incorporate Different Textures 

Use a mix of textures, such as matte black finishes, glossy surfaces, or natural materials like wood and stone. Varying textures will add depth and interest, making black feel more dynamic and less flat.

The openness of the mezzanine allowed us to bring together different spaces, elements, colours and features. Having a glossy finish on the black floor ensures that the space retains its light and airiness.

4. Use Black as a Frame for Spaces 

We have used black to frame the light fixtures in the kitchen. This ensures that these stunning pendants are a focal point, and work with the kitchen bar to create separate cooking and dining areas.

A more traditionally styled piece of furniture (or in this case, a shaker style kitchen), when chosen in black can take on a whole new contemporary feel, and the balance of traditional lines and contemporary black tones is a visually interesting mix.     

5. Pay Attention to Lighting 

Ensure the room has ample natural or artificial lighting when using black. The correct lighting will prevent black from making a room feel too closed in, and instead, it can enhance the drama and elegance of the space.

Lighting and natural light are key to keeping a light and airy feel when using black in your colour scheme. We’ve enhanced the light in this hallway with a stunning, bespoke mirrored wall.

6. Incorporate Black in Small Details 

 If you’re not ready for large doses of black, start with small accents like black picture frames, light fixtures, or hardware. These subtle touches can elevate a room’s style without committing to large, bold areas of black.

Small elements of black can be picked out here in the table legs, picture frame and cushion pattern. These create a cohesive look, but the standout colour in this room comes from the rich emerald green chairs.

7. Mix Black with Metallic Accents 

Pair black with metallic elements such as matt or antiqued brass to add a sense of luxury and warmth.

Don’t think that bathrooms have to be white and boring! The black tiles look fantastic here, and the brass of the basin frame stands out against the black and really pops in the space.

Black may seem like a daring choice, but when used strategically, it can completely transform your space. Whether you opt for a subtle touch or a statement piece, incorporating black into your interior design can add a modern, chic edge that’s both on-trend and timeless.

We loved working on this project, and you can see the full gallery here, and if you want to know more about the project, including some before photos, see how it progressed here.  

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Designing a Bedroom Oasis

Family life is full of hustle and bustle! At this time of year, when the new school year starts, thoughts and ideas often focus on the children. Where will they do their homework? How can we fit in more storage space? Let’s create a designated play area! But what about the parents? In a busy life, we want to help you create a sanctuary to relax in, rejuvenating you after a day of being on the go. Let’s dive in and see how a calm and peaceful bedroom can be created.

Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

  • Your colour palette: opt for a warm neutrals. We particularly like Farrow and Ball lighter neutrals like Slipper Satin and Shadow White, along with slightly darker neutrals like Stony Ground or Drop Cloth. These give a warm and cocooning effect.
  • Use your lighting: soft, ambient lighting such as table lamps or a dimmable ceiling light combined with task lighting, such as a reading lamp, can create a serene environment.
  • Introduce textiles: cosy blankets, plush rugs and high thread-count bed linen give a touch of luxe whilst making the room comfortable and adding to the relaxation potential.

The Mangliano Linen Sheer Curtain from La Redoute brings in soft, neutral colours in a lovely way. Whilst this won’t shut out the light, it will filter it and offer a gentle, warming effect. It would look beautiful hung across your window, alternatively, you could hang it around your bed for a sumptuous feel.

A great way to bring a soft feel to your bedroom, especially if you have wooden floors, is with this gorgeous Fur Rug from Benuta which does the job perfectly. Its softness and texture, in a gentle beige, add to the calming finish.

The Hannasta Oak and Opaline  Globe Table Lamp from La Redoute gives us the soft glow we desire, but with the bulb concealed it is also a minimalist sculptural piece for the room.  

The Linot Plain Linen Duvet Cover from La Radoute is a great example of a warm, neutral colour, and the natural feel of the linen adds to the overall effect.

Optimise the functionality and flow

  • Bed placement: where possible position the bed to be the focal point of the room, away from the door but with a clear view of it. This creates a sense of security and control.
  • Bedside storage: ensure that each side of the bed has a nightstand, table or shelf for your essentials. A drawer or cupboard where you can store your tech devices is a bonus.

