Buckle up because you're about to embark on a design journey that will transform the way you see and experience your home
I'm thrilled to welcome you to the inaugural issue of "Loving Where You Live" by Plush Design Interiors!
In this series of ten free design digests, we're not just talking about walls, floors, and furniture; we're delving into the heart of what makes a house a true sanctuary
Your home should be a reflection of your personality, a canvas waiting for your unique story to unfold
You will be able to add to your knowledge of interior design and home renovation with our build-able series of free ‘Design Digest’ pdf’s downloadable from our website, Plush Design Interiors
I’m so glad you are here
Love, Penelope xx
EMBRACE YOUR DESIGN JOURNEY WITH US
loving where you live
your home / your rules
Welcome to the enchanting world of interior design, where creativity meets functionality and where every space becomes a canvas for your imagination
Whether you're a budding interior designer, a homeowner looking to spruce up your living space, or just someone with a passion for all things beautiful, this SHORT guide is your FIRST key to unlocking the secrets of interior design
FOUNDATIONS
chapter 1 / The basis for your interior design journey lies with the foundations.
In this chapter we cover understanding spaces, colour + light, and furniture + layout
UNDERSTANDING SPACE
Before embarking on your interior design journey, it's essential to comprehend the fundamental concept of space
Think of space as the blank canvas upon which your design masterpiece will unfold Understanding the different types of spaces is key
Open layouts, common in modern homes, provide a sense of freedom and connectivity. Meanwhile, cosy nooks and alcoves offer intimate settings for relaxation.
Your ability to harness the potential of these spaces will define the character of your design.
Consider the flow of traffic within a room. A well-designed space guides people seamlessly from one area to another.
This is especially crucial in shared spaces like living rooms and kitchens
When considering entry and exit points in a room, it's essential to ensure that the design invites people in and allows for easy navigation within the space
Here's how you can apply this concept to a living room and a kitchen:
1. Living Room:
Entry Point: feature a console table with a vase of fresh flowers or a piece of art, creating a focal point Ensure there's no clutter, and the pathway to the seating area is clear
Seating Area: Arrange furniture to encourage warm conversation and comfort A semi-circular or U-shaped layout is popular Ensure that the pathway from the entrance to this area is direct and unobstructed
Flow & Accessibility: Consider the placement of rugs and other decor elements to subtly guide people towards the seating area without creating tripping hazards.
2. Kitchen:
Entry Point: The entrance from the dining area could be marked by a change in flooring or a unique light fixture overhead, signaling a transition into the cooking zone.
Pathway Clarity: Ensure that the path from the dining area to the kitchen is clear, with no furniture or kitchen islands impeding the flow This could involve having a clear aisle or a direct sightline to the kitchen's main work triangle
Functional Zones: Organise the kitchen so that the storage, preparation, and cooking areas are intuitively placed, making it easy for someone to step in and know where everything is
In both areas, the key is to create a sense of openness and ease, guiding movement through the space with thoughtful layout choices and clear visual cues
The goal is to make the rooms inviting and easy to navigate, enhancing the overall comfort and functionality of the space
loving where you live
COLOUR + LIGHT
Colour and light are the dynamic duo of interior design, capable of transforming any space
Delve into the psychology of colours – warm hues like reds and oranges can stimulate energy, while cool blues and greens evoke calmness
Lighting plays a vital role in setting the mood Natural light is a designer's best friend, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere
Artificial lighting, on the other hand, allows you to craft specific atmospheres with task lighting for focus and ambient lighting for relaxation.
And remember, it’s not all about the ceiling. bring in wall sconces, table and floor lamps, strip lighting, up and down lights.
Don’t forget the dimmer switches.
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The 60/30/10 colour rule is a golden guideline in interior design that helps create a harmonious and visually pleasing colour palette.
