vintage Archives - Designbx Online interior design Sat, 28 Aug 2021 11:09:14 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://designbx.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/cropped-Designbx-Logo-512px-1-32x32.png vintage Archives - Designbx 32 32 Design Trends 2020 https://designbx.com/blog/design-trends-2020/ https://designbx.com/blog/design-trends-2020/#respond Thu, 09 May 2019 05:35:51 +0000 https://designbx.com/?p=13892   Our in-house Interior Design expert Kerena Berry– Designbx shares her insight into the emerging Trends for 2020.  This year will see a pull toward more dynamic and stimulating interiors.  Iterations of each of the below trends will transpire across various styles; Boho, Luxe, Coastal, the rules are being pushed, and more than ever styles…

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Our in-house Interior Design expert Kerena BerryDesignbx shares her insight into the emerging Trends for 2020.  This year will see a pull toward more dynamic and stimulating interiors.  Iterations of each of the below trends will transpire across various styles; Boho, Luxe, Coastal, the rules are being pushed, and more than ever styles are being bled together in an individually creative manner. It’s time to release those creative juices!   

 

GEO UNION

In a constantly changing and dynamic world we are trending towards paying closer attention to the earth’s surface- the changes, causes and effects. We will continue to evolve and take a finer look at how we influence the environment and the results of our lifestyles.  In this heightened awareness we will start the blend with our surroundings, drawing on integrating textures of clay, concrete, minerals, foliage and rock sediments through pattern and prints. The palette is a meridian of neutral earth tones. “Fabric and wallpaper applications will be the hero elements for this trend’ BerryDesignbx

 

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FINE OPTIMISM

This season sees a yearning for something comforting and pleasing.  A celebration of the past and evolving it with the new. Antique aesthetics, french textiles and unobtrusive print and patterns.  Colours are delicate sun faded and organic tones. This is a bright happy space.

 

Berry says “Layering is key here. A fan of colours and patterns can comfortably share a single space, however, a similar tonal range will be the key element to ensure a refined design”  

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sources:  thecoolhour.com, refinery29.com, ebay.com, nicolevalentinedon.com, somegram.com, instagram (@bohemiandecor), amapofdreams.com, vsco.com (vscovibess), attirepin.com

COUTURE BOHEMIAN

Inspired by the desire for expression and creativity, pulling from the free spirited lifestyle of artists, philosophers and writers.  “ This is one style we have seen a huge influx in our projects over the last 6 months. Australian’s are welcoming richer tones and heavier fabrics into the home and commercial spaces”- Berry.

We look to focus on an eclectic style of gilded neutrals, deep saturated jewel tones overlayed with considerate and detailed bohemian patterns. “Embracing the idea that “More is more”, colour, texture and pattern clash adding a daring twist with theatrical drama” Globewest

 


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2020 sees us taking everything up to the next level. Colour, texture, prints and patterns being pushed to surprise. A little piece of the past, future and present all colliding to create familiar yet challenging new designs – almost anything goes!

 

“It is refreshing to foremost see variety. A beautiful layering of modern techniques, with old era soul, and consideration and pull to nature’s forms and tones.” Kerena Berry Designbx

 

-Kerena Berry is a Senior Interior Designer and co-founder of Designbx, Australia’s online interior design solution.  

 

 

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Vintage interior design: without the op shop look https://designbx.com/blog/vintage-interior-design/ https://designbx.com/blog/vintage-interior-design/#respond Mon, 02 Jul 2018 02:56:23 +0000 https://designbx.com/?p=6887 So you want to go antique without the price tag of an old, historic castle? Vintage interior design is all about colour, floral prints, patterned rugs and functional decorations. Even though it was known as a simpler time, the interior design says otherwise. Be prepared to go bold and keep it simple at the same…

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So you want to go antique without the price tag of an old, historic castle? Vintage interior design is all about colour, floral prints, patterned rugs and functional decorations. Even though it was known as a simpler time, the interior design says otherwise. Be prepared to go bold and keep it simple at the same time. You don’t have to put a dent in your savings just to create a vintage inspired home. All you need to do is get creative and follow our top tips.

