THE WISHING CHAIR

Interior Design 101

Let's get startedDecorating is not hardIt may seem daunting, especially when we scroll through Instagram or Pinterest and see stately, impossiblygorgeous rooms with ethereal light, taunting us as we sit in our not-so-perfect nooks. Well, let’s lay this downfirst: 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 designfundamentals under your belt, and some budget-friendly tweaks, you, you too can create a magazine-worthyspace 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 personalityyou infuse it with, and for that you need to be clear about what you like: do you want a peaceful sanctuary in onearea? An energetic uplifting space after a long hard day in another? A living room that is grand and imposing orfriendly and welcoming? Are you a purist, or do you like an eclectic mix of style?

Follow the rules & then don'tThese are personal decisions you need to make, before you use the tools in the next steps.  Remember that theseare just general design rules and principles, and to be honest, some rules are meant to be broken. If you are newto decorating, follow the rules. As you get more experienced and confident with what works, you may want toget more experimental and bend some of them to yield pleasantly unexpected results.

Your home is your personality

DESIGNPRINCIPLESunderstanding the basics

Part 1: Scale & ProportionPart 2: ContrastPart 3: PatternsPart 4: TexturePart 5: BalancePart 6: BlingPart 7: Colour TheoryPart 8: Interior Styles

Scale vs.ProportionIt’s all about how designelements relate to each other

Scale

Scale tends to refer to how an item relates to the size of the room or tosomething else – like the humans in it. For example, an exceptionally largedining table crammed into the middle of a living room :that's deemed a wrongscale for the room.

Proportion

This often refers to the shape of an item and how it relates to other things inthe room. For example, if you have a round coffee table and place a largerectangular 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 trinketwith 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 moodboardsusing pinterest and you'll be flooded with ideas.

Pro Tip

Examples of Scale and Proportion

The rectangular frames on the wallecho the shape of the table

The large pendant lamp and tree-like plantsbalance out the high ceilings

The oblong shapes of the lamp , frameand table are proportionate

Negative space Is as important as filled up space. It allows your designto breathe and be contrasted against a minimalism thatenhances the filled design to a greater degree.  This isthe space around and above furniture. A room canseem chaotic, squishy and feel restless when everysquare inch of it is filled to the brim. The eye needsroom to rest in a space, so provide that respite byleaving some surfaces uncovered and some wallsalone.

HeightThe higher the ceiling, the taller and grander the furniture.Low ceilings, (as we tend to have with builder flats withfalse ceilings built in), need be closer to the ground, or elsethe effect would be suffocating. Perhaps the oneexception to this rule is using low, modern furnishings in aroom with tall ceilings to achieve a dramatic effect.

Patterns If the room is small, keep patterns to scale: Use smallerprints and fewer of them in a tiny room, or it might looklike a block-print factory exploded in there.  A largerroom can typically handle larger prints as you have thespace to allow each pattern to breathe. If you have asmall room but you prefer a larger print (say on yourwallpaper or your bed-linen), then make sure its basehas a lot of white space in it  and use it sparingly.

How to create correct Scale and ProportionFurniture

The main anchor piece of furniture in in the room setsthe stage for the scale of all the other furnishings. Forexample, an imposingly large sofa and a tiny, delicateside table may look silly next to each other. Pair a big,poofy sofa, with a large, rounded shaped coffee tableand a larger rug to tie them all together,

HeightNegative spaceFurniture

Examples of how to create correct scale

The sofa, table, armchair and plant aresimilar sized

The clutter at the bottom of the room isoffset by the negative space on top

The frames stacked to the top of theceiling 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 bedramatically inspiring.  Executed well, contrast can create an evocative feelingof vibrancy and joy, infusing the place with a personality that is playful andmemorable.

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 anoversized floor lamp next to it, so that the contrast of scale and colour ties them all together.

ContrastIt's all about creating tensionbetween opposites.

