Interior designer Shannon McLaren suggests picking one item in the room to be a colorful focal point , and chosing a mostly neutral palette with a few bright color accents .
STORY TELLING
INTERIOR DESIGNERS SHARE THEIR TIPS FOR CREATING SPACES THAT REFLECT THE INHABITANTS INSIDE .
BY ASHLEY BREEDING
JUST AS THE GLOBAL “ BIG FOUR ” FASHION weeks declare what will be popular in fashion each season , they also predict what will trend in art , architecture and home design . Currently forecasted for homes : eco-friendly materials , minimalism , bright colors and a return to art deco . While interior design trendsetters are often inspired by what ’ s happening in the fashion industry , experts in the field know these styles aren ’ t what ’ s paramount when making such a heavy investment .
First and foremost , the aesthetic of a home should reflect the tastes of the people living in it , according to veteran designers Shannon McLaren , owner of Prairie Interiors , and Casey Hill , founder of her eponymous studio , in Newport Beach . No matter your style , your space should help tell your story — think “ objets d ’ art ” collected while traveling , antique furnishings passed down through a family for generations ( even reimagined with paint or new upholstery ), and color palettes or pieces that hint at your affinity for a certain foreign culture .
At Prairie , McLaren ’ s team gathers ideas from a variety of sources . “ We touch upon all our influences while taking inspiration from our own clients and try to match their personality through our lens ,” explains the former celebrity stylist . “ We find that balance .”
Hill says she adheres to her clients ’ tastes while also prioritizing the architectural integrity , time period and location of a home , as well as helping them capitalize on elements like natural light and outdoor space . She too understands that style preferences are not always so linear . Say you reside in a Spanish colonial , but crave an air of midcentury modern ; Hill — who also holds
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