1 BALANCE
Balance is the secret of a harmonious setting. All objects should be balanced i.e. high with low, wide with narrow. Avoid perfect matches as balance is found in parity, not duplication.2 SCALE
Scale is very important. Whether your house is big or small, the furniture must be in proportion to the space. Oversized furniture will suffocate if is put in a tiny room.
3 SIMPLICITY
Simplicity will come naturally if the balance and scale of a room is correct. Remember, if in doubt don’t. As the saying goes – less is often more.
4 COMFORT
Comfort is not only a feeling but also a look. Avoid hard edges and strong lighting. Instead create a soft mood with an inviting atmosphere, i.e. a big soft sofa.
5 WARMTH
Add warmth to a room by humanising a disciplined background with special touches, i.e. fresh flowers or some decorative cushions. Invite and welcome guests in a cosy room.
6 CONTRAST
Contrast a blend of shapes, tones and textures. Opposites can often attract so try rough with smooth and old with new. Contrast will bring a boring room alive.
7 COLOUR
Colour is a powerful tool and should be respected. Colours come from decorating elements inside and outside a house, so insure that there is a balance of colour.
8 CONTINUITY
Each room should display individuality but still be part of the whole. Therefore keep the mood consistent but avoid uniform fittings and furniture.
9 SURPRISE
Quirky accessories or a burst of colour will state credibility and show that a home is for living in, not just for looking at. So don’t be afraid to accessorize.
10 PERSONALITY
Your home should reflect your personality, not someone else’s. Express your personal style; don’t imitate others, as it is boring. Be bold and proud of your ideas and have confidence in your skills.
YOUR HOME SHOULD EMULATE YOU.
Courtesy of House & Garden June 2000
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