We love the Izzy Curved Rattan Bedside Table from Daals. The natural finish, soft corners and rounded legs complement the style that we are working towards.

If you have the space to incorporate seating in your bedroom then we urge you to do so. It will give you an additional space to relax, and it can bring in more colour and textural aspects to support the theme that you trying to achieve. We love the Dylan Linen Bench from Graham and Green and the Curved Cream Snug Footstool from Rockett St George.

Personalise the Décor

  • Choose artwork of personal photos that evoke positive emotions, and that contribute to the room’s calming atmosphere. Choose frames that complement the colour scheme for cohesion throughout the design.
  • Reflect your personal style in the room. A great way to do this is through accessories and soft furnishings such as throw pillows, a favourite bed cover or ornaments.

We love the Hekatos Embossed Paper Frames from La Redoute. They add interest and texture to the room, and as a set of 6 can have quite an impact.

For a truly unique finish to your room, we recommend that you use Royal Silk from Primacol Decorative. This is no ordinary paint, and by using it you can create an elegant and sophisticated effect, which is velvety to the touch and available in a variety of colours from light hues to darker tones.

Additional tips

  • Invest in high-quality mattresses and pillows that suit your sleeping style. A high level of comfort will improve your sleep.
  • Soft furnishings such as curtains and rugs can help absorb sound to create a quieter, and more peaceful, environment.
  • Add wood for warmth, and soft shapes and natural textures
  • For privacy, ensure your windows have adequate coverings.
  • Add indoor plants for a touch of nature and to improve the air quality.

Designing a bedroom that offers a serene retreat amidst a busy family life requires some thought and planning, but it is worth it for its calming effect. By creating a relaxing atmosphere, using smart storage and prioritising personal comfort, you can put together a space that promotes relaxation and enhances your well-being. A sanctuary to escape the daily demands and to recharge.

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Upcycling: The Eco-Friendly Design Feature

Upcycling has been around for a while, but in a world where impact on the environment is becoming a bigger priority to people, it is increasing in popularity. Not to mention that it can be a cost-effective way to add a personal and unique to your home.

We’re taking this opportunity to help you decide whether upcycling is for you.

While recycling breaks items down to produce raw materials, upcycling is more creative, and doesn’t involve breaking it down, but rather reimagining it for a new lease of life. Upcycling’s roots are in the practice of resourcefulness, and is now fuelled by environmental awareness.

Re-using furniture in this way reduces waste and minimises the average carbon footprint.

What can you upcycle?

Not all furniture is created equal when it comes to upcycling potential, but don’t worry! These are the key qualities to look for in your potential furniture:

  • Quality of material – durable woods such as oak or teak and sturdy metals are ideal for upcycling. These materials will withstand modification and age beautifully.
  • Structural integrity – look for pieces that are solid and stable. Cosmetic damage like scratches or faded finishes is fine, but avoid items with severe structural damage.
  • Aesthetic potential: Pieces with a unique design, interesting lines or historic values can become standout features in your home.
  • Where to find your potential piece: it might already be in your home, or you could find the perfect thing in a charity shop, eBay or car boot sales.           
  • Potential for Easy Repairs and Refurbishments: Choose pieces that can be easily cleaned, sanded, or painted. Items that require minimal effort to restore are ideal.
  • Style and Functionality: Ensure the piece fits your design scheme and consider its potential for multifunctionality, like a table that can also serve as a storage unit.

If you have a creative flair, then you may wish to tackle an upcycling DIY project there are plenty of resources online to help you. Our top tip for your projects is to use primers and paints that are suitable for the work. Primers will help you prepare tricky surfaces, whether that’s a smooth service that you need paint to be able to stick to, or a rough finish that you want to even out ready for a smooth top coat of paint. Choose your paint carefully too, making sure it will help you achieve the look you are after. We love Chalk Paints from Annie Sloan; there is no need for sanding or priming, you simply choose the colour you want, from the large range of gorgeous shades, and get going.

