One of my interior design theories is that “If it looked good 100 years ago, it’s likely it will still look good in another hundred”. Classics are classic for a reason. A timeless style is not only something that will age well aesthetically, but a good investment. As they say, “Trends come and go, but style lasts forever.“
August lifestyle, skincare, décor and TV favourites.
Here are some ideas that might streamline a potentially chaotic period by adding some simple hacks to your home.
Perfect for a dopamine hit, yellow can make a cool, north-facing room feel instantly warmer and more cheerful. Though if not done right, the zinginess of certain yellows can provide an unwanted energy hit. Neon luminous yellow in a bedroom? No thank you. But how can mustards and saffrons be used to create a cosy, restful feel? I’ve had a look around and found some inspiration images you can use to give you some ideas on how to get it right.
Depending on the shade, yellow can appear fresh and clean (think buttermilk), or by using a spicier shade (like ochre), create a more period feel. But finding the perfect shade for your space does need a lot of consideration.
This design hack isn’t for everyone. For some, it’s twee, too old-fashioned and sickly sweet. For others, it’s the perfect cottagecore solution to budget design and dealing with awkward spaces.
Cupboard skirting- using curtains in lieu of lower kitchen cabinet doors- was probably an idea born out of necessity, for those whose budget couldn’t stretch to joinery or for those looking for a solution to a space that’s too small/ big/ awkwardly-shaped for standard cabinet doors. But when applied right, this design trick can offer a cosy, cottage-style look that incorporates texture, colour and pattern depending on the fabric choice.
From makeup and clothing to memoirs and water kefir, here’s what I’ve been loving this month.
Though they’re growing in popularity, pantries- particularly walk-in pantries- aren’t common in Irish kitchens. And yet, they’re something I was always weirdly enamoured by. I used to see them in American movies, and in Pippa’s iconic house in ‘Home and Away’ and think; “Whoah, I’d love a little mini supermarket like that in my house! With enough food to feed all of the very many drop-ins Pippa’s home seemed to accommodate.”
What is “The Unexpected Red Theory”?
One of the biggest buzz terms on social media lately has been the “Unexpected Red Theory”; the theory that a room never fully looks complete until a hint of red is injected. Like finishing off an outfit with a pop of classic red lipstick. The concept is that red- even on a small scale- keeps an otherwise cool-hued palette from looking flat. In fact, the more low-key and “unexpected”, the better.
Two things everyone knows about me; I’m obsessed with interiors, and I’m obsessed with Taylor Swift. The former has been apparent for as long as I can remember, and the later was realised in 2006 when a curly-haired girl similar in age to myself released her first single, Tim McGraw. I stumbled upon it on YouTube and felt an instant kinship with the storytelling. I’ve followed her career closely ever since, and have learnt to let go of my “You used to laugh at me for liking her!” gatekeeping and feel pride in the community of women and girls who feel seen in Taylor’s lyricism.
A walk through the whimsical Queen’s Hamlet at Versailles in Paris.