It's all about balancing three key colours in your space: the dominant colour (60%), the secondary colour (30%), and the accent colour (10%)
Now, let's apply this rule to the delightful world of mid-century modern interior design, because it’s such a popular era
In mid-century modern interiors, the dominant colour often leans towards earthy, warm tones Think rich walnut browns, teak wood, and warm beige This makes up our 60% - the foundation of your colour scheme These earthy hues provide a cozy and inviting backdrop
For the secondary colour (30%), mid-century modern design often incorporates shades of bold, saturated colours Think of deep teal blues, mustard yellows, or even burnt orange
These colours add character and a touch of vibrancy to the space They can be used on larger furniture pieces like sofas, accent chairs, or statement walls
Lastly, our accent colour (10%) should be a pop of something striking Consider a burst of bright red, emerald green, or a sunny shade of yellow in the form of smaller decor items –throw pillows, decorative vases, or art pieces
The 60/30/10 rule ensures that your interior palette remains balanced and visually appealing. It lets you play a colour palette while maintaining a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
However, interior design is not just about colours; it's about creating a space that reflects your personality and style.
FURNITURE + LAYOUT
Furniture is the heart of interior design. The right selection and arrangement can make or break a space.
Begin by understanding the functionality each piece offers. Consider scale and proportion when arranging furniture Oversized pieces in a small room can overwhelm, while small furniture in a spacious area may feel lost
Achieving balance in furniture placement is key to creating harmony
Always plan your furniture placement before purchase, never ‘wing it’ Use blue painters tape on the floor and walls to define areas
Understand how traffic will flow around furniture
Furniture is the heart of interior design, shaping the aesthetics and functionality of a space.
The right selection and arrangement can transform an area, making it inviting and practical.
To create a furniture placement plan, start by assessing the purpose each piece serves
Whether it's a cosy reading nook or a dynamic entertainment area, each item should contribute meaningfully to the room's function
Understanding the scale and proportion of furniture in relation to the room is crucial
Oversized pieces in a compact room can create a feeling of clutter and restriction, while small items in a large space might seem insignificant or scattered
It's about finding the right balance, where each piece complements the others and contributes to the overall harmony of the room
Achieving balance in furniture placement involves more than just fitting pieces into a space It's about creating a flow that guides movement, encourages interaction, and enhances the overall experience of the room
This balance is not only visual but also functional, ensuring that the room serves its intended purpose effectively
Furniture and layout are pivotal in interior design.
By considering functionality, scale, proportion, and balance, you can create a space that is both beautiful and practical.
chapter 2
DESIGN ELEMENTS
Now we move to some important design elements to create spaces that resonate with you.
We’ll be looking at texture + pattern, balance + proportion, and personalisation + styling
TEXTURE + PATTERNS
/ monochrome pattern
/ tonal pattern
Textures and patterns add layers of interest and personality to your design.
Imagine a room with various textures: a plush rug, smooth leather sofa, and rough-hewn wooden coffee table These contrasts create depth and visual intrigue
Patterns, whether through wallpaper, fabrics, or decorative elements, can define the style of a room
Mixing patterns can be a bold move, but it can also lead to striking visual compositions Explore geometric, floral, or abstract patterns to find what resonates with your aesthetic
Mixing patterns is a creative way to produce a distinctive and visually captivating aesthetic Here are some suggestions on how to mix different types of patterns effectively:
Geometric Patterns:
Bold and Structured: Geometric patterns like stripes, chevrons, and plaids can serve as a strong base They provide structure and can be easily paired with more intricate designs
Scale Variation: Mix geometric patterns of different scales A large, bold stripe can work well with a smaller, subtler geometric print
Floral Patterns:
Nature-inspired Softness: Floral patterns add a soft, organic touch to any composition They can range from delicate, detailed botanical prints to large, abstract florals.
Complementary Colours: Pair floral patterns with geometric or abstract ones that share a colour or two. This creates harmony despite the difference in pattern styles.
Abstract Patterns:
Artistic and Free-flowing: Abstract patterns are great for adding a unique and modern touch. They can be anything from splashes of colour to intricate, surreal designs
Bridge with Solids or Simple Textures: If the mix feels too overwhelming, bridge the patterns with solid colours or simple textures that pick up colours from both patterns
When mixing patterns, consider the following:
Colour Palette: Stick to a cohesive colour palette to ensure the patterns complement rather than clash with each other
Balance and Proportion: Pay attention to the scale and proportion of patterns Too many large, bold patterns can overwhelm, while too many small, intricate patterns can become dizzying
Space and Application: Consider the space or the item where the patterns will be applied For instance, in a room, you might choose a bold wallpaper but keep the upholstery in a subtler pattern to maintain balance
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BALANCE + PROPORTION
Balancing elements within a room is essential
Symmetrical designs create a sense of order and formality, while asymmetry adds a touch of creativity and informality
Proportion matters too. The size of your furniture should be proportionate to the size of the room.