If you don’t feel up to taking on DIY, there are skilled professionals who can help you achieve a beautiful upcycled piece. In the Bedfordshire area, you have options like Absolutely Shabbylass, based on Castle Road in Bedford and Gracie’s House, based in Bromham. Bedfordshire.

If we’ve inspired you to upcycle, then good luck with your projects, and remember that you can follow us on Facebook for more interior design tips and ideas.

The Power of Minimalism in Interior Design

The outside world is fast-paced and busy, but interior design gives us the option to put together an internal space that offers tranquillity and clarity using minimalist design. Minimalism is a powerful way to create a Zen environment; one that feels both serene and timeless. If this sounds like the right approach for your home, below are our tips to help you achieve the right look, and calm feel.

Minimalism is Key to a Zen Space

A Zen space is a living environment designed to promote tranquillity, mindfulness, and a sense of balance. Minimalism is more than just a design trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that emphasises simplicity, functionality, and intentionality. A minimalist space is characterised by its clean lines, open surfaces, and a focus on essential items, all of which contribute to a calm and orderly environment. By reducing visual clutter and embracing simplicity, you create a backdrop that supports mental clarity and relaxation.

How to Add Some Zen to Your Home

  1. Declutter your space

A foundation of both a Zen and minimalist design is a clutter free environment. Reducing the number of things in a room, whether furniture or accessories and ornaments, immediately simplifies a space. A clearer space will also feel more peaceful without the busyness of everything around you.

2. Choose a minimalist colour palette

As you will know from some of our previous blogs, colour plays a hugely important part in interior design as all colours have the power to evoke certain emotions. Typically, colours that work in a minimalist design are whites and neutral colours. There is a wide variety whites, each with its own distinctive undertone or nuance. Oatmeal and beige based colours are a step away from white, but create a soothing feel. If you can, embrace live plants which enhance the air quality and also punctuate a simple space.

3. Simplify your furniture and décor

Pared back design needs simplicity, furniture with clean lines and simple palettes will avoid the visual clutter that you want to minimise. To reduce the amount of furniture within a room, look for multi-functional pieces such as a coffee table or an ottoman stool with storage. It is important here to make considered choices and look for quality over quantity. This is the perfect scheme for investing in iconic pieces of design or sculptural shapes that have an artistic quality  

4. Add the Zen

Creating a Zen space is more than just decluttering and simplifying, although that is a vital step in the process. It is about designing an environment that promotes peace and relaxation. Within your minimalist design:

  • Ensure that each area of your room or your home has a clear purpose, which helps maintain order and efficiency
  • Add elements that you connect with personally, whether that’s a favourite piece or art, or a relaxing reading nook; something to make the space uniquely yours
  • Consider having designated areas for relaxation and mindfulness.

5. Maintain the minimalist lifestyle

Once you’ve created your beautiful, Zen space, you’ll want to keep it that way and this does require some ongoing effort and, in some cases, a change of habits. Regular upkeep is the key to preserving the calm in your home. Regularly clean and declutter to prevent an accumulation of ‘stuff’ and keep the space fresh. When you do bring items into the home, be intentional; consider whether a new item adds value and function, or whether it will form clutter.

A well-maintained clutter free space allows you to focus on what truly matters and enjoy a peaceful living environment.

If you want out help creating a Zen space in your home do get in touch, and remember you can find more interior design ideas on our Facebook page.

Summer Feels with Interior Design

Interior design gives you the opportunity to express yourself and create whatever look and feel suits you and your home. It might be summer outside, but you can also embrace it on the inside and give your interior a warm glow all year round. The influence of summer will evoke feelings of relaxation, tranquillity and joy; things that we could all do with feeling more of. The season outside has inspired us to share with you some of our favourite things to create a summery feel in any room.

Walls

A quick and easy win is to use a summer-inspired colour on your walls, such as sunny yellow or ocean blue, or for a more striking effect a summer wallpaper could be the way to go. We love Topiary Wallpaper by Cole & Son sourced from Jane Clayton. The green gives a wonderfully fresh look and the pattern is stunning. The Highveld wallpaper in ochre from Photowall is a great way to add a floral element to your home. These are both highly patterned wallpapers and would be well suited to use as a backdrop to shelves or in a smaller area like a hallway for an update.

