Industrial Chic

We’ve been talking to the talented folk at Killer 5 about interior design again this week, and here Samantha Simmonds, Creative Director, shares her top tips on bringing industrial chic into your home.  

“You don’t have to live in an urban loft or rustic barn conversion to appreciate (and lust after) the latest industrial interior trends. By focusing on simple shapes, worn textures and raw materials, you can easily incorporate this into your home using a few key pieces.

“Let’s start with stripped-back lighting, this is a great way to take on the industrial trend, and will work well in almost any room. I love this brushed-brass chandelier from Made.com but if you’re on a tight budget, this suspended light fitting from Tesco will make a similar statement at a fraction of the cost.

 “Exposed brickwork is a trend that is set to stand the test of time, so if you’re looking to completely transform a space, this Next wallpaper is a fantastic way to fake the look without stripping back the plaster. Choose between the traditional red brick for a striking feature wall or go with the grey slate for a more country cottage feel (see how this can work in the Alban  show home at Branston Leas). Accessorise with this stunning steeple wall clock or put your personality on the wall in these Kiko glass frames, group them together in different sizes and orientations for an individual look.

“If you don’t fancy hanging wallpaper, these rustic storage solutions are an easier way to incorporate the industrial trend in to your home. This John Lewis trunk doubles as a coffee table, so ticks both the stylish and practical boxes. While this wooden ladder shelf from Cox & Cox is the perfect display for fresh flowers and your favourite books. Or use it to store kitchen essentials, Maison du Monde have a selection of industrial chic tableware that would look great on the shelf, including this traditional cast iron teapot.

“Finally, if you want to invest, this leather loveseat from Debenhams would be a stunning addition to your home and will distress beautifully over time. Combine with soft furnishings, like this luxurious faux fur throw from Not On The Highstreet, to create a relaxed, cosy look.”

Don’t forget to share your industrial chic interior design photos with us on St. Modwen Homes’ Facebook pages.

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Getting cosy with copper

It’s that time of the month again when we chat to the talented guys at Killer 5 about the latest interior design trends. This month, Samantha Simmonds, Creative Director, tells us how embracing the copper trend can bring warmth to our homes this winter.

“Copper has been a big trend for the past two years and its popularity remains strong (if not stronger) amongst homeowners and interior designers across the country; Copper Blush after all was Dulux’s paint colour of 2015.

“With the nights getting longer and darker, copper can be a real friend to anyone looking to bring warm tones into their home, especially as it goes so well with the grey tones that continue to be popular decorating choices. It also works wonderfully with mink colours, chocolate browns and teal (in fact, unless you’ve got a bright red room or lots of chrome finishes, copper accents can be introduced into most rooms – and there really are accessories for all rooms!)

“We’re all aware of copper pots and pans in the kitchen (there’s a lovely selection in Marks & Spencer) but this metallic trend doesn’t stop there. Think kettles, saltmills, glassware, cafetieres and even cutlery. Those feeling a bit more extravagant could even stretch to these beautiful dining chairs by Cox & Cox.

“Anyone looking to redecorate a living room or bedroom this winter could gain some copper-inspiration from feature wallpapers. Choose between feminine patterns such as the popular Josette print from Laura Ashley, make an impact with copper and black, merge metallic with matte or make a statement with this plaincopper wallpaper from Graham & Brown. 

“If wallpapering sends shivers down your spine, look to accessories instead. I love this sequinned cushion from H&M. Anyone wanting to bring copper subtly into a grey-themed room could try this geometric patterned cushion from Amara and those wanting a brighter room should opt for copper and teal, such as this cushion from Etsy. Accessories come in more forms than just cushions though. Why not see how a round copper hanging mirror looks? Or pop some flowers in this vase from Asda and your favourite photo in this contemporary photoframe from John Lewis.

“My favourite way to add copper into a room is through lighting and there are some wonderful fixtures around. Both Dunelm and Asda have some great affordable options (such as this ceiling light and this tablelamp) whilst this slightly more pricey office floor lamp from notonthehighstreet will make a great statement (visit the Edison Place show home in Rugby to see how a similar light can work in your living room).

“Those on a budget can up-scale existing photo frames and furniture with this great metallic copper paint for metal and wood from B&Q – it’s perfect for adding a touch of glitz to your rooms!

“Finally, we couldn’t not mention Christmas, especially as copper is the top trend for this year’s decorations. You’ll find loads on the high street. Our favourite has to be this little fox bauble from John Lewis – he’s definitely going to be on my tree this year!”

Share your copper interior design photos on the St. Modwen Homes’ Facebook pages.

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