Just add style: the magic ingredients
‘‘For those on a budget, it can be tempting to whip out a Warehouse canvas and some tester pots but I would counsel against it,’’ she says.
‘‘While passion is to be encouraged sometimes it is better to admit our talents lie in other areas. Instead, consider hiring art. Businesses like mobileart.co.nz rent out canvases from $20 per week. The great thing about leasing your art is that you can exchange it for something different when you feel like a change.’’
The Block’s Tiffany Mair agrees and says art always makes an interior look complete and stylish.
‘‘Whether it’s an investment piece that you’ve carefully considered or something you have printed and framed that you can easily change. Take the time to really think about art. It should be about the connection and reaction you feel,’’ Mair says.
Consider all your senses
Juxtaposing contrasting materials will create a dynamic and interesting space and feel says Bibby + Brady’s Vic Bibby.
‘‘Mix hard surfaces like metals, glass and stone with the warmth of wood and leather, plants and soft textiles,’’ she says.
The smell of fresh flowers and scented candles will lend beauty to your home Trove’s Daniella Norling says.
‘‘Keep it subtle though, you want to be able to breathe,’’ she says.
Light up a space
Consider your lighting. While task light is always relevant, ambient light gives mood to a space Norling suggests.
‘‘At night, the uses of lamps or pendants are a beautiful way of creating pools of light. They have the added advantage of hiding worn upholstery, chipped paintwork and wrinkles too, and a gorgeous light fitting always brings a sculptural element to a room,’’ she says.
Add personality
Always set your home apart by adding unexpected and personal details.
‘‘Include pieces that have meaning to you - treasures found on your travels, a family heirloom, a child’s artwork. A piece of history will add a sense of wisdom and depth to your space, and mixing old with the new creates a beautiful and eclectic home,’’ Bibby says.