Classic Styling

Date: 29-Apr-2020

Style Library

Trends come and go, giving us a little hit of happy along the way, however there are certain elements in design that will never go out of style. The key is to opt for a timeless look, which can remain true to your style and taste without conforming to any particular ‘trend of the moment’. Of course, timeless design can mean different things to different people, but this is where the beauty lies in making it your own. A timeless interior is one that is classic and refined - but that should never mean boring!

6 TIPS FOR CREATNG A TRULY TIMELESS INTERIOR

Tip 1: CONSIDER SYMMETRY

A space with symmetry will always be pleasing to the eye ...
creating a welcoming, calm environment.

Symmetry is one of the oldest decorating tricks in the book and the biggest consideration in creating a classic look. Naturally the human eye is drawn to identify symmetry and balance, which means regardless of all other elements, a space with symmetry will always be pleasing to the eye. Symmetry can be very easily achieved by doubling up on items so that you can create matching halves that tie together in creating a complete room. Some of the easiest ways we can achieve this would be with a pair of matching lamps flanking either side of a lounge, buffet or bed, or matching chairs in front or on either side of a single sofa. The idea is to create a balance between one side of your room to the other that will naturally create a welcoming and calm environment. All of this being said, not everything needs to be in a pair. It is about finding the perfect balance and moving things around to avoid creating spaces that feel too rigid.

[ CLASSIC COLLECTION ]

Here symmetry is used to add balance with the use of a pair of mirrors
which act as a background focal point above an asymmetrically styled buffet.

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Tip 2: CREATE A FOCAL POINT

A strong focal point is key in any room, and is always evident in the perfect timeless interior!

A lot like creating symmetry, focal points are equally important as they are pleasing on the eye and give it a place to rest. Occasionally focal points can occur naturally in a space with the presence of a fire place or large framed windows, however if this is not the case, you have the opportunity to create a focal point yourself. This can be created with an oversized artwork or a piece of furniture such as a sofa or a buffet. Finding your focal point should be a natural process that works for you ... allow your eyes to look around the room and get a sense of where you naturally want to look, this is where you should create your focal point! Arranging all your furniture, and symmetrical pairs around your focal point will create the perfect balance.

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Tip 3: USE CLASSIC ELEMENTS

Invest in a furniture piece you love knowing it will not go out of style.

No you are not alone in debating with yourself about selecting the right piece of furniture that will work in your space and last the test of time! Part of what gives a room a timeless style is the use of classic elements such as stripes and florals for soft furnishings and rugs, classic references for furniture pieces like shaker paneling and timber mouldings, and classic upholstery details like wing backed chairs, curved arms, stud detailing and tufted buttoning. These are design elements that have been around for a long time and, even when mixed in with more contemporary pieces, add a sense of classic charm to your space.

Focusing on selecting furniture pieces with these elements is a great way to achieve a timeless interior. A good place to start is with a buffet, console table or classic sofa as they are larger scale items which draw the most attention of the eye. Keeping it 'classic' on these items means you can invest in a piece you love knowing it will not go out of style .... indulge in trends for smaller, easily replaceable items like cushions and homewares.

One of our favourite classic ranges is the Merci Range which incorporates
all of the classic elements into a functional and stylish design.

Tip 4: USE NATURAL MATERIALS

Natural materials are beautiful, functional and will age gracefully over time.

Haven’t we all watched various trends come and go in the world of interior design?

Yet, the return to the same natural materials time and time again has never been more evident. Natural and organic finishes or materials such as oak, marble, linen and leather create a look that is both beautiful and functional and far less likely to go out of fashion than manmade materials. Natural materials are not only easy to work back with and accessorise, but they add warmth to your space and will age gracefully over time.

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Tip 5: NEUTRAL COLOURS

Explore natural tones of the same colour or stick to a limited colour palette.

No doubt selecting the perfect colour for your walls is a hard decision to make, we have all been there!

However you cannot go wrong with sticking to a simple and neutral colour palette. White walls are not the only answer to achieving your timeless look - classic colours such as cream, beige and cool greys will allow you to maintain a classic backdrop while still adding depth and interest to your space. Major elements like flooring, curtains, rugs, furniture and seating should be in a complimentary colour palette ... explore natural tones of the same colour (like cream beige & white) or limit your colour palette several colours only (like navy black, white & camel shown above).

You still want some colour?

No problem, go crazy with cushions, throws and other items that can be replaced and interchanged more regularly without unbalancing your space. You can always make it look fresh and it won’t break the budget.

[ CLASSIC COLLECTION ]

Tip 6: MIX IT UP

Curated to achieve a timeless interior in a fresh contemporary way.

It really is so easy to get caught up in the latest trends, we know! But there is a reason everyone still has a LBD in their closest, or dreams of that Rolex watch - They are classics! The same concept applies to your home.

It's important to mix things up and create an individual style that works for you and your space (no cookie cutters please) ... but remember to use trends as an inspirational tool to fine tune your space. Your big ticket items should be classic and refined so that you can add your in-trend selections through accent pieces such as cushions, throws, art and lamps as your taste and desire changes - that way, you can keep it fresh and inspiring without breaking the bank!

At CAFE Lighting & Living we love mixing things up. Many of our pieces have a classic edge reinterpreted for modern living. It's also not unusual to see a mix or eras combined in our collections ... carefully curated to achieve a timeless interior in a fresh contemporary way.

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Throw out the rule book and have fun creating your own timeless interior

Just stick to the guidelines above, follow your gut, and get creative!!

... And if you still feel like you need some guidance, feel free to contact us below -

one of our talented stylists will be more than happy to walk you through it.

Want to know more?

INTERIOR STYLING SERVICE:

Email a picture of the room you would like help with and one of our friendly stylists will be in touch to provide suggestions on layout, style and a selection of pieces that will work with your brief.

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