Pro Tip

Examples of Contrast

Colour contrast: Pops of fuscia withpastelNegative space contrast: White, paireddown frames with saturated colour ones

Colour contrast: Bright mustard and chartreuseagainst a monochromatic backgroundScale Contrast: Low furniture against high ceilingsoffset by large globed-pendant lights

Colour/Print contrast: Pops of and blueagainst large white spaces, alongsideprinted wallpaper and cushions againstsolid colour

Patterns &Pattern-MixingRulesit’s all about coordinating andcomplimenting

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 ourmoms told us never to mix prints? There was a time when people would usematching patterns throughout a room  - the curtains would match the sofawhich would match the lampshades which would match the pillows and soon. Ugh! Thankfully that look is over  (and will hopefully never return). Whileour moms were right about most things, she definitely wasn’t right about this!

Practically speaking

Colour CohesionPair Patterns with SolidsUse distinct patterns and printsDon’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 andcomplimenting. Here are some pointers to start with:

Colour CohesionIn a room with many contrasting elements (if you're playing with scale and shape) - colour can bring it all together and make itcohesive. To achieve a well-coordinated effect, you will want to identify a clear colour scheme, limiting your selection to justtwo or three hues. Use solids to establish your base colours, and then concentrate on choosing patterns that fall into thatpalette.

Use distinct patterns and printsWhen you ‘re mixing patterns, go all out! Make sure to choose two or three different types of patterns. You might pair stripeswith polka dots or polka dots with florals— just make sure that each pattern is distinct. and share the same colours. Multiplepatterns of the same type confuse the eye. But varied patterns are instantly distinguishable, creating clear contrast andresulting in fresh and more visually interesting designs.

Pair Patterns with SolidsIt is a good idea to break up your patterns with blocks of solid colour. For example, if you choose a patterned bedspread, pair itwith a solid bed skirt in a complementary colour. If you’re using patterned wallpaper,  consider a solid curtain fabric. Byincorporating 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 aspace. Aim for at least three or four uses per pattern to create  a sense of rhythm, without too much "matching". Let thecushion cover echo the same pattern as a lampshade which may appear on a larger bolster across the room.

Pattern scale and size variationChoose patterns that vary in scale. Multiple large-scale prints compete for focus, and can be distracting for the viewer -  yet amix of small and intricate patterns can look too busy. Use both small and large-scale patterns, saving large-scale patterns forlarger canvases, like accent walls, curtains or bedding, and smaller patterns for accent items.

Use distinct patterns and printsDon’t let patterns get lonely Pattern scale and size variation

Examples of Patterns

TextureIt's all about how things "feel"

You should also consider the placement oftextures as you go about designing your room.Putting a smooth texture directly next to a roughone while make the rough object stand out moreand seem weightier than if you space themapart.

Basics

Texture is an under-rated element of design, falling way behind colours andpatterns as a tool, and yet we feel it’s the most versatile due to its ability tosubtly change the mood and impact of a room. In design parlance, texture is,“the sensations caused by the external surface of objects received through thesense of touch.” Basically, how things feel. Think about squishing soft carpetbetween your toes, running your hand along a rough wooden table top, orsinking down into leather couch cushions. Though you don’t have to physicallyhave contact with the room to feel the power of texture.

Practically speaking

Imagine a bedroom with shiny marble floors, shiny satin sheets, glossy lacquerlamps and highly polished furniture? Such a room is evocative of spaces thatare cold and sterile – like a hospital room or a fancy office. It definitely will notdo for a bedroom: and so texture allows you to play with elements to addwarmth, interest and a sense of comfort. Shiny, polished surfaces evoke a sense of hygiene and formality, rough andrugged textures imbue it with warmth and rustic charm, with a touch ofmasculinity, satiny , velvet finishes denote luxury and playfulness, and abalance of all ends of the spectrum can be tweaked to create the final effectyou would like to evoke.

Pro Tip

How to use textureLimit it to TwoWhile you want to create contrast so that important design elements pop, don’t use more than two or three distinct textures ina single space. Choose three when you want people to take in the space as a whole and stick to two when you want toemphasize a prominent focal point. Texture is particularly important if you’re working within a particular colour palette wherethe shades are very similar. When a monochromatic or analogous colour scheme, make sure you choose items that heavilycontrast. When they come together, they will bring a sense of harmony to the space.

