UK Housing News
Ten Innovative Interior Design Ideas to Transform Your Space
Ahead of his home improving seminar at the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Michael Holmes, TV presenter and design expert for the event, shares his 10 tips below to highlight why interior design is about so much more than the finishing touches.
Michael Holmes, Design Expert at the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show (27-29 Sept, ExCeL, London), shares his tips below:
1.Biophilic Design Integration: Incorporate living walls and hanging gardens to bring nature indoors. This trend not only purifies air but also creates a serene atmosphere, promoting well-being and connecting occupants with the natural world. Studies show that biophilic design can reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve overall health, potentially leading to fewer sick days and a more enjoyable home environment.
Garden on the Wall (www.gardenonthewall.com) – Specialises in preserved plant vertical gardens, ideal for hassle-free living walls.
Verti-Grow (www.verti-grow.com) - Offers biophilic interior and exterior design products and services across the UK and Europe.
2. Smart Mirrors with Integrated Technology: Install mirrors with built-in LED lighting, touch-screen capabilities, and voice-activated assistants. These multifunctional pieces combine practicality with cutting-edge technology, streamlining morning routines and enhancing spatial perception. For example, a smart mirror can display weather updates, calendar reminders, and even allow you to check emails while getting ready, saving valuable time in busy households.
Seura (seura.com/) - UK-based supplier of smart mirrors with various integrated technologies.
3. Multifunctional Furniture for Small Spaces: Invest in cleverly designed pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as ottoman beds or extendable dining tables. This approach maximises space efficiency without compromising on style or comfort. A dining table that extends from seating four to eight can transform your space from everyday use to entertaining mode, increasing your home's versatility without requiring additional square footage.
Made.com (www.made.com) - Offers a range of space-saving, multifunctional furniture pieces.
4. Acoustic Panelling as Art: Utilise decorative acoustic panels that double as wall art. These pieces not only absorb sound for a more peaceful environment but also add visual interest and texture to your interiors. In open-plan spaces, acoustic panels can reduce noise transmission between areas by up to 50%, creating distinct zones without physical barriers and potentially increasing property value.
Soundtect (www.soundtect.com) - Provides decorative acoustic panels that double as wall art.
5. Colour Drenching: Embrace the bold technique of applying a single hue across walls, woodwork, and ceiling. This creates a cohesive, enveloping atmosphere that can make spaces feel larger and more impactful. For instance, using a light, warm grey throughout a room can make it feel up to 20% larger, while adding a sense of sophistication that appeals to potential buyers.
British paint and wallpaper manufacturer Little Greene (www.littlegreene.com) is known for its high-quality, environmentally friendly paints with a wide range of rich, historical colours perfect for colour drenching.
6. Sustainable Materials Focus: opt for eco-friendly materials like recycled plastics, bamboo, or reclaimed wood. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also adds unique character and storytelling elements to your home. Using reclaimed wood flooring, for example, can save up to 5 trees per 100 square feet while adding a rich, historical element to your interiors.
Sustainable Furniture UK (sustainablefurniture.co.uk/) specialises in eco-friendly furniture and materials.
7. Hidden Storage Solutions: Implement concealed storage systems, such as under-stair drawers or hydraulic bed lifts. These innovative solutions maintain a clutter-free aesthetic while maximising every inch of available space. Under-stair storage can add up to 4 cubic metres of usable space in an average home, potentially increasing property value by creating a more organised and spacious feel.
Clever Closet (www.clevercloset.co.uk) offers innovative under-stair storage solutions.
8. Statement Ceilings: Transform oft-neglected ceilings into focal points with bold wallpaper, intricate mouldings, or even suspended sculptural elements. This unexpected design approach draws the eye upward, creating visual interest and depth. A well-designed ceiling can become a talking point, potentially increasing your home's memorability and appeal in a competitive property market.
Lincrusta (www.lincrusta.com/) provides textured wallcoverings suitable for creating statement ceilings.
9. Flexible Room Dividers: Utilise movable partitions or sliding doors to create adaptable living spaces. This allows for easy reconfiguration of rooms, perfect for accommodating changing needs or hosting gatherings. For instance, a sliding partition can transform an open-plan living area into separate work and relaxation zones, increasing your home's functionality without permanent structural changes.
Go Modern Furniture (www.gomodern.co.uk) offers a range of contemporary room dividers and partitions.
10.Textured Wall Treatments: Experiment with 3D wall panels, tactile wallpapers, or tadelakt plaster finishes. These techniques add depth and interest to walls, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond the visual. A textured feature wall can become a focal point, potentially increasing perceived value and creating a lasting impression on visitors or potential buyers.
Armourcoat (www.armourcoat.com) supplies a variety of textured wall finishes, including tadelakt plaster.
