The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Pretty in pink
Sam Wylie-Harris dons her rose-coloured spectacles and sets the scene with a palette of pink accents, furnishings and fabrics
Pink is spring’s biggest fashion trend – and where designers lead, interior decorators soon follow. Even if you don’t wear pink, there are so many facets to this rosy hue that if styled correctly, it can lighten the home without leaving it looking like a Disney-esq doll’s house.
The secret is to blend, blend, blend...
ROYAL FLUSH
“If you’re looking to bring pink into your palette, ensure you pick your shades carefully. Avoid overpowering a room with saccharine hues, and opt for more mature tones, that will add a feminine touch without looking too girly. Deep dusky pinks are right on trend and will work perfectly for a look such as this,” says Ian Dykes, founder and director, Voyage Decoration.
“If you’re opting for brighter shades, introduce them in small pops on accessories, or through accent detailing such as piping. Placed alongside masculine colours, such as deep navy blues or moody greys, your scheme will be beautifully balanced and seriously stylish.”
Another trick is to remember that when pink is combined with white – roses in a white vase, or scented candles on a mirrored table, for instance – it can look cool and glamorous.
ROSE BOUQUET
If your last dalliance was with 50 shades of grey (or darker), then the good news is you can rekindle that flame with an innocent petal pink.
“Adding colour such as pink to a room is an easy way to update the feel of the space,” says Lucy Ackroyd, bed linen design manager, Christy.
“Mixing grey and pink is a popular trend for 2017, giving pink an edgier look than traditionally seen.” But if this still sounds a little too innocent and you’re after a touch more drama, pink framed by violet or black is a tempting scheme that can be dressed up to suit your space.
FEMININE VIBE
“Wool is naturally associated with the winter months, simply due to its cosy texture and warming properties,” says Martin Aveyard, design director, Bronte by Moon. “However, many forget that wool also regulates temperature, keeping the home cool even in the warmer months.
“Consider Shetland wools in fresh and vibrant tones which instantly lift a room, brightening the decor without compromising on warmth and comfort. Hues of pastel pinks evoke a sense of sunnier climes, and are perfect for updating a statement armchair without losing the cosy feel of wool.”
FLAWLESS FINISH
“Pale pink looks best in a room with abundant natural light – showing off a sense of freshness", says Kayleigh-Ann Whybrow, senior technical colour consultant, Johnstone’s Paints.
“Team Rosebud, a particularly popular colour this year, with white trim and furniture, to allow the colour to pop. This will allow the room to have a good sense of proportion and freshness, yet retain a sense of warmth and cosiness. Add pops of coral, bubble-gum pink and cyan to give interest. Keeping pattern and contrast minimal invites our mind to rest, and to find a new balance between fast paced and slow living.”