Pokeball Interior: Modeling in Blender and Hand-Painted Texturing

The author shares their experience using Farrow & Ball's 'Cola' paint in their west-facing living room, a deep, rich brown with red undertones, chosen to create a 'cocooning' and intimate atmosphere. Despite initial skepticism from visitors regarding the dark shade, the author and their family found the color perfect for their space, enhancing the feeling of a welcoming home. Joa Studholme, Farrow & Ball's Color Curator, describes Cola as 'irresistible, feeling deliciously intimate and somehow grand.' The article details the living room's design choices, including pairing the Cola walls with Farrow & Ball's 'Jitney' for the ceiling. Jitney, a sandy beige with similar brown and red undertones, was selected to provide a softer contrast than a stark white, avoiding an oppressive feeling that a full color drench with Cola might have created. Interior designer Stephanie Barba Mendoza's philosophy of avoiding white ceilings is cited, reinforcing the decision to use a complementary, rather than contrasting, ceiling color. A significant challenge arose from two boisterous puppies, whose play-fighting led to scuffs and chips on the original paintwork, which was Farrow & Ball's classic Modern Emulsion. Despite the brand's general hardwearing reputation, the dogs' antics caused the paint to lose its sheen and become marked. This wear and tear necessitated a repaint after two years. The transformative 'tweak' involved repainting the room in the same Cola color but utilizing Farrow & Ball's newer 'Dead Flat' finish. This finish, released more recently, proved to be a game-changer. The author highlights its ease of application, its suitability for all surfaces (walls, trim, woodwork), and its remarkable durability and wipeability. Six weeks post-repaint, the new finish remained pristine, with minor scuffs easily cleaned with a damp cloth. The Dead Flat finish also enhanced the aesthetic quality of the Cola paint, providing a perfect matte sheen that catches and dances with the light, creating a velvet-like appearance, as described by Joa Studholme. Patrick O'Donnell, Farrow & Ball's International Brand Ambassador, explains that while higher sheen traditionally meant tougher finishes, the reformulated Dead Flat offers the flattest yet most durable option on the market, with a scrub class rating of 1, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. This new finish also allows for a seamless, immersive color-drenching experience across multiple surfaces with a consistent 2% sheen level. The author concludes by advocating for the Dead Flat finish, having already used it for other areas of their home, such as color drenching their bedroom in Jitney. #FarrowAndBall #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #LivingRoomDecor #HomeImprovement #DeadFlatFinish #ColorDrenching #HomeDecor

Color is a fundamental element in home aesthetics, capable of profoundly influencing the mood and atmosphere of a space. While comprehensive redecorations to introduce new color schemes are not always feasible or desired, subtle applications of paint can still yield significant transformative effects. Joa Studholme, the in-house color curator at Farrow & Ball, offers five innovative strategies to revitalize existing interiors through paint without necessitating a complete overhaul. The first approach involves creating painted borders around wall decor. If a mirror or artwork appears undersized for a wall, painting a border around it, potentially expanding with contrasting colors, can adjust its perceived scale and prominence. This technique also serves to highlight gallery walls by painting the area directly behind multiple pictures, drawing attention to the collection. An example provided showcases a cozy living room where a mirror is framed with Berrington Blue and Pantalon, enhancing the neutral School House White walls and Smoked Trout fireplace. Secondly, doors, often overlooked in color planning, present an excellent opportunity to inject vibrant hues into a room. Painting a door in a bold color, such as Preference Red in Full Gloss, can introduce an unexpected visual lift, transforming a neutral space into something more dynamic and playful. This method, exemplified by a bedroom with a door painted in Picture Gallery Red contrasting with Inchyra Blue walls, aligns with the 'unexpected red theory' to create dramatic impact. The third suggestion focuses on architraves, typically viewed as functional rather than decorative. Studholme proposes treating these architectural features with lively colors to turn them into contemporary design elements. Using a vivid color like Raw Tomatillo or a softer hue like Pink Ground with a scalloped stencil can redefine architraves. An illustration demonstrates a dining space where a doorway leading to the garden is framed in Green Smoke and Charlotte’s Locks, adding a distinctive pop of color. Oversized painted frames that extend over architraves and onto the ceiling can also impart a sense of importance to specific doors, while even simple arches between rooms can be enlivened with punchy colors like Bamboozle. Fourthly, integrating unexpected colors into joinery, particularly in less conspicuous areas, offers a subtle yet impactful way to introduce color without overwhelming a room's dominant palette. Painting the interiors of kitchen units, closets, or the backs of bookcases with uplifting colors like Stone Blue, Selvedge, or Charlotte’s Locks can create delightful surprises upon opening them. A dining room featuring kitchen cabinets in Green Smoke and Eating Room Red demonstrates how this method can add warmth to a light color scheme. Finally, in bedrooms, paint can be used imaginatively to mimic decorative elements, providing cost-effective and charming solutions. Instead of a physical headboard, painting one directly onto the wall can define the sleeping area and add a unique twist. Using delicate colors like Pale Powder and Eddy on light walls, or bolder choices like Railings or Paean Black for an industrial aesthetic, allows for personalization. This technique is shown in a child's bedroom where white headboards are painted onto green walls. Regardless of the chosen method, it is crucial to sample colors beforehand, as lighting and other environmental factors can significantly alter a paint's appearance. #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #FarrowAndBall #RoomColors #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #DecorativeDetails #DIYDecor #HomeTransformation

