Summer Review September 2023:
As the Summer draws to a close…
I am instinctively reaching for my cosy blankets, digging out the autumn scented candles and sharpening my pencils ready for the new term and season ahead.
However, before we brew ourselves a pumpkin spiced latte and run wild dressing the entry table with autumn decor; may I offer a pause and a little review of what’s being happening in the world of Plum & Co. Interiors and my insights on the Interior Design world this summer.
WHAT I’VE BEEN UP TO…
The design work for the loft project was completed at the beginning of the summer and aside from the installers finishing off some bespoke cabinetry, we are all done! The space is looking fantastic and I can’t wait to share once the final touches are in place.
I have taken on a new project. The client is extending the property and I am working on designs for the ground floor and new loft. Right now, I am deep in the concept stage for each of these spaces, watch my social media for sneaky peeks.
Loft Space ready for furniture, finishes and bespoke media cabinet.
This Autumn we are looking to install the Master Bedroom project I was working on last term and I have been working on concept designs for another Family Bathroom. So having lots of fun!
In addition to designing spaces, I have also been knee deep in the website design and re-launch! This has been a super fun project, challenging me to refocus on my values as a business and also celebrate all that has been achieved so far.
Summer Design Trend:
#Barbiecore
One of the big trends this summer saw the explosion of all things Barbie. As the film burst onto our screens, Barbie pink aesthetic seeped out and the Interiors world caught hold - #Barbicore is a thing! It is bright and bold and perhaps not for everyone but it certainly is fun. So what is it and how can you get involved?…
The Colour Pallet
Obviously all things pink comes to mind. Hot pinks, baby pinks, sugary pinks (check out ‘Shocking Pink’ from Mylands or ‘Percy’ from Coat Paints). It also can incorporate aqua blues like ‘Brighton’ Little Green Paints, pastel yellows like ‘Wheat Berry’ Graphenstone or an on trend shade of violet. All are great accent colours for this scheme, that you can use use across artwork and soft furnishing choices.
2. Big Statements
As I mentioned before, this trend is not subtle. We are talking colouring, drenching those walls, going for big oversized Artwork, you may even want to consider a bright pink fridge or loo?!
3. Lux and Glam
Again, no understating here. Big gold feature light fittings and shimmering, glitzy accessories all complete this look.
DESIGN TIPS WHEN PLANNING A NEW BATHROOM
This summer I have started work on two different bathroom concepts. Whilst the designs are different and bespoke to each of my clients, my planning advice to both remains the same. Here are 5 tips when planning a new bathroom:
Invest in the bones and working parts - This is key to any design project. You may long for pretty tiles, but if you have scrimped on the shower valve to get them, you may find yourself ripping them off in a few years to access and repair broken hardwear. Always buy the best quality for your budget.
Storage and Function - Consider who is using the space. What are the items you want to store? Is it a family bathroom where you need a place for bath toys, and everyone's different products; or are you a minimalist couple and need less built in items . Be realistic about how you use the space and plan accordingly.
Lighting - Lighting is key in any space but the bathroom especially, as anyone who has tried to apply makeup in a dim or glaring space will know.Try to avoid having the light right above your vanity/headspace in a bathroom but rather position the light to come towards you. An illuminated mirror or wall lights will be more flattering and functional.
Materials - Make sure your materials and fittings are suitable for the space. Floor and wall materials must be conducive to water and steam and lighting fixtures must be compliant and rated according to the zone they are positioned in.
Consider Sustainability - There are a number of ways you can incorporate this into your project with many tile and paint companies offering sustainable options. You could consider adapting and repurposing a vintage piece of furniture into your new vanity.
Keep an eye out on my social media for more little design tips.
With Love,
Kim
