Creating an Individual Space
There are so many elements that make a space both interesting and individual. In a couple of recent projects I have been lucky enough to work with sculptor Sarah Smith (www.sarahsmith.org.uk) - who carves from her studio in Yorkshire and who obtains inspiration and ideas from her extensive travels. Carved from French limestone, the sculpture 'Enshrine Entwine' sits beautifully alongside the large contemporary wing chair in the lounge above - the dark velvet upholstery highlights the stone, and the curves of each object complement one another perfectly.
'As Seen in Vogue'
This advertorial was part of an interiors feature in the August 2010 issue of Vogue
So how do I work?
Jane Bates Interior Design has one simple aim – to help you create your ideal home environment. Your home is your most important asset, the place in which you spend most of your 'downtime' and therefore if decorated and furnished in a style that pleases you - will provide years of enjoyment. I help you make choices that will stand the test of time by incorporating your personal style into the fabric of each scheme. Interior Design in your home will involve considerable investment both in time and money, however I will guide you to making the right decisions for your home.
How does your project start?
Our first few meetings will take place in your home. I ask you a great number of questions – Do you prefer a formal or informal space? To what use do you wish to put the room? What are your interests? If the area concerned is a living space for example – is it for formal entertaining or will the space be put to family use? What ages are the people using the room? What colours please you and why? More importantly - what colours don't you like?
Often there is more than one decision maker in the household and each of you may have different views. This can prove more frustrating for you than me! I enjoy finding interesting solutions. Often when one party has preconceived likes and dislikes, I like to introduce you to themes and colours that you may have never considered. The early stages are a flow of thoughts and ideas - there is no pressure to make definite choices.
Here is an example of a recent project:
In this Central London Victorian townhouse, a pale laminate floor and cream walls left the two upper ground reception rooms feeling featureless and cold.
Introducing a calm atmosphere was paramount to the client who specifically wished to create ‘grown up’ space and an area for reading. The client was very keen not to use what they considered to be ‘hot’ colours i.e. reds and yellows – and so a theme developed with platinum, pale blue and rich black/brown. I was keen to link the reception areas, and so the same flooring, wall coverings and curtain treatments were used throughout. This had the effect of more than doubling the space, even though the two areas have different functions.
The front reception room now features interesting lamps, mirrored console tables and comfortable furniture – perfect for entertaining. The bulky fireplaces were replaced with simple Limestone surrounds and slate hearths.
The room also benefits from a large bay window and great light, so the heavy raw silk curtains were designed to maximise this – they work on a track that is covered in fabric which enables a fixing well above the window frame and that does not interfere with the attractive Victorian cornice. On a practical note, roman blinds allow privacy when required but also serve to provide extra insulation in the Winter.
If you would like advice to create your ideal room scheme, do contact me.
Jane.
