Insights into Interior Design: Designing in Style - Traditional - Georgian
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This third article in my series continues my discussion of traditional/period design, with a focus on the Georgian style.
In terms of dates, the Georgian period is generally considered to have extended from 1714 until 1830. It has since inspired one of the most popular traditional interior design schemes.
London design was considered world-class in Georgian times - UK craftspeople were highly skilled and uniquely specialised. The wealthiest classes insisted on the highest quality, with exacting standards in terms of dimensions and proportions.
A few designers were particularly famous during the Georgian era. Their names, ideas and concepts live on today in the many homes and residences that feature Georgian-inspired interior designs.
William Kent lived from 1684 until 1748 and was an architect/interior designer who is best known for his tables and chairs which featured extravagant gilt decorations and strong connections to Greek and Roman insignia. Today these traditional designs continue to be used by many London Interior Design Consultancies that specialise in the Georgian style.
Thomas Chippendale is a name famous to many discerning Londoners. This cabinet-maker lived from 1718 until 1779 and designed furniture that was less ostentatious than that of William Kent, consistent with British (and London) tastes at the time, and yet exceedingly graceful and refined. Interior designers today will adopt either Chippendale's original designs or re-envisionments/replicas of his originals.
Finally, Robert Adam was an architect and interior designer who dominated the 1770s with his vivacious use of Roman and Greek motifs, including urns, tripods, and mythological iconography.
Today, London interior design consultancies tend to be cautious with Georgian designs, recognising that this style can look pretentious if too pronounced. Larger, more spacious London mansions with tall ceilings are best suited to the Georgian style of interior design.
The next article in my series "Designing in Style" moves away from historic traditions and focuses in on a timeless interior design classic - the rural countryside.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
London Interior Design Consultancies
Insights into Interior Design: Designing in Style - Country Styles
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This fourth article in my series moves on from historic traditional/period styles to the country style - a timeless interior design classic.
The country styles are also sometimes known as the pastoral or rustic styles. The most prominent example is the cottage/farmhouse. Ask most interior designers to imagine being far away from London and they will envision an earthy farmhouse kitchen with rustic tones, wooden enclaves, solid and wholesome meals, and a welcoming brick fireplace. Pastoral styles in interior design contexts are as much practical as they are stylish. The restful comfort and lack of ostentation is appreciated not only by country folk but also by city dwellers. London Interior Design Consultancies often work with clients who have large residences with expansive grounds in need of a rustic feel that harks back to quieter times.
The country interior design style relies on sturdy natural materials such as wood, brick, stone and textured or weathered fabrics. Floorboards are often left exposed to wear down over time, before being stained or varnished and softened with mats or rugged coverings. In general, furniture should be plump and inviting, with natural unvarnished wood frames or homely patterned upholstery. The fireplace is often a centrepiece of this interior design style, and hearths of stone or brick are often used together with copper or brass fireplace accessories. In London mansions that incorporate the country style, walls are often left rough and natural in appearance.
The English country house is a variant of the pastoral interior design style that is very English yet still well-known abroad. Interior designers in London will often be called upon to create designs in this style for the very wealthiest clients. The English country house style relies heavily on patterns. Interior design teams will focus on floral, large-scale motifs, perhaps based on historic designs from the eighteenth century. These patterns will be used not only for window treatments, but also on upholstery, loose covers, bedspreads, table frills, etc. Typical English country house interior design schemes use colours such as pink, white, cream, and highlights in green. Other options include yellow and blue, or muted shades of gold and brown.
In the latter half of the twentieth century, British rustic interior design became increasingly influenced by the so-called "American country" style. Although not often a focus of London interior designers, this style can include Shaker furniture and Amish quilts, together with stripped-pine cupboards, dressers and chests. Folk stencils are important to achieve the correct look.
In my next article for this "Designing in Style" series, I will look at something that is a major feature of London's interior design landscape today, namely the modern/contemporary style.
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This fourth article in my series moves on from historic traditional/period styles to the country style - a timeless interior design classic.
The country styles are also sometimes known as the pastoral or rustic styles. The most prominent example is the cottage/farmhouse. Ask most interior designers to imagine being far away from London and they will envision an earthy farmhouse kitchen with rustic tones, wooden enclaves, solid and wholesome meals, and a welcoming brick fireplace. Pastoral styles in interior design contexts are as much practical as they are stylish. The restful comfort and lack of ostentation is appreciated not only by country folk but also by city dwellers. London Interior Design Consultancies often work with clients who have large residences with expansive grounds in need of a rustic feel that harks back to quieter times.
The country interior design style relies on sturdy natural materials such as wood, brick, stone and textured or weathered fabrics. Floorboards are often left exposed to wear down over time, before being stained or varnished and softened with mats or rugged coverings. In general, furniture should be plump and inviting, with natural unvarnished wood frames or homely patterned upholstery. The fireplace is often a centrepiece of this interior design style, and hearths of stone or brick are often used together with copper or brass fireplace accessories. In London mansions that incorporate the country style, walls are often left rough and natural in appearance.
The English country house is a variant of the pastoral interior design style that is very English yet still well-known abroad. Interior designers in London will often be called upon to create designs in this style for the very wealthiest clients. The English country house style relies heavily on patterns. Interior design teams will focus on floral, large-scale motifs, perhaps based on historic designs from the eighteenth century. These patterns will be used not only for window treatments, but also on upholstery, loose covers, bedspreads, table frills, etc. Typical English country house interior design schemes use colours such as pink, white, cream, and highlights in green. Other options include yellow and blue, or muted shades of gold and brown.
In the latter half of the twentieth century, British rustic interior design became increasingly influenced by the so-called "American country" style. Although not often a focus of London interior designers, this style can include Shaker furniture and Amish quilts, together with stripped-pine cupboards, dressers and chests. Folk stencils are important to achieve the correct look.
In my next article for this "Designing in Style" series, I will look at something that is a major feature of London's interior design landscape today, namely the modern/contemporary style.
London Interior Designers
Insights into Interior Design: Designing in Style - Jacobean and Victorian
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This second article in my series introduces traditional/period design, with a focus on the Jacobean and Victorian styles.
Traditional design uses materials that reflect the wealth and opulence of historic times. London Interior Designers will often take the best of the features that were available back then and skilfully combine them with elements that are available today. Traditional/period interior design projects tend to focus on elegance, with a look and feel that is comfortable, rich and sumptuous, although sometimes also a little fragile.
The Jacobean theme is popular in London mansions and other residences that have a real sense of history. The Jacobean style focuses on heavy wooden features, with dark-stained oak often used to create panels for walls and floorboards. Oak is also often used for the furniture, and the overall interior design feel is that of robustness, with pleasantly-proportioned pieces to fill the available space. Tapestries are also an important part of the Jacobean look. However, many interior designers recognise that tapestries can be impractical nowadays, and one approach often used by London's best-known consultancies is to recreate the tapestry appearance on modern upholstered furniture or curtains.
One caveat with Jacobean interior designs is that the style does need plenty of natural light, because otherwise the darker wood stains can seem uninspired. This can be problematic in smaller London residences, but is generally not an issue with more luxurious mansions that often feature huge south-facing windows and substantial grounds.
The Victorian interior design style, by contrast, is considered a more staid approach. Interior designers often focus on small rounded tables, often covered entirely in cloth, and fat, heavily-buttoned chesterfield settees. So much of London became urbanised in Victorian times that the style also came to include nature as a theme for textiles, serving as a counterpoint to accelerating industrialisation. Consequently, Victorian interior design schemes often feature floral elements and birds on both walls and furnishings.
In the next article in my "Designing in Style" interior design series, I will focus on a third and final period style that is particularly important for London residences - the Georgian style.
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This second article in my series introduces traditional/period design, with a focus on the Jacobean and Victorian styles.
Traditional design uses materials that reflect the wealth and opulence of historic times. London Interior Designers will often take the best of the features that were available back then and skilfully combine them with elements that are available today. Traditional/period interior design projects tend to focus on elegance, with a look and feel that is comfortable, rich and sumptuous, although sometimes also a little fragile.