Vintage living room furnishings

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1. New colours for an old look

Let’s start with the colour scheme. Just about anything can be used for your antique style. Some suggestions are: aqua blues, sunshine yellows, creamy whites and leather browns. Also incorporate floral prints as this was the trending design of the time. To save money, instead of buying new furniture just because the colours don’t match, simply give your cupboards, tables and cabinets a coat of fresh but old looking paint.

  1. Roughly coat chalk paint onto the furniture, creating an uneven surface.
  2. Use graphite and water to darken edges and legs, where wear and tare would have occurred
  3. Use coarse sandpaper and paint scrapers to distress the furniture for a worn look
  4. Use clear chalk paint wax to finish

Vintage interior design green distressed cupboard

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2. Fancy fabrics for less

Many antique styles incorporate expensive fabrics such as large velvet couches and silk curtains, but often there is a cheaper alternative that looks just as effective. Instead of using velvet, opt for felt which has a similar texture and no one will be able to tell from afar. As for those luscious silk curtains, synthetic satins shimmer just as well and your bank account will thank you for it. When choosing furniture in these materials, a blend of yellow and blue will give a vintage look and can also be styled with just about anything. You could also go traditional brown leather but make sure it is a weathered look and not a ‘straight-out-of-the-shop’ appearance as it will stick out like a sore thumb.

Vintage style living room with red velvet couch

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3. The traditional home library

It wouldn’t be an antique theme without a home library. Grab the oldest looking bookshelf you can find and fill it with the oldest books you can find. Books with a little ware and tare are ideal as it gives the impression that they were actually read once-upon-a-time. This is where the op-shop actually does come in handy. Many outlets sell books for next to nothing and they are generally used books which is perfect for the look you’re going for. Place a velvet couch in the room and you have yourself a traditional antique library.

Vintage interior design dining room

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4. In the kitchen

The kitchen is by far the easiest room to transform into a antique masterpiece. Vintage inspired kitchens are on trend and it’s relatively cheap and easy to transform a modern kitchen into an antique one. Start by removing cupboard doors. Yes you heard right, there was no place for cupboard doors back in the day. Everything on shelves and in cupboards were celebrated as part of the design of the room. Open shelving or glass cabinet doors are the perfect addition to a antique kitchen. If this move is a bit too bold, simply replace doors with vintage curtains in cute floral or stripe patterns. Another antique addition to the kitchen can include replacing cabinet knobs. These days, knobs are often shiny and simplistic but the antique style calls for something with pattern and elegance. Try brass or iron handles that can often be found at the local hardware shop.

Vintage kitchen

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5. Time to decorate

Vintage interior design is all about having functional decorating items such as those decorative plates hanging on the wall, that may come in handy when people are over for dinner (even though they are rarely used, the thought is there). First let’s turn your lighting into an artwork. Paint your old lamp shades with floral patterns for a unique touch. Don’t stress if you don’t have an artistic side, simply grab leaves and paint them in various colours, to then press into the shade. Rugs are the next big necessity. Colourful Chinese art deco rugs are perfect for a vintage touch. The more pattern and colour the better. Rugs can be a big investment, so instead grab a few metres of fabric, such as Ikea’s ikat fabric, and head to a dressmaker to sew the seams. Although this may not be the centre piece of the room, it’s a perfect base for furniture. As for the walls, create an eclectic mix of various frames. Grab old wooden frames from and op-shop or repaint frames in gold and brass colours.

Vintage interior design gallery wall and vintage rug

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6. Storage

When thinking about storage, think of all the possible uses for one item. Such as a small bowl can be used for jewelry storage, to hold a candle or to hold keys. Vintage silver, brass or copper bowls, vases and plates are ideal for storage in every room. Expensive looking pieces can be found at op-shops for inexpensive prices, or you could raid your grandmother’s house for timeless pieces. Bowls can be used for plants such as succulents, or hanging plants. Antique vases can be used for makeup brushes and toothbrushes. Vintage plates can be used for wall decoration or can be made into a multitiered jewelry holder.

