It is so easy to determine ones "Style" in Fashion...yet the things you necessary wear as an Item of Clothing does not necessary distinguish your taste in Interiors.
That is why we are here to help you - an Interior Decorator / Designer is someone who uses the "Elements of Design" such as Colour; Space; Texture etc...to decorate or design a Room. She is one who Optimises the "Function" and "Potential" of the area of discussion...
With all that said - none of this can be achieved without the consent / brief from the Client. This is whereby she combines the "Style" of choice together with her expertise into incorporating a unique blend of finishes that not only look good but "feels" good to the inhabitor's of that Space.
But what if you are uncertain of your Style? Then where to from here? Often Interior Decorators have an occupational habit of "forcefully" trying to influence you on things that don't necessary appeal to you - I feel this is wrong - We can advise on the benefits of the Item - But one thing I always remind myself is that..." I am not going to live here "...This is your "Space" and you need to be comfortable in your Surroundings.
So I have laid out a Few Pictures of Interiors and short Briefs determining various "Styles". Remember these are just Guide-lines - Your "Home/Space" should feel comfortable to "You" - You could even cross-over Styles and do a bit of a mix - There are NO RULES!!
Enjoy Finding Your Style:-) "Til next time...FK.
Herewith is a list of various Styles which we are Familiar with:
1)Periodic Styles
1)Periodic Styles
Classic / Timeless This style never dates. Furniture pieces are solid – often “heirlooms” passed down from generation to generation. Clean design lines and very little Contrast in Colour is used. Fabrics and Textures used all Blend in well together. The room should be visually balance with "Focal Points" used to highlight certain features.
Victorian Era
Lots of Antique Pieces / Furniture that resembles pieces of this time. Very “over the top” with lots of Trims and Passementrie. Gilded Furniture pieces as well as mouldings and frames with the same effect. Fabrics are layered with lots of Tapestry-type Prints.
Traditional/ Formal
Often using symmetrical arrangements; rich colour schemes; elaborate carvings; dark wood furniture; abundance of detail; opulent and luxurious finishes.The area should be elegant and inviting with emphasis on the various details. Fabrics used are beautiful patternned prints;tone on tone stripes; textural patterns...as well as self-embossed damasks and fleur de lis prints.
French / Romantic
Very soft, feminine and dainty Printed Floral co-ordinated with fine ticking stripes and gingham checks. Lots of Roses and Fresh Foliage. Pastel Paint Colours with Techniqued Furniture Pieces.
Modern
Low sleek furnishings with gleaming surfaces (Glass and Stainless steel) Clean lines with accents of Bold colours / textures. Open spaces create a minimalistic look.
Contemporary
Current/ up-to-date style; Clean lines with simple shapes; Standard Palettes with Clear Colours; Space is the showcase to create a clean, fresh look.The room should focus on Function and avoid excessive accessorising and clutter.
Colonial
Large, Bold leave-type sketched out Prints. A bit of Rusticity in Basket ware. Over-head ceiling fans and Large Palms resemble hot dry lands. Skulls and Horns are very "African Colonial" but depending on which era you following be it British / French Colonial a bit of research into these need to be investigated to ensure the right look is achieved.
Eclectic
This Style is when two or more styles are blended in creating a completely different look. You often find a blend of antique pieces mixed with a modern design - sometimes it works very well...and sometimes it can be a disaster.
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| "An Interior showing an intergration of many Styles namely Colonial; French; Contemporary and Classic" |
Today we fond of mixing "Contemporary / Modern" as these lie very closely on the "Design Line". French / Romantic / Shabby Chic are also very closely linked.
A Traditional Fabric upholstered on a Modern Sofa creates a bit of a Stir - but that is why it is different because it almost seems like the Decorators' are defying the "Laws of Design"...but like in Fashion same with Interiors - if you like it "Wear it" - if you want it " Buy it"...just remember to check with your Decorator first....;-)LOL.
The next category is: 2)"Themed" namely:
1.Ethnic
2.Nautical
3.Shabby Chic
4.Eastern / Oriental
5.Feng Shui
6.Country Cottage
7.Corporate
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| "Ethnic" |
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| "Country Cottage" |
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| "Feng Shui" |
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| "Nautical" |
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| "Shabby Chic" |
