We featured in the September edition of regional luxury lifestyle magazine Live24Seven. If you didn’t manage to grab a copy, why not take a break and read the article below.
There’s no place like home. The phrase has always been true, but never more so than in the last 18 months where people have been forced to spend more time in their homes than ever before. What used to be a place to return to after a long day now serves everyday, multiple purposes and has resulted in homeowners seeking new and innovative ways to extend the functionality of their homes.
Gaby Citraro Hughes, Head of Residential Design at Blocc Interiors, has witnessed a significant change in the trend for interior design in recent times.
“There is a noticeable shift in the way people want their homes to function. Whilst open plan living is still in demand, we are also seeing a need for quiet zones, where people can find privacy for making calls, working, studying or simply relaxing away from the busy traffic of the rest of the house. Rooms such as formal dining rooms are losing their appeal, and are being converted into more useful spaces that better meet the needs of the homeowners.”
“We often talk about our work / life balance in the emotional and mental sense, but that applies to physical spaces as well. People are opting for uplifting colours to create a tranquil space. Softer fabrics, attractive colour accents and more natural light have become popular to create a serene atmosphere amidst the uncertainty and chaos outside.”
ZONE YOUR HOME
When a formal dining room was on the plan for this waterside apartment, Blocc Interiors proposed a radical design alternative to creating a welcoming relaxation area – part of, yet separate from the main living space.
“With a communal dining area off the kitchen already planned in, we felt that this home would benefit from a unique calming oasis where the homeowners could retreat into a different world. The style reflected the overall sophisticated design of the home, and yet was a zone in its own right” commented Gaby.
DECOR DECODED
How Blocc Interiors created this room:
- Two plinths topped by structural bonsai trees mark the entrance onto a different zone and signal a relaxing area ahead
- Screens of wenge wood with brushed gold vertical bars delineate the main living area from this private space
- A neutral colour scheme with gold accents give a pleasing palette on which to base the overall design
- A wood veneer wallpaper with geometrical pattern is used as the backdrop on the main wall. The earthy colours of the wood are complemented by a gold detail in the pattern
- Two large emerald green velvet chaise longues add comfort as well making a colour statement
- A contrasting drinks table as a functional element along with a surprise design style
- An ‘eye-level’ central pendant adds an atmospheric feel to the seating area
- Two large bespokely made bookcases are carefully styled with selected accessories to complement the styling including vases with brushed gold details, natural corals and coffee table books
- Specifically commissioned artwork in complementary colours
- A silk charcoal rug brings all the pieces together and cushions complete the styling on the seating
BRINGING OUT THE DESIGNER IN YOU
At Blocc Interiors, Gaby is focused on helping homeowners realise their vision through working in partnership with clients to achieve a space that meets their lifestyle requirements.
“Making a connection and developing an understanding through a two-way conversation that guides rather than directs is at the heart of what we do,” says Gaby. “The most successful and rewarding results are those where our clients have been involved in the journey of creating a wonderful home. Giving clients the benefit of our expert knowledge, our role is to offer suggestions and ideas, and push the boundaries for a statement result that’s ultimately all about you, your home and your lifestyle. We believe working with an interior design consultancy should be exciting and liberating rather than an intimidating experience!”
BLOCC DESIGN TIPS FOR ACHIEVING A TRANQUIL RELAXATION ZONE
- Choose an attractive colour palette with natural elements
- Amp up accent colours and texture for contrast
- Encourage mood boosting natural lighting
- Develop symmetry for a pleasing balance
- Natural materials such as wood are warm and inviting
- Plants bring a sense of calm
- Get extra cosy with soft fabrics, blankets and throws
- Make lighting striking as well as functional