At university, my tutor used to say “there’s nothing right or wrong in interior decoration, it simply works or not”. Throughout my years, as an interior decorator I have been confronted with many issues in need of resolution. The way you resolve these issues define who you are as an interior decorator, your style and most importantly the success of your work.
Do spend time on your layout
Invest time on the layout of a room, the flow, the way people will move around it, almost unconsciously, the way YOU want people moving around it. Make sure every area of the room has a purpose. Good design should not just make a room pretty but crucially make it work.
Don't stop at the picture rail
Whether you consider them an architectural feature or simply what used to be a practical way of hanging pictures, do not stop your wall treatment at its level, instead continue all the way to the ceiling. If you’ve tall ceilings, embrace the height. In any case do not make a feature out of them, some things need highlighting others simply ignored.
Don't fall for antisocial sofas
Sofas are tricky, Le Corbusier described them as “bourgeois”. I call them selfish. Too large and they become antisocial, with one person facing compulsorily someone’s back when engaging to the other. Be equally very mindful of placing two sofas mirroring each other by the fireplace. Where are the rest of the people going to sit?
Do prioritise low-level lighting
I am a great believer in good lighting. Make sure you spend time assessing the room and the type of lighting needed. A proper thoughtful lighting plan should provide good lighting for every occasion and for this very reason I rarely use dimmers. I am very keen on low level lighting. The atmosphere is incomparable. Candles are wonderful too, after all we all look much better by candlelight, but remember to keep them spaced out throughout the room rather than grouped to avoid looking like a shrine.
And whilst on the subject of lighting, although a generous size table lamp is always desirable, remember to keep proportions in mind to suit the furniture they are on and the rest of the room or you’ll end up with a lighthouse inside your home.
Don't buy a massive bed
Huge beds are unnecessary. They look disproportionate in most rooms. I rarely see a reason to go larger than kingsize. If you don’t want to speak to your partner, use another room.
Don't oversize your headboard
Whilst on the subject of beds, avoid the temptation of very tall headboards. What may look like an excellent idea may end up making you feel you are living on a theatre stage or a (not particularly nice) hotel. Instead, reduce the size of your headboard, choose a simple design and a beautiful fabric you always wanted to have and you will never tire of it. If you have a very tall ceiling, go for a four poster bed, lit à la duchesse or similar to fill the space.
Do invest in your curtains
Do not underestimate the importance of good quality curtains, they can make or break a room. Curtains, like haute couture, are about craftsmanship and good proportions. Do not use ‘cheaper’ curtains until the final ones come. It’s a false economy, a waste of money. And you take the risk of getting used to them. Bad idea. Good things are always worth waiting for.
Don't go wild with animal prints
Animal prints can look chic and sophisticated. Restraint is essential though. Do try to stick to one, it’s your home not a zoo.