Artwork

If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you’ll know that we love the versatility of artwork for transforming a space. With so many options to choose from – the variety of colour, subject finish and framing – we know that there is something to suit any home. Desenio is one of our favourite suppliers for artwork with great choice and budget range. While you can choose 1 piece at a time, their Calm Art Gallery Wall creates a fantastic feature and fits in perfectly with a summer feel. You could use this as inspiration to create your own wall of art with separate pictures and paintings. 

For a completely different type of art feature, look at the work of photographer Slim Aarons. His photographs are outstanding, and he is best known for his “photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places”. Aarons photographed guests enjoying the sun and pool at the Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc, Antibes, France in “Eden-Roc”, available from Enter Gallery; such a fabulous example of his work.

Textures

Natural fibres and textures epitomise the essence of summer and can be elements within most furniture or accessories. The Samaï Fibre Ceiling Light from La Redoute is a fun and distinctive way to add that natural feel. We also love the Hadlow Woven Rope Stool from Abigail Ahern, which can be used with your existing furniture to complement it.

Indoor : Outdoor Décor

If you are worried about investing when the British summer is notoriously short, then don’t worry as there are many accessories that you can use in your garden for outdoor living, and also indoors to enjoy the summer feel when the sun has disappeared!   

Soft furnishings are always a good way to easily change the theme and feel of a room, and this selection is no different. All of these cushions can be both outdoors and indoors and are a great investment.

The Burlington Outdoor cushions from Andrew Martin has a lovely range of colours.  Similarly, the Gypsum Tropic Outdoor Cushion, also from Andrew Martin offers a different pattern and range of colours.

For additional options, the Pompano Grass Outdoor Cushions from Designers Guild come in a variety of colours and are made of a dual toned jacquard weave combined with a printed canvas.  The Rosita Grass Cushions from Decoralist give a pretty burst of green and come in a variety of sizes, with or without fringing, bringing extra interest to your indoor or outdoor chairs and sofas.

Lastly, a side table is always a good partner for any seating solution, and the Mabel Indoor / Outdoor Side Table and the Indigo Striped Ceramic Stool, both from Anthropologie, are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and come in fresh colours.

We hope that you enjoy a summery feel in your home, however you choose to embrace it, and remember that you find more of our thoughts by following us on Facebook.

Interior Design for Family Living

Interior design isn’t just for adults! Beautifully created home environments will give a boost to anyone who lives in them, young or old. The design that you choose needs to suit your life right now and for the foreseeable future. When it comes to family living with children in the house, there needs to be a lot of scope for flexibility so that any design lasts the test of time. Let us help you with your family-friendly home design with these ideas.

Versatile Furniture

Flexible and multi-purpose furniture can suit a wide range of different needs, and certainly come into their own for family living when space is so often stretched. Versatile furniture can serve several purposes and therefore is able to adapt to different stages of family life. Take a modular sofa for example, it can be arranged to accommodate gatherings or provide extra sleeping space for guests. Or an extendable dining table will suit daily life for everyday meals, and gives you the option to welcome extra dining guests when it’s opened out.

Durability is Key

With a busy and hectic life it’s vital to select materials and finishes carefully. A considered choice will give any item a longer life and make its maintenance easier. Look for stain resistant fabrics for furniture and hardwearing flooring like hardwood or laminate that can withstand heavy foot traffic and the occasional spill or accident.

Durability doesn’t need to be boring, as you can see with the Smithy Sofa from Loaf. There are a variety of colours all in Loaf’s ‘clever’ fabric which is spill-resistant and a must for family living. Elegance and durability are not mutually exclusive, you can have both as you can see with the Lyvia Bench from Sweetpea and Willow which is also available in durable fabrics.

Create Zones

Functional zones help you to maximise the usability of your home, and it helps all family members have their own little space. For each room, consider the different activities that take place in there, and designate an area for each. In a living room, you might have a storage and play area for toys and a nook with a desk for a work area.