Vintage teapot make-up storage

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Vintage china set storage

7. Hang your memories

Hanging photos doesn’t have to be done in the traditional framed way. This idea lends itself more to the country vintage look but is also perfectly suited for a home in the city. Use wire or an old fence gate to peg photos onto. Painted wire is often worn and this means it will fit in perfectly with your worn painted furniture.

vintage interior design farmhouse fence photo board

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As you can see, vintage interior design does not have to send you bank into the negatives. By getting creative, you can bring your antique inspired designs to life for less.

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Retro style guide https://designbx.com/blog/retro-interior-design/ https://designbx.com/blog/retro-interior-design/#comments Fri, 09 Mar 2018 03:35:23 +0000 https://designbx.com/?p=6924 Often design eras are rehashed. A flash from the past reappears with a modern twist. This is often referred to as the vintage or retro style. Retro interior design is an eclectic mix of old styles and new forms, or new forms with old materials and finishes. Any era can be tapped into here, with…

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Often design eras are rehashed. A flash from the past reappears with a modern twist. This is often referred to as the vintage or retro style. Retro interior design is an eclectic mix of old styles and new forms, or new forms with old materials and finishes. Any era can be tapped into here, with the  50s, 60s and 70s the most common. It embraces a kaleidoscope of contrasting design features, colours, shapes and form. The ratio of old to new will bring a more intense and defined understanding of this look. Your colour palette could be a diverse mix of brights or muddy muted neutrals or a 60s vogue monotone scheme. Motifs pull from the art deco, nouveau, oversized and psychedelic. Take risks, break rules and sing to your own tune.

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1. Top tip

The key getting retro interior design right is to think outside the box. For example, when choosing seating, favour bean bags, hanging pod chairs, day loungers, and oversized footstools. 

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2. Retro interior design traits

retro interior design green couch

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Wallpaper, rubber, neon lights, mood lights, texture, shagpile, cork, carpet,  timber, felt, wool, pattern, faux leather, glass.

3. Designers/Artists

David Hicks, Stephen Ormandy, Fred Lowen, Pierre Paulin, Gina Sarfotti, Fredrick A. Kayser.

4. Pantone colours

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5. Brands that fit

Fenton & Fenton, Candy Chair, Living Edge, Missoni, Ercol,  Arflex, BoConcept, Globe West, Retrojan, Xavier & Me, Marimekko, Ercol, Retro Print Revival.

6. A perfect day

Cleaning off the low riders in the garage after a cruise to check out the local vintage car show.

7. Fragrance or tune

Chicago Candle Co.-Whiskey & Ginger Ale. Warm and buttery, the blend of fragrances creates almost a cinnamon roll scent.

retro interior design pink and green

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If you are in love with all the decades, retro interior design is perfect for you. Retro interior design focuses on the trends and styles from the past – it’s a blast from the past! If your going retro consider adding a little Art Deco interior design or a Rustic interior design look. 

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Interior decorating gems – top Australian designers leading by example https://designbx.com/blog/interior-decorating-gems-top-australian-designers-leading-example/ https://designbx.com/blog/interior-decorating-gems-top-australian-designers-leading-example/#respond Fri, 27 Jan 2017 05:00:57 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=2138   Brave, innovative and stylised creations are Designbx’s passion, and today we highlight some stunning projects by top designers worthy of the applause of our design community. Charged with personality, these bold plans have become beautiful realities, thanks to some of Australia’s standout talents. Poppy Lane and Scott Gibson, Eltham Victoria – Photos by Annette O’Brien…

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Brave, innovative and stylised creations are Designbx’s passion, and today we highlight some stunning projects by top designers worthy of the applause of our design community. Charged with personality, these bold plans have become beautiful realities, thanks to some of Australia’s standout talents.

