Bridge For Design Summer 2014 Bridge For Design Summer 2014 Issue | Page 62

DESIGN TRENDS | view point

MAKE YOUR SPACE WORK
The constraints of the formal living room is a thing of the past says Bea Pila

A

s an interior designer, there is
nothing more unfortunate than a
beautiful room left unused. Yet, many
of us have at least one abandoned space
within our homes.
Traditional design called for parlours
or other formal settings in which to
entertain guests. They would have tea

Sounds divine, but the lifestyles of today are much more
demanding . There is work, family, and all other daily duties
in between. Who has time to polish the silver?
While our lifestyles have evolved, our homes haven’t
quite yet caught on. Why are we still using up precious
square footage on parlours as if we’ll revisit those days of
ceremonious socialisation? A few simple design changes can
lure activity back to these spaces.
There is nothing like a bar to capture people’s attention. If
space or budget constraints excludes a custom built-in, there
are beautiful armoire-like pieces that open up. Even a simple
bar cart or arranging a console with various tray accessories
can do the trick. If you’re not a drinker, opt for a set-up of
Room set-up is also a crucial factor. With a classic sofa, it’s
hard for us to engage because we’re facing front, not each
a chair. A favourite layout of mine is four club chairs with
auxiliary seating - poufs, garden stools, and other smaller
tables, I prefer party-height tables of 27 inches for access
to hors d’oeuvres without feeling hunched over or banging
limbs.
While luxurious fabrics and delicate detailing are stunning
to look at, fancy furnishings can be intimidating.

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Thus, aesthetic should be matched with durability and a
sense of ease - we want to feel comfortable enough to sit back
and relax. Some of my favorite pieces incorporate acrylic,
and hair-on-hide for a rustic, glamour factor; exotic woods
to bring warmth; and chrome for a chic and shiny touch.
Combined together, they create an upscale look, yet maintain
a functionality.
Games are a great way to engage and build upon family
time. The trick here is to keep them out and on display, make
gaming a central theme with card tables and other playful
vignettes. There are beautiful vintage editions of classics to
maintain a level of sophistication and smaller pieces, such
as dominos, mahjong tiles, and decks of cards can be kept in
accessory bowls or vases.
Music is also a wonderful atmosphere setter. Instruments
are pieces of art in and of themselves and should be front
who aren’t musically gifted, you can still set the tone with
surround sound systems that reach key entertaining rooms.
No matter what theme you use to entice socialisation,
lighting is essential. We can’t relax in a space that’s too
bright. My number one rule is to have a dimmer. If the space
can handle it, combine with table lamps and candles to cast
softer, soothing glows.

that inspire you. If you can’t be drawn in, then how can you
expect others to want to be there? So, so long traditional
design notions.... it’s time to really start living in our living
rooms. B

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Bridge for Design Summer 2014

For more information about B. Pila Design, CLICK HERE