Tag Archives: design
Layering in Interior Design
When it comes to interior design, layering is all about what we include in a room to make it feel complete. For example – cushions, throws, books, curtains, candles and magazines are all objects we include when we layer our spaces. I believe the most interesting and welcoming rooms are those that have just the right amount of layering.
Getting that right balance of layers into a room is really important. Too little and a room can appear very cold, clinical and unwelcoming. Or too many layers and a room may feel cluttered and disorganized.
Ok, so getting the balance right? Firstly, I hate staged rooms. Don’t layer with items that serve no logical use in a space. Don’t sit a lamp on the dining room table if you don’t intend to use it, or coffee table books in the kitchen unless you plan to read them. When layering occurs organically then it’s more likely to look natural. I’ve added lamps to both side tables in this bedroom along with reading material, layered with purpose.
Try using different patterns and textures in your layering, but make sure there is a connection between layered objects. The striped throw on this bed adds interest with a contrasting pattern to the florals, but works well because the green stripe ties in with other green elements in the room.
Layering with cushions! Ahh…my favourite type of layering. A lounge with no cushions is so boring and sad. Once again, try mixing patterns and textures. It’s been suggested that you shouldn’t have cushions in the same fabric that match your lounge. While I agree, it’s hard because lounges are often sold with matching cushions. I think the only exception to this rule is when the cushions serve as a structural component of the lounge.
And don’t forget your coffee and dining room tables! Add books, flowers and coasters with different heights and textures. A layered coffee table is a warm and welcoming invitation to come on in, sit down, and make yourself at home.
Using Maps in Interior Styling
We have quite a few maps on the walls in our home. My hubby is quite fond of them as he has a keen interest in geography. It’s not uncommon to find him standing in front of one, analysing the countries, cities or towns. I like maps too, but mostly because they look pretty.
The world map below I bought as a gift for my husband and it hangs in our office. It’s decorative and practical as the kids do most of their homework in this space.
We own a few vintage maps and they are my favourites because of their colours and tones. Hubby loves these ones too as he can compare how mapping has changed over the years *yawn*.
The vintage map below is HUGE and hangs on the wall in our son’s room. We found it online at Empirical Style. They have a great range of maps, plus other cool goodies.
This paper map wreath hangs in our living area. You can find the tutorial for this DIY wreath here. Hubby was NOT pleased about me destroying an old atlas, but look how pretty it is!