1 Common Ground
Architecture & Interior Design
Creating a bit of luxury
in your space
November 6th , 2020
Luxury to people can mean different things. However, there are four key elements, as a designer, I like to use to create that “luxe feel,” refined boldness, timelessness, simplified styling and what I like to term “creating a mixology in the space.”
1. Refined Boldness: A single piece of oversized art can make a bold and elegant statement in a room with a simple spotlight. Michael Griffin, lighting designer/ guru extraordinaire, recommends lighting the art over 5’0” tall with two recessed lights 18” apart with one light aimed at the top and one aimed at the bottom of the art. The art light should also have a 10 to 30-degree beam angles. If you really want to make the art sparkle like a jewel on the wall, he recommends 10-degree beam angle, the beam is tighter and gives more of a punch. The way the art is framed, and a series of pieces can make the difference, an example is of the series of pieces framed in a simple black frame with a simple matte. The boldness is the series, frame and the black/white print it creates refined intrigue.
2. Timelessness: Fashioning a sense of timelessness gives the impression of luxe and refinement. A color that never goes out of style and provides a backdrop for anything is the ivory- white. It is understated and can allow multiple layers of heights, scale and textures to be fully developed with in the space to evoke luxury.
3. Simplify: Simple styling can provide that elegant and luxurious feel. A cluttered and overly accessorized space can reflect “messy” rather than sophisticated and stylish. Coco Channel said, “Before you walk out the door, look in the mirror and take at least on thing off,” this same concept is true with accessorizing interiors- one less item on the table can be simple and stunning.
4. Mixology: Mix of styles both vintage and modern creates visual intrigue. It allows “no time stamp” to be placed on the space. Being able to have this fusion of design styles can be ageless. The architecture of the space with moldings, fireplace mantel, to a small chair (bentwood), the older the better, mix with a contemporary sofa and art piece to give the space surprise and charm. Not only is the mix of styles important, but the mixture of metals, glass, wood, textiles and leather gives rise to an alluring space. It gives a sense to the space, as being curated over time and full of personality.
Common Ground Studio would like to help you implement lavishness in your spaces. If you need assistance with developing your “luxe” contact us at: info@cgstudio-dfw.com and we can get started!
by: Shelley Bouck, NCIDQ
