The Wishing Chair Interior Design 101

THE WISHING CHAIR
Interior Design 101

Let's get started
Decorating is not hard
It may seem daunting, especially when we scroll through Instagram or Pinterest and see stately, impossibly
gorgeous rooms with ethereal light, taunting us as we sit in our not-so-perfect nooks. Well, let’s lay this down
first: homes are often beautiful, not because of the expensive artwork or designer upholstery that they possess,
but because of the feeling they invoke. This is good news; because it means that with just a few design
fundamentals under your belt, and some budget-friendly tweaks, you, you too can create a magazine-worthy
space for yourself.
Your home is your personality
Before we get to the fundamentals, you must figure out what you love. Your home will take on the personality
you infuse it with, and for that you need to be clear about what you like: do you want a peaceful sanctuary in one
area? An energetic uplifting space after a long hard day in another? A living room that is grand and imposing or
friendly and welcoming? Are you a purist, or do you like an eclectic mix of style?
Follow the rules & then don't
These are personal decisions you need to make, before you use the tools in the next steps. Remember that these
are just general design rules and principles, and to be honest, some rules are meant to be broken. If you are new
to decorating, follow the rules. As you get more experienced and confident with what works, you may want to
get more experimental and bend some of them to yield pleasantly unexpected results.

DESIGN
PRINCIPLES
understanding the basics
Part 1: Scale & Proportion
Part 2: Contrast
Part 3: Patterns
Part 4: Texture
Part 5: Balance
Part 6: Bling
Part 7: Colour Theory
Part 8: Interior Styles

Scale vs.
Proportion
It’s all about how design
elements relate to each other
Scale
Scale tends to refer to how an item relates to the size of the room or to
something else – like the humans in it. For example, an exceptionally large
dining table crammed into the middle of a living room :that's deemed a wrong
scale for the room.
Proportion
This often refers to the shape of an item and how it relates to other things in
the room. For example, if you have a round coffee table and place a large
rectangular tray at the centre of it - the tray, by instinct would look “off” –
because it’s not in the correct proportion to the table. You would need a trinket
with rounded shapes to echo the proportions and lines of the table.
Make Pinterest your BFF! From design inspirations to colour palettes and styles - create your personal moodboards
using pinterest and you'll be flooded with ideas.
Pro Tip

Examples of Scale and Proportion
The rectangular frames on the wall
echo the shape of the table
The large pendant lamp and tree-like plants
balance out the high ceilings
The oblong shapes of the lamp , frame
and table are proportionate

Negative space
Is as important as filled up space. It allows your design
to breathe and be contrasted against a minimalism that
enhances the filled design to a greater degree. This is
the space around and above furniture. A room can
seem chaotic, squishy and feel restless when every
square inch of it is filled to the brim. The eye needs
room to rest in a space, so provide that respite by
leaving some surfaces uncovered and some walls
alone.
Height
The higher the ceiling, the taller and grander the furniture.
Low ceilings, (as we tend to have with builder flats with
false ceilings built in), need be closer to the ground, or else
the effect would be suffocating. Perhaps the one
exception to this rule is using low, modern furnishings in a
room with tall ceilings to achieve a dramatic effect.
Patterns
If the room is small, keep patterns to scale: Use smaller
prints and fewer of them in a tiny room, or it might look
like a block-print factory exploded in there. A larger
room can typically handle larger prints as you have the
space to allow each pattern to breathe. If you have a
small room but you prefer a larger print (say on your
wallpaper or your bed-linen), then make sure its base
has a lot of white space in it and use it sparingly.
How to create correct Scale and Proportion
Furniture
The main anchor piece of furniture in in the room sets
the stage for the scale of all the other furnishings. For
example, an imposingly large sofa and a tiny, delicate
side table may look silly next to each other. Pair a big,
poofy sofa, with a large, rounded shaped coffee table
and a larger rug to tie them all together,

Height
Negative space
Furniture
Examples of how to create correct scale
The sofa, table, armchair and plant are
similar sized
The clutter at the bottom of the room is
offset by the negative space on top
The frames stacked to the top of the
ceiling offset the height of the low shelves

Take a good long walk through the rooms of your house – if everything seems like it’s in scale and proportion, it
sends a unified message: Harmony.
Exercise

When you achieve harmony, your space feels restful, comfortable, balanced and cohesive.