The article explores how to prevent interior design from becoming "boring" by incorporating character and personality into spaces, moving beyond transient trends. Monica Santayana, co-founder of MONIOMI Design, emphasizes that predictability is detrimental to interesting design, advocating for spaces that evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, or curiosity. Designers are encouraged to stay true to their personal preferences rather than strictly following current trends. One key strategy discussed is to "disrupt harmony just enough." This involves introducing unexpected elements, such as mixing patterns, placing bold items in subtle rooms, or exaggerating proportions to maintain visual engagement. Santayana explains that each room should be treated as a unique chapter in a larger story, ensuring movement, surprise, and discovery throughout a home. Ronald Alvarez, also from MONIOMI Design, stresses that a space should never feel generic but instead possess personality and purpose, asserting that designs feel dull when everything matches perfectly. Another crucial tip is to contrast textures and tones. Camilla Masi, an interior designer at Otto Tiles & Design, suggests using a calm, neutral palette as a base and then adding unexpected pops of color, unique patterns, or richly glazed tiles. This approach prevents a space from appearing flat or predictable. Alvarez reinforces this idea, highlighting the creation of tension through contrasts such as hard and soft, organic and graphic, or vintage and new elements. He notes that even in monochromatic schemes, depth can be achieved through intentional variations in light, material, and form. Incorporating bold art pieces is identified as a direct method to inject soul and individuality into a room. Art can set the overall tone and is often considered by designers as the most essential item to retain in a space. Manuela Hamilford, founder of Hamilford Design, explains that art elicits emotion and conversation, reflecting the inhabitants' identity. A home that authentically mirrors its occupants’ lives will inherently avoid being boring. The article also advocates for playfulness in design. Overlooked transition areas, such as doorways, can be transformed into design statements. Raili Clasen of Raili CA Design suggests painting archways in vibrant colors, tiling them, or using contrasting wallpapers to create impact and a sense of fun. These playful interventions frame the room and establish memorable "moments." Finally, the most significant advice is to embrace experimentation and avoid "playing it safe." Genevieve Bennett, Head of Design at Liberty Interiors, encourages designers to be bold and brave, freeing themselves from concerns about external opinions. She recommends experimenting with unexpected color and pattern pairings, like juxtaposing graphic stripes with traditional florals or adding vibrant colors to minimalist spaces. Bold prints, she suggests, can introduce a sense of fun, starting with a lead textile and building the design from there. This approach of "pattern sprinkling" fosters both interest and balance, ensuring that a space designed with passion and creativity will resonate with others.

Farrow & Ball's Railings is a highly versatile and popular paint shade, often described as a softer alternative to pure black due to its underlying blue pigment. This characteristic makes it less harsh and dramatic than other dark paints, fitting well with current interior design trends that move away from strictly neutral palettes. While it may seem like a bold choice, interior designers offer several strategies to incorporate Railings effectively into a home without overwhelming a space. One common approach is to create contrasts with lighter, brighter colors. Railings can be used in large quantities, such as color drenching, to create a cozy and enveloping atmosphere. Alternatively, it serves as an excellent accent color to ground brighter hues and provide a focal point in an otherwise neutral scheme, like a cream kitchen. This method allows for experimentation with darker shades in frequently used rooms with lower commitment. Another technique involves lifting the dark backdrop with colorful artwork. The rich, blue-black tone of Railings makes other colors pop, and hanging large, vibrant pieces can break up the darkness, preventing a room from feeling too cave-like. Patrick O'Donnell, a color consultant at Farrow & Ball, notes that Railings creates a warm backdrop against which artwork registers with renewed clarity. He also suggests pairing it with a crisp white like All White or a gray-blue like De Nimes for woodwork to enhance its nuanced blue undertones. Railings can also be effectively used in smaller spaces, defying the conventional wisdom of using light colors to enlarge a room. In certain contexts, a dark paint can blur a room's dimensions, making it feel more expansive and interesting. Designer Nicola Harding transformed a small bathroom using Railings, explaining that the rich tones contrasted cleverly with artworks and plants, making the space feel sumptuous. Bathrooms, being less frequently occupied, are ideal spaces for bolder color choices. To soften