Bold Meet Traditional....

Many of our projects revolve around clients who have existing pieces (either passed down from family members or the blending of households or just past purchases that they don't want to replace) that they would like to modernize.  Some clients are open to total overhauls of items but others want to maintain the integrity of those pieces and incorporate them into a more modern overall design.  So what are some easy tips to make a traditional living room more playful and bold?

Try adding bold colour, graphic patterns and drama in terms of scale.  These three elements will easily update your space.



This image is a great example of traditional with a twist.






You see all 3 of the above mentioned elements in this room.  The daring orange accents to the over sized floral and geometric prints. 

Mixing several patterns in a room gives a sophisticated layered look and adds whimsy to the space, the key to mixing prints is to use a variety of scales bringing in visual interest and depth into the space. 

If you are nervous about a bold bright colour like orange, just try it in accessories like pillows, lamps and other decorative details - that way you can ease yourself into the colour without making a big commitment.
Make a statement with a bold , big and colourful art piece - that instantly updates a space with a twist.

When traditional pieces are paired with unexpected elements like bold colour, prints and patterns, and big pieces - you make an impact without having to compromise the integrity of your traditional items

Style Guide: Finding your style

Many of our clients want to know - what's hot in home decor?  How are other people decorating their homes?  What's in style?  And there is absolutely nothing wrong with asking those questions but your home should really reflect your style (and lifestyle needs) and that way you will be comfortable in your space and still look good!

Whether you're decorating a single room or a whole house, a cottage or a castle,the sky's the limit and there's really no reason for anyone to be stuck with a home decorating scheme that doesn't capture their own unique style and interests.

 If you haven't yet identified your particular style or if you're uncertain about how to proceed, remember you do not have to fit completely into one style.  Nowadays, we are seeing 'hybrid styles' where people are mixing up 2 or 3 different styles.  I like to recommend the 80/20 rule.  About 80 percent of your space should be in one style and the remaining 20 can be a few or just one other style.  This will give your space a polished designer look while still incorporating your different tastes.

Some ways to update a traditional style - update a traditional chair or ottoman with some bolder fabrics (pattern and/or colour) can totally transform a piece and make it look new and fresh. 

 

Wallpaper accent walls, instead of wallpapering an entire room try one impact wall and add a bold piece of art.  Or try funky wallpaper in a small space like a den or powder room - those little rooms can be bold, too!



Switch up traditional art hangings by grouping them or even switching out the mattes and frames



Take a traditional dining table and add some more modern chairs - this cost effective idea really updates the space and also allows the table to be the star piece in the room


 
A solid glass coffee table is another great way to update a living room.  it gives you surface space without the bulk and you can really show of some unique table top decor pieces and yes, you can pair them with more traditional end tables.

 

Try updating your lighting!  That is a huge transformation - overhead lights, table and floor lamps...there is so much selection out there