The Jacobean theme is popular in London mansions and other residences that have a real sense of history. The Jacobean style focuses on heavy wooden features, with dark-stained oak often used to create panels for walls and floorboards. Oak is also often used for the furniture, and the overall interior design feel is that of robustness, with pleasantly-proportioned pieces to fill the available space. Tapestries are also an important part of the Jacobean look. However, many interior designers recognise that tapestries can be impractical nowadays, and one approach often used by London's best-known consultancies is to recreate the tapestry appearance on modern upholstered furniture or curtains.
One caveat with Jacobean interior designs is that the style does need plenty of natural light, because otherwise the darker wood stains can seem uninspired. This can be problematic in smaller London residences, but is generally not an issue with more luxurious mansions that often feature huge south-facing windows and substantial grounds.
The Victorian interior design style, by contrast, is considered a more staid approach. Interior designers often focus on small rounded tables, often covered entirely in cloth, and fat, heavily-buttoned chesterfield settees. So much of London became urbanised in Victorian times that the style also came to include nature as a theme for textiles, serving as a counterpoint to accelerating industrialisation. Consequently, Victorian interior design schemes often feature floral elements and birds on both walls and furnishings.
In the next article in my "Designing in Style" interior design series, I will focus on a third and final period style that is particularly important for London residences - the Georgian style.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
London Interior Design
Insights into Interior Design Blog by Global Interior Design
Insights into Interior Design: Designing in Style - Foundations
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This first article in my series outlines some of the basic concepts.
One of the first things to note is that we change our interiors much less frequently than we change our clothing. As a result, it is important for the professional interior designer to not design too "fashionable" a room for fear that it might seem completely outdated next year. Certainly it is possible to keep up with furniture fashions - many of which can be seen in London's monthly interior design magazines - but the professional interior designer will generally prefer to focus on furniture fashions that can be easily changed. Examples include cushions, table decorations, rugs and bed linens.
London Interior Design trends can be very changeable. For example, in recent decades London saw a movement back towards the traditional. The Georgian-style Adam fireplace has seen a major revival, as have other old-fashioned features. Mouldings are very much in style today, and interior designers will commonly include them - whether in plaster or in wood.
Interestingly, the return of the dado rail (even in some of the smaller London residences) has also seen a re-envisioning of the two-tone wall colour scheme. In keeping with tradition, London interior design professionals will often choose a heavier, darker colour below the dado rail and a lighter colour above.
Fabric coordination is very much in vogue. With the increased availability of bespoke fabric centres in and around London, interior designers will often nowadays choose fabrics that are manufactured to match papers, borders, carpets, ceramics and even porcelain.
Finally, style should always be understood in the context of the available interior design space. No two rooms are identical, and every room has both strong points and weak points. The most experienced interior designers will choose styles that can showcase a room's strengths while hiding its weaknesses. Examples of weaknesses in a room might include some structural re-engineering made by a previous owner, or perhaps an awkward architectural design fault that cannot be remedied today.
In the next article in this series on how interior designers "design in style," I will introduce you to two of London's most timeless design styles - Georgian and Victorian.
Insights into Interior Design: Designing in Style - Foundations
Interior design has always been impacted by fashion trends - both historically and in the modern day. In this article series, "Designing in Style," I explore the meaning of style for interior designers. I draw on my experience working alongside many of London's best-known interior design teams. This first article in my series outlines some of the basic concepts.
One of the first things to note is that we change our interiors much less frequently than we change our clothing. As a result, it is important for the professional interior designer to not design too "fashionable" a room for fear that it might seem completely outdated next year. Certainly it is possible to keep up with furniture fashions - many of which can be seen in London's monthly interior design magazines - but the professional interior designer will generally prefer to focus on furniture fashions that can be easily changed. Examples include cushions, table decorations, rugs and bed linens.
London Interior Design trends can be very changeable. For example, in recent decades London saw a movement back towards the traditional. The Georgian-style Adam fireplace has seen a major revival, as have other old-fashioned features. Mouldings are very much in style today, and interior designers will commonly include them - whether in plaster or in wood.
Interestingly, the return of the dado rail (even in some of the smaller London residences) has also seen a re-envisioning of the two-tone wall colour scheme. In keeping with tradition, London interior design professionals will often choose a heavier, darker colour below the dado rail and a lighter colour above.
Fabric coordination is very much in vogue. With the increased availability of bespoke fabric centres in and around London, interior designers will often nowadays choose fabrics that are manufactured to match papers, borders, carpets, ceramics and even porcelain.
Finally, style should always be understood in the context of the available interior design space. No two rooms are identical, and every room has both strong points and weak points. The most experienced interior designers will choose styles that can showcase a room's strengths while hiding its weaknesses. Examples of weaknesses in a room might include some structural re-engineering made by a previous owner, or perhaps an awkward architectural design fault that cannot be remedied today.
In the next article in this series on how interior designers "design in style," I will introduce you to two of London's most timeless design styles - Georgian and Victorian.
Interior Designers in London
Insights into Interior Design Blog by Global Interior Design
Insights into Interior Design: How Designers Select Wall Hangings - Lighting and Mirrors
When interior designers use the term "wall hangings,"; they are commonly referring to anything and everything that one may hang on a wall. London is a fabulous place to choose wall hangings due to the many active artist communities and the strong tradition of professional interior design. In this third and final article in my series on "How Interior Designers Select Wall Hangings," I will discuss some approaches to lighting and mirror installations that I have seen while working alongside many of London's most successful interior design professionals.
Lighting is an incredibly important part of the art of interior design when it comes to wall hangings. Sometimes it can be absolutely stunning to include a spotlight effect or underlighting to draw the eye towards a particularly fabulous photograph or painted centrepiece. In London, interior designers will normally include lighting elements at the very first stage of their brief. As with so many parts of interior design, nothing is ever an afterthought - the entire design is comprehensive and perfectly envisioned right from the start. For example, professional interior designers will anticipate a need for any wall-hung picture lights and will make sure this is included in the electrical drawings for the electrical contractors to fit a socket at the appropriate height during the early preparation phase of your project. (In most London residences, such sockets heights are non-standard.)
Mirrors can be appropriate for an interior design because they make a room appear larger and can help the resident to better visualise artwork or other wall hangings from many perspectives. This is particularly important for certain smaller London residences which may feature awkward spaces or difficult corners. The professional interior designer will make sure to think hard about appropriate placement of mirrors - whether they are being included for practical or decorative purposes. If a mirror is framed, the interior designer will make sure that the frame is matched or coordinated with other frames or materials in the room.
When using a mirror decoratively, the professional interior designer will always pay attention to make sure that it reflects something of interest. I have seen less experienced Interior Designers in London occasionally hang a mirror in a place where the reflections can cause annoyance or distraction to someone sitting at a table or on a settee. Fortunately mirrors can be easily re-hung elsewhere, but the most prestigious London interior design consultancies will always take this into account and get it right the first time.
Insights into Interior Design: How Designers Select Wall Hangings - Lighting and Mirrors
When interior designers use the term "wall hangings,"; they are commonly referring to anything and everything that one may hang on a wall. London is a fabulous place to choose wall hangings due to the many active artist communities and the strong tradition of professional interior design. In this third and final article in my series on "How Interior Designers Select Wall Hangings," I will discuss some approaches to lighting and mirror installations that I have seen while working alongside many of London's most successful interior design professionals.
Lighting is an incredibly important part of the art of interior design when it comes to wall hangings. Sometimes it can be absolutely stunning to include a spotlight effect or underlighting to draw the eye towards a particularly fabulous photograph or painted centrepiece. In London, interior designers will normally include lighting elements at the very first stage of their brief. As with so many parts of interior design, nothing is ever an afterthought - the entire design is comprehensive and perfectly envisioned right from the start. For example, professional interior designers will anticipate a need for any wall-hung picture lights and will make sure this is included in the electrical drawings for the electrical contractors to fit a socket at the appropriate height during the early preparation phase of your project. (In most London residences, such sockets heights are non-standard.)
