June 21st, 2006
Hollywood Glamour
After years of minimalism and modernist design, elegance and opulence are back on the design scene. Art Deco & Hollywood glamour are the main inspirations of current décor trends.
The look
This look can be classic or contemporary, glamorous or understated, timeless or trendy. Oversized & striking ornaments; glossy & fluffy textures; luxurious & lush textiles; metallic & shiny finishes define the look. The colour scheme is simple and monochrome. The classic version is based on combinations of gold, ivory, red, deep purple, chocolate and black - offset by shimmering pearls or sparkling crystals. The contemporary palette uses black, silver and white paired with pinkish-pearl, porcelain blue or emerald turquoise. Furniture and ornaments are made of glass, crystal, mirror or transparent plastic. Textiles are luxurious and opulent - think lace, leather, silk, feather, velvet and satin. Patterns and accessories take inspiration from Japanese art or Egyptian and classic ornamentation - shapes & images of palms, bamboos, lilies, cherry-twigs and classicist details add some elegant touches. Lighting is subdued and subtle.
Get the look
The aim is to accomplish a subtle harmony and balance between details, yet create a feel of opulence. First decide on the right style for your home - would the classic or the modern version work best for your interior? Think of the building, the location of the room, the overall feel of your home. Then choose two colours and one balancing colour - work with these (or shades of them) on most of your décor. Then decide on your budget. Although this look oozes lavishness and luxury - you can achieve it on a relatively small budget. Choose some luxurious (metallic or patterned) wallpaper that would suit your colour scheme - and cover one wall. One wall only! The other walls should be painted with your main colour. The floor should also complement your scheme - if you’ve gone for dark wall colours, the floor should also be dark. If you’ve chosen the ivory palette - the floor should also have the same tone. You could easily convert your existing furniture by changing the handles, painting them or getting them mirrored. Or, you could buy some new pieces. There are many suitable chairs, sideboards, dressing tables, coffee tables etc available on the High Street that would work with this look.
Details
Drape your sofa and chairs with silk, satin or velvet and add some lush cushions. Create displays of large bowls filled with etched glass beads or pearls - perhaps add some water and floating candles. Put large palms or feathery twigs in tall glass vases - place these into corners. Think about lighting - chandeliers, glass cylinders work well. Lamps and candles can also create a relaxed ambiance. Classic candelabra and tall vintage or modern glass candlesticks are essential elements. Hang large detailed paintings of flowers or classical patterns - again, they are widely available on the High Street. Alternatively, get creative and paint your own artwork!
You see, creating a glamorous interior doesn’t require much effort nor money - just a bit of imagination. Have fun! 