When I sat down to speak with renowned interior designer, Olivia Harper, I was immediately struck by her passion for creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. Olivia, who has been transforming homes for over a decade, shared her profound insights on what truly elevates a living space. Her approach is not just about filling a room with items but about creating a harmonious environment where every piece has its place.
Olivia began by explaining that the foundation of any successful interior design project starts with understanding the room’s purpose and functionality. “Before you even think about colour schemes or decorative accents, you need to understand what the room is going to be used for,” she said. “Is it a space for family gatherings? A cosy nook for movie nights? Or perhaps a sophisticated area for entertaining guests?”
The number of occupants and the type of activities envisioned for the room will greatly influence layout and design choices. Olivia emphasised the importance of considering how many people the room needs to cater to. “For a family room, you might want a large, comfortable sofa paired with a couple of armchairs to create an inviting seating area. On the other hand, for a more formal setting, twin sofas facing each other with an elegant coffee table in between would be a fantastic choice.”
As Olivia spoke, it became clear that her approach was highly personalised. She believes that each space should reflect the personality and lifestyle of its inhabitants. “Your home is a canvas that tells a story about who you are,” she explained. “Every piece of furniture, every colour, every texture should contribute to that narrative.”
One of the tips Olivia shared was about the importance of balance and proportions in a room. “It’s crucial that the furniture and decor you choose are in harmony with the size of the room,” she advised. “Oversized furniture in a small room can make it feel cramped, while too-small pieces in a large space can make it feel empty and disjointed.”
Olivia also highlighted the significance of focal points in a room. “Every room needs a focal point, something that draws the eye and anchors the space,” she said. “It could be a beautiful piece of artwork, a striking piece of furniture, or even a stunning fireplace. Once you have your focal point, you can arrange the rest of the room around it.”
As our conversation progressed, Olivia touched on the topic of colour schemes. “Colour is a powerful tool in interior design,” she remarked. “It can influence the mood and feel of a room. For example, cool colours like blues and greens can create a calming atmosphere, while warm colours like reds and oranges can make a space feel cosy and inviting.”
However, Olivia warned against going overboard with colour. “It’s important to have a cohesive colour palette,” she advised. “You don’t want too many competing colours in one space. A good rule of thumb is to stick to three main colours – a primary colour, a secondary colour, and an accent colour.”
Lighting was another crucial element Olivia discussed. “Lighting can completely transform a space,” she said. “It’s not just about having enough light, but about having the right kind of light. Natural light is always best, so make the most of any windows you have. But don’t forget about artificial lighting – a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting can create a beautifully layered effect.”
Olivia also shared her thoughts on the importance of texture in interior design. “Texture adds depth and interest to a room,” she explained. “Mixing different materials and finishes – like a velvet sofa with a glass coffee table, or a rustic wooden dining table with sleek metal chairs – can create a rich, layered look.”
As our interview drew to a close, Olivia left me with a piece of advice that resonated deeply. “Remember that interior design is not just about filling a room with items, but about creating a harmonious environment where every piece has its place and purpose,” she said. “It’s about creating a space that feels like home, a place where you can relax, entertain, and make memories.”
Her words encapsulated the essence of what it means to elevate your living space. It’s not about following trends or copying a look from a magazine. It’s about creating a space that reflects your unique personality and lifestyle, a space where every element works together in harmony to create a beautiful, functional, and inviting environment.
As I left our meeting, I felt inspired and armed with practical tips that I could apply to my own home. Olivia’s insights had given me a new perspective on interior design – one that values harmony, balance, and personal expression above all else. And I couldn’t wait to start creating a space that truly felt like home.
By Emily Thompson
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