Take it to the next levelWhether you choose a throw rug to warm up your bedroom room or a driftwood coffee table to bring  rustic charm to yourliving space, the importance of texture is clear. It completes the room. Texture is the component that helps elevate yourinteriors to the next level.

Ways of adding textureFurniture: 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 theroom.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 toadd texture

Balanceit's all about creating harmony

Basics

Our senses yearn for a sense of equilibrium and harmony in a space  - andthat’s achieved when all the visual weights of the objects in a space arerelatively equalized.  Balance is created through shape, colour, pattern, andtexture.

Practically speaking

Symmetrical or formal: Traditional or formal spaces call for symmetricalbalance where the space is evenly split into two sides that mirror eachother. For example, two chairs on either side of a coffee table can be said tobe symmetrically balanced. This kind of balance is easy to achieve asdesign elements are repeated on each side.·       Asymmetrical or Informal: The visual weights of lines, colours, forms, andtextures are balanced without exact duplication. It is not as ordered assymmetrical balance and can be more complex and interesting. Forinstance, a sofa can be balanced by placing two chairs on the otherside.·       Radial balance is achieved when there is a central focal point with otherelements radiating from it or around it. An example would be a rounddining table, with chairs arranged around it. There is a lot of repetition ofform, texture, and colour.

AsymmetricalSymmetrical Radial

Examples of Balance

RhythmAs in music, rhythm in design is all about creating patterns of repetition and contrast to create visual interest. Youcan achieve this by using the same colour or shape at different intervals. Its purpose is to move your eye aroundthe room. For instance, you can establish a rhythm by using a colour in the pillows, picking it up in a painting, andechoing 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 needan anchor so that the viewer’s eye has something to gaze upon. Architectural spaces often have points of interestsuch as a fireplace or a window with a beautiful view. You can choose to enhance the built-in focal point byarranging furniture around it to emphasize it. In a room that lacks such a built-in point of interest, you can createone through groupings of furniture or using an unusual or large sculpture, mantel piece, or work of art.

A little Blingshine adds zing to a room

Basics

All it takes is a touch of metallics, mirror or glass to add the brightening effectof reflected light to your room. Shiny surfaces also help make a small roomlook larger. But let’s not play it too fast and loose here – too much bling andgold can look tacky and tasteless- just the right amount looks modern andlustrous.

Practically speaking

A sheer, metallic glaze on the wallsExtra mirrors on the walls, above a dresser  to create illusion of space.Mirrored doors in dressing roomShiny doorknobsMetallic lamps or ceiling fixturesShiny electronicsPolished glass or metal collectiblesAccent 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 roomof thumb is not more than 2 different metals in one space.

Pro Tip

Color Theoryit’s all about deciphering therainbow

Basics

The way in which each of us views colour is unique. Our vision is complex andsensitive, influenced by many external factors: lighting, adjacent colour,surface texture and our own cultural references to hues. We will stick to verysimple colour principles, to help you mix colour across surfaces and objectswithin a room. A basic understanding of colour theory; understanding naturalharmonies and discords between colours, will make the creations of your owncolour schemes much easier - and allow you to play with colour withconfidence.

Practically speaking

So WTF is color theory? Essentially, it’s information that researchers havegathered about the way we see colour and how different colour combinationsaffect us. Colour theory can be used by artists working with canvas, just asmuch as it can be used by everyday people looking to paint their walls a newshade. A little knowledge can go a long way, but remember the mostimportant thing: it is you and your family who have to live with and enjoythese colours.

The Colour WheelHarmonious coloursThe 4 primary colours are red, blue, green and yellow. When thesepure colours are mixed, the secondary colours of purple, turquoise,orange and lime are produced. When primary and secondary aremixed - tertiary colours are produced. Harmonies exist betweencolours adjacent to each other. For example, a palette of yellow,lemon, marigold and terracotta will always be successful.

