Interior Design Tips in Harrogate : Jacqueline Guitart

Here are some of my top design tips to focus on when re-designing a room:
Furniture

* Before making any purchases, plan your room scheme to include curtain fabrics, flooring, furniture, lighting and paint colours. Collect as many swatches and samples as possible. Take these with you when shopping to avoid impulse buys.

* Harsh overhead lighting makes people feel uncomfortable. Soft pools of light from table lamps and wall lights are a far better choice. If possible all lighting should be controlled from one source.

* The choice of colour in a room is crucial to create the right atmosphere and positively affect
your mental well-being. Don’t forget we are in a northern climate with lots of ‘grey’ light: white
paint will look cold in many rooms.

* Start with one good piece of furniture whether it be a chest-of-drawers, table or sofa and then
build from there as and when you can afford it, always choosing good quality rather than
quantity.

* Be prepared to admit your previous mistakes. Don’t live with them; confront and get rid of them, even if you have to admit having wasted some money in the past.

* Quality and attention to detail make all the difference to the end result. This is especially true in
contemporary or minimal interiors.

* Curtains should always be full length and interlined wherever possible and use double the
  window width – more if you can manage. If expense is a problem, use cheaper fabric where
  larger quantities are required – but don’t stint. If you fall in love with an expensive fabric, use it
  on small pieces such as a cushion or a chair.

* Pairs are pleasing and so is symmetry in arranging objects. A bowl of flowers flanked by a pair
of candlesticks may not be original but it never fails to please. The same formula works with more offbeat objects.

* Don’t be a slave to scale. Oversize pieces can look terrific in small rooms.

* Don’t forget ‘comfort’ is just as important as ‘style’ &’design’ if a room is to work.

*Working on a budget need not be restrictive: a simple calico-covered sofa can look stunning with a few sumptuous cushions.

* If you want to add depth to a room and create a feeling of space and light, either use a large,
free-standing mirror or mirrored panels on one of the walls.

* Candles and fresh flowers can make a real difference. Candlelight is soothing and atmospheric
and fresh flowers bring a room to life.

* Be enthusiastic: expose yourself to as much good design as possible in magazines, books,
museums and home exhibitions.

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