Inspired Decor Dynamics

January 14, 2016

Designer Abigail Ahern East London townhouse

Interior design dynamics :

I never envy the challenge that an interior decorator faces when weighing up the myriad of choices they are presented with when designing or renovating a new space, to produce a timeless outcome of aesthetic appeal. Flair, spontaneity, knowledge, intuition and attention to detail all come into play with the creation of an engaging decor. Maintaining optimum functionality and keeping the client satisfied adds to the task. I think a design that transforms a space into a captivating, relaxed dimension using a minimum of objects, that combine to maximize the impact, is ideal.
More is better still seems to be a prevailing issue of contention for me. Too many objects and details competing for attention tend to nullify their visual presence. If a room has a busy decor, this can be tempered by the use of a symmetrical feature of simplicity, that presents a core of calmness as a counterbalance. Maxfield Parrish’s ‘Daybreak’ was the 20th century’s single most popular print in America and it had a distinctive aspect of symmetry to it, defined by two pillars. He observed that his most successful posters and prints all featured a defining symmetry, so people must subconsciously seek out this quality.
There are some images below that highlight the effective dynamic of having diametrically opposed elements. I especially like the use of classical objects in a contemporary environment and the use of textural contrasts. Curvilinear contrasts against rectilinear lines always makes a room interesting. The arrangement of empty space is also important, rooms need clear spaces where the Chi can circulate and refresh. Curved lines and simplicity also support this.
Using a collection of objects of mild visual impact can be polarized against a single object with a stronger presence to push the dynamic. Sometimes a single decorative piece can emanate a calm and grandeur that influences the ambience of the whole room. Naturally lighting can be incorporated to highlight this.
Rooms of successful design and decor feel nurturing and uplifting. Enthralling interior decors have an essence that is transcendental, just like good art. I’m always in awe of designers that can produce a sanctuary of comfort and visual appeal that you know will inspire and bring respite from life’s pressures and complexities. Most of the images shown in this post emphasize these aspects along with the effective use of sculpture and pottery in an interior home decor context.

Alexis Bittar apartment

photo Kelly Stuart

Villa Liberty Art Nouveau home, Moscow

Lady Vase – Bjorn Wiinblad

Tree and cranes wall mural by Daun Curry of Modern Declaration

Photographed by Emily Gilbert

Buddha statue with mudra pose, ceramic lamp base with deep carving.

Decorator Amy Lau using the curvaceous sofas and rugs to balance the rectilinear window frames 0f this downtown Manhattan apartment

Carved Sandstone Sculpture by Josette Barbier

1990

The Catalonian country home of designer Serge Castella

Cuarto de banyo ( bathroom) designed by Anouska Hempel with a blue and white azulejo ceramic tiled wall panel and matching pots

Fortuna dining table – Boca Do Lobo

Monet coffee table & Newton suspended lamp by Boca Do Lobo

Maree sofa by Brabbu

Swedish decor

wabisabi-style.blogspot.com.au/

Mid century vases and lounge chair

decor8.gr

NY apartment design by Deborah French

Stucco mural DESUS by Wall and Deco

behangfabriek

Eclectic Country House in Connecticut – Interior Design Files

Edouard Cazaux baluster vase

Cleve Gray painting and Primavera Art Deco vase – interior design by Caleb Anderson

Photo by Lauren Silberman

1stDibs Introspective Magazine

Parisian apartment of designer Herve Van Der Straeten

Photo – Ricardo Labougle

Bertoncello red glazed pitcher/vase

Vicenza,Italy – 60’s

Antiquariato Ceramiche

Globular stoneware vase-by Rene Ben Lisa

Galerie Silbereis

Contemporary coffee table with fire pit – an electric water-based fireplace that creates a realistic smoke and fire effect by Rigoletto

Interior Design by Julie Hillman—photography Manolo Yllera for Architectural Digest España

Chateau de Buno, France

Moulded ‘Faceture’ vase – Phil Cuttance, UK

Simon Krug

www.rauchblau.com/

John Jacob interior design

Robert Caldart large ceramic vase

Sold by Revival on 1stDibs

Crowned guardian lion statues

Ceramic bust by Michael James Talbot, UK

Art Deco geometric table lamp, parakeet green glass female figurine

1930’s

Makassar Gallery

‘Vetro Mosaico’ by Scott Benefield

Marc D’Haenens aluminium female sculpture

Belgium, 1975

Manhattan apartment interior design by Michael Smith. Bold contrasts between the Henry Moore sculpture, the ornate 18th century gilt wood console and the rectilinear obelisk.