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Poppy Lane and Scott Gibson, Eltham Victoria – Photos by Annette O’Brien

As designers of their own range of indoor and outdoor furniture and homewares, under the Pop and Scott Workshop Cooperative , it’s no surprise that when Poppy Lane and Scott Gibson created interior designs for their own home in Eltham, Victoria, the result was bound to turn heads.

Showcasing pieces ‘rich with life, colour and texture, yet simple and timeless’, a warm and eclectic interior is created with textile styling, the strategic layering of rugs, linens, patchworks and a side of pom poms. In The Design Files, Poppy says, ‘only use furniture and objects that you love,’ as this allows the home to be warm and welcoming.

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Anna Spiro, Stradbroke Island –Photos by Jared Fowler

Anna Spiro collaborates with her brother Sam Spiro on Anna Spiro Textiles, which was born from a passion of textiles, patterns and colour. This is evident throughout her Stradbroke Island home, not far from Brisbane, which features some beautiful examples of her exclusive range, handmade using fine Belgian linen.

Sleek white walls complemented by crisp, colourful home decorations make the space feel fresh, yet modern. It’s a perfect combination of her island environment and the stunning items created by her textile design business.

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Jeff Swinyard and Kimberley Tan, Perth – Photos by Jody Darcy

Jeff and Kimberley run Studio Atelier, a Perth interior design business that brings architecture and interiors together to achieve the visions of clients. Their practice provides conceptual home design and development, perfectly illustrated in the duo’s transformation of a dilapidated Victorian terrace.

Creating a vintage yet modern space through the use of Victorian furniture, and artworks found in local thrift shops, Studio Atelier complemented the design with a mix of timber and iron furnishings, and modern trimmings to the decor. This pays homage to the historical aspect of the house while creating a modern home.

Pop and Scott Workshop Cooperative, Anna Spiro Textiles, and Studio Atelier’s refreshing creations show the depth of talent in Australian interior design. The boldness of vision and varied styles display the diverse aesthetics we love here at Designbx where we encourage our community of specialists to design with passion.

 

 

 

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Domestic bliss – the return of the dome chair https://designbx.com/blog/domestic-bliss-return-dome-chair/ https://designbx.com/blog/domestic-bliss-return-dome-chair/#respond Thu, 17 Nov 2016 14:51:15 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=1709   Also known as canopy chairs, porters chairs, balloon chairs or Versailles chairs, this mainstay of traditional design is finding a home in unexpected spaces. Let’s take a look at the reinvention of a striking style of furniture that can adapt to any space. There are a number a different methods for making the most…

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Also known as canopy chairs, porters chairs, balloon chairs or Versailles chairs, this mainstay of traditional design is finding a home in unexpected spaces. Let’s take a look at the reinvention of a striking style of furniture that can adapt to any space. There are a number a different methods for making the most of dome chairs in a room. Probably the most subtle and inclusive approach is to upholster in the lighter shade within your colour scheme. This will allow the dome chair to blend in and be seen as an interesting addition rather than the key focal piece.

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Marrying the framework colour of your dome chair to your surrounding furniture may be a more traditional approach, but who said traditional needs to be bland? Select a pattern from your room’s Style Board and feature on the rear of your chair. It’s a subtle and personal way to include your dome chairs, while having the added benefit of drawing attention to lines and colours of your room’s framework.

 

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Of course, you can throw the whole idea of subtlety out the window by creating the most plush and ornate incarnation of the dome chair – a cozy yet flamboyant feature that would look at home in any palace. Adding butting and stud work creates a real eye catcher! Buttoning works in almost every style. It’s all about the fabric finish, colour and pattern that will bring your style to life.

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The addition of another material such as rattan and the use of ornate craftsmanship in the wood framework turns your dome chair into a perfect addition to a French Accent or Traditional Chic space. In an environment that draws the eye to fine detail rather than bold palettes and patterns, focusing on shape and texture is key.

