Expert advice on how to re-energise your interior for the year ahead

In a world filled with technology and busy lifestyles, there is a need to stay connected with our natural surroundings, and the New Year is the perfect time to refresh your space. Taryn Beech from Maree Hynes Interiors explains.

THE EVENTS OF 2020 SHIFTED OUR

priorities with many now permanently based from home for work and schooling. Never has it been more important to create an uplifting home perfect for reflection, balance and comfort. Dulux NZ recently released their colour forecast for 2021 introducing three nurturing palettes that evoke familiarity and comfort. They called it Retreat, Nourish and Reset. These paint hues are rejuvenating and create a sense of renewal whilst holding onto nostalgic elements in your home. Drawing from nature, fabric companies have capitalised on its wide appeal with fauna motifs and classic screen-printed florals.

Now is the time to banish the beige and embrace the comfort of colour. Being brave in your interiors can be as simple as putting a bold paint on your walls; from muted ochres to uplifting blues and greens you can truly nourish the soul with colour.

But don’t stop there – updating your drapes is a wonderful way to instantly change the feel of a room. I always recommend taking drapes as high as possible well above your window frame to draw the eye up and increase the feeling of grandeur in your room, especially if you choose a bold print. If you are wanting a more subtle change, cushions with digital printed florals or abstract scenery can give your room a design boost.

Of course, what easier way to bring the outdoors in than by actual plants! Perhaps one of the easiest design tips to create a full, comfortable, inviting space is to incorporate greenery. Whether it is a large floor plant in the corner of the room or a centrepiece on the dining table, this natural décor brings an element of softness into the space. No green thumb? Don’t worry, there are so many great faux plants that look just like the real thing, with no maintenance!

Perhaps one of the easiest design tips to create a full, comfortable, inviting space is to incorporate

greenery.

Maree Hynes is a specialist interior designer with a love of colour and texture. She offers colour consultancy through to the complete interior design and furnishing of your home or office. mareehynesinteriors.co.nz

Fabrics from the Botanist Collection by Warwick Fabrics. Other products and images by French Country Collection. All items available from Maree Hynes Interiors.