the darker shade and highlight its warmth, layering with warm neutrals such as creams, beiges, and muted pinks is recommended. Incorporating various textures like velvet, chunky knits, and hair-on-hide adds depth and tones down the drama. Kathy Kuo, an interior designer, suggests Railings for offices, studies, or dens, as it aligns with the Dark Academia aesthetic and creates a distinguished, cozy feel when paired with warm accessories. Applying Railings to doors and trims is another effective way to introduce the color. Bethany Adams, an interior designer, finds it a sophisticated choice for entryways and hallways, adding depth without being overly dramatic. Transitional spaces like these allow for more experimental color applications. Paired with a neutral wallpaper, Railings can appear bold yet refined, with its blue undertones sometimes receding to a truer black depending on the lighting. Finally, Railings is well-suited for creating a cocooning bedroom environment. Its soft black nature provides a calming effect, and when combined with various textures and warm shades, it makes the space even more inviting. Jennifer Davis, Principal Designer at Davis Interiors, highlights Railings' deep, almost-black-blue hue for its elegance and cozy allure, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms. Overall, Railings is a versatile paint that can be adapted to various styles and rooms, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional blacks and providing opportunities for both bold statements and subtle enhancements. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #DarkInteriors #HomeStyling #RoomTransformation

The 8-Bit Bouquet, designed by Alex Hao, is an innovative vase that combines the organic beauty of real flowers with the nostalgic aesthetic of pixel art, creating a unique home décor item. This design is particularly appealing to those who appreciate classic video games, collectors, gamers, and design enthusiasts seeking a playful and modern twist for their living spaces. The core concept behind the 8-Bit Bouquet is to transform the visual appearance of a real flower into a pixelated version, evoking the visual style of retro video games or games like Stardew Valley. This novel vase comprises three primary components: a clear glass vase, a reflective chrome tray, and a crystal cube. The glass vase serves the traditional purpose of holding flowers, maintaining a minimal and elegant form to allow the blooms to be the focal point. Beneath the vase, the chrome tray adds a contemporary touch, reflecting light and the surrounding environment. It also collects any fallen flower petals, which contribute to the overall visual interest and integrate seamlessly with the design. The central and most distinctive element is the crystal cube, which is responsible for the pixelation effect. This cube is engineered with a grid of 25 by 25 tiny convex lenses on one side and concave lenses on the other. This arrangement of lenses works by refracting light in such a way that anything viewed through it appears as a charming, low-resolution mosaic. When a flower, such as a sunflower or a rose, is placed behind this crystal cube, its image is digitally fragmented, making it resemble an object from an early computer game. Inspired by Hakushi Katei’s PxiLens and a broader appreciation for pixel art, the 8-Bit Bouquet successfully merges the warmth and natural intricacies of the botanical world with the cool, calculated visual language of early digital graphics. This blend creates an effect that is both surprising and delightful, reimagining a simple flower as a digital artifact. The design is not merely a novelty; it functions as a conversation starter and a piece of functional art, gently reminding observers of the simple pleasures found in both natural elements and digital creativity. Alex Hao’s attention to detail and a passion for both technology and art are evident in the precision modeling of the crystal pixelator, executed in Fusion 360, and its realistic rendering in KeyShot. The 8-Bit Bouquet is positioned as a bold statement piece for individuals who enjoy fusing nostalgia, innovation, and style in their home décor. It offers a fresh perspective on traditional floral displays, making it suitable for brightening up a workspace, gifting to a gamer friend, or simply adding a touch of whimsy to any living environment. #pixelatedVase #retroGaming #homeDecor #modernDesign #alexHao #crystalCube #floralDisplay #designInnovation

Transforming a space into an engaging game room offers an opportunity to infuse a home with character and foster memorable moments among family and friends. A game room serves as a central hub for entertainment, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal. The design process allows for creative expression, encouraging the use of vibrant colors, distinctive artwork, and vintage items that contribute to a room's narrative. Even with limited space, a dedicated game room can be carved out from an overlooked spot or an unused corner of a living room. The article provides diverse examples, from grand, turreted playrooms suitable for the entire family to sophisticated attic hideaways that offer a unique escape. These examples demonstrate how 'fun' can seamlessly integrate with 'stylish' in home decor. Several design strategies are highlighted to achieve an ultimate entertainment hub. One approach involves leveraging textiles, such as using acoustic fabric to discreetly conceal A/V equipment while complementing existing features like a stone fireplace. The placement of a game table, like a Karl Springer chess and backgammon table, by the fireside, encourages cozy game nights. Another innovative idea is to think outside the box, exemplified by a designer who incorporated a bowling alley, game room, and private nightclub into a home's 'play house.' This demonstrates the