As we mark one year since our first national lockdown we want to celebrate our homes. They have become our offices, classrooms and cinemas. The importance of cultivating spaces that are practical, personal and beautiful has never been more evident and we want to share what is inspiring us.
The following are our top interior design inspiration to watch in 2021.
Natural Patterns
Embracing the imperfections of natural materials such as burr timbers or the unique veins within marble can add a sculptural dimension to your finishes.
Although a burr growth is considered a deformity within a tree, the tight knots within the growth create beautiful, intricate patterns, giving depth to any flat surface.
According to Aristotle, “In all things of nature there is something of the marvellous”, and thus designing a statement kitchen splash, a decorative bathroom sink or a bold side table is a simple solution to help elevate your space.
Textured Joinery
Our sense of touch is often undervalued and something to be considered when choosing or designing furniture and joinery.
Fluted timber details are an example of playful tactility and a step beyond the norm of smooth surfaces.
Collaborating and designing custom joinery for a project isn’t something prospective clients often realise is part of an architects job description.
Fluted timber panelling on Emmanuelle Simon’s ARY bedside table www.emmanuellesimon.com
Books in Interior Design
Books never go out of style and although almost anything can be found online, there is nothing quite like the physicality of a lovely book and a good excuse to get away from our screens!
Libraries, reading nooks or a statement shelf form a strong focal point within a room and perhaps provide a sense of comforting nostalgia.
Lighting
A great way to create warmth and interest within a room is to layer the lighting. Introducing a table, floor or wall lamp will help create a more nuanced space and allow it to transition between use; from day to night, office to lounge, business to pleasure.
It is also a great way of defining different areas. For example a lovely floor lamp by your favourite spot on the couch makes it the perfect spot for reading (and/or scrolling). Similarly, a smart desk lamp, warm bedside lights or an ornate pendant can be both practical and a sculptural investment.
Hide the technology
Do not let the TV be the main focal point of any room, even cinema’s hide their screens with curtains when not in use!
Concealing a TV within joinery is a clever disguise and our Kensington Flat is a favourite example.
Upholstered Headboards
Given the amount of time we spend in our bed, why not make it a little more cosy and luxurious. An upholstered head board should reflect your own personal style, be it sculptural or classic, bold or neutral.
The current pandemic has us craving a feeling of comfort and our backs will thank us next time we are watching Netflix or taking that conference call from bed.
If you are planning to renovate dedicate some time to finding designs and projects that you love. Look for colours that warm your soul, irrespective of trend. Interiors really are a question of personal preference. The difficultly can be knowing exactly what you want. It is the architect’s job to find out and curate beyond what you could have imagined.
