A Touch Of Glamour

Over the last few weeks we have completed some truly stunning master bedroom schemes for our clients that I can't wait to share with you in the New Year. For now I thought I would share our bedroom makeover in our showroom here at Verandah House. We wanted to create a completely different look to our previous rooms, opting for a more neutral scheme. We started with an inspirational board and an array of textures appeared; inspiring us to create an unexpected but harmonious scheme. 

To create a more effortless look we had to add texture and interest and we wanted the room to look collected and unique. To create this look we used a combination of tortoiseshell rattan with crystal, brass rather than silver, french wallpaper with panelling, silks and trims. We tried at first not to add the drapery to the four poster bed but the room lacked softness and we wanted the space to have a more luxurious feel.

We post most days on our Instagram page http://instagram.com/verandahhouse, we would love to hear from you too x

A Collective Interior

Lately I have been reading several inspirational books which I would love to share with you over the coming weeks. One particular chapter hit a chord with me about being true to one-self and living an honest life. I had to really think about this and realised how true that is in my life as a designer. 

When I look back at all the styles that have been popular over the decades, I can sit and laugh and be guilty to have fallen victim to many of these trends and to be honest I have absolutely no regret, they have defined me to who I am today.

What I have learnt from experience is every trend has its place so long as you don't loose your own authentic sense of style in the process. Several years I questioned my style, was I playing it too safe?Was I being original enough? Lots of self doubt crept in, I was a victim to my own self doubt, I lost my way and I still shudder when I think of that time.

Over a year and a half later the doors of Verandah House opened and my talented daughter Jess joined me in our new design venture; we promised ourselves that we would be respectful of trends but not be lead by them. We would be true to our design aesthetic of classic, timeless interiors and to be respectful to follow our clients dreams and desires within their home.

One of my greatest lessons was originality: Being original is to make it your own, be true to your own style, own it! I believe originality is in the special objects we place around our home, pieces that you have collected, that have a past, that mean something to you and your family. We recently completed this entry, I love that so many of the pieces have their own story, the collected art on the wall is a mix of new and very old pieces which evokes a conversation and takes you back to another era. The dark seagrass walls add depth to the room and creates the perfect backdrop for the artwork. Greenery from the garden adds a homely touch and candles can be added for ambience at night.

We are lucky to be exposed to so many looks and styles...appreciate all of them and decide what is the look that speaks to you and live the very best life you can!