House to Home with Debbie Travis

Decorating expert and television personality Debbie Travis appears in The Telegram’s My Home each week.

Stunning examples of iconic furniture pieces, personal collections, and eclectic lighting choices heighten interest in every space. There is always a mix of modern and antique, spare designs alongside refurbished flea market finds. The authors stress that decorating a home is always evolving as you grow, as you travel, as you experiment.

Back to the dark palettes that are so prominent in the book. Pictured here is a sitting room that is cloaked in charcoal grey and black. What uplifts the monochrome look are the many changes in texture and shape. The imperfect plaster walls are subtly shaded in dark, chalky grey. Boxy leather chairs shine, their silky smooth black covers making a strong contrast against the walls. A traditional oval mirror framed in gold produces a shot of colour that glows. An irresistible spray of pussy willows adds another dimension of shapes. Subtle accent lighting ensures a calm and tranquil mood. The surprise is the white painted floor, and white objects featured in the bookcase. These bring balance, and a lighthearted touch.

Black and white is a strong theme that is often utilized in a modern space. It can border on clinical. Again, it is the contrast that provides interest, and with thoughtful planning this dynamic duo is welcoming. In this bright kitchen, the homeowner wanted to be part of the action as she prepared meals for family and guests. The large center island houses the stove top, with plenty of space to toss together salads and snacks. A black brick back wall and black floor to ceiling book shelves frame the open kitchen. The shelves hold personal treasures, plants, books and signs that bring the family’s personalities and passions into full view.