Great use of colour and pattern can transform a space, changing the ambiance of a room and even your mood. However, many people find this intimidating and often play it safe, resulting in a space they don’t love. Here’s how you can add personality and colour to your space without the fear of making an expensive mistake.
Start Small
Introduce Changeable Accents Begin by incorporating colourful or maximalist elements through small, easily changeable accents like lampshades, vases, and cushions. There’s no rush to transform everything at once. Start with a few pieces in bold colours or unique designs and see how you feel before adding more.
Seek Inspiration
Research and Experiment Look online and in interior design magazines for inspiration. Collect ideas that resonate with you and think about how you could incorporate them into your home. Order samples and try different combinations of paint, wallpapers, and fabrics to see how they work together. Check how different hues and patterns look under your lighting and with your existing decor. Create a simple mood board to visualize your ideas.
Keep a Tight Colour Palette
Create Cohesion Choose a colour palette of 3-4 colours that you love and use them throughout the room. This helps tie various elements together and prevents the space from feeling chaotic. Avoid clashing colours by using a colour wheel to ensure your choices complement each other.
By starting small, layering thoughtfully, and balancing bold elements with neutrals, you can embrace colour and pattern in a way that feels less overwhelming.
Consider Professional Help
Consult an Interior Designer Modern interior designers often offer affordable package deals. For example, Design Studio 17 offers a package starting from £595, which includes a 2D room layout, a concept board, and a recommended purchase list for key items.
The Role of Lighting
Enhance with Lampshades Lighting is crucial in interior design, especially when using bold colours and patterns. Thoughtfully chosen lampshades and lighting fixtures can enhance the ambiance, highlight key elements, and add an extra layer of style to your decor.
Focal Points and Cohesion Lampshades can act as focal points, add a pop of colour, or tie your colour scheme together. Choose different patterns within the same colour family or use various shapes and styles to create a layered lighting effect.
Vintage and Eclectic Choices Incorporating vintage or vintage-style lampshades and eclectic lighting fixtures can add character and personality to your space. You can update existing lampshades by recovering them with new fabric, especially if you love the shape but want to refresh the colour scheme or add an interesting pattern.
Bespoke Lampshades
Reflect Your Personality Often, lamp bases are sold with generic lampshades in neutral tones. Consider creating a bespoke lampshade that perfectly reflects your personality and taste. You can select the frame shape, size, fabric, trims, colour, and pattern that best complements your interior design.
Get in touch if I can help you with your lampshade project and guide you in creating a space that truly reflects your style.