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If the last thing on your mind is allowing your beautiful dome chair to become a seamless part of the background, there are many ways to make a huge impact. Using block colour fabrics in brighter tones really adds some punch to this design. Pull a colour from your palette to create a more traditional and harmonised space, or select a completely juxtaposed colour to your palette for a more modern feel.

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Pattern is a very personal preference but when done right can truly show your personality and wild side. This chair has spunk! While the dome chair certainly adds flair, it’s not exclusive to feminine spaces. Notice how using leather on the external shell creates a more masculine feel.

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In fact, with the right materials and simplified colour scheme, the dome chair makes the short jump from ‘ornate’ to ‘stately’. Another benefit to leather is its durability, but remember comfort when it comes to internal surfaces. If you need more durability, opt for commercial grade fabrics and an aptly simplified pattern.

There’s no doubting the dome chair’s lasting appeal, and as you can see from the examples, it has a talent for being a chameleon or a showstopper, depending on your use of this boldly shaped furniture.

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How to make your feature walls a work of art https://designbx.com/blog/wall-canvas-make-feature-walls-work-art/ https://designbx.com/blog/wall-canvas-make-feature-walls-work-art/#respond Thu, 06 Oct 2016 05:37:41 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=1585   While we all recognise how important interior design is when communicating our sense of style and expressing our personality, the choice and placement of wall art is possibly the most personal statement we can make. Visitors are magnetically drawn to these windows to our past and interpretations of our world. But wall art isn’t…

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While we all recognise how important interior design is when communicating our sense of style and expressing our personality, the choice and placement of wall art is possibly the most personal statement we can make. Visitors are magnetically drawn to these windows to our past and interpretations of our world.

But wall art isn’t just a matter of placing an aesthetically appealing item on each surface. In 2016 we’re going far beyond the basics to create beautiful feature walls with starkly different elements. In this handy guide, Designbx experts show you the tricks of the trade and ensure your wall art enhances your interior design.

Complimenting your space

Art is subjective and personal, which means your choices are bound to make a statement, but make sure that statement doesn’t argue with your space’s style. You don’t have to be too strict, but when a canvas catches your eye, ensure you imagine the design of your room. An elaborate splash of colour could enhance your Boho living room but completely contradict the feel of your Industrial home office. Create a happy marriage between your wall art and style.

living room with greenery and artwork

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Canvas

Think big with canvas! This is a great way to make broad, sweeping statements using colours and shapes that compliment your décor. Use large blocks of colour and abstract shapes to highlight your existing palette. Rather than a focal point that draws the eye with detail, this technique is more of an integral part of your interior design, like another layer of your expression. If you really want to take this approach to extremes, consider literally using materials from furnishings, covers, curtains or rugs and getting a professional to stretch the materials, ready to mount on your walls and create an undeniable wow factor.

painting on traditional cabinet

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Prints

It may be a little beyond our budget to add an original Monet to our Modern Eclectic dining room or priceless watercolour to our Scandi sitting room, so prints are a popular and well accepted way to add a true artistic flavour to our spaces. In stark contrast to the bold use of canvas and materials, a deft touch and apt choice of print can create a more eye-catching statement while still seamlessly adding to your design choice. Even when the art is well known, and obviously not an original (most of us don’t have a spare $151 million for a Pollack or Picasso) our love of art still makes a huge statement about our personality.

penguin books print artwork above fireplace

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traditional chic living room

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modern living room with staircase

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Mirrors

Mirrors are one of the big game changers in modern interior design, reaching far beyond their practical use to become art. Never underestimate the power of a mirror. It brightens a room by reflecting natural light and adds the illusion of extra dimensions, opening up the space. Often being more cost effective than artwork, you can go oversized without breaking the budget. Mirrors now come in varied shapes and coloured glass so they become interesting pieces of puzzles that join to make artworks of a new kind.

round mirror above bench with plant

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distressed mirror above fireplace bookshelf

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Vintage posters

There was a time when most posters were originals, and nearly as hard to come by as original paintings. Thanks to the convenience of the interweb, you can reproduce some of the most exhilarating images designed throughout history, and in large formats that are bound to dazzle your visitors. Best of all, iconic posters express our personal loves, from film noir and classic concerts to exotic locations and retro advertisements.

