2) Creative Re-use

Create unique and personal features by imaginatively up-cycling, recycling or re-using interior items.

For instance, fashion dining room chairs from outside furnishings with new seat pads. Use books to support shelving. Or employ occasional chairs as bedside tables.

In the images below a single bed base has been upholstered in place of a day bed. This works beautifully, and just as well.

With so much commercialism, especially in the world of interiors, we can easily overlook the obvious.

3) Mix and Match

Mix and matching as many interior genres as possible will create the most organic, eclectic style.

In the first image below a 30’s armchair sits quietly with a modern built-in wardrobe.

A simple but unique look has been styled from a country cottage table, bentwood chairs and a modern laminate bookcase. A chesterfield style sofa, 60’s table lamp and gold lamé footstool sit seamlessly alongside each other.

And the final image shows how well a modern, built-in kitchenette can work with a 70’s dining table and industrial old school chairs in this Thrifty Decor.

5) Style

Establishing the function and layout of a room is the most important part of styling. Following that – as long as there is a strong focal point, balance and composition, then it’s a free for all!

Try accentuating an existing feature such as old wallpaper, even if only for the short term.

Paint and artwork can go a long way when used as prominent features or focal points. The green painted fire surround below pops with colour and the wide shelf displays a collection of  eye catching paintings.

Try painting modern high street storage units the same colour as a feature wall to tie them both together.

(Nb: appropriate primer and undercoat must be used for maximum adhesion when painting onto shiny surfaces).