Interior design: What’s hot and what’s not
Supported by Outlet Property Services.Joshua Rafter (pictured below) is managing director of Outlet Property Services, the original and first-choice LGBT property company providing sales, lettings, property management, and financial services. In terms of interior design, what do you see some of the rising trends as being – what’s hot right now?
This is quite a well-timed question as we’ve just launched an Outlet furniture range in partnership with brand David Philips. We wanted to offer furniture from a reputable, quality manufacturer at prices that wouldn’t make people gasp. In terms of trends, there is a massive move towards more affordable furniture direct from the manufacturers thanks to the internet. You can now find really fantastic pieces that don’t cost the earth. And up and coming designers are creating some really trendy furniture for those looking for something contemporary and trendy. We’ve written about copper recently, as a trend, on our lifestyle blog, Better Living. There are copper vases, ornaments, clocks, lamps… you name it. It’s a really cool colour and adds an industrial loft-style element to a home.
And what would you say are some of the biggest no-no’s, or interior design disasters?
The biggest mistake people make in my opinion is buying things in a hurry because they feel the need to furnish or decorate a room the second they move in. For instance people buy a picture for the wall because they think they can’t have blank walls or they buy cushions, a rug or other soft furnishings and often, they don’t love it. I recommend waiting a while and decorating or furnishing gradually, only ever buying something you absolutely love. Obviously you’ll need essentials like bedding or a lamp, but when it comes to personal items that make a place your own, shop around. Think about what reflects your personality, such as nice photos of your favourite holiday spot or a theme and then plan the room around that. There are some great Apps out there too, such as Houzz, which offer plenty of inspiration.
More tips from Outlet:
Five essentials for a winning bachelor pad
Home accessories for a pop of Spring colour