Basics
Contrast is one of our favourite design principles, as it’s visual impact can be
dramatically inspiring. Executed well, contrast can create an evocative feeling
of vibrancy and joy, infusing the place with a personality that is playful and
memorable.
Practically speaking
Let’s dig deeper into what contrast is, and what it can be:
• Lighting: Light versus dark colour: opposing ends of the colour wheel,
• Surfaces: Bright versus dull
• Scale/Proportion: Big versus small
• Workmanship: Ornate versus plain
• Shapes: Organic versus geometric
• Style: Feminine versus masculine / Modern versus Traditional·
• Textures: fuzzy versus sharp
Start with the focal point of the room, like a large armchair, and think about the next piece in convergence with that?
Will it be a little larger scale and lighter in colour, like a painting? And perhaps work with proportions to place an
oversized floor lamp next to it, so that the contrast of scale and colour ties them all together.
Contrast
It's all about creating tension
between opposites.
Pro Tip

Examples of Contrast
Colour contrast: Pops of fuscia with
pastel
Negative space contrast: White, paired
down frames with saturated colour ones
Colour contrast: Bright mustard and chartreuse
against a monochromatic background
Scale Contrast: Low furniture against high ceilings
offset by large globed-pendant lights
Colour/Print contrast: Pops of and blue
against large white spaces, alongside
printed wallpaper and cushions against
solid colour

Patterns &
Pattern-Mixing
Rules
it’s all about coordinating and
complimenting
Basics
Patterns and pattern mixing when done right can look charismatic and joyful –
but when done wrong, can look - oh, so so wrong! Remember when our
moms told us never to mix prints? There was a time when people would use
matching patterns throughout a room - the curtains would match the sofa
which would match the lampshades which would match the pillows and so
on. Ugh! Thankfully that look is over (and will hopefully never return). While
our moms were right about most things, she definitely wasn’t right about this!
Colour Cohesion
Pair Patterns with Solids
Use distinct patterns and prints
Don’t let a pattern get “Lonely”
Pattern scale and size variation
When it comes to using patterns in a room it’s all about coordinating and
complimenting. Here are some pointers to start with:

Colour Cohesion
In a room with many contrasting elements (if you're playing with scale and shape) - colour can bring it all together and make it
cohesive. To achieve a well-coordinated effect, you will want to identify a clear colour scheme, limiting your selection to just
two or three hues. Use solids to establish your base colours, and then concentrate on choosing patterns that fall into that
palette.
When you ‘re mixing patterns, go all out! Make sure to choose two or three different types of patterns. You might pair stripes
with polka dots or polka dots with florals— just make sure that each pattern is distinct. and share the same colours. Multiple
patterns of the same type confuse the eye. But varied patterns are instantly distinguishable, creating clear contrast and
resulting in fresh and more visually interesting designs.
Pair Patterns with Solids
It is a good idea to break up your patterns with blocks of solid colour. For example, if you choose a patterned bedspread, pair it
with a solid bed skirt in a complementary colour. If you’re using patterned wallpaper, consider a solid curtain fabric. By
incorporating solids into your design, you will create clear visual boundaries between patterns,
Don’t let a pattern get “Lonely”
Patterns are like pack animals - they work together to make something beautiful, but alone, they tend to get lost in the mix.
To make sure that each pattern choice makes a coordinated statement, you need to feature it multiple times throughout a
space. Aim for at least three or four uses per pattern to create a sense of rhythm, without too much "matching". Let the
cushion cover echo the same pattern as a lampshade which may appear on a larger bolster across the room.
Pattern scale and size variation
Choose patterns that vary in scale. Multiple large-scale prints compete for focus, and can be distracting for the viewer - yet a
mix of small and intricate patterns can look too busy. Use both small and large-scale patterns, saving large-scale patterns for
larger canvases, like accent walls, curtains or bedding, and smaller patterns for accent items.

