WHAT IS TRUE STYLE?
As an interior designer, I’m often asked about my style. I usually respond with a brief description of my aesthetic preferences: I love artfully-crafted objects that showcase the intrinsic beauty of the materials they are made off, whether it’s noble wood, precious stone, or simply elegant handwoven fabrics or rugs. The truth is that style is more than just a standard definition; it is the sum of one’s likes and preferences. In other words, one is considered to have style or lack it based on their choices in clothing and how they style their home.
Preferences are subjective—what one chooses in terms of colour may not align with other's’ choices—but true style is factual and reigns supreme. More often than not, having style transcends opulence and true beauty lies in the details and simplicity.
When it comes to designing your home, you might hear terms like modern, rustic, industrial, or bohemian thrown around, each suggesting a specific look or trend. But what does true style really mean when designing your home? Is it about following the latest trends or something deeper and more personal? Let’s explore what true style means and how you can incorporate it into your home design.
Understanding True Style
Although, when designing your home you have to consider creating a functional space that reflects your personality and meets your needs, true style in home design is timeless and unveils the soul of your home. It s not about current trends, it transcends them. Here are some key elements to consider when you cultivate your style.
Timelessness - Trends come and go, but true style lives through the test of time, that’s why I prefer to spend money on simple yet elegant pieces, and if the budget allows opt for hand-crafted and antiques that have a lasting appeal. Feel free to follow trends if they resonate with your personality, but rather incorporate them so that they can evolve with your style. This way, you don’t have to re-decorate every time a trend goes out of fashion. See the big picture!
Set of handmade vintage glasses we incorporated in the shelving décor at one of our South of France projects. The client is so fond of these beautifully-crafted objects therefore we decided we had to find them a place of honour within the room.
Invest in Quality - Like in fashion, when it comes to furniture and interior décor, quality reigns supreme. Well-made items, noble materials, handmade furniture, custom-made rugs and wall coverings and quality artworks will create that bespoke look and undoubtedly will add value to your interior. They may cost more upfront, but in the long run you will feel like you spent your money well after wall.
Elegant hand-made leather handles on full display in this hallway at our Beaulieu project with layers of textures and bronze and silver accents. We dressed the wardrobe doors in handwoven wall covering to create continuity with the Master Bedroom scheme and achieve a seamless bespoke look throughout.
‘Soie Mural’ - Bleu Paon handwoven wall covering ⓒ CMO Paris
3. Functionality: A stylish home is one that is well organised and works to your advantage, regardless of budget or space. Considering the practical aspects of design, such as furniture layout, storage and traffic flow, true style blends form and function seamlessly.
4. Comfort: Think of your home as a sanctuary, an oasis of serenity where you should unwind and relax at the end of the day, where function is harmonised with aesthetics, and luxury resonates with comfort. Comfort is a key component of true style. Choose furniture and décor that not only look good but also feel good. This is why natural materials such as wood and stone are so important in getting it right - not only they are durable but they also create that natural and organic look that adds to the visual comfort. Additionally, think about balancing the hard surfaces with soft fabrics, cozy seating, and stylish décor that creates a relaxed yet sophisticated look.
Creating comfort: Vignette from our recently completed Beaulieu project showcasing an exciting layering of textures, colours and materials in sophisticated natural tones.
The importance of noble materials: Detail shot with the re-edition of Jean Prouvé’s iconic Guéridon table in solid smoked oak and elegant dining chairs upholstered in genuine leather were chosen to create an effortlessly intimate ambiance.
5. Colour: Colors play a significant role in setting the tone of a space and are a major contributor to your visual comfort in an interior. Select a palette that resonates with you and complements the interior architecture of your property. Neutrals are always a safe bet, but don’t be afraid to incorporate colours if they speak to you. I personally like to choose more muted shades because they are inviting and graceful and create that understated luxury look and feel.
Serene décor in the Master Bedroom at our Beaulieu project blending sophisticated muted tones of green and lilac with bronze accents
5. Personal Touch: Your home should reflect your personality and lifestyle. This includes your interests, passions, and unique tastes. Whether you love vintage finds, modern minimalism, eclectic mixes or antiques, let your personal preferences guide your choices.
I love specifying materials natural and noble materials because they give character to an interior - marbles for their intricate patterns, textural timber and elegant weaves made of luxurious natural fibres. In addition, I curate distinctive and meaningful art and antiques that transcend the mere ornamental purpose. I avoid over-curating objects to prevent my interior from looking overloaded. The aim is to achieve a natural balance with items of varying heights, textures, and colours. I personally love an airy interior that acts as a ‘blank canvas’ for a stylish piece of furniture or a one-of-a-kind artwork.