On our radar.... FEELING BLUE

Trending blues are believed to induce serenity, so find your inner zen with a pop of cobalt, turquoise, navy, aquamarine, and more.

How to master...

Monochrome

WHAT IS IT?

Using varying shades of a single colour to create a cohesive and harmonious space, the key to getting monochrome interior design right lies in using different textures, materials, patterns and shades to add depth, layers and interest. Often mischaracterised as restrictive, its structured modern, classic yet whimsical versatility suits every space.

About The Style

Its origins can be traced back to the minimalist art movement of the ‘60s and ‘70s. A style that remains popular, it has also influenced other design forms such as the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic and the clean lines and simple forms and neutral palette of Scandinavian design.

How To Nail It

Pick one colour. Start by selecting a colour you love as the foundation for your design. Popular choices include white, black, grey, beige, and even different shades of blue.

Explore shades. A single colour is the gateway to an array of different shades that can be used to create depth and interest in any room. For example, if grey is your go-to then bring light shades, medium tones and deep, dark variations into play.

Think texture. To add interest and dimension to your monochrome design, incorporate different textures. This can be done with fabrics, rugs, furniture pieces and accessories. If beige is your palette foundation, for example, think about introducing soft furnishing accents using rich velvets, crisp linen and airy cottons.

Contrast counts. While monochrome design is all about using one colour, adding contrast is important to prevent the room from becoming too flat. Use black or white accents to create contrast and up the interest factor.

Mix it up. Get creative with a mashup of different materials from wood, metal and next-generation bioplastics to glass, stone, porcelain, ceramics and leather – or pleather. Light woods paired with selective use of metals are a great fit with a beige colour palette.

In the mood. Lighting is a crucial element of monochrome design. Use different lighting sources, such as lamps and overhead spots, pendants, chandeliers, track lights, etc. to create the right mood for each space, with the flexibility to adjust depending on time of day or purpose.

Keep out clutter. Edit your space by ensuring that accessories and décor are minimalist with just a few select statement pieces that reflect your monochrome colour palette.

Clockwise from top: Besta cane open weave console, Dhs 1,875, Fronteriors.co; 101 CPH Sumo vase, Dhs 1,590, Fronteriors.co; Agnes dish, Dhs 109, THE One; Molly cushion cover, Dhs 167, THE One; HKLiving modular Vint couch section, Dhs 4,750, Urban Nest; Bolia balloon pendant by Meike Harde, from Dhs 2,105, The Bowery Company; Besta cane closed weave cabinet, Dhs 4,320, Fronteriors.co; Glacier Rug, Dhs 475, Lime Lace