Don’t let patterns get lonely Pattern scale and size variation
Examples of Patterns

Texture
It's all about how things "feel"
You should also consider the placement of
textures as you go about designing your room.
Putting a smooth texture directly next to a rough
one while make the rough object stand out more
and seem weightier than if you space them
apart.
Basics
Texture is an under-rated element of design, falling way behind colours and
patterns as a tool, and yet we feel it’s the most versatile due to its ability to
subtly change the mood and impact of a room. In design parlance, texture is,
“the sensations caused by the external surface of objects received through the
sense of touch.” Basically, how things feel. Think about squishing soft carpet
between your toes, running your hand along a rough wooden table top, or
sinking down into leather couch cushions. Though you don’t have to physically
have contact with the room to feel the power of texture.
Imagine a bedroom with shiny marble floors, shiny satin sheets, glossy lacquer
lamps and highly polished furniture? Such a room is evocative of spaces that
are cold and sterile – like a hospital room or a fancy office. It definitely will not
do for a bedroom: and so texture allows you to play with elements to add
warmth, interest and a sense of comfort.
Shiny, polished surfaces evoke a sense of hygiene and formality, rough and
rugged textures imbue it with warmth and rustic charm, with a touch of
masculinity, satiny , velvet finishes denote luxury and playfulness, and a
balance of all ends of the spectrum can be tweaked to create the final effect
you would like to evoke.
Pro Tip

How to use texture
Limit it to Two
While you want to create contrast so that important design elements pop, don’t use more than two or three distinct textures in
a single space. Choose three when you want people to take in the space as a whole and stick to two when you want to
emphasize a prominent focal point. Texture is particularly important if you’re working within a particular colour palette where
the shades are very similar. When a monochromatic or analogous colour scheme, make sure you choose items that heavily
contrast. When they come together, they will bring a sense of harmony to the space.
Take it to the next level
Whether you choose a throw rug to warm up your bedroom room or a driftwood coffee table to bring rustic charm to your
living space, the importance of texture is clear. It completes the room. Texture is the component that helps elevate your
interiors to the next level.
Ways of adding texture
Furniture: Wooden benches, satin reading chairs, and marble table tops all bring a distinct feel to the space.
Décor Items: Shadow boxes, knick-knacks ,flowers, plants, carved sculptures.
Floor and Wall Coverings: A carefully placed throw rug or even some imaginative wall design will bring more depth to the
room.
Textiles: Use cloths like slip covers, pillows, blankets and throws to make the room pop.
Materials : Glass, wood, cane, fabrics etc,

Texture in action
Limit it to Two Take it to the next level Using wood and fabric to
add texture

Balance
it's all about creating harmony
Basics
Our senses yearn for a sense of equilibrium and harmony in a space - and
that’s achieved when all the visual weights of the objects in a space are
relatively equalized. Balance is created through shape, colour, pattern, and
texture.
Symmetrical or formal: Traditional or formal spaces call for symmetrical
balance where the space is evenly split into two sides that mirror each
other. For example, two chairs on either side of a coffee table can be said to
be symmetrically balanced. This kind of balance is easy to achieve as
design elements are repeated on each side.·
Asymmetrical or Informal: The visual weights of lines, colours, forms, and
textures are balanced without exact duplication. It is not as ordered as
symmetrical balance and can be more complex and interesting. For
instance, a sofa can be balanced by placing two chairs on the other
side.·
Radial balance is achieved when there is a central focal point with other
elements radiating from it or around it. An example would be a round
dining table, with chairs arranged around it. There is a lot of repetition of
form, texture, and colour.

Asymmetrical
Symmetrical Radial
Examples of Balance

Rhythm
As in music, rhythm in design is all about creating patterns of repetition and contrast to create visual interest. You
can achieve this by using the same colour or shape at different intervals. Its purpose is to move your eye around
the room. For instance, you can establish a rhythm by using a colour in the pillows, picking it up in a painting, and
echoing it again in a rug. These repetitions will help carry your eye around the room.
Emphasis / Focal point
A room where everything gets equal importance will seem either scattered, chaotic or just plain boring. You need
an anchor so that the viewer’s eye has something to gaze upon. Architectural spaces often have points of interest
such as a fireplace or a window with a beautiful view. You can choose to enhance the built-in focal point by
arranging furniture around it to emphasize it. In a room that lacks such a built-in point of interest, you can create
one through groupings of furniture or using an unusual or large sculpture, mantel piece, or work of art.

