THE SOURCE
How you can achieve the style secrets seen in this issue’s homes
STATEMENT STAIRS
The elegant staircase in Megan and Adam Tidbury’s period home is a striking feature in their double-height reception hall. When it comes to decorating, staircases are often overlooked, but they can be turned into a strong focal point. The Tidburys’ banister and balustrades have a smart Art Deco feel, which works well in its Grade Ii-listed setting, but a sleek, contemporary style in glass and steel would be another strong choice. If replacing the stair furniture itself is not an option, work with what you have. Paint the banister or balustrades in a bold shade to make them stand out – you could even graduate the colour on the uprights to create an ombré effect.
UNUSUAL METRO TILES
The subway tile is a classic design that offers plenty of versatility in terms of style and look. Alex and Edward Hayes have given this favourite design a fresh twist by arranging the tiles diagonally, rather than horizontally, on the splashback in their kitchen to create a more dynamic look. Using black grout also adds to the dramatic, contemporary finish. Other eye-catching ways to lay your tiles include in a herringbone pattern (experiment with the direction the pattern runs), vertically in a brick formation, or stacked upright for a simple style. Another benefit of the vertical arrangement is that it will give an impression of extra height, which is ideal for rooms with lower ceilings.
TROLLEY SIDE BOARD
Perfect for her vintage look, Kate Rawlinson has used a retro trolley as a sideboard to display a curated collection of objects in her open-plan living area. This is a great option to maximise the sense of space in a room, as a sideboard can often feel imposing, but a trolley offers a more versatile storage solution. The castors mean that it can be easily moved around, too, providing greater flexibility. For a glamorous feel, look out for a classic bar trolley – there’s no rule that says it has to be used for drinks, and there are plenty of stylish options around. Placing baskets, smart storage boxes or old wooden crates on the trolley is a great way to stash smaller items to avoid clutter building up.