 

James Bond wall print hallway wall

Wood carvings and hanging textiles

It’s not always about colours and shapes. Texture is just as powerful as the more obvious visual elements, especially when you’ve chosen interior design styles that rely heavily on layering of textiles, providing a feel rather than a look. Wood carvings and hangings are great solutions for homes that want less colour and punch but are after warmth. Boho and Scandi lovers are often drawn to these options.

tassel wall hanging

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Neon signs

This is definitely a growing trend in interior design, and can include the humble retro sign (unfortunately not so humble in price), or custom-made signs that fit perfectly with your style and colour scheme. Be on the lookout at garage sales or invest in a piece by a recognised artist in the neon sign world, like Tracey Emin. Remember to carefully consider the relationship between the neon sign (often a central feature) and surrounding artwork.

neon cloud wall hanging

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Colouring in

Give your wonderfully subdued palette a voice and personality by matching the tone of your room with artworks that harness your well-applied mood. Using deep blues and velvet? Match that sultry and refined look by choosing similarly moody artworks that enhance the atmosphere.

deep green traditional chic living room

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Eclectic

Some of the most effective wall treatments are elaborately constructed, using varied styles and sizes. Think of the New York style loft with one wall absolutely teeming with starkly differing images, from photos to original paintings, creating a vibrant atmosphere and somehow drawing cohesion from mayhem. It’s a lot of fun to create a busier feature wall, and an individual, couple or family’s entire life can be expressed by breaking all the rules and combining any type of mounted art. In most cases it can all work in unison; it’s a matter of finding the right layout and order.

 

eclectic home gallery wall

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eclectic blue wall gallery wall

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Whether you opt for a subtle approach or create walls that are just as creative as the works mounted on them, there have never been so many techniques and so few rules. As long as you compliment your interior design style, the many materials we’ve featured show how much variety now exists for homeowners who are looking to go one step further to express themselves and reveal their personal aesthetic.


 

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On the case – bookcases for your style and space https://designbx.com/blog/case-bookcases-every-style-space/ https://designbx.com/blog/case-bookcases-every-style-space/#respond Mon, 01 Aug 2016 10:43:38 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=1527   In addition to this article’s title, we could probably cram at least fifty more puns into the text, but that would distract us from the subject matter (possibly another pun), which happens to be one of our favourite interior design features: the humble bookcase. It’s incredible that an item which should, in theory, ruin…

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In addition to this article’s title, we could probably cram at least fifty more puns into the text, but that would distract us from the subject matter (possibly another pun), which happens to be one of our favourite interior design features: the humble bookcase.

It’s incredible that an item which should, in theory, ruin colour schemes and challenge most design styles, remains a powerful visual display. It’s even more impressive that in the e-book era, the bookcase continues to be a consistent inclusion in most homes. The reason for the bookcase’s stubborn refusal to die isn’t the significant amount of readers who simply prefer the feel of a printed publication in their hands; it’s the fact that a bookshelf adds to the look of a space while suggesting nostalgia, sentimentality, culture and personality.

In the Modern Eclectic home, a wall dominated by an extensive book collection perfectly suits the type of character we’d expect to find in the environment. In fact, printed words are such an integral part of their lifestyle that built-in cabinets are the most effective way of displaying all those soft and hardbacks. Built-ins not only add value to the property, but also frame architectural features. If you’re afraid of losing that Modern Eclectic sense of clean and open space, make sure you match the colour of your built-ins with the wall.

white bookshelf wall in living room

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If there’s a design style that can be communicated effectively by the addition of a bookcase, it’s Vintage. In fact, it’s probably compulsory to include at least one large bookcase. A lot of effort can go into expressing old world values and craftsmanship, but an impressive set of classics does the job effortlessly. Suddenly we achieve a sense of warm nostalgia as we’re reminded of old library shelves. You can also try floating shelves, which make your presentation of books feel more like artwork.