Pay attention to the visual weight of objects – larger and darker elements tend to carry more visual weight.
Your space should be a reflection of your personality Injecting your personal touch into your design is what makes it truly unique
Family photos, artwork, and cherished mementos are all ways to infuse your personal story into your home
Styling is about creating visual interest and cohesion Group objects in odd numbers for a balanced look and mix old and new pieces for a timeless feel
Your personal style should shine through in every element, from the choice of curtains to the selection of decorative accents.
PERSONALISATION
+ STYLING
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Your home is more than just four walls; it's an extension of your identity and a canvas for your self-expression.
Personalisation and styling are the keys to infusing your unique personality into your living space, creating a haven that's distinctly yours.
The Art of Styling:
Styling is the fine art of creating visual interest and cohesion within a space It's like putting together the perfect outfit, but for your home Here are some essential tips to master this art:
Odd Numbers Rule: Grouping objects in odd numbers (e g , sets of three or five) creates a sense of balance and harmony It's visually pleasing and feels more natural to the eye than even-numbered groupings However, even numbers do create a more formal feel if that’s what you want to achieve
Mixing Old and New: The most intriguing spaces often combine the vintage with the contemporary Pairing old furniture or vintage finds with modern pieces adds character and depth to your interior It's a timeless approach that brings history and innovation into harmony
Colour Coordination: Pay attention to the colour palette in your space A well-coordinated colour scheme ties your design elements together, making the room feel cohesive Use colour not only in your decor but also in your furniture, textiles, and accessories
Balance and Symmetry: Balance doesn't always mean perfect symmetry. It's about achieving a harmonious distribution of visual weight in a room. Mix different shapes, sizes, and heights to create a balanced look.
Layering and Texture: Layering different textures and materials adds depth and tactile interest. Think of it as adding layers to your outfit – a textured rug, soft cushions, and tactile wall art can transform a room.
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chapter 3 /
FUTURE DESIGN
Future-proofing your home and taking note of new innovations, technologies, and things you add to your home over time are worth your time.
So think about things like adding people to your home, swapping out display items to include future travels, including play areas for children or grandchildren Whatever the future holds for you, think about what you need to include in your home design.
SUSTAINABILITY + ECO-FRIENDLY
In today's world, sustainability is at the forefront of interior design
Making eco-friendly choices isn't just a trend; it's a commitment to the environment and a healthier living space
Consider materials that are renewable and recycled, and opt for products with low VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions to improve indoor air quality
Energy-efficient lighting and appliances not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save you money in the long run.
Discover how to make sustainable choices without compromising on style.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY DESIGN
Transforming your space doesn't have to empty your wallet There are many savvy ways to achieve a stylish interior on a budget
From upcycling old furniture with chalk paint to scouring thrift stores for unique finds, resourcefulness is a great interior design skill
Think about how you can prioritise your spending to get the most impact for your investment
With a little creativity and strategic planning, you can have a beautiful home without breaking the bank
Interior design is a field that constantly evolves.
From smart homes that seamlessly integrate technology into your living spaces to virtual reality tools that allow you to visualize your designs in 3D, there are MORE exciting innovations on the horizon
Stay ahead of the curve by exploring these emerging trends and harnessing the power of cutting-edge tools to bring your design visions to life
INTERIOR DESIGN FUTURE
1. MOOD BOARDS AND INSPIRATION
2. DETAILED FLOORPLAN OF YOUR ROOM
3.MATERIALS,PATTERNSANDSAMPLES
3 ALWAYS DO A LIGHTING PLAN
5. EMPHASIS AND CONTRAST
PLUSH DESIGN INTERIORS
Based in Adelaide, South Australia, Plush Design Interiors create homes you’ll never want to leave
We’d love to hear from you penelope@plushdesigninteriors com au Interiors and architecture are the passions of our team including Penelope, Renee, Venus, and Emily Girl power!
