The world is changing and so is the relationship we have with our space. From social distancing, to working at the kitchen counter, home has taken on a whole new meaning. Suddenly, living our best lives means finding ways to get the most from our living area.
Marie Kondo taught how to organize, keep what we love and let go of the rest. Furniture that balances function with style gives immediate and long-term value to a space, as do great storage solutions. In terms of décor, luxurious textures add visual interest while a mix of modern meets classic can offer the best of both worlds. Day to day though, few things influence an environment as much as colour. Saturated or pastel, full on or splashed unexpectedly, colour revolutionizes the look, energy, and character of a space, often meaning the difference between good and transformative.
From the SG studio in the study, here is a quick colour study for fast, chic and effective ways to enliven life at home.
START WITH WHAT MOVES YOU
Colour can instantly shift mood or inspire ambiance. It has massive influence over us and there are tones we are drawn to naturally. While each one might not work for the room, start with what you love. We all want to feel good walking into our space, whether for work, relaxation or entertainment and colour plays a powerful role in that process, probably more than we realize.
Blue is big impact and offers a vast, vibrant range that works beautifully off other tones. Soft even in its inkiest shades, it is also a great alternative to black. This space has tall ceilings and great natural light. Once you have your neutrals set, embolden yourself. To balance the pale grey and lilac taupe undertones, ocean and sky inspired hues feel fresh and dynamic.
INTRODUCE ART
The influence of great art cannot be overstated. Though the industry or even the process of selecting the right option can be intimidating, and there are expensive works gracing galleries worldwide, you can also find the most spectacular pieces or interesting prints in price points to suit. The most important factor is that it evokes something in you. Focus on tones that will enhance and play off your room. Abstracts tend to bring colour to life, and depending on the light or time of year this piece on the feature wall constantly offers something new. It is that evolution of art, that visual intrigue which holds such value.
HIGHLIGHT AND ACCENTUATE
Highlights and accents are cost-effective ways to mix things up and transform the colour in a space without maximum commitment. The process should feel fun, even experimental, and this is an area of design where a little clash can be both unexpected and even welcomed in the right space.
A mix of faux and real blooms achieve an invigorated look and can be almost constantly reimagined. In the winter integrate rich burgundy or deep red, even solid white to offset the grey skies. During the summer mixing bold, bright hues is a must. Beyond the flowers themselves interesting vases with cool colouring, texture, and tone are stylish on their own, even when empty.
GO FROM THERE
Trust your instincts. Add slowly. Start with pieces that can be switched out easily depending on the vibe or time of year. Work with textiles like rugs, cushions, throw blankets for rich texturing and different tones. Books and magazines with pops of colour can enhance a table or shelf, building décor value but also as a representation of who you are or what is fueling your passion at a given time. Look for inspiration around you, from the home, fashion, and beauty designers you love, to photography, travel, architecture. Emulate the looks that draw appeal, think about the way you want your space to feel, then make it your own.
