5. Create a Focal Point
Like any great composed piece of music, you need to incorporate a balance of loud
and soft notes in an interior. Every room needs a loud note - the focal point.
Having said that, in larger rooms there may be more than one.
A focal point could be a feature wall of colour or texture, an artwork, a light fitting,
or even a chair. This will draw the eye.
As mentioned, an artwork is a good way to create a focal point in a room. Although
a common mistake is choosing an artwork that is too small. If you have the space
GO BIG.
A tip for hanging art is to trace the outline onto paper and then blu-tack or washi
tape onto the wall to get the right positioning or grouping, before affixing more
permanently.
6. Symmetry and Asymmetry
Some people are real lovers of symmetry creating a sense of formal balance. But to
add interest, incorporate something that is off-centre, otherwise the symmetry will be
all the same note.
This may be as simple as positioning all the sofa cushions off to one side rather than
equally either side. Or, add texture or shape that is completely different to other items
in the room.
This leads onto the topic of how to arrange collections and accessories. If you have
collections of ceramic jugs, plates or even bird figurines, then display them in
arrangements and groupings of three, for example, three of the same colour together.
7. Be Brave and Don’t Follow The Joneses
The final mistake to avoid is to follow trends. Trends will come and go. It is best to
follow your heart when it comes to creating the home you love.
This is totally congruent with styling sustainably, to mix and match styles, and the
old with the new. The beautiful thing about using old or recycled pieces in your home
is they add character, and often come with stories you can re-tell over and over to
visitors and guests when they notice and make a remark on them.
Don’t be afraid to ask for or seek out help. Ask friends and family whose sense of
style you trust. And, many interior designers and stylists will offer a consulting fee
you can use to ask for advice. A cost-effective way to achieve the home looking and
functioning the way you really want it to.
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