Flexible Storage

Storage is frequently a key concern in a family home, but it is vital for keeping clutter at bay and keeping organised. Look for storage solutions that can be reconfigured or repurposed as needs change. Bookshelves with adjustable shelves, for example, will evolve with the family. Baskets and bins are perfect for keeping toys tidy and can be used for other things over the years. Here are some storage solutions that we love!

Cotswold Company do a range of blanket boxes, including this Wide Blanket Box; we have featured it in Chantilly White, but it is available in a range of colours to suit any décor theme. These are sturdy boxes that can store a multitude of things, and we love that they are delivered ready-assembled.

The Stockholm Storage Bench from Noa & Nani is great for family living. Add a cushion to the top, and it’s a useful bench for sitting while shoes are put on. The half rattan baskets mean that it’s visible what’s inside and children can easily find the shoes or toys they’re looking for. Without the baskets, you have the option of low-level shelving.

For a little fun and personality, the Morris Monkey Pink Wooden Storage Cabinet from Oliver Bonas is a lovely addition.

Design for Growth

Family needs will change over time, and anticipating the coming changes will allow you to plan your décor, fixtures and fittings for the longer term. You might want to consider evolving interests and hobbies which need a space, a nursery that can be transitioned into a child’s bedroom or a home office that also doubles as a guest room. Versatile furniture and suitable storage will help you with the changing needs of your family.

The Frances Woven Rattan 2-Door Desk from Daals can double as an art or homework area or a dressing table. Its functions will change as your children grow. The Nebel Wardrobe from Wayfair, which has a gorgeous high-end look, would suit your child’s bedroom with the shelves that could be used for toy storage but are equally great for a future shoe collection.

Add Personality

We feel this is key in any home, but when it comes to a family or multi-member household incorporate elements to reflect the personalities and interests of each family member. You can do this easily using things such as wall art, throw pillows or accessories. These can be swapped out and updated as children get older to suit each age state. Indoor-outdoor rugs are a great option here. Their design and finish have come a long way; they are durable and easier to clean and maintain but still have a nice soft feel. The best of both worlds that are needed in a family home. This In- & Outdoor Rug from Benuta is a wonderful example of this.

The key to achieving amazing interiors for family living is planning head and anticipating the changing needs of everyone. As a general rule either choose less expensive pieces that can be swapped out when needs change, which gives you an opportunity to pick up more trend-led or current pieces, or invest in sturdier items that are versatile and have a timeless feel.

Luxury Living on Any Budget

Interior design is often seen as a luxury, as it can involve high-end materials and custom furniture, however, there is another side to the story and we believe Interior Design can be tailored to suit any budget.

Engaging with an interior designer will lead to a well-designed and optimised space. Storage will be maximised, and a functional yet pleasing home will be the result. One could consider interior design a necessity when all of the following are taken into account by the designer: functionality, psychological well-being, safety and comfort.  Not to mention that an interior designer can help you source products at the best price, saving you both time and money scouring retailers and suppliers.

These are two ends of the scale, but in reality, interior design covers a spectrum of scope and budget. In addition, you will find furniture, accessories and décor to suit every budget; if you know where to look. We want to demonstrate that you can have a beautiful home whatever the budget by showcasing a range of items.

Lighting

These are all beautiful light fittings that will be a focal point in any room, but the price tags are very different. From left to right, these are the Liang & Eimil Gamma Pendant Lamp from Shropshire Design, the Jax 10 Light Burnished Brass Chandelier from CP Lights and the Sputnik Modern Pendant Light Chandelier from ManoMano. This is one example of how you can source a similar design to give you the look you want, on the budget you have.

When it comes to lighting, as you go up the budget scale, you get the choice of bigger and more impactful designs and sizes. It can be argued that an increased budget brings a higher quality of item, however with considered research before you purchase, you can ensure that you get value for money.

 Art

With pieces of art, as you go up in price, the finish of the piece is a different level. At the high-end, you will have an original piece of art which has texture and, in some cases, you have the option to customise colour and add luxury elements such as gold leaf. This pair of Quintessa Colleir paintings from Olivia’s are hand painted and are a fabulous choice if you are looking at high-end options.

At the mid-price point, it isn’t the original painting, but rather a canvas of the original piece. This still looks good, but close up it is untextured, however still looks great and will still be impactful even if it lacks detail, up close. The Alma Framed Canvas from The House Outfit is an example of this.

