Happy Design is catching!
I can’t and won’t claim this to be my own, but I’m absolutely loving the concept of Happy Design. Yes! Isn’t that what it’s all about? Your house is your home and it should (in my opinion) speak about you as a person, as a family and it should make you happy. The latest Elle Decoration has a great feature on Happy Design and its really got me thinking. What is happy design? There was a time when we all painted our walls white and neutral was the right thing to do. No more! Colour is in and the brighter the better. Even our quieter tones are becoming spicier – the new neutrals are far more saturated and vibrant than before when magnolia was the single most popular colour paint in DIY stores.
The fabulous home of Sophie Robinson. We just love the queen of colour’s approach to styling. Beautiful!
As well as colour we’re embracing pattern again. And not just one pattern, mixing it up to create interesting and bold designs that say something about our personalities. I’ve always mixed the old with the new and happy design is all about having things in your home that make you smile. For me, it’s my colourful cushions, my neon ‘chill’ light and my glam pink velvet occasional chair. My mum doesn’t agree that it all goes together, but I love it!
Move over magnolia! Give us more colour!
Credit: Jonathan Spring. Children’s artwork looks great framed and on display.
Novelty items such as lighting, accessories and smaller items of furniture can create instant impact and create focus in your room. There is no greater joy than a vintage item that fits right into your scheme, but don’t be afraid to alter it to bring it up to date. Change the knobs, give it some modern feet, try a coloured bulb, whatever it is, make it personal and enjoy it!
Credit: Refinery 29. We love the colours and how there’s just so much to look at and enjoy.
Layering really is the key trick for a happy design. Start with a few key items, add some more, balance patterns with plain and add some texture to blend it all together. Pick a colour palette and try not to stray too far beyond tones of your group of colours. We’re not trying to avoid a clash (hell, a clash can look awesome!) were trying to make sure your eye doesn’t feel too overwhelmed. A busy design need careful orchestration to ensure its all working together. Don’t be afraid to get it wrong! By working with accessories, you can move it around and try again. Be brave! You’ll be happy you did.
Credit: Sandra Lawson