Mirrors can be appropriate for an interior design because they make a room appear larger and can help the resident to better visualise artwork or other wall hangings from many perspectives. This is particularly important for certain smaller London residences which may feature awkward spaces or difficult corners. The professional interior designer will make sure to think hard about appropriate placement of mirrors - whether they are being included for practical or decorative purposes. If a mirror is framed, the interior designer will make sure that the frame is matched or coordinated with other frames or materials in the room.
When using a mirror decoratively, the professional interior designer will always pay attention to make sure that it reflects something of interest. I have seen less experienced Interior Designers in London occasionally hang a mirror in a place where the reflections can cause annoyance or distraction to someone sitting at a table or on a settee. Fortunately mirrors can be easily re-hung elsewhere, but the most prestigious London interior design consultancies will always take this into account and get it right the first time.
London Interior Design
Insights into Interior Design Blog by Global Interior Design
Insights into Interior Design: How Designers Select Wall Hangings - Installing Pictures
When interior designers use the term "wall hangings,"; they are commonly referring to anything and everything that one may hang on a wall. London is a fabulous place to choose wall hangings due to the many active artist communities and the strong tradition of professional interior design. In this second article in my series on "How Interior Designers Select Wall Hangings," I will talk in detail about several approaches that I have seen while working alongside many of London's most successful interior design professionals.
As a general guideline, pictures tend to work well when arranged in squares or rectangles. London is a world fashion centre, and jaunty mismatched shapes can be interesting for certain highly customised interior designs, but in most cases it is best to stick with simple 90-degree angles.
Second, symmetry is important. Often when the interior designer has one central picture and several others in a set, they will choose some sort of symmetrical arrangement.
Third, a popular approach in London's interior design community is to use the concept of "horizons" against which to align the upper edges of multiple pictures in a group. If an interior designer has an assortment of differently-sized rectangular frames, they may choose to hang an upper row from one "horizon" and the lower row from a different "horizon."
Fourth, London Interior Design consultancies often talk of "anchoring." This refers to a technique by which the largest images in a set form the corners of an imaginary rectangle or square, while smaller pictures are used to "fill in" the rest of the available area.
Fifth, to add interest and move away from rectangles, certain interior design professionals love to use the "cross technique" when they have rectangular frames of various sizes. This requires arranging pictures in the shape of a cross, with the larger pictures below the horizontal line and smaller frames above to balance their mass.
Sixth, London interior designers often focus on hanging the largest pictures at the bottom of a group, along a single horizontal line. This can give a stable feel to the broader arrangement. I have worked with some top London interior design teams who always choose to place the tallest image in the centre of this horizon to draw the eye upwards and accentuate features of the presentation.
I will talk about best practices in the use of lighting and mirrors to highlight wall hangings of various types.
Insights into Interior Design: How Designers Select Wall Hangings - Installing Pictures
When interior designers use the term "wall hangings,"; they are commonly referring to anything and everything that one may hang on a wall. London is a fabulous place to choose wall hangings due to the many active artist communities and the strong tradition of professional interior design. In this second article in my series on "How Interior Designers Select Wall Hangings," I will talk in detail about several approaches that I have seen while working alongside many of London's most successful interior design professionals.
As a general guideline, pictures tend to work well when arranged in squares or rectangles. London is a world fashion centre, and jaunty mismatched shapes can be interesting for certain highly customised interior designs, but in most cases it is best to stick with simple 90-degree angles.
Second, symmetry is important. Often when the interior designer has one central picture and several others in a set, they will choose some sort of symmetrical arrangement.
Third, a popular approach in London's interior design community is to use the concept of "horizons" against which to align the upper edges of multiple pictures in a group. If an interior designer has an assortment of differently-sized rectangular frames, they may choose to hang an upper row from one "horizon" and the lower row from a different "horizon."
Fourth, London Interior Design consultancies often talk of "anchoring." This refers to a technique by which the largest images in a set form the corners of an imaginary rectangle or square, while smaller pictures are used to "fill in" the rest of the available area.
Fifth, to add interest and move away from rectangles, certain interior design professionals love to use the "cross technique" when they have rectangular frames of various sizes. This requires arranging pictures in the shape of a cross, with the larger pictures below the horizontal line and smaller frames above to balance their mass.
Sixth, London interior designers often focus on hanging the largest pictures at the bottom of a group, along a single horizontal line. This can give a stable feel to the broader arrangement. I have worked with some top London interior design teams who always choose to place the tallest image in the centre of this horizon to draw the eye upwards and accentuate features of the presentation.
I will talk about best practices in the use of lighting and mirrors to highlight wall hangings of various types.
London Interior Designers
Insights into Interior Design Blog by Global Interior Design
Insights into Interior Design: How Designers Select Wall Hangings - Choosing Pictures
When interior designers use the term "wall hangings,"; they are commonly referring to anything and everything that one may hang on a wall. This can include pictures, photographs, plates, frames, mirrors, sculptures, reliefs and much more besides. London is a fabulous place to choose wall hangings due to the many active artist communities and the strong tradition of professional interior design.
One of the most important elements of wall hangings are pictures. Many interior designers know that pictures are the way to "make a house a home." However, poor positioning of pictures can easily detract from an otherwise well-planned interior design. This is especially important in smaller London homes or flats. Your interior designer will be able to outline the key points that need to be kept in mind regardless of whether you are hanging a recent family photo or an ancient heirloom. In London, interior designers have a saying, namely that "all pictures should relate to something else in the room." This means that wall hangings of this type should never look as though they were included by accident. Pictures should be related via either colour or thematic elements to display tables, armchairs, bookshelves or fireplaces - or indeed to architectural features, such as panelling or mouldings, which can often be quite historic and interesting in London residences.
London Interior Designers will often elect not to position wall hangings symmetrically (meaning centred on fireplaces or furniture), since this can make the overall interior design seem a little uninspired or "flat."
In London, it is important to remember that the weather is often a little rainy and cool. Therefore interior designers often find it desirable to depict slightly brighter images in their selection of wall hangings. It is also important to group pictures that are related to one another. An interior designer will often place a selection of landscapes close to one another, or they will do the same for seascapes or floral pictures. Another approach often used by some of the most prestigious London interior design consultancies is to group images by colour themes or at the very least by styles of frame or mounting.
More detail the practicalities of how to install pictures.
Insights into Interior Design: How Designers Select Wall Hangings - Choosing Pictures
When interior designers use the term "wall hangings,"; they are commonly referring to anything and everything that one may hang on a wall. This can include pictures, photographs, plates, frames, mirrors, sculptures, reliefs and much more besides. London is a fabulous place to choose wall hangings due to the many active artist communities and the strong tradition of professional interior design.
One of the most important elements of wall hangings are pictures. Many interior designers know that pictures are the way to "make a house a home." However, poor positioning of pictures can easily detract from an otherwise well-planned interior design. This is especially important in smaller London homes or flats. Your interior designer will be able to outline the key points that need to be kept in mind regardless of whether you are hanging a recent family photo or an ancient heirloom. In London, interior designers have a saying, namely that "all pictures should relate to something else in the room." This means that wall hangings of this type should never look as though they were included by accident. Pictures should be related via either colour or thematic elements to display tables, armchairs, bookshelves or fireplaces - or indeed to architectural features, such as panelling or mouldings, which can often be quite historic and interesting in London residences.
London Interior Designers will often elect not to position wall hangings symmetrically (meaning centred on fireplaces or furniture), since this can make the overall interior design seem a little uninspired or "flat."
In London, it is important to remember that the weather is often a little rainy and cool. Therefore interior designers often find it desirable to depict slightly brighter images in their selection of wall hangings. It is also important to group pictures that are related to one another. An interior designer will often place a selection of landscapes close to one another, or they will do the same for seascapes or floral pictures. Another approach often used by some of the most prestigious London interior design consultancies is to group images by colour themes or at the very least by styles of frame or mounting.