A little Bling
shine adds zing to a room
Basics
All it takes is a touch of metallics, mirror or glass to add the brightening effect
of reflected light to your room. Shiny surfaces also help make a small room
look larger. But let’s not play it too fast and loose here – too much bling and
gold can look tacky and tasteless- just the right amount looks modern and
lustrous.
A sheer, metallic glaze on the walls
Extra mirrors on the walls, above a dresser to create illusion of space.
Mirrored doors in dressing room
Shiny doorknobs
Metallic lamps or ceiling fixtures
Shiny electronics
Polished glass or metal collectibles
Accent pillows with metallic thread, sequins or other glittery trim
Limit yourself to a few of the following shiny elements:
When it comes to metallics, it’s okay to mix and match bronze, brass, silver and gold elements. The usual room
of thumb is not more than 2 different metals in one space.
Pro Tip

Color Theory
it’s all about deciphering the
rainbow
Basics
The way in which each of us views colour is unique. Our vision is complex and
sensitive, influenced by many external factors: lighting, adjacent colour,
surface texture and our own cultural references to hues. We will stick to very
simple colour principles, to help you mix colour across surfaces and objects
within a room. A basic understanding of colour theory; understanding natural
harmonies and discords between colours, will make the creations of your own
colour schemes much easier - and allow you to play with colour with
confidence.
So WTF is color theory? Essentially, it’s information that researchers have
gathered about the way we see colour and how different colour combinations
affect us. Colour theory can be used by artists working with canvas, just as
much as it can be used by everyday people looking to paint their walls a new
shade. A little knowledge can go a long way, but remember the most
important thing: it is you and your family who have to live with and enjoy
these colours.

The Colour Wheel
Harmonious colours
The 4 primary colours are red, blue, green and yellow. When these
pure colours are mixed, the secondary colours of purple, turquoise,
orange and lime are produced. When primary and secondary are
mixed - tertiary colours are produced. Harmonies exist between
colours adjacent to each other. For example, a palette of yellow,
lemon, marigold and terracotta will always be successful.
Complementary colours
Colours that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel are called
complementary. These are opposing colours that vibrate against each
other. Sometimes the clever use of a complementary colour in a room
can have a striking effect. For example, a bright turquoise chair
against a terracota wall would look beautiful.

Monochromatic
This is a colour scheme of only one colour. By using variations of lightness and saturation, you can easily create a cohesive
scheme that’s easy on the eye. Beige, grey, greige and blush tones are an elegant choice in this palette.
Complementary Colours
This is a colour scheme with two colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel. This colour scheme can be vibrant
with high contrast if colours are used in the same saturation. This scheme will naturally include a warm and a cool colour, as
they're on opposite sides of the wheel. This one is a difficult one to pull off, but very striking when it does work.
Analagous Colours
This is a scheme using three colours that are adjacent to each other. An analogous scheme can be very harmonious and
relaxing. It benefits from having one dominant colour with the two remaining colours as accents. Analogous schemes work
well with accent walls and other large-scale accents because the colours are naturally harmonious together. Pairing two
yellows or two greens together with some white or cream tones in between can be simple but game-changing.
Triad Colours
This is a scheme with three colours that are evenly spaced around the colour wheel. A triad colour scheme could include
green, violet, and orange, so care must be taken with the saturation of the colours you choose. This is another scheme that
benefits from choosing one colour to dominate, with the other two as accents.