potential for bold and unique entertainment options. Integrating antiques, such as a 19th-century French oak table, can provide both historical charm and practical space for board games. The article also suggests embracing grandeur in design, as seen in an Irish manor where emerald damask wall coverings and a billiard table add both elegance and playfulness. Color is presented as a crucial element, with examples like a turreted playroom designed with whimsical touches through vibrant hues, appealing to both children and adults. Quirky spaces, such as an attic transformed into a verdant retreat with leafy stripe wallcovering and plush bean bag chairs, can become secret game alcoves. Making it a family affair involves creating a billiards room with a custom pool table and an extensive library, ideal for gathering after a day of activities. Practical considerations like easy cleanup are addressed through multi-functional furniture, such as a koa-wood game table that flips to become a coffee table, with secure pieces for transport. Adding a hidden bar, ingeniously unveiled by a mechanical panel, elevates the entertainment experience. Going big with patterns, like combining two 18th-century Indo-Persian borders, creates a striking decorative impact. Transforming a cozy nook into an enchanting game spot with stylish seating also maximizes space utility. Creating a multi-purpose library that also serves as a game room, featuring a custom horn card table and antiques, invites lively after-dinner games. Converting a corner into a cozy gaming retreat with comfortable seating, like Louis Philippe dining chairs with custom upholstery, ensures extended enjoyment. Incorporating retro fittings, such as a 1960s openwork wood screen and vintage furniture, helps achieve a sense of continuity within the home. Historical nods, like preserving vintage cigarette burns on antique leather chairs, add character and storytelling to a game room. Utilizing idyllic views as a backdrop for a gaming nook enhances the overall ambiance. Finally, using low-slung forms in furniture, painting antique pieces to integrate them seamlessly into the decor, and ensuring plenty of comfortable seating are all key elements in designing a functional and aesthetically pleasing game room. #GameRoomDesign #HomeEntertainment #InteriorDecorating #LuxuryHomes #SpaceUtilization #DesignTrends #FamilyFun #VintageDecor #CustomFurniture

This article explores 15 popular Farrow & Ball paint colors, showcasing their application in real home interiors. Farrow & Ball paints are a favorite among interior designers due to their richly pigmented formulas and wide array of timeless, livable colors that seamlessly integrate into various interior design styles. The selection ranges from nuanced dark shades to off-whites, and from calming blues to earthy greens. The article begins by featuring "Light Blue," a shade utilized by HÁM Interiors in a living room's shiplap boarding. This powdery, mineral-quality color is chosen to complement coastal surroundings, creating a fresh and uplifting feel on sunny days, and a cozy ambiance in winter. Following this, "Berrington Blue," described as a 'blackened' mid-blue, is presented in a bedroom from the same project, chosen for its deeply calming quality, ideal for a restful sleeping space. The article then shifts to darker hues with "Railings," an off-black with blue undertones, used by interior designer Bethany Adams in an entryway. This color frames an original antique wallpaper in an 1800s mansion, allowing the pictorial paper to stand out dramatically while providing a quietly luxurious backdrop. "Vardo," a teal color, is showcased in a living room where Matthew Williamson used it as a focal point on one wall, complemented by "Blue Ground" on other walls for a livable feel. This choice was inspired by a traditional Indian rug, bringing a vibrant, jewel-like quality to the room. "Green Smoke," a popular muted yet deep green, is featured in a home office designed by Natalia Miyar. This color creates a rich and deep backdrop, especially effective when overlooking a lush garden. "Borrowed Light," a pale blue, is highlighted for its ability to create bright and airy interior schemes in a spacious bathroom, acting as a great neutral with soft blue undertones that works well in varying light conditions. The article then explores the use of "Brinjal," a dark aubergine tone, as an accent color in a neutral bedroom, applied to skirting and architraves to create a sophisticated and cozy space. "Shadow White," a warm white, is chosen by Natalia Miyar for a media room to ensure a cozy and inviting atmosphere rather than a stark one. "De Nimes," a subtle and toned-down blue, is used in a relaxing bedroom, valued for the richness and depth it provides, creating an effortlessly polished finish. "Cromarty," a muted grayish green, is presented as another choice for relaxing bedrooms, creating a calm and serene atmosphere reminiscent of misty waters. "Elephant's Breath," a warm gray, is discussed for its ability to add warmth to neutral schemes without feeling cold, as demonstrated in a modern living room. "Teresa's Green," an aqua color, is used on trim and cabinets in a traditional bathroom, creating a clean and refreshing interior scheme that can lean towards blue or green depending on the lighting. "Stony Ground," a rich beige with red undertones, is shown in a kitchen, complementing warm metals and turquoise cabinets. Finally, "Oval Room Blue," a dark blue with black tones, is featured on a bathroom vanity unit, creating a restful and aged look that pairs well with various interior design styles, and "School House White," a flattering off-white, is presented as a versatile neutral backdrop in an entryway, accommodating colorful artwork without being stark. These examples collectively demonstrate how Farrow & Ball paints are used to create cozy, welcoming, and liveable spaces. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorSchemes #BedroomDesign #LivingRoomDesign #BathroomDesign #HomeOffice