More detail the practicalities of how to install pictures.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Interior Design Colour Schemes: Psychology of Colour
Interior Design Colour Schemes: Psychology of Colour
Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for a London interior designer when contemplating the overall design of a room. An experienced interior designer knows that colour need not be expensive - in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of emulsion paint or a bunch of flowers! Yet above anything else it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a room.
This article has been written to give a brief overview of the psychology of colour, with specific regard to colour usage in the world of Interior Design in London.
Interior designers, product designers and fashion designers are constantly working with colour. For them, the psychological effect of colour is reality rather than theory.
Let us explore some of the links between colour and the subconscious, or more simply, the moods and feelings different colours evoke.
Warm colours versus cool colours:
Red, yellow, and orange are always thought of as warm; blues, greens, and violets are cool. However, having said this, experienced interior designers in London, can fine tune the colour temperature by adding red to cool colours to make them relatively warmer, and blue to warm colours to cool them down. Grey can be cool or warm depending on the shade - blue/grey feels icy, red/grey is warmer.
In earlier articles you will find the symbolic aspects of colour discussed, and how different cultures interpret colours in different ways. In this regard it is also important to look at the psychological associations of each with regard to interior design in London.
Reddish- browns, russets and ochre are the earth colours - instinctively associated with warmth and cheerfulness by people who like them, who see their earthiness as an indication of worth and strength when used in an interior design scheme. Shy, retiring types will find them comforting and soothing as indeed may the sophisticates.
Others, however, dismiss an interior designed around earth colours as dull and uninteresting; even the lighter variants, such as beiges and sandstones can be considered by some as lifeless and boring.
The dark browns also have supporters and detractors when it comes to interior design. The former think them sensuous, warm and reassuring; the latter find them drab and lifeless.
Green used in London interior design projects evokes tranquillity, peace, and the countryside. Lovers of green say its strength is in its natural affinities. Others, less enthusiastic, call it boring, rather than tranquil; uninspiring, rather than peaceful.
Blues are loved by people in London who can see the mystery of the oceans, space, calm and silence. Some critics say using deep blues in interior design can evoke coldness and loneliness.
Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for a London interior designer when contemplating the overall design of a room. An experienced interior designer knows that colour need not be expensive - in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of emulsion paint or a bunch of flowers! Yet above anything else it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a room.
This article has been written to give a brief overview of the psychology of colour, with specific regard to colour usage in the world of Interior Design in London.
Interior designers, product designers and fashion designers are constantly working with colour. For them, the psychological effect of colour is reality rather than theory.
Let us explore some of the links between colour and the subconscious, or more simply, the moods and feelings different colours evoke.
Warm colours versus cool colours:
Red, yellow, and orange are always thought of as warm; blues, greens, and violets are cool. However, having said this, experienced interior designers in London, can fine tune the colour temperature by adding red to cool colours to make them relatively warmer, and blue to warm colours to cool them down. Grey can be cool or warm depending on the shade - blue/grey feels icy, red/grey is warmer.
In earlier articles you will find the symbolic aspects of colour discussed, and how different cultures interpret colours in different ways. In this regard it is also important to look at the psychological associations of each with regard to interior design in London.
Reddish- browns, russets and ochre are the earth colours - instinctively associated with warmth and cheerfulness by people who like them, who see their earthiness as an indication of worth and strength when used in an interior design scheme. Shy, retiring types will find them comforting and soothing as indeed may the sophisticates.
Others, however, dismiss an interior designed around earth colours as dull and uninteresting; even the lighter variants, such as beiges and sandstones can be considered by some as lifeless and boring.
The dark browns also have supporters and detractors when it comes to interior design. The former think them sensuous, warm and reassuring; the latter find them drab and lifeless.
Green used in London interior design projects evokes tranquillity, peace, and the countryside. Lovers of green say its strength is in its natural affinities. Others, less enthusiastic, call it boring, rather than tranquil; uninspiring, rather than peaceful.
Blues are loved by people in London who can see the mystery of the oceans, space, calm and silence. Some critics say using deep blues in interior design can evoke coldness and loneliness.
Introductory Concepts for Interior Design: Understanding Colour Schemes
Introductory Concepts for Interior Design: Understanding Colour Schemes
Colour can be used as the foundation for a comprehensive multi-room interior design theme, or alternatively it can be deployed to either masterfully accentuate or adroitly conceal other elements within a design scheme. The London interior design community is a circle of professionals who are widely regarded as some of the world's greatest thought leaders in colour design. In this article, I will draw on my experience working alongside some of these top interior designers and seeing first-hand their use of colour in everyday projects.
The first and simplest colour schemes are known as the "monochromatics." These are based on a single colour or hue. The interior designer will use this colour as the foundation, and then introduce more or less subtle deviations to bring out tints or create beautiful shadow effects. Many London Interior Design Consultancies specialise in so-called "tonal differences" to create visual interest and generate a distinctive and delightful "designer look" for any project. One of the most prominent trends in London interior design today involves the use of monochromatic colour schemes together with an accent colour that can articulate and better showcase the more subtle adjacent differences in hues and tones.
Colour wheels, swatches and comparison charts are an important component of the interior designer's toolbox. These can be used to create "related colour" schemes. The intention with this approach is to select hues that are adjacent on colour charts or swatch strips. These colour combinations can be used to develop a subtle and sophisticated effect that might be appropriate for high-end or luxury-focused interior design projects. In London, "related colour" schemes are again often used in conjunction with accent colours to appeal to the most demanding clientele.
"Contrasting colour schemes" rely on combinations of colours from opposite sides of the colour spectrum. This is one of the most challenging interior design styles, because it requires the interior designer to carefully avoid creating a "colour clash" effect while unifying hues that have very little in common. However, skilled interior design teams often use this approach to great effect in some of London's most upmarket modern or minimalist residences.
In summary, colour schemes are the foundation of the interior design profession. London's remarkable community of colour innovators is constantly coming up with new ideas and approaches to best showcase some of the world's greatest interiors.
Achromatics in Interior Design: The Hidden Complexity of No-Colour Approaches
The word "achromatic" originated in the late eighteenth century, via French but originally from two Greek words. In Greek, "a" means "without" while "kromatikos" derives from "kroma," meaning "colour." Accordingly, the meaning of "achromatic" is colourless, without colour, or colour free. In recent years, some of London's most famous interior designers have increasingly begun to focus on achromatic design. In this article, I will explain how this seemingly simple approach is actually highly complex. By referencing interviews and my own experience from collaborating with London's Top Interior Design professionals, I will aim to unpack the meaning of this branch of design theory and demonstrate how this challenging approach can lead to amazing results ... and delighted clients!
When most people think of interior design, they often imagine pretty colours, beautiful furniture combinations and enchanting fabrics. So when I tell my interior design students or interns that "no-colour" design is a thriving trend today, they often look at me in amazement. The intention with achromatic colour schemes is to create classy, classical and sometimes dramatic themes that can focus on just one room or extend throughout a flat or house. The only allowable colours are black, white, and any shade of grey that you can imagine. Some less experienced interior designers will tend to stay away from these types of assignment, since they realise that it is all too easy to inadvertently create effects that are overly strident, overpowering or shocking. However, in my experience, the achromatic interior design approach can be perfect for high-wealth London clients who really appreciate modern, abstract art and edgy, minimalist themes.
I am always honoured whenever anyone refers to me as a thought leader in the London interior design community. I was recently asked by a prominent interior design journalist and London socialite about my secrets to "making achromatic work." I replied that it was simple - one must just focus on the minimalist intent behind the interior design project at hand. Minimalism is really all about simple, massive forms and pronounced simplicity. Subtle shadings to accentuate the mystery of minimalist design can really evoke a powerful response for the fashionable London homeowner - and her dinner party guests! Many designers will think of black on white, but what about black on black? Even inexperienced interior design students can come up with a theme that incorporates white on black, but how about white on white? Or even grey on grey? Creativity is key, and with the limited but sophisticated achromatic palette the interior designer's imagination is truly her greatest asset.
