Spring Into Summer with the Latest Interior Design Tips

Sharon Castles an Interior Design lecturer at SERC, has pulled together her top tips for making some changes in your home to create a new look and feel during lockdown.

Make an Instant Change

Unfortunately we can’t buy exactly what we want or go around the shops to see what’s suitable so the quickest way to make a change is to move your furniture and accessories around to give a new feel to your rooms - then have a look at my tips below and hopefully they will give you some ideas for making a few changes to help you create a new look and inviting space throughout your whole house.

Colour

Please don’t be afraid of colour it creates personality and warmth to most neutral interiors.

One of the easiest ways to update your home is by swiping on a fresh coat of paint. No matter which room you're in it’s a cheap and commitment-free way to make an eye-catching change.

Classic blue is officially the new 2020 millennial pink although Blush is still popular.

Textures and tactile qualities are taking the place of bold colours for adding interest.

Stay away from cool grey, with more yellow warm based neutrals.

Always check your paint colours in a variety of light, from natural to artificial, as the colour changes especially the darker the colour.  Try small paint pots and test on paper, which you can move around the room. You don’t always have to buy the most expensive paint as most paint retailers can mix exactly the same colour you are after at a fraction of the cost of designer paint colours.

Wow with Wallpaper

I believe in mixing old and new – think furniture and accessories. Antique and vintage furniture, particularly in darker-toned woods, is a trend that looks set to grow – a movement that can only be a good thing both for the planet and for our homes. Mixing light wood floors with darker furniture works well. Mid Century and Art Deco are always in style no matter what the décor. Bring in an eclectic mix of things you like and create interesting group settings.

Layer Up

From comforting cushions to throws to knits and faux furs, use these to make any space feel instantly inviting.  Don’t be afraid to have lots just make sure you are using lots of textures in all your accessories to give a feel and colour illusion factor.  You can use the same colour palette but the different materials will show everything in a different light! Shades of 1 colour work perfectly too.

Make a Statement

Your starting point - My easiest tip for deciding on a colour scheme and room theme is to find the statement piece in your room, whether it’s a  fabulous artwork, a rug or treasured piece and then pulling the colours from it and featuring them on what paper, paint, furnishings and accessories to use – so look at what you have at home and decide what suits you.

The trend for bringing nature inside continues to grow by having an oasis of plants in our homes.

Lighting Essentials

Lighting is one of the most important elements in every home and you need to know how to use and create moods so look at what different light styles work from main ceiling/ambient lighting to decorative mood table top and task lighting – get it right and you’ll enjoy  the moods set by your light.

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