Analogous scheme
Monochromatic scheme Complementary scheme
Colour Theory in action

Popular Interior Design styles
Traditional
Mid-century
Modern
Scandinavian/
Minimalist
Shabby Chic Bohemian
You may be inspired by these styles that dominate the interior-scape at the moment. See what style closest relfects your personality and
incorporate its elements to best showcase your taste.
Industrial Art Deco Vintage/Victorian

It promises warmth and welcome, and it delivers. refined
furnishings, mannerly textiles, mellow colours and pleasing
symmetry - which bring this style a sense of order that makes it
beloved amongst many. Look out for rich block-print textiles, old
carved furniture in dark wood, fireplaces and mantelpieces,
heirloom Kashmir rugs in earthy tones, bric-a-brac comprising life's
collections piling up in corners, carved sculptures and oil paintings,
and a lot of beige upholstery accented against embroidered
cushions.
Traditional
From antique furnishings to neutral safe fabrics - traditional style
may sometimes get a bad rap as fuddy-duddy. But though it
takes inspiration from the past, it's really all about comfort and
familiarity. Everything is in it's place like a well-worn shoe.
You like familiarity and play safe with colour so as nothing looks
out of place or stands out like a sore thumb. You reminisce of your
grandparents place with fond memories and want to re-create
that nostalgia.
What it is
Defining features
This works for you if...

Mid-Century Modern
The style grew out of early-20th-century Modernism, including
the International and Bauhaus movements. Midcentury really took
hold after World War II, thanks to new technologies and
materials and a newfound prosperity. The migration to urban
areas, and thus smaller living spaces, also influenced the designs
of the era.
If you like form over function and want each piece to tell a story
without too much fuss, if you like your tones muted yet not dull
and pieces that are timeless without being old-fashioned.
What it is
Defining features
TThis is a classic, yet of-the-era look, with clean lines and minimal
fuss. In the home. functionality is important, as form follows
function. Lines are uncluttered and sleek lwith both organic and
geometric forms. There is minimal ornamentation. Designers of this
form explore different traditional as well as non-traditional
materials, and tend to juxtapose contrasting materials and colours.
The furniture of this style is iconic and are collector's items if you
can get your hands on them.

Minimalist/Scandinavian
Like a wooden cabin on the edge of a fjord, containing a few
pieces of beautifully designed slim-lined expensive wooden
furniture. A minimalistic aesthetic where every piece must
be included for good reason - but also a comfortable space. With
an innate sense of warmth, but avoidant of clutter. Whilst this
design still features the clean lines, calmness and clarity
epitomised by traditional 60’s American minimalism, it has a
softer Japanese approach of zen-like allure,
You believe in buying less but buying better - for every object
must spark joy! You let the objects do the talking whilst staying
functional and comfortable.
What it is
Defining features
Simplicity, purity and calm. Monochromatic punches of colour are
interspersed with subtle, pastel tones: Blues, creams and greys
help bring the hygge, softening the edges. Large glass windows in
clean lines let in etheral light, walls are bare and the furniture is
high quality wood (not necessarily IKEA flatpack) and comfortable.

Shabby Chic
This style embraces a worn, lived-in look. There’s something
comforting yet beautifully curated about shabby chic: throw in
soft colors, a mix of vintage and new decor, and feminine accents,
sprinkle an array of flea market finds that create an effortless up-
cycled second-hand decorating style that is undeniably elegant,
yet relaxed.
You're not afraid to shout from the rooftops about your love for the
romantic, super-feminine aesthetic. If you appreciate soft,
breathable fabrics, like to re-purpose old things and have an easy,
effortless touch.
What it is
Defining features
Defined as : cosy, comfortable, vintage and pretty! Worn, distressed
vintage furniture, feminine floral patterns and frills, pastel colours in
pink, lavender and blue and antique, charming memorobilia
peppered across the space, from chandeliers to bone-china tea-
pots.

Bohemian
Overall, bohemian (or boho or bohéme) interiors are casual and
anything but minimal. People love bohemian decor because it’s
free-wheeling, comfortable and easy on the pocketbook. This
look is maximalist, where "more is more".
Boho decorating is for those who want their homes full of life,
culture, and interesting items for all the world to see. For people
who embrace the carefree, the relaxed, and the unusual. The style
has long been representative of free-spirited, unconventional and
artistic types.
What it is
Defining features
No Boho space is ever the same, but they're usually warm, cozy
and layered. Choose lots of colours in earth and jewel tones, layer
textured prints and patterns and textile rugs and batik wall
hangings, plush, fluffy furniture mixed with vintage cabinets and
stools, lots of accessories from travel and tons of indoor plants,
which will partly cover your wall art collected from your travels.

