New Year style resolutions
Get off on the right foot in 2014 with these expert tips.
Detox you decor
- Dean Kurlansky at ARQ Designs
We all know how cluttered spaces have a negative impact on your state of mind. Clean minimal surfaces are a must if you want to detox your decor.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is going half measures with storage, so if you invest in some well-designed cabinets, you should see that pay off with a clearer mind and more harmonious interior.
I like customised, concealed storage for living spaces that give your things a place to live - so you don't give them a chance to clutter up your home.
Welcome colour
- Salvatore Fazzari from Mobilia
Colour will help inject quirk, energy and excitement to your space, providing you with a newfound buzz and love for your environment.
The current colour trends are influenced by the late 20th century when digital culture was first emerging, or perhaps the Memphis movement when we saw strong injections of playfulness, colour blocking and energy.
Inviting a pop of yellow, for example, into your home by way of a smaller object - such as a side table or lamp - will help revitalise and freshen up your space.
Update tired spaces
- Fran Welke from Shedwallah
Update bedrooms and casual living spaces with displays. Invest in a marble occasional table and pair it with a large vase of white flowers (a summer must).
Place a big marble bowl, full of scented floating flowers on an existing coffee table and think about re-upholstering chairs in on-trend ikat or suzani print fabric.
Break out of a style rut
- Salvatore Fazzari from Mobilia
Mixing tribal or vibrant patterns and colour in a contemporary way will instantly inject style and interest into your home.
I would suggest mixing it up with both calming contemporary pieces and neutral tones and then adding layers that have interest, detail and beauty to your space.
Get tech-savvy
- Dean Kurlansky at ARQ Designs
Advances in technology and communication mean creating a home to accomodate your "bits" of technology is the next step in furniture design.
Consider replacing your traditional furniture with pieces designed around making technology more accessible throughout the home.
An example of this is the use of iPad docks by iROOM and home automation controls built into furniture and wall panels, making devices easier to store, charge and use.
Lighten and brighten
- Fran Welke from Shedwallah
Summer is a time for light and bright, so de-winter your rooms. Store excess rugs and throws (don't forget the camphor, Perth moths and silverfish are ferocious).
Update your window dressings with cotton voile block-printed curtains, an inexpensive way to create a cool, breezy ambience. Our favourite is the classic Moghul Poppy design in shades of blues and reds.
Make over your alfresco
- Salvatore Fazzari from Mobilia
One of the biggest trends in 2013 was the dissolving of the boundaries of indoor and outdoor furniture.
In 2014 it is now difficult to pinpoint whether furniture is intended for use outdoors or indoors, with new styles, natural fibres and waterproof materials that are pleasant to see and touch.
Update your outdoor suite with comfortable day beds or complete groups of seating, many of which could be moved into the living room without looking like garden furniture.