floating shelves bookcase wall

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floating shelves walls vintage home office

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Over the past few years we’ve seen books displayed in increasingly intelligent ways as homeowners use functional design to achieve compact living. Once driven by practicality, the art of using every possible square centimetre of space has become a feature. We’re seeing bookcases become walls and bed heads as homeowners utilise every nook. The warmth books add to the feel of a space is undeniable, so there are few examples of bookcases looking out of place.

bookcase wall in bedroom

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If your design is Industrial, choose materials for your cases that reflect your home’s style. You’ll want finishes that tap into the edgy, raw energy your space projects. Regardless of the barebones appeal of your interiors, harmony is still important. Consider layering furniture items, and place a sofa in front of the bookcase to add dimension.

industrial hanging bookcase

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As you can see from the example we’ve included, it’s definitely possible to find bookcases with a truly Luxe appeal, so if you’re aiming for elegance, don’t feel limited by your choice of cases. Take the time to find an ornate item that will add rather than detract from your design. Bold use of patterns and shapes should be consistent with your style, and colours must help the case feel integral.

luxe bookcase gold and blue

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If Vintage needs a few dusty tomes on display, Boho is the other style that demands the use of bookshelves. Everything about an impressive bookcase is consistent with Boho, which suggests an open and furtive mind; one that is certainly well read. In an open plan space, use your bookcase as a divider to create a little intimacy, and remember that unlike other interior design styles, you can be bold with colour, as long as you’re consistent. Finally, the Boho lover will garnish the shelves with keepsakes from travels and sentimental items, in line with the style’s disregard for convention.

boho living room with bookcase

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boho bookshelf in cluttered room

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There are many good reasons why we hate throwing books away. They’re significant parts of our past that link us to characters and atmospheres. They’re the items that have unlocked our imaginations since we were children. But don’t underestimate their beauty. Whether individual or part of well presented collection, the humble book’s aesthetic appeal is here to stay.


Designbx |  “On the case_ Bookshelves for your style and space” | designbx.com

 

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Designing with Pantone Rose Quartz & Serenity https://designbx.com/blog/pantone-2016/ https://designbx.com/blog/pantone-2016/#respond Tue, 02 Feb 2016 10:00:29 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=1266     Designing with Pantone 2016 colours- Serenity and Rose quartz Pantone’s colour of the year is remarkable for a number of reasons, the most obvious being the fact that, for the first time, two hues have been selected: Serenity and Rose quartz.    Image reference  This makes sense to any designer, of course, because…

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Designing with Pantone 2016 colours- Serenity and Rose quartz Pantone’s colour of the year is remarkable for a number of reasons, the most obvious being the fact that, for the first time, two hues have been selected: Serenity and Rose quartz.

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 This makes sense to any designer, of course, because the selection of colour combinations is probably one of the most wonderfully agonising processes when planning interiors. While environments or personalities may inspire us, triggering design epiphanies, it’s a critical decision never made without careful and long deliberation. Thankfully Pantone’s unprecedented announcement offers a ready-made palette that achieves unusual duality: a visually bold statement that also has an undeniably calming effect. 

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 “Calming tones”

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Let’s face it; our lives have become increasingly frantic. Thanks to social media, even our private lives can seem demanding at times. The arrival of these brave yet soothing tones is a tonic. This combination also continues to break down stigmas associated with gender. Since the 80s, similar combinations have helped men use fashion to rebel against tradition. These harmonious tones have a magical quality that allows them to sit well with most colours and appear natural in almost any landscape.

 

“Feminine touch”

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“Sharper edges with a masculine accent”

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Each established interior design style gains a unique effect. Serenity and Rose quartz offer an obvious opportunity for Modern in the form of bold colour blocking while Modern Eclectic will see these tones paired with metallics, rich fig and green tones.