Colour can be used as the foundation for a comprehensive multi-room interior design theme, or alternatively it can be deployed to either masterfully accentuate or adroitly conceal other elements within a design scheme. The London interior design community is a circle of professionals who are widely regarded as some of the world's greatest thought leaders in colour design. In this article, I will draw on my experience working alongside some of these top interior designers and seeing first-hand their use of colour in everyday projects.
The first and simplest colour schemes are known as the "monochromatics." These are based on a single colour or hue. The interior designer will use this colour as the foundation, and then introduce more or less subtle deviations to bring out tints or create beautiful shadow effects. Many London Interior Design Consultancies specialise in so-called "tonal differences" to create visual interest and generate a distinctive and delightful "designer look" for any project. One of the most prominent trends in London interior design today involves the use of monochromatic colour schemes together with an accent colour that can articulate and better showcase the more subtle adjacent differences in hues and tones.
Colour wheels, swatches and comparison charts are an important component of the interior designer's toolbox. These can be used to create "related colour" schemes. The intention with this approach is to select hues that are adjacent on colour charts or swatch strips. These colour combinations can be used to develop a subtle and sophisticated effect that might be appropriate for high-end or luxury-focused interior design projects. In London, "related colour" schemes are again often used in conjunction with accent colours to appeal to the most demanding clientele.
"Contrasting colour schemes" rely on combinations of colours from opposite sides of the colour spectrum. This is one of the most challenging interior design styles, because it requires the interior designer to carefully avoid creating a "colour clash" effect while unifying hues that have very little in common. However, skilled interior design teams often use this approach to great effect in some of London's most upmarket modern or minimalist residences.
In summary, colour schemes are the foundation of the interior design profession. London's remarkable community of colour innovators is constantly coming up with new ideas and approaches to best showcase some of the world's greatest interiors.
Achromatics in Interior Design: The Hidden Complexity of No-Colour Approaches
The word "achromatic" originated in the late eighteenth century, via French but originally from two Greek words. In Greek, "a" means "without" while "kromatikos" derives from "kroma," meaning "colour." Accordingly, the meaning of "achromatic" is colourless, without colour, or colour free. In recent years, some of London's most famous interior designers have increasingly begun to focus on achromatic design. In this article, I will explain how this seemingly simple approach is actually highly complex. By referencing interviews and my own experience from collaborating with London's Top Interior Design professionals, I will aim to unpack the meaning of this branch of design theory and demonstrate how this challenging approach can lead to amazing results ... and delighted clients!
When most people think of interior design, they often imagine pretty colours, beautiful furniture combinations and enchanting fabrics. So when I tell my interior design students or interns that "no-colour" design is a thriving trend today, they often look at me in amazement. The intention with achromatic colour schemes is to create classy, classical and sometimes dramatic themes that can focus on just one room or extend throughout a flat or house. The only allowable colours are black, white, and any shade of grey that you can imagine. Some less experienced interior designers will tend to stay away from these types of assignment, since they realise that it is all too easy to inadvertently create effects that are overly strident, overpowering or shocking. However, in my experience, the achromatic interior design approach can be perfect for high-wealth London clients who really appreciate modern, abstract art and edgy, minimalist themes.
I am always honoured whenever anyone refers to me as a thought leader in the London interior design community. I was recently asked by a prominent interior design journalist and London socialite about my secrets to "making achromatic work." I replied that it was simple - one must just focus on the minimalist intent behind the interior design project at hand. Minimalism is really all about simple, massive forms and pronounced simplicity. Subtle shadings to accentuate the mystery of minimalist design can really evoke a powerful response for the fashionable London homeowner - and her dinner party guests! Many designers will think of black on white, but what about black on black? Even inexperienced interior design students can come up with a theme that incorporates white on black, but how about white on white? Or even grey on grey? Creativity is key, and with the limited but sophisticated achromatic palette the interior designer's imagination is truly her greatest asset.
Royalty and History: Colour-Focused Residential Interior Design
Royalty and History: Colour-Focused Residential Interior Design
Many top London interior designers have played active roles in what has been called the "true-to-history" colour movement in recent years. In this article I will explain what this means through examples from a few different colour categories that are often used in interior designs.
Greens are linked with organic vegetables, good health, and foliage. The ancient UK May Day celebration has historically focused on a May King, who is dressed in late spring garlands of finely-wreathed sprouting green vegetables. The May Queen wears a dress of beautiful white, symbolising vitality, virtue and clarity. In Ancient Egypt, green was used to request fertile soils and good harvests from the gods. Green has strong links with nature, and for interior designers this can be a wonderful colour to use in London flats; green-themed interior designs can take the mind away from the bustle of London's grey city streets and evoke images of rain-swept countryside landscapes.
The word "yellow" comes from the Old English geolu or geolo, which in turn relates to the Dutch geel, meaning gold. Historically yellow has been associated with joyful sunshine and gleeful celebration. Interior design consultancies and colour professionals will often rely on yellow in interior designs for London residences to banish the dreary gloom of winter rain and autumnal fog.
Blue is historically linked with images of Mary, the mother of Jesus. In origin, the word is Middle English, but also has links with the Old French "bleu" and is ultimately of Germanic origin. London Interior Designers will rely on sky blue to evoke feelings of serenity, peace and relaxation.
Finally, royal purple has obvious associations with aristocracy, monarchy and rich celebrations. Because it has such profound associations, it is only really appropriate in London interior designs for opulent mansions or extravagantly luxurious penthouse residences.
In summary, colour is not just about the visual and the immediate, but also focuses on symbolic associations that cross space and time. Many of London's top interior designers and colour consultants will take these subtle meanings into account when creating the perfect design for a client's dream home.
Many top London interior designers have played active roles in what has been called the "true-to-history" colour movement in recent years. In this article I will explain what this means through examples from a few different colour categories that are often used in interior designs.
Greens are linked with organic vegetables, good health, and foliage. The ancient UK May Day celebration has historically focused on a May King, who is dressed in late spring garlands of finely-wreathed sprouting green vegetables. The May Queen wears a dress of beautiful white, symbolising vitality, virtue and clarity. In Ancient Egypt, green was used to request fertile soils and good harvests from the gods. Green has strong links with nature, and for interior designers this can be a wonderful colour to use in London flats; green-themed interior designs can take the mind away from the bustle of London's grey city streets and evoke images of rain-swept countryside landscapes.
The word "yellow" comes from the Old English geolu or geolo, which in turn relates to the Dutch geel, meaning gold. Historically yellow has been associated with joyful sunshine and gleeful celebration. Interior design consultancies and colour professionals will often rely on yellow in interior designs for London residences to banish the dreary gloom of winter rain and autumnal fog.
Blue is historically linked with images of Mary, the mother of Jesus. In origin, the word is Middle English, but also has links with the Old French "bleu" and is ultimately of Germanic origin. London Interior Designers will rely on sky blue to evoke feelings of serenity, peace and relaxation.
Finally, royal purple has obvious associations with aristocracy, monarchy and rich celebrations. Because it has such profound associations, it is only really appropriate in London interior designs for opulent mansions or extravagantly luxurious penthouse residences.
In summary, colour is not just about the visual and the immediate, but also focuses on symbolic associations that cross space and time. Many of London's top interior designers and colour consultants will take these subtle meanings into account when creating the perfect design for a client's dream home.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Spinning the Colour Wheel: A Lexicon of Colour Symbols and Associations for Interior Designers
This article draws on interviews with several top Interior Designers in London who appreciate not only the sensory and visual meaning of colour, but also the symbolic links behind certain hues and tones. We will briefly explore just a few of London's trendiest colour fashions and explain their associations in the context of interior design.
At the far end of the colour spectrum, black is associated with death and illness, except in certain Asian cultures. Indeed, many top London interior design boutiques are very multicultural and regularly design Asia-inspired residences or office spaces. Black generally does not reflect much light, and as such it can represent melancholy or hopelessness. On the more positive side, the colour black also is associated with masculinity, and its historic usage in combat vehicles and war equipment has only reinforced this sentiment. Interior designers are often careful about using this colour because it can be overwhelming in smaller London residences.