This article provides 30 inspiring ideas for designing children's playrooms, emphasizing the importance of creating dedicated, kid-friendly spaces to foster independent and creative play. Experts highlight that children with a designated play zone are more likely to engage in self-directed play, build essential skills like problem-solving and critical thinking, and even take ownership of cleaning up their toys. Rachel Rothman, chief technologist at the Good Housekeeping Institute, stresses that well-designed play spaces and toys are crucial for children's learning and empowerment. The design ideas cover various aspects, starting with organization. Anne Gillyard, a playroom designer and co-founder of grOH! Playroom, and Becky Thomas, founder of Playgroup, both advocate for clear organizational systems using bins, baskets, and shelving to make toys accessible and visible, which helps children initiate and sustain their play ideas. Open shelving is particularly recommended for displaying motivating toys, allowing children independence in their choices. The article suggests incorporating playful elements such as swings, noting that rhythmic movements can help children regulate emotions, as explained by psychologist Rebecca Hershberg. Another creative idea involves displaying children's artwork as decor, which Gillyard states boosts confidence and encourages creativity, especially when framed and arranged as a gallery wall. Color and themes are also central to playroom design. The article encourages using activity rugs to provide structure within play and adding blocks and cars to promote creative engagement. It recommends not shying away from vibrant colors and interesting patterns to infuse spaces with energy and visual appeal, using examples like bright ceilings and geometric rugs. Wall murals, ranging from nature-inspired to geometric or custom designs, are presented as a way to instantly add creativity. Chalkboard walls are highlighted as a practical option for artistic expression, allowing children to process feelings through drawing. For a calmer aesthetic, the article suggests pastel palettes and limited color schemes. Space optimization is addressed through ideas like converting closets or maximizing attic space into functional play areas. These solutions offer children quiet, enclosed spaces to regulate sensory input and engage in calm play, with suggestions for adding elements like tents or comfortable seating. The article also provides tips for creating multi-functional spaces, such as combining play areas with study spots, and incorporating daybeds for various activities. Ultimately, the article advocates for thoughtful design that caters to children's developmental needs and interests, providing tools for learning and imaginative exploration in spaces that are both appealing and practical. #KidsPlayroom #PlayroomDesign #ChildrensSpaces #HomeDecor #CreativePlay #InteriorDesign #ChildDevelopment #ToyStorage #KidsActivities

In a period marked by global confinement and escalating concerns over environmental destruction, a new wave of visual artists is leveraging 3D rendering to construct utopian and fantastical environments. These digital creations, ranging from ethereal seaside homes to surreal, pastel-hued dreamscapes, have gained considerable popularity as individuals seek imaginative escapes from their daily realities. This trend is further fueled by the pervasive influence of the coronavirus pandemic, which has amplified the desire for alternate realities and a change of scenery, even if purely fictional. These digital spaces are not merely aesthetic exercises; they serve as a powerful outlet for imagination and a response to the contemporary need for escapism. Prominent figures in this emerging field, such as Paul Milinski of Vaulter and interior designer Charlotte Taylor, highlight the growing demand for these imaginative renderings. Taylor, who often collaborates with 3D artists to actualize her conceptual spaces, notes that these utopian settings tap into a fundamental human desire for novelty and wonder. This sentiment was evident during events like Offsite Online, a virtual design fair where designers, unable to physically produce and photograph their work, collaborated with visualizers to create digital photoshoots. This collaboration led to the emergence of highly imaginative and fantastical spaces, demonstrating the adaptability and creative potential of digital visualization in the design industry. The featured artists showcase a diverse range of approaches to creating these fantasy worlds. Charlotte Taylor, in collaboration with Riccardo Fornoni of Cream Atelier, envisions Villa Saraceni, an oceanside home seemingly carved from chalky white stone, blending realistic details with fictional architecture. Andrés Reisinger's work explores dreamlike spaces, such as a lilac room with an eye-shaped portal, emphasizing emotional connection over strict realism, and demonstrating how digital concepts can manifest in physical forms, as seen with his Hortensia Chair. Alexis Christodoulou, influenced by video game aesthetics, crafts sophisticated sun-dappled scenes with circular pools and craggy boulders, seeking to evolve the genre beyond conventional fantasy and sci-fi tropes. Barcelona-based Six N Five studio draws inspiration from Japanese culture to create tranquil tatami mat-lined rooms overlooking meticulously pruned gardens, designed to invite relaxation and meditation. Stefano Giacomello presents a striking living room against a rugged rock face, where furnishings appear bathed in intense desert sunlight, reflecting his minimalist and evolving aesthetic. Mue Studio's "Somewhere in the World" series offers idyllic, potentially