“Vivid colour blocking”

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“A modern twist”

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Traditional styles will see a flirtatious use of pattern and colour. The impact of this serene pairing of colours can easily be softened or amplified when combined with complimenting tones like black, neutrals or yellows, and they have the unusual distinction of perfectly suiting sharp block shapes or fluid, loose fabrics.

 

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As examples clearly illustrate, whether you limit a space to these colour(s) of the year or adventurously add bold but complimenting hues, Pantone’s inspired choice seems to be at home (pardon the pun) in most settings.

 

“Room to be you”


 

Designbx “Designing with Pantones 2016 colours- Rose quartz and Serenity” designbx.com

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Celebrity Style https://designbx.com/blog/celebrity-style-youll-be-surprised/ https://designbx.com/blog/celebrity-style-youll-be-surprised/#respond Mon, 23 Nov 2015 23:27:16 +0000 http://designbx.com/blog/?p=1129   It is almost impossible to say that we aren’t intrigued to see how the celebrities live and that we don’t want to follow celebrity style.  A celebrities fashion sense often rings true to the style of their home but also not.  Lets take a peek in some homes… Cameron Diaz This Manhattan apartment is modern…

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It is almost impossible to say that we aren’t intrigued to see how the celebrities live and that we don’t want to follow celebrity style.  A celebrities fashion sense often rings true to the style of their home but also not.  Lets take a peek in some homes…

Cameron Diaz


This Manhattan apartment is modern eclectic in every way. This opulent and glamorous oasis was designed by “it” designer Kelly Wearstler, need we say more.

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Julia Roberts


 

This Greenwich village apartment shares a neutral blend of coastal and traditional chic
elements.  It’s understated colour palette allows the truly amazing views remain the focal point.


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Johna Hill


 

 

One of Johna’s many properties, this 1950’s casual beauty in the Hollywood hills is an eclectic blend of coastal, modern eclectic, and vintage overtones. A fun and bright approach.


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Tyra Banks


This Beverley Hills mansion is Traditional Chic perfection.  The soft and neutral palette lends itself to the rustic architectural features.  Airy, fresh, and beautifully detailed.

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What’s your style? Just remember a space should bring happiness, select pieces, colours and finishes that brighten your day.


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Wallpaper Wonders https://designbx.com/blog/wallpaper-wonders/ https://designbx.com/blog/wallpaper-wonders/#respond Sat, 07 Nov 2015 05:52:33 +0000 http://designbx.com/blog/?p=1067     Wallpaper has become extremely popular these days, bringing a dramatic effect and a solution for a quick room transformation. With wallpaper you can incorporate colour and get the added benefit of pattern. In fact, with its endless varieties, from bold florals to vintage-style graphics to nostalgic textures, wallpapers are not only making a comeback…

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Wallpaper has become extremely popular these days, bringing a dramatic effect and a solution for a quick room transformation. With wallpaper you can incorporate colour and get the added benefit of pattern. In fact, with its endless varieties, from bold florals to vintage-style graphics to nostalgic textures, wallpapers are not only making a comeback but here to stay for a good reason. Check out the latest trends and styles.

Tropical Escapism


 

Blossoming landscapes for your walls are a major trend for 2016, designed to carry you away to a distant land. Delicate botanic paintings, tropical flowers, fragrant orchid blossoms, palm leaves and textures of water colors are filling the catalogs. Welcome to the jungle.

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Slate, Wood, Concrete and Brick


 

Surfaces of silver and gold motifs giving the impression of a rusty storage or downtown loft create an inspiring living and working atmosphere. Wallpapers mimicking slate, wood paneling and brick popular than ever.

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3D Vision


 

We are already immersed in the 3D era of geometric patterns. Wallpapers with dynamic dominant geometries shapes and forms give the interior a sense of new minimalism. The graphics are meant to capture and comment on our information age with bright colours and geometric forms.

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Nostalgic Charm


 

The opulence of the 19th century brings to the interior classic ornamentation in a shabby chic style, floral, and delicate baroque-inspired effects with gold combinations.

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