The opposite of black is, of course, the colour white. In the interior design world and far beyond, white is associated with freshness, health and radiance. It is often seen at marriages, Christenings, and a multitude of celebratory religious festivals such as Passover. London interior designers will often use this colour to reference joyful events and create a feeling of radiant good cheer.
Red is a fascinating colour in terms of symbolism. Outside the interior design world, it is first and foremost associated with blood. This in turn has links with military campaigns, flags, shields and family crests. Interior designers are aware of its connections with heritage, history, excitement, risk and executions. However, the colour red also symbolises vibrant and triumphant freshness. It is linked with strawberries, cherries, redcurrants and roses. Some of London's most prestigious interior designers will regularly use red to reference outdoor gardens through either subtle floral designs or more flashy red-inspired colour combinations.
Finally, we will complete this colour lexicon by focusing on pink. Pink is the product of red and white together, and as such it is strongly linked with femininity. In London, the capital's most celebrated interior designers often use pink as a highlight colour to create either a subtle emphasis or a daring juxtaposition. Some of the most innovative interior design boutiques in the city will create stunning designs that rely upon feminine pink contrasted alongside masculine black or similarly rich, earthy colours.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
At the far end of the colour spectrum, black is associated with death and illness, except in certain Asian cultures. Indeed, many top London interior design boutiques are very multicultural and regularly design Asia-inspired residences or office spaces. Black generally does not reflect much light, and as such it can represent melancholy or hopelessness. On the more positive side, the colour black also is associated with masculinity, and its historic usage in combat vehicles and war equipment has only reinforced this sentiment. Interior designers are often careful about using this colour because it can be overwhelming in smaller London residences.
The opposite of black is, of course, the colour white. In the interior design world and far beyond, white is associated with freshness, health and radiance. It is often seen at marriages, Christenings, and a multitude of celebratory religious festivals such as Passover. London interior designers will often use this colour to reference joyful events and create a feeling of radiant good cheer.
Red is a fascinating colour in terms of symbolism. Outside the interior design world, it is first and foremost associated with blood. This in turn has links with military campaigns, flags, shields and family crests. Interior designers are aware of its connections with heritage, history, excitement, risk and executions. However, the colour red also symbolises vibrant and triumphant freshness. It is linked with strawberries, cherries, redcurrants and roses. Some of London's most prestigious interior designers will regularly use red to reference outdoor gardens through either subtle floral designs or more flashy red-inspired colour combinations.
Finally, we will complete this colour lexicon by focusing on pink. Pink is the product of red and white together, and as such it is strongly linked with femininity. In London, the capital's most celebrated interior designers often use pink as a highlight colour to create either a subtle emphasis or a daring juxtaposition. Some of the most innovative interior design boutiques in the city will create stunning designs that rely upon feminine pink contrasted alongside masculine black or similarly rich, earthy colours.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Colour and Psychology: Tones, Shades and Moods in Interior Design
Colour involves so much more than just perception - it is all about psychology. In this article, I will share some lessons learnt from my observations of London's most prestigious interior designers and their deep understanding of the psychology of colour.
Many people think of psychology and they imagine heavy university textbooks, forbidding journal articles and plenty of theory. But in reality, psychology is a practical everyday subject for interior designers. When we see colour, it connects our senses to our subconscious. Specific tones and hues can evoke certain emotions and enhance or subdue certain types of mood - all of which can be fine-tuned by experienced interior design teams.
London has always been a top city for colour trends. Fortunately London also has a burgeoning and innovative multicultural interior design community. This combination has led to a real focus on the psychological associations of colour in the context of interior design. London Interior Design professionals will often employ "earth colours" as either a centrepiece or a subtle enhancement to a comprehensive design scheme. The "earth colours" include hazels, dusky reds, russets and burnt siennas. In terms of psychology, earth colours can create feelings of warmth and good cheer among those who like them. More reticent and retiring individuals may find these colours soothing and restful, and interior designers in London often use them to carry the mind away from the city streets and evoke countryside farms and well-tilled fields in autumn. Darker chestnut colours in particular are often interpreted as being sumptuous, rich and welcoming.
However, for some projects, a professional interior design team will avoid earth colours if the client considers them too uninspired and characterless. In such cases, it may be appropriate to focus on sunnier earth variants, such as oatmeal or camel.
Interior designers will also refer to the "life colours" when thinking about composites or envisioning fresh new designs for London residences. The life colours include greens, which often call to mind feelings of solitude, serenity and forest-fresh organic lifestyles. Another life colour is blue, which is adored by individuals who have an affinity for deep waves, space, stillness and relaxation.
As with the earth colours, interior designers often have an innate sense of "how much is too much" in respect of the life colours. In London homes, which are often smaller and feature awkward spaces, interior design teams need to be wary of using too much green, which can be seen as uninspiring or overpowering in tightly-dimensioned living areas. Similarly, a focus on blue can engender feelings of frigid isolation. The professional interior designer or colour consultant will know exactly how to create precisely the effect you desire for your London home or office.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Many people think of psychology and they imagine heavy university textbooks, forbidding journal articles and plenty of theory. But in reality, psychology is a practical everyday subject for interior designers. When we see colour, it connects our senses to our subconscious. Specific tones and hues can evoke certain emotions and enhance or subdue certain types of mood - all of which can be fine-tuned by experienced interior design teams.
London has always been a top city for colour trends. Fortunately London also has a burgeoning and innovative multicultural interior design community. This combination has led to a real focus on the psychological associations of colour in the context of interior design. London Interior Design professionals will often employ "earth colours" as either a centrepiece or a subtle enhancement to a comprehensive design scheme. The "earth colours" include hazels, dusky reds, russets and burnt siennas. In terms of psychology, earth colours can create feelings of warmth and good cheer among those who like them. More reticent and retiring individuals may find these colours soothing and restful, and interior designers in London often use them to carry the mind away from the city streets and evoke countryside farms and well-tilled fields in autumn. Darker chestnut colours in particular are often interpreted as being sumptuous, rich and welcoming.
However, for some projects, a professional interior design team will avoid earth colours if the client considers them too uninspired and characterless. In such cases, it may be appropriate to focus on sunnier earth variants, such as oatmeal or camel.
Interior designers will also refer to the "life colours" when thinking about composites or envisioning fresh new designs for London residences. The life colours include greens, which often call to mind feelings of solitude, serenity and forest-fresh organic lifestyles. Another life colour is blue, which is adored by individuals who have an affinity for deep waves, space, stillness and relaxation.
As with the earth colours, interior designers often have an innate sense of "how much is too much" in respect of the life colours. In London homes, which are often smaller and feature awkward spaces, interior design teams need to be wary of using too much green, which can be seen as uninspiring or overpowering in tightly-dimensioned living areas. Similarly, a focus on blue can engender feelings of frigid isolation. The professional interior designer or colour consultant will know exactly how to create precisely the effect you desire for your London home or office.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Enchanting Combinations: The Role of Colour in Interior Design
Interior designers love to create compelling colour combinations. It is extremely important for an interior design team to understand colour synthesis when creating the desired feel of a room or set of rooms. London is one of the top interior design cities in the world, and many of London's most experienced interior designers understand that colour really doesn't need to be pricey. In reality, it can be as inexpensive as a tin of fresh paint or a beautiful bouquet of freshly cut flowers in a tasteful vase. The latest trends in London's Interior Design community all point to the reality that colour can "make or break" the design feel of a room.
Any professional interior designer will have taken courses about the difference between warm and cool colours. To understand this, just think of the colours you associate with hot sunshine and beautiful sunsets. Interior designers see the associated reds, oranges, pinks and yellows as being the "warm colours." By contrast, you can visualise the cool colours by thinking of a crisp, cold morning. Most often, blues, pale creams, violets and greens will come to mind.