Industrial
Defined by a raw, unfinished, and almost factory-like sensibility,
an industrial interior style showcases utilitarian materials such as
wood, metal, and cement in a way that proves that form and
function can be one and the same.
The industrial aesthetic is definitively masculine but poignant,
fuss-free but thoughtful, and the mark of someone who
understands that the finer things in life aren’t always the most
frivolous or flashy.
What it is
Defining features
Exposed brick, piping, and ceiling beams are just a few industrial
giveaways, while stripped floors, visible ducts are a look seen in
some lofts and bars, Most homes in this style would pair a wooden
table with metal chairs, implement distressed kitchen surfaces, or
repurpose old tools and installation fixtures into pendant lamps
with edison bulbs.

Art Deco
Art Deco was one of the most exciting and influential styles of the
20th Century and one that still influences design today.
Contemporary re-imaginings of Art Deco designs are inherently
opulent and luxurious style, with bold overtones. Deco is elegant,
functional and modern, and though it dates back to the 1920s, it
has a Gatsby-esque charm that never goes out of fashion.
You want a classy, dynamic way to show off your decadent,
luxurious lifestyle - where all that bling won't look out of place.
What it is
Defining features
Angular, geometric forms, Art Deco motifs have a strong and bold
look, with vertical lines and angular details. The sunburst was a
classic Deco motif. Zigzags, chevrons and stepped patterns are
equally popular: on floors, walls and upholstery. Also use of exotic
materials, often with decadent, polished, high-shine finishes. Wood
is usually highly polished, or given a luxurious lacquer finish, or
finished with metallic touches in brass or chrome against a
monochrome pallette.

Vintage/Victorian
This takes is name after the prolific English queen, who ruled
from 1837 to 1901. Britain enjoyed a lengthy period of prosperity
during this time, thanks to colonialisation and the Industrial
revolution, making way for the middle class to access this royal-
bent of design. This is a classic style, otherwise known as 'granny
chic'!
You are nostalgic for the good ol' days and want to add some
vintage charm and maximalist formality to your home, allowing
both you and your guests to feel like Royalty while sipping from
Silver teacups.
What it is
Defining features
A cluttered room was the order of the day, so accessories, soft
furnishings, and decorations should be prominently displayed in the
Victorian interiors, usually in bursts of varius patterns: chintz,
florals, damask, preferably in subdued tones of pink, grey, lavender,
sage or teal. Ideally, to copy the Victorian design style, every
surface should be covered in framed photographs and pictures,
China, flowers in vases and souvenirs, on top of mahogany, oak or
walnut hand-carved furniture.

Your haven, your sanctuary - a four-walled manifestation of
everything that makes you feel safe, secure and with a sense of
belonging - with spaces that relfect your personality, calm you
down, energize you, and that are sacred, by holding space for
your rituals and routine.
You have the will and spark to take some chances and change
things up in your home! Don't take it to seriously and have fun
with it! Nothing is permanent, and if you hate it - you can switch
things up and store curios away, There are few things a fresh coat
of paint can't fix! So go out there and refresh your space!
What it is
Defining features
The use of colour theory, balance, harmony, scale and proportion,
texture and contrast, alongwith your own personal instincts and
individual flavour to turn a space into something that reflects YOU!
Your Home

Thank you!
For any further questions you can get in touch with
us
Email
info@wishingchair.in
Website
www.wishingchair.com
Phone
+91 9319293140
*All images are from pinterest and the credits & link to original are available here :
https://in.pinterest.com/thewishingchair/decorating-like-a-pro/

The Wishing Chair Interior Design 101

Recommandé

Recommandé

Contenu connexe

Similaire à The Wishing Chair Interior Design 101

Similaire à The Wishing Chair Interior Design 101 (20)

Dernier

Dernier (20)

The Wishing Chair Interior Design 101