Stylist Notebook 4: Autumnal Ochre

The carpet is very neutral – why not use a paler shade of terracotta on the floor?

Generally speaking, it works well if you use muted tones on the walls if the flooring is quite strong or – as in this case, you use your colour on the walls and keep the flooring neutral which will create an even balance in the scheme. Too much colour can be overpowering and hard to live with so if you are investing in a new carpet, take your time to choose the colour wisely - it’s much easier to repaint your walls when you want to create a new look! 

How come nothing in the room matches but it still looks co-ordinated? How easy is it to make that work – are there any design rules to follow to achieve this effect?

Creating an ‘eclectic’ look is not as hard as it seems. Co-ordinate the room by colour and bring it all together with one constant in the room – the neutrally toned carpet. The soft, muted carpet is the perfect platform to showcase the eclectic collection of furniture and accessories. 

Stylist Tips:

1. Keep your mood board realistic to the space you want to design. Think about what will suit the room, can you adapt the style and will it work – otherwise you may have an interior space that looks like a stage set and will raise a few eyebrows….but not in the right way.
2. Decide whether you’ll go for colour in your carpet or on the walls. If you have a small space to design – keep the floors light or neutral and choose a mid-tone for the walls – unless you’re after drama …then you can probably go with a more moody wall colour.
3. If there isn’t a strong light source in the room (big windows or doors) then you may be better to stick to more neutral coloured furniture and add punchy coloured cushions, throws and artwork to add personality.

Stylists Secrets:

1. If you don’t want the expense of changing a sofa to match your room scheme, just add a throw, allow it to cover the bulk of the area and then add a few coordinating cushions.
2. Look at things you already have, perhaps you could paint an existing piece of furniture to match your new scheme. Have a look at Annie Sloane Chalk Paint
3. If you are short on budget and you’re looking for some new art for your walls – make your own - take a look at here for some great ideas!
4. When designing a new scheme, look at the space you have and work out what you want to create. Invest in high value areas such as carpet and furniture and use paint to set your scene (it is the most inexpensive way to make a big change) and finally add personality with your accessories.  Interior design and styling is all about expression…so, go ahead and express yourself!