However, there is additional complexity when the interior designer starts to mix colours together to create combinations, syntheses or colour offsets. In London, expert interior designers have a long history of tweaking colour temperatures to create exactly the design feel that their client desires. Interior design consultancies often rely on portable colour charts, colour wheels or swatches to add subtle reds to cooler colours in order to warm them up. Similarly, many of London's interior design colour consultants will add blue to warmer colours in order to create a cooling effect. A real "trump card" involves the use of grey in combination with other colours. Visit some of London's top designer show flats today and you will be sure to see a range of grey-inspired colour effects. Blue/grey can feel icy, evoking thoughts of frozen lakes and foggy London streets in the autumn. By contrast, red/grey is warmer, bringing to mind thoughts of sandy beaches at sunrise.
In summary, colour is a key tool in the interior designer's toolbox. The possibilities are nearly limitless and even though the outlay needn't be large, the payback definitely will be when you work with a professional interior designer to create the colour space of your dreams.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Any professional interior designer will have taken courses about the difference between warm and cool colours. To understand this, just think of the colours you associate with hot sunshine and beautiful sunsets. Interior designers see the associated reds, oranges, pinks and yellows as being the "warm colours." By contrast, you can visualise the cool colours by thinking of a crisp, cold morning. Most often, blues, pale creams, violets and greens will come to mind.
However, there is additional complexity when the interior designer starts to mix colours together to create combinations, syntheses or colour offsets. In London, expert interior designers have a long history of tweaking colour temperatures to create exactly the design feel that their client desires. Interior design consultancies often rely on portable colour charts, colour wheels or swatches to add subtle reds to cooler colours in order to warm them up. Similarly, many of London's interior design colour consultants will add blue to warmer colours in order to create a cooling effect. A real "trump card" involves the use of grey in combination with other colours. Visit some of London's top designer show flats today and you will be sure to see a range of grey-inspired colour effects. Blue/grey can feel icy, evoking thoughts of frozen lakes and foggy London streets in the autumn. By contrast, red/grey is warmer, bringing to mind thoughts of sandy beaches at sunrise.
In summary, colour is a key tool in the interior designer's toolbox. The possibilities are nearly limitless and even though the outlay needn't be large, the payback definitely will be when you work with a professional interior designer to create the colour space of your dreams.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Colour Schemes: The Basics
Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for an interior designer in London when contemplating the overall design of a room. An experienced interior designer knows that colour need not be expensive - in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of emulsion paint or a bunch of flowers! Yet above anything else it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a room.
London interior designers know precisely how colour can be used to create a certain atmosphere and mood; but also how colour can be used to highlight or camouflage.
The right colours can make you feel good when you walk into the room - or the wrong colours can make you feel depressed.
There are numerous types of colour schemes that interior designers can bring to a design:
Monochromatic colour schemes are based on one colour, or hue. An interior designer will alter this one colour to bring out its tints and shades, giving the scheme a tonal difference to heighten the overall appeal. However, most often in London interior design this will be combined with a highlight colour, making this scheme better described as a monochromatic scheme with an accent colour.
Related colour schemes make use of several hues, with related meaning the hues are adjacent to one another on the colour wheel. For example, interior designers will employ this when promoting a subtle, sophisticated effect. Again, accent colours can be used to highlight certain aspects of the London design.
Contrasting colour schemes make use of colours from opposite areas of the colour wheel. For example green and red, or blue and yellow. Highly skilled interior design consultants, such as those from the Interior Design London team, can use these schemes for great visual impact.
Achromatic colour schemes, or a no-colour scheme, can be very successful in creating a cool, classical, and sometimes startling room. Interior designers in London can use black, white, and shades of grey to create a stunning design. This scheme should be used with caution in London interior design because inexperience can lead to an effect that is too strident.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Colour Schemes: The Basics
Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for an interior designer in London when contemplating the overall design of a room. An experienced interior designer knows that colour need not be expensive - in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of emulsion paint or a bunch of flowers! Yet above anything else it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a room.
London interior designers know precisely how colour can be used to create a certain atmosphere and mood; but also how colour can be used to highlight or camouflage.
The right colours can make you feel good when you walk into the room - or the wrong colours can make you feel depressed.
There are numerous types of colour schemes that interior designers can bring to a design:
Monochromatic colour schemes are based on one colour, or hue. An interior designer will alter this one colour to bring out its tints and shades, giving the scheme a tonal difference to heighten the overall appeal. However, most often in London interior design this will be combined with a highlight colour, making this scheme better described as a monochromatic scheme with an accent colour.
Related colour schemes make use of several hues, with related meaning the hues are adjacent to one another on the colour wheel. For example, interior designers will employ this when promoting a subtle, sophisticated effect. Again, accent colours can be used to highlight certain aspects of the London design.
Contrasting colour schemes make use of colours from opposite areas of the colour wheel. For example green and red, or blue and yellow. Highly skilled interior design consultants, such as those from the Interior Design London team, can use these schemes for great visual impact.
Achromatic colour schemes, or a no-colour scheme, can be very successful in creating a cool, classical, and sometimes startling room. Interior designers in London can use black, white, and shades of grey to create a stunning design. This scheme should be used with caution in London interior design because inexperience can lead to an effect that is too strident.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
So what does an interior designer actually bring to the job?
Ask most people about what a London interior designer does, and they will immediately think of popular TV shows or online videos that show interior designers pushing furniture into different corners of the room, taking photographs and choosing fresh colours. In reality, the work of an interior designer is so very complex. An interior designer's job goes well beyond a standard "renovation" effort, which often involves identical finishes and dull, uninspired refits. It is also far more important than just "redecorating," which is often just surface-level and cosmetic in nature, more akin to a "touch-up" than a true "redesign," even though it can include painting, recarpeting or sometimes even plastering.
Today's professional interior designer in London can execute and supervise any and every aspect of recreating an interior living space. This can include changing window treatments, replacing floor treatments, redesigning the appearance of walls and ceilings, installing false ceilings, knocking down interior walls to create more open space, or modernising electrical and plumbing equipment. A more detailed explanation and photographic examples can be found at the homepage of one of the top London Interior Design Consultancies. An interior designer will often create new spaces thematically, choosing fresh furniture and accessories to revitalise a client's London residence and create a look that truly speaks to the client's needs and wishes.
An interior designer will often work with clients who have incomplete ideas on how they want the finished design to appear. In many cases, the interior designer will use their specialised knowledge in art or architecture to help guide the client towards a more unified concept and thereby create a comprehensive finished product. London projects can be large or small, ranging from refreshing just a single room to creating a brand new theme for an entire London mansion or hotel.
In summary, the interior designer does so much more than just painting walls and pushing furniture around. Today's professional interior designers in London seek to create harmony in the finished product, taking the client's own idea of what he/she wants, adding their own personal flair, and masterfully transforming it into reality.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
So what does an interior designer actually bring to the job?
Ask most people about what a London interior designer does, and they will immediately think of popular TV shows or online videos that show interior designers pushing furniture into different corners of the room, taking photographs and choosing fresh colours. In reality, the work of an interior designer is so very complex. An interior designer's job goes well beyond a standard "renovation" effort, which often involves identical finishes and dull, uninspired refits. It is also far more important than just "redecorating," which is often just surface-level and cosmetic in nature, more akin to a "touch-up" than a true "redesign," even though it can include painting, recarpeting or sometimes even plastering.
Today's professional interior designer in London can execute and supervise any and every aspect of recreating an interior living space. This can include changing window treatments, replacing floor treatments, redesigning the appearance of walls and ceilings, installing false ceilings, knocking down interior walls to create more open space, or modernising electrical and plumbing equipment. A more detailed explanation and photographic examples can be found at the homepage of one of the top London Interior Design Consultancies. An interior designer will often create new spaces thematically, choosing fresh furniture and accessories to revitalise a client's London residence and create a look that truly speaks to the client's needs and wishes.
An interior designer will often work with clients who have incomplete ideas on how they want the finished design to appear. In many cases, the interior designer will use their specialised knowledge in art or architecture to help guide the client towards a more unified concept and thereby create a comprehensive finished product. London projects can be large or small, ranging from refreshing just a single room to creating a brand new theme for an entire London mansion or hotel.
In summary, the interior designer does so much more than just painting walls and pushing furniture around. Today's professional interior designers in London seek to create harmony in the finished product, taking the client's own idea of what he/she wants, adding their own personal flair, and masterfully transforming it into reality.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Interiors the easy way: a no-fuss interior design consultancy can save you time and money, while guaranteeing amazing results!