nonexistent global locations, aiming to provide a peaceful 'rest stop' for viewers navigating a digitally saturated world. Kefan Weng, drawing inspiration from cinematic architecture and dreams, creates oddly scaled buildings hovering over dark waters, emphasizing the audience's individual interpretation. Paul Milinski designs whimsical scenes like "Work Party," filled with playful elements such as oversized balls and a blush pink sofa, intending to evoke infectious high spirits and transport viewers to potential future inspirations. Lastly, Davit and Mary Jilavyan's Sonora Art Village project features vibrant, geometric buildings and spiky cacti under blue skies, presenting an imaginary community in Mexico that offers a vivid contrast to the 'grey reality' of the pandemic. These artists collectively demonstrate the power of 3D rendering to fulfill the contemporary need for escapism, imagination, and utopian visions in design and art. #DigitalArt #3DRendering #FantasyInteriors #UtopianDesign #EscapistArchitecture #VisualArt #ArchitecturalVisualization #InteriorDesign #CreativeRendering

Colour drenching is an interior decorating technique that involves painting all surfaces in a room, including walls, woodwork, and ceilings, in a single colour. This method offers a versatile and relatively affordable way to transform spaces, from small rooms to expansive areas, by creating a unified and impactful aesthetic. It can make dark rooms feel brighter, large spaces cozier, and can elevate otherwise overlooked areas like hallways and stairwells into statement features. Rather than a fleeting trend, colour drenching has established itself as a significant interior design approach, offering numerous exciting possibilities when applied with expertise. Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball and a trusted colour consultant, emphasizes the importance of planning before embarking on a colour drenching project. He advises creating a mood board that includes all elements of the room, from flooring and fabrics to lighting and the chosen paint colour. He also stresses that personal preference should guide colour selection, as a colour that works well in one home might not have the same effect in another. Patrick outlines six key strategies for effectively incorporating colour drenching into a home. The first strategy involves choosing between a bold or subtle approach. For a bold statement, using a single matt finish across all surfaces creates a cohesive look. Alternatively, a more subtle effect can be achieved by using one colour in different finishes, such as eggshell for woodwork and emulsion for walls. This technique introduces gentle textural contrast and subtle sheen shifts, softening decorative details like picture rails and fitted furniture without obscuring them. Secondly, colour drenching is effective in creating unity within a room. It is recommended to choose paint colours after major elements like sofas and curtains are in place, as the paint should serve as a complementary backdrop to unify the overall scheme. Since paint is typically the most affordable element, it should be used to tie together the more expensive items. When uncertain, a mid-neutral hue like Farrow & Ball’s London Stone is suggested, as it pairs well with a variety of other colours. The third piece of advice focuses on playing with light. It is crucial to test how a chosen colour interacts with the room's natural and artificial light throughout the day. The direction a room faces significantly influences how a colour is perceived. For instance, a blue-gray with a hint of green can appear cool and architectural in morning light in a west-facing room, softening to a gentle green later in the day. Such a colour, like Farrow & Ball’s Ball Green, can create a cozy atmosphere in a living room or guest bedroom. Fourth, embracing dark colours can create a sense of coziness and drama. Intense earthy hues and rich blues and greens are particularly effective in making spaces feel significantly warmer and more inviting. Patrick suggests not shying away from even darker shades to amplify the visual impact and drama within a room. Fifth, pink and coral hues offer a way to introduce softness or a feminine touch, especially in otherwise cold interiors. A gentle earth pink, such as Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster, can warm up a poorly lit room, appearing as a blush neutral in brighter areas. Finally, colour drenching can effectively add scale and create the illusion of greater space. While lighter hues inherently make rooms appear larger, specific tricks can enhance this effect. For small rooms, painting fitted wardrobes and other furnishings the same colour as the walls helps to elongate wall proportions and minimize visual contrast. In rooms with low ceilings, painting the skirting boards the same colour as the walls can give the illusion of increased height, contributing to a more expansive feel. #ColourDrenching #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintTechniques #FarrowAndBall #ColourConsultant #HomeImprovement #SpaceMaximization #AestheticUnity

