We have an Interior Design columnist in our midst
Elizabeth Weightman manages John Young Furnishings and is a skilled Interior designer looking after clients which include private residences as well as guest houses, hotels and holiday homes. Recently she was asked to write a regular column for a regional newspaper Homestyle supplement. We have included a copy of the article here so you have the chance to read it too.
Homestyle Autumn 07
The accent is changing and homes are becoming more personal
Over the past 18 months the trend for cool, clinical, minimalist colours and furnishings for the home has been very popular. It was a property developers dream and very simple to manage, but we are now seeing a rebellion in the form of colour and a more personal touch.
For the last year, interior design window displays have featured strong bold patterns on one wall. It takes time for people to become familiar with this boldness of colour and the statement that it makes, but we are now seeing it creep in to Cumbrian homes. The creation of an accent wall makes a neutral room much more appealing and personalised with accessories, it becomes more individual.
People living in West Cumbria are among the quickest to adopt new trends. When everyone followed the neutral look, a lot of homes looked the same. Adding this season’s splash of colour doesn’t cost much and makes a big difference. Wallpaper can be dramatic and very effective way to change a room and it is very economical too – you don’t need many rolls of paper for one accent wall.
Whereas our older generation would buy a suite and keep it for 20 years, today’s younger buyers are more fashion conscious and are happy to update furnishings more often. What’s more, they also chose on an individual basis, picking a comfy sofa, a chair that’s right for them and then chairs for guests.
What’s likely to be popular in the next few months?
October is a busy month for tables! For many, entertaining at Christmas is very special and it’s now that people orders dining tables to ensure they arrive in time for Christmas and New Year entertaining.
Coming into autumn and winter people tend to choose furnishings that are cosy and warm. The brown leather sofa is still very popular and it can be enriched with opulent accessories and fabrics. Silk and silk effect curtains are quickly becoming the latest trend and they are perfect for adding colour to rooms that are tiring of the minimalist look.
There’s one piece of advice we always give our customers - following trends is fine – but the most important thing is that you like it.