Even if you've never hired a London Interior Designer before, you should know one thing: interior designers are very different from interior decorators. Critically, the interior designer is a manager and project coordinator who will oversee other contractors and proactively make sure that the job gets done. The designer will first receive the client's brief, before presenting some initial plans that can serve as a foundation to further explore different ideas, styles, colour schemes, etc. In collaboration with the client, the designer will modify the basic outline as necessary before incorporating it into a broader plan of execution for the entire project.
As explained by one of London's most prestigious interior design boutiques, the interior designer will ordinarily work to a budget that has been previously agreed with the client. As part of executing the project, the designer may supervise sub-contractors or other tradesmen, such as plumbers, tilers, painters and carpenters. A contract commonly exists between the designer and the client that explains how the interior designer assumes ultimate responsibility for achieving the desired outcome.
London interior designers that are professionally qualified will normally have taken course modules in lighting, colour, aesthetics, interior remodelling and fabrics, as well as having had substantial project management experience with past designs in and around London. Your interior designer will be able to provide advice on how to best showcase your residence or office, whether focusing on the latest London styles and fashions or preferring timeless traditions. Many designers will have trade accounts with a variety of businesses in London and the UK that sell furniture, fittings, fixtures, appliances, accessories, fabrics, and much more besides. Designers also know exactly where to go to purchase hard-to-find items and create the desired effect.
There are so many benefits to hiring an interior designer that it is no wonder that business is booming for many of London's top interior design consultancies. Interior design in London is so much more than just decorating and refinishing - choosing a great interior designer can save you time and money, while ensuring that the results of your project are outstanding.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Interiors the easy way: a no-fuss interior design consultancy can save you time and money, while guaranteeing amazing results!
Even if you've never hired a London Interior Designer before, you should know one thing: interior designers are very different from interior decorators. Critically, the interior designer is a manager and project coordinator who will oversee other contractors and proactively make sure that the job gets done. The designer will first receive the client's brief, before presenting some initial plans that can serve as a foundation to further explore different ideas, styles, colour schemes, etc. In collaboration with the client, the designer will modify the basic outline as necessary before incorporating it into a broader plan of execution for the entire project.
As explained by one of London's most prestigious interior design boutiques, the interior designer will ordinarily work to a budget that has been previously agreed with the client. As part of executing the project, the designer may supervise sub-contractors or other tradesmen, such as plumbers, tilers, painters and carpenters. A contract commonly exists between the designer and the client that explains how the interior designer assumes ultimate responsibility for achieving the desired outcome.
London interior designers that are professionally qualified will normally have taken course modules in lighting, colour, aesthetics, interior remodelling and fabrics, as well as having had substantial project management experience with past designs in and around London. Your interior designer will be able to provide advice on how to best showcase your residence or office, whether focusing on the latest London styles and fashions or preferring timeless traditions. Many designers will have trade accounts with a variety of businesses in London and the UK that sell furniture, fittings, fixtures, appliances, accessories, fabrics, and much more besides. Designers also know exactly where to go to purchase hard-to-find items and create the desired effect.
There are so many benefits to hiring an interior designer that it is no wonder that business is booming for many of London's top interior design consultancies. Interior design in London is so much more than just decorating and refinishing - choosing a great interior designer can save you time and money, while ensuring that the results of your project are outstanding.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Blog
Colour Schemes: Symbolism of Colour
Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for a interior designer when contemplating the overall design of a room. Designers in London know that colour need not be expensive - in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of paint or a bunch of flowers! Yes it most cases it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a London room.
This article has been written to give a brief overview of the history and symbolism of colour, with specific regard to colour usage in the world of interior design in London.
Black is almost universally is associated with death (Japan being the exception). So, quite apart from its lack of light reflecting qualities, black in any quantity is seen as gloomy and depressing. Its use in armour and military uniforms also gives a masculine slant to its use.
White, at the other extreme, is associated in the interior design world and beyond with purity and light. Note its use in weddings throughout the world and religious celebrations, such as First Holy Communion, Easter celebrations, and the like. Its use in London interior design colour scheming draws on these occasions.
Red is an interesting colour symbolically. Red, the colour of blood, is traditionally warlike and is used in uniform, banners, and heraldry throughout UK and worldwide military history. These connections link red with danger and death. Yet red's brightness and clarity is also used in many interior design situations in London to symbolise joy and happiness. The military connection throws it into the so-called masculine area of interior design.
Pink is usually seen as a weak colour, as opposed to the strength of red. It's a short step for pink to be seen as feminine. In London, and indeed many western cultures, pink for girls and blue for boys has become accepted practice in interior designs of nurseries.
Green is the colour of life and natural vegetation. In the UK, the ancient May Day celebration sees the May King draped in newly-sprouted spring vegetation; whilst the May Queen is clothed in the white of purity and life. The symbolism of green goes back to very early times. Green was used by the ancient Egyptians to promote growth and fertility in their sacrifices to the Gods. This link with nature makes green a relaxing colour to use in London interior designs.
Yellows can be bright and sunny, symbolic of sunshine and happiness, and are often used in Interior Designs in London. At the other end, certain shades represent cowardice and disease.
Blues also have dual symbolism. The spiritual virtues of the Virgin Mary link blue with serenity and the cerulean-blue of the clear sky. Darker blues are more reminiscent of dull, angry skies and the misery of depression, and are not as commonly used in interior design projects in London as lighter blues.
Royal purple is well known for its association with pomp and ceremony; it is only rarely used by interior designers in normal domestic interiors due to it's powerful symbolism.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
Colour Schemes: Symbolism of Colour
Colour is of course one of the most important considerations for a interior designer when contemplating the overall design of a room. Designers in London know that colour need not be expensive - in fact, it can be as cheap as a can of paint or a bunch of flowers! Yes it most cases it is colour that can make or break the interior design of a London room.
This article has been written to give a brief overview of the history and symbolism of colour, with specific regard to colour usage in the world of interior design in London.
Black is almost universally is associated with death (Japan being the exception). So, quite apart from its lack of light reflecting qualities, black in any quantity is seen as gloomy and depressing. Its use in armour and military uniforms also gives a masculine slant to its use.
White, at the other extreme, is associated in the interior design world and beyond with purity and light. Note its use in weddings throughout the world and religious celebrations, such as First Holy Communion, Easter celebrations, and the like. Its use in London interior design colour scheming draws on these occasions.
Red is an interesting colour symbolically. Red, the colour of blood, is traditionally warlike and is used in uniform, banners, and heraldry throughout UK and worldwide military history. These connections link red with danger and death. Yet red's brightness and clarity is also used in many interior design situations in London to symbolise joy and happiness. The military connection throws it into the so-called masculine area of interior design.
Pink is usually seen as a weak colour, as opposed to the strength of red. It's a short step for pink to be seen as feminine. In London, and indeed many western cultures, pink for girls and blue for boys has become accepted practice in interior designs of nurseries.
Green is the colour of life and natural vegetation. In the UK, the ancient May Day celebration sees the May King draped in newly-sprouted spring vegetation; whilst the May Queen is clothed in the white of purity and life. The symbolism of green goes back to very early times. Green was used by the ancient Egyptians to promote growth and fertility in their sacrifices to the Gods. This link with nature makes green a relaxing colour to use in London interior designs.
Yellows can be bright and sunny, symbolic of sunshine and happiness, and are often used in Interior Designs in London. At the other end, certain shades represent cowardice and disease.
Blues also have dual symbolism. The spiritual virtues of the Virgin Mary link blue with serenity and the cerulean-blue of the clear sky. Darker blues are more reminiscent of dull, angry skies and the misery of depression, and are not as commonly used in interior design projects in London as lighter blues.
Royal purple is well known for its association with pomp and ceremony; it is only rarely used by interior designers in normal domestic interiors due to it's powerful symbolism.
Interior Design London - Global Interior Design Consultancy Company in London, UK for interior design services.
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