PRETTY IN PINK

With Spring in the air, everything just looks so damn pretty, doesn't it? And a colour that seems to be popping up a lot lately is pink. I'm not a big fan of "pretty", however pink has been on my radar for a little while now. I like the unexpected pop on surfaces and designs you wouldn't normally associate with pink, such as concrete and warm metals like copper and bronze. And check out those pink doors! I'm especially loving it in pale blushes on walls and paired with either navy/indigo or with ecru and blonde timbers. I think the trick with pink is to avoid the bubblegum tones and either go with a loud, bold pop like a watermelon or hot pink or choose a softer, "dirtier" shade with a hint of black. Check out Dulux's Pink Marble for a soft muted salmon pink that would suit a Scandi style interior. Try to avoid the sugary pinks that can make a room look like a little girl's nursery. In fact, I'd avoid those even for a nursery! Choosing just the right tone can make a space look either soft and feminine or cool and edgy.

vtwonen.nl

Betsey Johnson's house 

Nord Autumn Winter 2012 catalogue

Vtwonen April 2012, styling Marianne Luning, photography Anne de Leeuw vtwonen.nl

Interior photography by Derek Swalwell

House tour of artist Kirra Jamison featured in Jan/Feb 2013 Inside Out magazine. Styled by Jason Grant, photographed by Derek Swalwell.

Designed by Abigail Ahern abigailahern.com

Arne Jacobsen egg chair. Photo source unknown.

Vtwonen April 2012

Dulux paint, Pink Marble. Also try in half or quarter strength.

All images are credited where possible. Please feel free to share information on any where a source could not be located.

Inside Scoop. Interior Design Blog.

STATEMENT LIGHTING

When choosing lights, most people try and blend the fitting in with the room or even make them invisible. That's why so many people choose the dreaded downlight. Don't get me wrong, down lights have their place. But I can't help but feel that people choose them because they are an easy option. One sure way to make a bold and unique statement in an interior is with lighting. I love the idea of using a kick arse light fitting, just as you would a sculptural piece or artwork. Statement lighting can transform the look and feel of a space, providing edge and interest to an otherwise boring room. Don't be afraid to be adventurous with your light fittings. They're there to serve a purpose but they can also be used as a unique decorator piece. 

abigailahern.com

Paris apartment. Photo source cdn.decoist.com

By stylist Marie Olsson Nylander

Mezonin Russia, Sept 2012

BAU pendant light in House & Garden

 delightfull.eu

 delightfull.eu

All images are credited where possible. Please feel free to share information on any where a source could not be located. 

Inside Scoop. Interior Design Blog.

WALL OF ART

Gallery wall in bathroom by Christina Anasta Design. 

I spent most of last week either framing artwork or visiting art galleries in Sydney. It got me thinking about how people hang their artwork. I have a wall of art in my bathroom - that's right, in my bathroom (see pic above). But I really don't see that type of placement very often. Most people usually separate their artwork or hang one or two on each wall. But a wall of art, or gallery wall, is a great way to create a bit of drama and it really does create interest on an otherwise boring wall. A collection of different artworks, preferably in different frames and sizes, draws you in, encourages you to have a closer look and is a great talking point. If you don't have artwork, try mirrors or even a cluster of empty frames. There are no set rules - if you group pieces that you love, they should work well together. And here's a handy little tip - trace your frames onto craft paper or cardboard and play with different placement options on the wall to get the layout just right.

All images are credited where possible. Please feel free to share information on any where a source could not be located.

Inside Scoop. Interior Design Blog.