Creating Character.

30 Dec

As the year draws to a close, this is a time for feasting with friends, reflection, rest… and DIY projects!

It’s been an incredibly busy end to the year; we all like to make those preparations and freshen up our interiors ready for those feasts with friends. I’ve just completed my own DIY project for this holiday season and I am chuffed to bits with the result:

Whilst there are many benefits to modern homes; eco friendly; fewer issues (we hope)… Aesthetics, in my opinion, are not one of those benefits. Over the years I have, bit by bit, been doing what I can to remove the characterless modernity from my property. This holiday season I took on the doors!

Never underestimate seem-ably little changes…

I knew I disliked them from the day I moved in. But I absolutely had underestimated their impact. I am believer of working with what you have - especially if there is nothing wrong with it’s functionality. So a bit of decorative beading later and a few coats of primer and paint and I have a brand new hallway. And a grand one at that!
A tip to note: The fewer contrasts you have going on, the calmer this will appear to the eye. The same colour used on both the door and the frame removes unnecessary contrasts. The doorway appears larger and this also creates the illusion of more space. Also by avoiding the standard choice of white you lose the stark contrast.
Although, another noteworthy tip; contrast does not include depth. We need depth and dimension to erase the flatness. Much like panelling on walls, this added depth creates elegance make a home look thought out and loved.

Stating the obvious; your hallway IS the entrance to your home. This sets the tone for the whole property so it is quite important. Do not dispair if you have a dark or natural light-less hallway. Dark hallways just make everything off of them appear light.

Colour choice… now that’s personal of course - you don’t have to go quite so bold but I do recommend that you push your limits a little. I went for Little Greene, Middle Buff. I would describe this as; French, not English, Mustard; more yellow-y mustard in south/west light; almost golden in west light and a dark orange, tan-y brown in artificial light. A fairly bold choice; almost retro but grand at the same time, and because it’s almost a tan brown it still seems like it could be considered a neutral that emulates wood. The reflection of light off of this colour just gives the dark hallway a warm and inviting glow.