At the lower end of the budget scale, Desenio is a great place to source posters and prints. These can still be impactful, like the Beige Impression No1 Poster, particularly if this is hand-framed by a local framer. Of course, you can choose to frame any artwork that you have and, again, there is a huge choice covering the full spectrum of budgets.

Sideboards

At the top end of your budget we have the Heydey Sideboard from Loaf. The lux detail here is in the wood joinery, the curved edges and the fact that it arrives fully assembled.

The Jakob Oak Grooved Sideboard from Roseland has a similar look, but a smaller price tag while the Solid Mango Fluted Wood Sideboard from Furniture123 is the cheapest of the 3. Both this and the Jakob sideboard will need some assembly after delivery.

Tables

You’d be right in thinking that these tables all look very similar! The key difference between these tables from Made in the Cellar are the table top material. At the higher price point, you have a quartz table top and a chunkier frame. Mid-range uses oak, and at the lower price point, you have pine. Both the pine and oak tables have a Bobbin leg design, which is slimmer than the quartz variant.

When you know the look and design that you want, we think it’s possible to source furniture, accessories and décor to achieve the desired effect at any budget. As interior designers, this is something that we help our clients with, whether we are involved in a complete project, or consulting on different options available. There is something for every budget and preference, but if you’re stuck at the design stage then it might be time to hire an interior designer!

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Enduring Interior Designs

As interior designers, we are often asked to help our clients achieve a timeless look, one that they will love for years to come, one that will feel as fresh and inspiring as the day it was finished. We are going to share with you some secrets behind achieving a timeless look.

Neutral Colour Palette

Central to the concept of a timeless design is a neutral palette. Think greys, whites, sage green and a huge variety of hues. By keeping base finishes versatile, you can update as needed. Soothing tones and a cohesive palette will be a great choice if you want to ensure your choices stand the test of time.

Natural Elements

Nature will always feature in interiors. Use finishes that have been around for centuries such as wood, glass, plaster, brass, stone and natural textures like linen and wool.  Exposed brick walls and natural stone countertops work brilliantly, and wood flooring is another great way to harness nature in your home. Herringbone floors have been around for centuries and still look good today. Keep them modern by using a jumbo plank size and ensuring there isn’t too much contrast in the wood tones, or the look becomes too busy.

Work With What You’ve Got

Work with the architectural style of your home and highlight its features, this will always pave the path to longevity. An industrial style for a loft, a mid-century design in a 1960s home, or an art deco scheme in a 1920s house are some examples of how to work this. When interiors match architecture, it will always feel relevant and, therefore, timeless.

Choose Quality

Invest in good quality basics made by craftsmen; spending a good proportion of your budget on key pieces or furniture will achieve an enduring design. A well-made unit or table can last for decades, being styled and updated to suit. Investing in storage that is practical, and also elevates a space through its aesthetic form, will always be a good investment.

Timeless Kitchens

A shaker kitchen is the most popular choice for clients updating this space, and it’s easy to see why. This classic design can be styled in a multitude of ways to ensure it lasts for decades and, whether you choose a more heavily beaded traditional style or a simple inset panel, you can be sure this is a style you won’t live to regret. Remember to keep the units neutral and add impact with punchy paint or wallpaper. Alternatively, you can go for real wood which can be updated.

These are some tips that you can apply to your own designs, and we’d like to share what a timeless design might look like by showcasing some of our clients’ finished projects.

We used a classic wingback style chair which would traditionally suit this client’s grand entrance hall. Giving this classic piece a modern twist is its sleek shape with a modern velvet fabric. When classic meets modern like this, it will always feel current and fresh.

There is no room where you can’t achieve a timeless feel. In this bathroom, the bath and brass washstand are classic in their original iterations, but with modern twists. The smooth shape of the bath brings it up to date, and the vintage mirror on the washstand combined with the simple brass frame gives them a fresh yet timeless feel. We love the dramatic black tiles which create a gorgeous contrast against the brass.

