CHOOSE INTERIORS THAT MAKE YOU HAPPY
OVER the last two years we have been forced to spend much more time than usual in our homes. This has driven a strong desire to create a home that reflects who we are – a space that makes us feel emotionally y at ease.
In response, trends are now veering towards a look ook that feels warm, welcoming and cosy. It’s as if our senses are re now driving what we want.
I find that I am now designing more relaxed homes mes – using natural fabrics and colours. Shapes are changing too, with the emphasis on soft, curvy furniture – no more harsh geometric lines. We have also moved away from minimalism – a look I was never particularly fond of – to a more comfortable, lived-in look.
Our homes, with so much bad news around, need to be a sanctuary, somewhere that will enhance our wellbeing. We understand that it’s a huge privilege to have somewhere to feel safe, and that is reflected in the comfort created by cosy throws, soft cushions, welcoming colours and lots of plants to create a tranquil feeling.
So, what are the first steps we need to take to achieve calm in our home? The most obvious step p is to clear away the clutter. Cluttered spaces are not ot relaxing – nobody wants to clear junk off the sofa before sitting down, or shift paperwork from the kitchen n table before we can eat. Make sure that these places are re sacrosanct, sacrosanct and junk is never allowed to gather.
Which room should you start on? How about your bedroom or bathroom? We spend almost half our lives in these two rooms, so putting energy into making them attractive is important.
When revamping these spaces think of simple, calming colours, such as warm neutrals or refreshing pale greens – colour schemes that infuse harmony and serenity. Keep the bright colours for the busy spaces like the kitchen.
Ultimately your decorating style should be a reflection of your personality and your home should be filled with things you love. Don’t be tempted to go for a look just because it’s fashionable – it has to speak to you.
Spending more time on our home patch has also made us strengthen our connection with nature. This has inspired a resurgence in use of natural materials such as stone, wood and terracotta. There is also a greater emphasis on recycling and reusing, as well as investing in pieces that last.
Dual purpose rooms have also become a feature, thanks to hybrid working. Bedrooms fitted with desks, the kitchen used as a conference room and the dining table making an appearance as an impromptu office desk.
Our homes are now working harder for us – but most important of all, they must bring us joy.