I try to avoid trends in my interiors, instead striving towards the pursuit of enduring beauty. Some describe my aesthetic as ‘eclectic’, but there’s always a luxe edge to it, too. Here, I’m sharing some thought-starters and advice for bringing a sense of eclectic luxury into any space.
Layering colour. Whether it’s neutral or bold, it’s good to start by identifying a key piece in the room that you want to accentuate and build around. It could be a piece of furniture or artwork. Once you’ve identified the piece, build and layer your colour narrative around it, including contrast and complimentary hues.
Texture. For me, texture is a little bit like cooking a recipe; you need to have harder, saltier elements alongside sweeter and acidic. Think pitted timbers, ceramic glazes with lovely imperfections and hand-woven textiles. Texture is all encompassing and indicative of human gesture, helping to shape the landscape of our homes.
Lighting. Your choice of lighting should be both practical and enigmatic, across a topography of scale and uses. Factoring in how one uses the space, for example, are they mostly standing (a kitchen) or mostly lying horizontal (a bedroom) one can ascertain requirements, but from there build the ambience.
Furniture choices. I try to stay away from being too matchy-matchy when it comes to furniture and placement. I like to operate in contrasts; mixing cool tones with warm tones; soft textures with bold forms; flea market finds with heirloom investments. When it comes to placement, the proverbial ‘form follows function’ will ring true. In that it’s important to understand how the space operates and is zoned, once you know that, everything else is a carte blanche.
Trust yourself. Authenticity and sincerity are hallmarks of any person and design. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to stay away from the pendulum of trends.
Additional moodboard credits: (From left) Fish Trap Hollow Log 23-172 by Jeremy Diwidiwi Gumana from Brunswick Street Gallery. Checkered Bowl Basket from Pan After. ‘Ordinary Pleasure’ sandstone wall art by Neighbourhood Studio. Ava burnish cushion from Weave. Nagel Candlestick in chrome from Royal Design. ‘Dark Matter’ sculptural vessel by Georgina Proud from Craft Victoria. Xhosa Reed Gourd basket from Pan After. ‘Narrabang – Dillybag’ artwork by Hannah Lange.
