New Year’s resolutions most often apply to ourselves, but what about applying some to our homes?
Perhaps this year is the time to make a few changes to our home interior. And let’s face it, our immediate living environment directly impacts on the way we feel.
But it’s helpful to know what’s on trend for home interiors this year. After all, it’s better to catch the wave as it starts, rather than jump onto a trend when it’s virtually over.
With this in mind we have come up with a list of resolutions, straight from the heart of your home, which hereby resolves to:
Contrasting textural materials, such as leather, with high-gloss surfaces is a strong trend for 2016. The Halo mirror-finish furniture is from McKenzie & Willis.
1. BE MULTIFUNCTIONAL
Rooms are no longer just for one thing only. Designer Sonya Cotter says this is the biggest trend for the year ahead. “We are always looking to save space and money, so spaces that can be used for dual purposes are ideal. Kitchens are dining areas, bathrooms are workout spaces or wellness retreats and verandas are treated as rooms.”
It all comes down to the way these spaces are decorated. They need to make us feel welcome enough to hang around, not just a space we pass through.
While a home office is often best suited to a corner of the family living space, it can be set up in any room.
2. PROVIDE A GREAT LIVING ROOM
Consider what type of seating you need and how it can be arranged. There is no rule that says chairs and sofas must be up against the wall. If possible, pull them into the room and create a more free-flowing circulation. And make sure the furniture is close enough to allow for easy conversation. Invest in small side tables that you can move around when you need somewhere to place a glass.
A wall painted in bright orange Resene Clockwork Orange is teamed with a rich red sofa and black furnishings in this eclectic interior.