Studio GdB, founded by Gilles de Brock and Jaap Giesen in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands, has revolutionized ceramic tile production through the development of a custom-built digital printer. This innovative machine allows for the computer-controlled application of liquid glazes onto ceramic tiles in their biscuit state, resulting in unique and highly customizable designs. The studio's process addresses a previous limitation in finding suitable finishes for their design vision, prompting them to engineer their own solution. This bespoke technology enables them to create a diverse range of patterns and vibrant color schemes, offering endless possibilities for aesthetic expression in tile design. The tiles produced by Studio GdB are characterized by their bold colors and visually complex, almost psychedelic patterns, which evoke a handmade quality despite being digitally fabricated. This blend of precision engineering and artistic flair allows for a broad spectrum of design choices, from subtle and understated to highly intricate and elaborate, catering to various design preferences. The custom printer's capability to accurately apply liquid glazes directly onto the ceramic surface ensures a high level of detail and consistency in each tile, surpassing the limitations of conventional manufacturing methods. The development of this specialized machinery highlights a creative approach to overcoming technical challenges in the design and production of ceramic tiles. By taking control of the manufacturing process, Studio GdB has opened up new avenues for customization and artistic experimentation within the realm of interior design materials. The studio's commitment to innovation has enabled them to achieve desired finishes that were previously unavailable, offering designers and consumers access to truly distinct and personalized tile options for various applications, from staircases to coffee tables and backsplashes. The resulting product line from Studio GdB provides an opportunity for integrating unique and visually striking elements into interior spaces, allowing for highly personalized and dynamic environments. The ability to create seemingly infinite patterns and color combinations means that each project can feature a bespoke tile installation, reflecting individual tastes and design concepts. This innovative method bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, creating ceramic tiles that are both a functional building material and a work of art. The tiles are suitable for diverse settings, adding a distinctive touch to both residential and commercial projects. #CeramicTiles #DigitalPrinting #CustomDesign #InteriorDesign #StudioGdB #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalSurfaces #GlazeApplication #InnovativeManufacturing

The article introduces 3D stencilling, a DIY trend gaining popularity on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, offering an upgraded version of traditional wall stencilling. This technique transforms flat walls into eye-catching, sculptural designs, adding depth, dimension, and texture to a space. Content creators, such as Kate Hewitt from @our_bears_home, have championed this method, using polyfilla and stencils to create embossed floral patterns, particularly in entrance areas to add a unique touch. This DIY project is highlighted as easy to execute and budget-friendly, requiring only three affordable items: stencils, plaster/filler (like Polyfilla), and a paint/wallpaper scraper. These materials are generally inexpensive, often costing under £6 each, and some may already be available at home. The accessibility and affordability of these tools contribute significantly to the trend's growing popularity among DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels. According to Gill Baker, an interiors expert at B&Q, 3D stencilling is a fun, customizable, and low-damage DIY solution. It allows individuals to transform plain walls into artistic designs that appear expensive, aligning with the importance of texture in interior design, a principle supported by experts like Kelly Hoppen. The method is versatile and suitable for various rooms, including living rooms and bedrooms, offering a timeless design feature that enhances a room's aesthetic appeal. The process begins with wall preparation, emphasizing the need for clean and smooth surfaces, with suggestions to sand down any rough spots. The next step involves selecting a stencil design, with floral and botanical patterns being common choices. Once a design is chosen and positioned on the wall, plaster or filler is evenly applied across the stencil using a scraper or putty knife. After application, the stencil is carefully removed while the paste is still wet, revealing the 3D design. This process is repeated across the desired wall areas. The article also notes that multiple layers of filler can be applied to achieve a more prominent 3D effect. Once the 3D stencils are dry, they can be left as is for a sculptural and minimalist look, or they can be painted to match or contrast with the room's decor. A significant advantage of this technique is its reversibility; if the design becomes outdated or disliked, it can be easily sanded down. This combination of ease, affordability, and stylish results makes 3D stencilling a widely endorsed social media trend for home decoration. #3DStencilling #DIYHomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #BudgetDecorating #WallArt #TextureInInteriors #HomeImprovement #CraftProjects #InstagramDIY

The challenge of effectively representing interior spaces within 3D models mirrors the complexities encountered with physical models. Traditionally, 3D modeling software prioritizes orbiting around the design rather than offering an immersive, internal perspective. While first-person viewing modes have improved this, the movement within these digital environments often lacks the natural simplicity of real-world navigation, making the presentation of interiors a frustrating endeavor. This article, part of the 'Selected by Sketchfab' series, addresses this persistent issue by showcasing inventive techniques for displaying interior spaces more effectively through 3D models. Sketchfab's curated examples demonstrate various approaches to overcome the limitations of conventional 3D visualization. One featured example, 'Office' by Alex Romanuke, illustrates how a 3D model can be created and displayed without walls, using only the ceiling and floor to define the space. This method allows viewers to easily understand the spatial relationships and layout without obstruction. Another technique, presented in 'House N' by Shuhei Endo, uses a cutaway model where the exterior walls are removed to reveal the interior. This provides a clear overview of the internal design while still hinting at the overall architectural form. Similarly, the 'Salk Institute, Louis Kahn' model by Juan Luis Reolid leverages a cutaway approach to expose intricate interior details. The article also highlights innovative ways to animate models for better interior visualization. For instance, in 'Apartment 1605' by Artur Szostak, a door is animated to open, inviting the viewer into the space and offering a dynamic entry point. 