We used this quirky side table in a client’s reading room, it is a classic round 4 legged shape, but its drip design is fun, playful and surreal taking the predictable to the unexpected while retaining a timeless shape.  

On a final note, we know that some fabulous designs and trends come around, and we certainly aren’t not recommending that you stay away from anything new. However, do avoid diving too heavily into anything that feels too current or over exposed. If it’s ‘everywhere’ right now, there is a high possibility that the look could start to feel dated. Pick a few items that you love and use them to update a space, without replacing everything older; this is something you may regret in the longer term.

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The Power of Colour

Have you ever thought about why you feel different emotions depending on the room or space you’re in? Chances are that you’re being influenced by the colour around you but that often isn’t a conscious thing. The art of using colour in interior design, harnessing the power of colour psychology, is one tool that we use to create the perfect space for each and every client.

Part of our consultation process is to find out from our clients how they use a space, what they will do in it and how they want to feel. There are certainly some common themes, for example in an office or working space, concentration and focus are needed but, in a bedroom or snug you want to relax and wind down. We take this all into account when we compose the colour palette.

As interior designers, we will search for the perfect colours to fit the purpose of the room and build a design around that.

Warm colours, associated with fire, sunlight, and nature elements, evoke a range of emotions and feelings associated with energy, passion, and comfort. Within the range of warm colours orange lends itself to energy, enthusiasm and creativity, and can create the perfect cosy space to recharge.   

Cool colours will bring about emotions and feelings associated with calmness, serenity, and tranquillity and are associated with water and sky elements. Blue is linked to calmness, peace and serenity and is perfect for anywhere you want to feel restful and refreshed.

Monochrome themes are particularly effective; a monochromatic palette focuses on using one colour, and a range of hues of that colour. To achieve depth and interest, textures and patterns in the colour as well as using lightness and darkness are introduced. The addition of accents of brushed brass and black will bring impact and definition to a monochromatic scheme, or if your lifestyle allows, keeping everything light and tonal is the ultimate in ‘quiet luxury’.

The Bedroom

The place where you end your day, a room for total relaxation. To create that mood, blue is the colour to choose here. The calmness and serenity which blue brings about are the perfect emotions when you’re settling down to sleep. There is a huge range of different blues, and you can evoke nuances of emotions by using pale hues, bolder blues and the whole range in between. Here are some of our favourite blues to use in your bedroom; they work together beautifully to both look and feel good.

Bedside cabinets don’t need to be bland! The Bobbin Bedside Table from John Lewis is a brilliant example of an interesting piece which can complement the blue hues within a room.  Artwork is another great way to introduce colour into a room, and we love this set of William Morris Vintage Floral wall art from Debenhams. And, of course, we couldn’t ignore bed linen. This is undoubtedly the easiest way to bring colour to a bedroom, and the Hampton Frill Duvet Set from Dunelm is in a gorgeous shade with a pretty finish.

The Living Room

You could argue that a living room is also a place you want to relax. To a degree this is true, but it is a more flexible space with a different purpose. In a living room warm colours work wonderfully because their warmth conjures cosiness and a general sense of being welcomed. Warm colours include rusty oranges, mustard yellows, and soft pinks that will induce feelings of love, enthusiasm, optimism, happiness and affection. Here are some of our favourite things from this palette.

In a sumptuous velvet fabric, the Brompton Sculptural Armchair from daals fully embodies that welcoming and cosy feeling that you want in your living room. Add a lamp for a warm lighting effect and ambience; we love the Baba Recycled Glass Lamp from nkuku. Soft furnishings should never be forgotten when it comes to colour. They are versatile and come in such a huge variety you will be able to match any design theme. We love the Areca Cushions from Oka for a touch of warm orange.

Tips and Hints

  • The size of a room and the amount of natural light it receives can impact the way colours appear. In smaller spaces, lighter hues can create an illusion of openness, while in larger rooms, bolder colours may add warmth and cosiness.
  • Pay attention to the direction of the room—north-facing rooms might benefit from warmer tones to counteract cool lighting, while south-facing rooms can embrace cooler tones.
  • Ensure your chosen colour scheme complements the existing furnishings and décor elements, creating a cohesive and harmonious overall design.

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