In our Art of Interior Design series, we catch up with some of our favorite designers to discover their practical advice on how to give your home an effortless but well-designed look.
If you’re starting out with a room makeover or just need some insight into how the pros approach certain elements of interior design, then this could be the series for you.
This month we spoke to interior designer Martin Brudnizki to get his advice on creating a home with layering and interest.
(Photo credits: Martin Brudnizki | Nicole Franzen)
5 easy ways to give your home an update
As our home ideas evolve over time – some even argue they never reach full maturity – and yet I’m often asked how you can breathe a bit of new life into it quickly and inexpensively. Sometimes you don’t want to play the long game and look for easy wins that will help make your house feel more like a home. Here are some of mine.
1. Start with the basics
While I take my time on certain aspects of my home and focus money and resources on specific stages, I believe there are a number of ways to achieve an amazing look instantly. Every object and every room should make a contribution to the home. When it comes to buying art, even a single piece can make a big and immediate difference.”
2. Bring the outside in
“The first cheat that comes to mind is plants and bringing nature outdoors. Houseplants have never been so accessible: a quick trip to your local garden center and you can pick up an entire jungle of greenery that will instantly bring life to a dreary corner. Pot all sorts of containers with bulbs or, if you don’t mind, just treat yourself to some fresh seasonal flowers in a pretty vase or jug.”
3. Focus on the details
“Introduce cushions and throws to your seating – and why not add tassel trim or fringed detailing for a ‘tailored’ finish?” You can get beautiful tassels and embellishments from Samuel & Sons or Watts of Westminster, but if you’re on a tighter budget I recommend VV Rouleaux in central London. They have an incredible selection of velvet ribbons, bar embellishments and cord trims.’
4. Get creative
“Get creative as well and upgrade your lampshades for something more adventurous. I suppose millinery would be an apt analogy, since umbrellas are like hats for lamps. Whether you choose a pagoda, bell, scallop or empire shaped shade, never forget that the inside is almost as important as the outside as we often look inside lamps and the cord should always come with us be lined with fabric. Those little details can really make the difference.”
5. Go tailor-made
“One of my biggest tricks for improving a high street purchase is in the kitchen. In my London flat I have Ikea furniture in the kitchen but I’ve added custom handles and a custom worktop to make it feel unique and a touch more glamorous.
“I always choose marble for kitchen worktops and I usually source it from a local marble dealer. It’s an investment, but if you take good care of it, it will last for many years. Do not leave coffee rings or anything wet on the surface as it is porous and will stain. Treat it with kindness and it will treat you well in return.’