Ed’s letter HB editor-in-chief Elle ’ s secret to effortless interiors

BEAUTIFULFABRIC OFTHEMONTH

Peonia Velvet in Midnight, Mokum

E L DITOR’ ETTER S

Easydoesit

What does an

‘ effortless interior ’ look like to you? Is it a room that is perfectly organised and therefore effortless to live in? Or is it a space layered with treasured, collected pieces, a look that has evolved over time. For me, it’ s a blend of both. I like my home to be organised, but I love being surrounded by the things I’ ve carefully chosen and lovingly styled over the years. My one piece of advice for a truly effortless interior is to include an element of decorative tension. That is, a piece of furniture, a lampshade, a paint colour or artwork that jars with the rest of the room – think an antique in a contemporary space, or a pop of colour or flash of pattern in a neutral scheme. This trick will make even the most matchy-matchy of rooms feel a little looser and more comfortable to be in. And the wild thing is, it always works.

Now we ’ re in June and winter is officially here, it’ s time to turn our attention to creating cocooning spaces that we can retreat into for a bit of solitude or to spend time with loved ones. I can ’t think of a better way to add instant cosiness than with a beautiful plush rug and from page 36, you ’ll find our round-up of the best floor coverings. Flip further down to page 122 to read our good lighting guide and learn how to create the perfect ambience in every room. A few more pages on, our handbook on upholstery is a must-read for anyone looking to purchase a new sofa, ottoman or bedhead. Achieving a bespoke look is easier than you think.

Over in the kitchen we ’ re dreaming of fantasy islands, from material and colour choices to all the design details you could possibly want on this high-traffic hub of the home: storage, towel rails, seating – the lot. As for the bathroom, we have over 30 pages of beautiful bathing spaces for you to pore over, complete with design tips, source books and shopping recommendations so you can get the look at your place.

I hope you ’ ve had a lovely start to the chilly season, and may this issue bring all the inspiration you need to create your own effortless interior.

ELLE LOVELOCK, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Get in touch with me on Instagram @ellelovelock

COVER LOOK

A LUXURIOUS TARTAN THROW AND PRETTY PATTERNED CUSHIONS ELEVATE THIS FAMILYREADY MODULAR SOFA, AS DOES THE BUTTONED OTTOMAN DRESSED WITH PRETTY PURPLE FLOWERS. MOVIE NIGHT, ANYONE?

Photography:MareeHomer Styling:KaylaGex