Don’t mix too many colours or patterns
I always start with a clean palette, and I try not to mix too many patterns or colours within one room. I tend to stick with one bold colour and then layer upon that. This often creates a high impact focal point. If I do add complementing colours, I wouldn’t usually use more than three. It’s the same with patterns; I will usually choose just one one and let it stand boldly alone.
Larger pieces of furniture are key
To keep the lines clean I prefer to use minimal pieces of larger furniture rather than many smaller items. I find that too many small pieces can cause a space to feel chaotic, and although some Art Deco looks are all about delight in chaos I don’t think it works in all modern environments. This approach also offers an excellent way to make a small room appear larger, and ultimately it creates a more polished and relaxed feel to the overall finish.
Statement oversized lighting can do wonders
Lighting is almost always a pivotal element in my room design. I always encourage my clients to be brave with lighting. I love to layer up chandeliers into pairs, or even more. The look is unexpected and powerful. I prefer lighting to flow from room to room. It doesn’t necessarily need to match – and in some cases a mix of styles is best – but there should always be a material that connects them. This adds flow to a home as you walk through it. Of course lighting brings not only a physical styling aesthetic, but also mood that can be modified to suit the space.
Don’t be afraid to mix metals
One of my favourite palettes to work with is black, white, silver and gold. I usually match furniture with one metal, and then accessorise with the other. Mixing metals is a way to subtly add substance to a room’s look. It’s a clever way to give a room character without adding clutter or patterns.
Layering is not only a lot of fun, but it’s an excellent way to achieve Art Deco style. I start with larger key pieces and layer up a room from there. Artworks, mirrors, table lamps and objet d’art all help to build the glamour. I often hang mirrors in pairs for a boosted effect, as I love the way they reflect light from chandeliers. In fact the layering of reflective surfaces can make a room look larger and more inviting.
It’s all in the details
It’s amazing what a transformation can be made with final styling. I love the impact of a well-sized palm or fiddle tree. Sometimes the beautiful green of a plant can be the only colour needed in a crisp black and white room. Coffee table books, crystal bowls, and candles tend to warm a highly styled room. With my final styling I take on the same philosophy as I do with my early furniture placement; with less oversized pieces being preferable over an array of accessories.