Complementary coloursColours that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel are calledcomplementary. These are opposing colours that vibrate against eachother. Sometimes the clever use of a complementary colour in a roomcan have a striking effect. For example, a bright turquoise chairagainst a terracota wall would look beautiful.

MonochromaticThis is a colour scheme of only one colour. By using variations of lightness and saturation, you can easily create a cohesivescheme that’s easy on the eye. Beige, grey, greige and blush tones are an elegant choice in this palette.

Complementary ColoursThis is a colour scheme with two colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel. This colour scheme can be vibrantwith high contrast if colours are used in the same saturation. This scheme will naturally include a warm and a cool colour, asthey're on opposite sides of the wheel. This one is a difficult one to pull off, but very striking when it does work.

Analagous ColoursThis is a scheme using three colours that are adjacent to each other. An analogous scheme can be very harmonious andrelaxing. It benefits from having one dominant colour with the two remaining colours as accents. Analogous schemes workwell with accent walls and other large-scale accents because the colours are naturally harmonious together. Pairing twoyellows or two greens together with some white or cream tones in between can be simple but game-changing.

Triad ColoursThis is a scheme with three colours that are evenly spaced around the colour wheel. A triad colour scheme could includegreen, violet, and orange, so care must be taken with the saturation of the colours you choose. This is another scheme thatbenefits from choosing one colour to dominate, with the other two as accents.

Analogous schemeMonochromatic scheme Complementary scheme

Colour Theory in action

Popular Interior Design styles

Traditional Mid-centuryModern

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 andincorporate its elements to best showcase your taste.

Industrial Art Deco Vintage/Victorian

It promises warmth and welcome, and it delivers. refinedfurnishings, mannerly textiles, mellow colours and pleasingsymmetry - which bring this style a sense of order that makes itbeloved amongst many. Look out for rich block-print textiles, oldcarved furniture in dark wood, fireplaces and mantelpieces,heirloom Kashmir rugs in earthy tones, bric-a-brac comprising life'scollections piling up in corners, carved sculptures and oil paintings,and a lot of beige upholstery accented against embroideredcushions.

TraditionalFrom antique furnishings to neutral safe fabrics - traditional stylemay sometimes get a bad rap as fuddy-duddy. But though ittakes inspiration from the past, it's really all about comfort andfamiliarity. Everything is in it's place like a well-worn shoe.

You like familiarity and play safe with colour so as nothing looksout of place or stands out like a sore thumb. You reminisce of yourgrandparents place with fond memories and want to re-createthat nostalgia.

What it is

Defining features

This works for you if...

Mid-Century Modern

The style grew out of early-20th-century Modernism, includingthe International and Bauhaus movements. Midcentury really tookhold after World War II, thanks to new technologies andmaterials and a newfound prosperity. The migration to urbanareas, and thus smaller living spaces, also influenced the designsof the era.

If you like form over function and want each piece to tell a storywithout too much fuss, if you like your tones muted yet not dulland 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 minimalfuss. In the home. functionality is important, as form followsfunction. Lines are uncluttered and sleek lwith both organic andgeometric forms. There is minimal ornamentation. Designers of thisform explore different traditional as well as non-traditionalmaterials, and tend to juxtapose contrasting materials and colours.The furniture of this style is iconic and are collector's items if youcan get your hands on them.

This works for you if...

Minimalist/Scandinavian

Like a wooden cabin on the edge of a fjord, containing a fewpieces of beautifully designed slim-lined expensive woodenfurniture.  A minimalistic aesthetic where every piece mustbe included for good reason - but also a comfortable space. Withan innate sense of warmth, but avoidant of clutter. Whilst thisdesign still features the clean lines, calmness and clarityepitomised by traditional 60’s American minimalism, it has asofter Japanese approach of zen-like allure,

You believe in buying less but buying better - for every objectmust spark joy! You let the objects do the talking whilst stayingfunctional and comfortable.

What it is

Defining features

Simplicity, purity and calm. Monochromatic punches of colour areinterspersed with subtle, pastel tones: Blues, creams and greyshelp bring the hygge, softening the edges. Large glass windows inclean lines let in etheral light, walls are bare and the furniture ishigh quality wood (not necessarily IKEA flatpack) and comfortable.

