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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

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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

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.

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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. 

The post Retro style guide appeared first on Designbx.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Designbx  |  “The wall as a canvas- how to make your feature walls a work of art”  | designbx.com

The post How to make your feature walls a work of art appeared first on Designbx.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 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

The post Designing with Pantone Rose Quartz & Serenity appeared first on Designbx.

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.

The post Celebrity Style appeared first on Designbx.

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 19^th 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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The post Wallpaper Wonders appeared first on Designbx.

Pendant lights are an elegant way to achieve an enjoyable decorative experience. This lighting should be the focal point and fit properly into the space in terms of shape, size and style. Pendant lights come in a wide variety of designs, elegantly hanging above a kitchen table or taking center stage in the dining room. Check out our favourite samples and some useful tips for you.

Kitchen

Pendants in the kitchen area are mood-setters. Consider a pendant with a light diffuser, or use semi-opaque bulbs. Pendants should hang 12-20 inches below an 8-foot ceiling. For each additional foot of ceiling height, add 3 inches. For example, for a 9-foot ceiling, the pendant should hang 15-23 inches below. Pendants should be hung over work surfaces at a height that doesn’t block views across the kitchen.

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Dining Room

A dining room pendant lighting gives atmosphere. The light should flatter the décor and make the best of it. It will take center stage and it must be updated and beautiful. It’s the perfect opportunity be bold and dare with colour and shape.

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Living Room

Pendant lights can make a room feel cozy, romantic or energetic with the twist or hit of a switch. The main light, should be set in such a way as not to create too much shadow. Use more than one pendant to divide the light and enhance a pleasant atmosphere.

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Home office

With more and more people opting to work from home nowadays, there are a few integral things to consider when creating the layout – including your pendant lighting options. Hung from the ceiling, they can provide light just where you want it: on the desk and your paperwork, not on your screen.

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30th October 2015 | The Designbx Team | Interiors- Pendant Perfection

The post Home lighting: Pendant Perfection appeared first on Designbx.

Bar cart? Yes! that bar trolley you see in luxurious restaurants. Those with the wheels or without, which some may call a tableside cocktail or simply a bar cart. This iconic furniture item makes a comeback and the good news is that you can make it work for your own home. You can choose one that compliments your style and your decor and accessorise it as you wish. Here are our tips for styling a bar cart to give you a few ideas.

Divide by Trays

Use trays to divide the areas of your bar cart into sections for bottles, glassware and accessories.

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Act Like a Pro

Buy an ice bucket, bottle opener, cork screw, shaker, jigger, and strainer. Search for designer’s items that have the gadget look or go for the traditional classy style.

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Add Books

Bar carts also make for greatstorage place for extra books you dont have room for. Old books or design books add lots of flair to a bar cart.

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Insist on well Branded Bottles

Bacardi, Smirnoff, Bailys etc.’ these are the brands that make your bar cart worth attention. Expensive whisky bottles always look attractive.

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Choose Elegant Glassware

A night for champagne or whiskey? Elegant glassware will look attractive even if you’re not the “drinker”. When hosting a party make sure you have the right glasses for wine, champagne and cocktails.

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Adding greenery to your trolley creates a more fresh and fun feel. Paired with metallic finishes like these gorgeous copper trimmed glasses is very now!

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Use your top tier as your functional surface. Bottom shelf for a striking sculpture.

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Add a Personal Touch with Flowers

Find an interesting vase to place at the corner for those refreshing flowers.

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25th of October | Team Designbx | How to do the bar cart

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