If you’re growing weary of your interior, it might be time to throw in something unexpected. We were recently feeling a little interior fatigue ourselves, so decided to peruse Instagram for some fresh inspiration and new looks. A massive tree inside – why not? Plants improve air quality, after all. Palm leaves that reach the ceiling on entry tables, absolutely! And who knew, four hurricane lanterns on a coffee table could make such an impact. Or how a topiary table would make our spirits soar. Ahead, see 10 great ideas to try out for the season ahead. Because, what surrounds us affects us – and boosts our happiness, confidence and wellbeing. Try this at home, your office cubicle, your daily life.
Stucco Gloria wallpaper mural, from Wall and Paper Decor, www.wallpaperdecor.com.au
1.MIX PRINTS
A zebra rug mixed with a leopard ottoman could be all you need to up the excitement factor in your interior.Contrast textures. Take a risk. Throw in something unexpected. Pair the unexpected. Mix incongruous elements. Florals are always a good idea.
2. CONSIDER ADDING A SMALL TREE
Anything from a citrus tree to an olive or maple tree, might be the dose of nature that can enhance your energy and performance. Nature in the house really does boost feelings of happiness. That’s not just us talking, studies have shown, anything from a potted citrus to herbs in the kitchen reduce depression and increase positive emotion.
French Panels wallpaper mural, from Wall and Paper Decor, www.wallpaperdecor.com.au
3. INTRODUCE A BUST
Add a stone-faced character. Yep, a bust – the kind you see in professionally pulled-together interiors. We’re talking sculpted portraiture. They’re compact and have a third dimension. But remember, its effect will depend on its expression – whether it’s whimsical or provocative. They’re like another personality in the room.
4. DOUBLE YOUR OBJECTS
Try four hurricane lanterns on your entry table. Or four candlesticks on your coffee table. Rather just a pair, four items can create a real statement. Work outwards, placing them around a central basket or planter. It’s a really good way of decorating.
French Panels wallpaper mural, Ashes from Wall and Paper Decor, www.wallpaperdecor.com.au
5. GO HIGH
Try tall palm leaves in an urn on entry tables. Yes, sky-high foliage adds drama, excitement and scale to any space. Watch your blood pressure go up the minute you do it.
6. ALL-WHITE
Introduce a white parasol-style garden umbrella. They are the hit of the season. And will make your garden feel instantly modern.
Noble Fair wallpaper mural, from Wall and Paper Decor, www.wallpaperdecor.com.au
7. GIVE WALLS AN INSTANT MAKEOVER
Go for wallpaper that simulates decorative 18th-century wall panels. So easy, and effective.
8. CREATE A TOPIARY TABLE
We love the idea of tiny potted topiary grouped en masse on a tabletop.Spending time around greenery can improve concentration and increase attention span. Our health extends beyond our physical bodes to include our emotions and the spaces around us. The practice of Feng Shui, the system of harmonizing the human experience with the surrounding environment echoes the same principle. Plus, plants require care, which helps flex our nurturing muscles, making us more compassionate.
9. ONE ANTIQUE
An antique piece will bring pedigree, personality and gravitas to any room. Hit AAADA (www.aaada.com.au for its list of preferred dealers) to find a piece that resonates with you, and your pad.
10. COLOUR REPETITION
There is a lot of power in repetition. This goes for colours, but also shapes. If you have one or two dominant colours in your sitting room, try repeating them in various items throughout the space.
Fragments wallpaper mural, from Wall and Paper Decor, www.wallpaperdecor.com.au
LEAD IMAGE: Armadillo & Co rug, www.armadillo-co.com – because a rug will always add individuality to a space.