This works for you if...

Shabby Chic

This style embraces a worn, lived-in look. There’s somethingcomforting yet beautifully curated about shabby chic: throw insoft 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 theromantic, 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, distressedvintage furniture, feminine floral patterns and frills, pastel colours inpink, lavender and blue and antique, charming memorobiliapeppered across the space, from chandeliers to bone-china tea-pots.

This works for you if...

Bohemian

Overall, bohemian (or boho or bohéme) interiors are casual andanything but minimal. People love bohemian decor because it’sfree-wheeling, comfortable and easy on the pocketbook. Thislook 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 peoplewho embrace the carefree, the relaxed, and the unusual. The stylehas long been representative of free-spirited, unconventional andartistic types.

What it is

Defining features

No Boho space is ever the same, but they're usually warm, cozyand layered. Choose lots of colours in earth and jewel tones, layertextured prints and patterns and textile rugs and batik wallhangings, plush, fluffy furniture mixed with vintage cabinets andstools, lots of accessories from travel and tons of indoor plants,which will partly cover your wall art collected from your travels.

This works for you if...

Industrial

Defined by a raw, unfinished, and almost factory-like sensibility,an industrial interior style showcases utilitarian materials such aswood, metal, and cement in a way that proves that form andfunction can be one and the same. 

The industrial aesthetic is definitively masculine but poignant,fuss-free but thoughtful, and the mark of someone whounderstands that the finer things in life aren’t always the mostfrivolous or flashy.

What it is

Defining features

Exposed brick, piping, and ceiling beams are just a few industrialgiveaways, while stripped floors, visible ducts are a look seen insome lofts and bars, Most homes in this style would pair a woodentable with metal chairs, implement distressed kitchen surfaces, orrepurpose old tools and installation fixtures into pendant lampswith edison bulbs.

This works for you if...

Art Deco

Art Deco was one of the most exciting and influential styles of the20th Century and one that still influences design today.Contemporary re-imaginings of Art Deco designs are inherentlyopulent and luxurious style, with bold overtones. Deco is elegant,functional and modern, and though it dates back to the 1920s, ithas 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 boldlook, with vertical lines and angular details. The sunburst was aclassic Deco motif. Zigzags, chevrons and stepped patterns areequally popular: on floors, walls and upholstery. Also use of exoticmaterials, often with decadent, polished, high-shine finishes. Woodis usually highly polished, or given a luxurious lacquer finish, orfinished with metallic touches in brass or chrome against amonochrome pallette.

This works for you if...

Vintage/Victorian

This takes is name after the prolific English queen, who ruledfrom 1837 to 1901. Britain enjoyed a lengthy period of prosperityduring this time, thanks to colonialisation and the Industrialrevolution, making way for the middle class to access this royal-bent of design. This is a classic style, otherwise known as 'grannychic'!

You are nostalgic for the good ol' days and want to add somevintage charm and maximalist formality to your home, allowingboth you and your guests to feel like Royalty while sipping fromSilver teacups.

What it is

Defining features

A cluttered room was the order of the day, so accessories, softfurnishings, and decorations should be prominently displayed in theVictorian 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, everysurface should be covered in framed photographs and pictures,China, flowers in vases and souvenirs, on top of mahogany, oak orwalnut hand-carved furniture. This works for you if...

Your haven, your sanctuary - a four-walled manifestation ofeverything that makes you feel safe, secure and with a sense ofbelonging - with spaces that relfect your personality, calm youdown, energize you, and that are sacred, by holding space foryour rituals and routine.

You have the will and spark to take some chances and changethings up in your home! Don't take it to seriously and have funwith it! Nothing is permanent, and if you hate it - you can switchthings up and store curios away, There are few things a fresh coatof 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 andindividual flavour to turn a space into something that reflects YOU!

This works for you if...

Your Home

Thank you!For any further questions you can get in touch withus

Emailinfo@wishingchair.in

Websitewww.wishingchair.com

Phone+91 9319293140

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