Sunday 3 April 2016

Defining your favourite decorating style


Ever wonder why you like certain decorating styles or certain Interior Designers work? I do! 

I have a couple of favourite Interior Designers, such as Jonanna Gaines from Fixer Upper, Sara Richardson and Nate  Berkus. So in today's article I'm going to visit designer Joanna's work and break down the style elements to help define her style. Why do this you ask?  Replicating the look and feel of a designers work in your own home is very hit or miss when you're  doing it adhoc. However if you've 'unpacked' the style and defined it, keeping an eye out for finishes and accessories to create that look becomes a lot easier. You can collect cut outs from brochures or magazines or create a Pinterest page dedicated to each of the elements. Then when it's time to shop, you're all set. So what are some of the elements. In short:

1. Ceilings- exposed beams,  timber panelling and feature lighting
2.  Floor covering - fixed and rugs 
3.  Dramatic furniture pieces
4.  Kitschy accent furniture
5.  Functional accessories
6.  Decorative accessories
7.  Doors - don't under estimate the impact of doors on your style
8.  Architectural Accents

In this article I'll start with Ceilings and Floors.

1. Ceilings- exposed beams,  timber panelling and feature lighting
Unlike Sarah Richardsons designs Joanna and Chip Gaines often have a simple formula of high ceilings pained with gorgeous country and industrial lighting. Where there are are lower ceilings they'll capitalise on features like wood panelling painted white to add texture and character.

 Even a simple ceiling be a feature when you add a timber and iron chandelier. 

The combination of painted timber ceiling and a rustic chandelier gives an I stand country look.


With high ceilings a dramatic effect can be created with a simple iron candle chandelier.


Exposed beams can be added to create an earthy country feel. Whether they are structural or just decorative they can be used on both flat or vaulted ceilings.


2. Floor covering - fixed and rugs 



Dark timber floors can be softened with the addition of rugs incorporating on trend patterns, textures and colours.



A light stained timber floor can be given a feeling if warmth by adding a deep coloured rug.


Using rugs made from rattan can give a less formal feeling and help create a country feel. 

Watch out for my next articles on:

3.  Dramatic furniture pieces
4.  Kitschy accent furniture
5.  Functional accessories
6.  Decorative accessories
7.  Doors - don't under estimate the impact of doors on your style
8.  Architectural Accents

Understanding why you like a designers style will help you when you are shopping or planning your home design. Over the coming weeks we'll be unpacking a few designers styles to see what's so special about each of their approaches to decorating.

You can watch Fixer Upper at 6:30 pm on Sunday nights on Channel 94 or visit the HGTV website on 
Fixer Upper HGTV.

Priscilla X 





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