Colour me beautiful
Last week we looked at the pleasing nature of an all-white house but, of course, some of us thrive on bright colours and bold decorating statements. Don’t be afraid to step out of the box and try something new with your colour scheme. Just remember it’s the finishing touches that can make all difference!
BE BOLD
The use of many bold colours at once is generally the preserve of the bravest decorators but if you think you can handle it, throw rules out the window and mix and match to your heart’s content. Vivid yellows and blues are top of the pops in Europe at the moment and now they’re becoming popular in New Zealand as well!
LAID-BACK LIVING
With a good standard lounge suite as your basis, cushions can be an amazing way of adding flair to the living room. My husband often comments that we seem to have new cushions all the time but I always point out that it’s a cheap and cheerful way of getting a whole new look when there isn’t the time or the funds for redecorating.
BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL
It’s certainly an acquired taste, but black painted or papered walls are becoming increasingly popular. Far from being drab and dreary, black makes a great backdrop for bright colours, elegant accessories and embellishments. It can seem cool in summer and warm in winter but I would tend to recommend it for a room with plenty of natural light.
MAKE A STRONG STATEMENT
Conservatories are a great addition to any house and are particularly enjoyable during the wet winter months. In conservatories, strong design statements, such as a stunning stripy fabric, are very effective. Don’t forget to add freshly cut flowers, which will give extra colour to any room. A big, blooming arrangement can help lift a space from super to sensational. Resist the urge to over-furnish your conservatory – remember, simple is stylish!
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW
If a flash new dining suite is on the longterm wish list, take heart now and collect together a selection of mismatched chairs, then and go wild with paint. Even if each chair is a different colour, it can look surprisingly cohesive and you can guarantee nobody will have anything remotely the same. Buying two or three test pots in each colour is cost-effective and the whole family can be involved.
- Louise Richardson
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Over the Teacups
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Robyn, Whangarei
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