'Room with Furniture' by Anna Stępniewska demonstrates the use of annotations within the 3D model, allowing specific elements of the interior to be highlighted and explained, enhancing the viewer's understanding of the design choices. Another model, 'Loft Conversion' by Thomas Winkley, utilizes an exploded view where elements of the building are separated, providing a comprehensive understanding of how different components contribute to the interior layout and overall structure. Furthermore, 'Interior Design: Room' by Darya Zaretskaya showcases how a fully rendered interior can still be effectively presented by focusing on strategic camera angles and lighting to guide the viewer's eye through the space. These diverse examples from Sketchfab's platform collectively illustrate that creative solutions exist for effectively communicating the nuanced experience of interior spaces in 3D models. By employing techniques such as wall removal, cutaways, animated access points, interactive annotations, and exploded views, designers can overcome traditional visualization hurdles and present their interior designs with greater clarity and immersion. #3DModeling #InteriorDesign #VirtualReality #ArchitecturalVisualization #Sketchfab #DigitalDesign #ArchitecturalModels #VisualizationTechniques

This article highlights ten interior spaces that utilize custom plaster wall finishes by the British brand Clayworks to create visual interest and unique atmospheres. Clayworks emphasizes the transformative potential of clay plasters, stating they can elevate ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences through their aesthetic opportunities and the integration of contemporary material science. The featured projects showcase a diverse range of applications and finishes, demonstrating the versatility of Clayworks' products in various settings, including residential homes, hotels, shops, and offices. One featured project is the Gold Flake Demi Rustic finishes at Hundred Acre Wood House in the UK. Designed by Denizen Works, this residential space incorporates minerals resembling gold flakes into Clayworks' Demi Rustic clay plaster. The resulting seamless, light-diffusing wall surface adds depth and intrigue to the interior, providing a robust finish that complements the monumental scale of the house in Loch Awe, Scotland. Another example is The Teahouse in the UK, a collaboration between Clayworks and Sasa Works. This space, unveiled at the 2023 Surface Design Show, demonstrates the harmonious relationship between natural and handcrafted materials. Here, Rammed Earth and Fading Straw Arakabe Ombre finishes are used to create an atmosphere of balance and tranquility within the teahouse setting. The Red Room at The Connaught Hotel in Mayfair, London, designed by Bryan O'Sullivan Studio, features a striking red-to-orange clay plaster gradient. Clayworks’ technical team meticulously researched and developed several pigment proposals to achieve this fiery color ombre, creating a distinctive and luxurious ambiance within the hotel bar. For the Oro de Cacao chocolate shop in Zurich, Switzerland, by Moser Wegenstein, Clayworks developed custom pink ombre wall finishes. These finishes, made from natural minerals and pigments, exhibit a dual fade: a color transition from deep to light pink, coupled with a texture gradient from rough plaster at the top to a softer finish at the bottom, enhancing the shop's aesthetic. The Fellow coffee retail shop in Los Angeles, USA, designed by Studio Mai, utilizes Clayworks’ Rammed Earth surfaces for both walls and display plinths. The custom Rammed Earth design for this interior references California's geography, aiming to create a unique and immersive shopping experience for customers. At the Gaucho restaurant in Glasgow, Scotland, designed by Design LSM, a tough-textured rammed earth surface with grey, sand, and red hues evokes the Pampas landscapes of Argentina. This earthen feature wall contributes to a calming and comforting multi-sensory dining experience. The Room2 hotel in Chiswick, London, which claimed to be the world's first whole-life, net-zero carbon hotel upon its 2021 opening, incorporates Clayworks’ clay wall surfaces in an ombre terracotta-colored finish. These finishes were chosen for their low-carbon qualities, owing to their raw and unprocessed state, aligning with the hotel's sustainable design principles. The Self-Portrait Kings Road store in the UK, a collaboration between Self-Portrait founder Han Chong and architect Andreas Kostopoulos, features mint green clay walls with limewash-like markings and custom corrugated textures. This design leverages minimalism, materiality, and color to create an intimate, sensory retail environment free from visual distractions. In the Fulton Avenue home in Los Angeles, USA, designed by Diaz and Alexander Studio, a custom slim corrugated clay plaster was applied as a feature wall in several rooms. This addition introduces texture and irregularity, complementing the home’s soft, neutral tones and raw materials, and enhancing the residential interior. Finally, the CBRE Offices in Glasgow, UK, utilize Clayworks’ Rammed Earth collection, made from natural clay, minerals, and sand. The 10-millimeter-thick surface was applied to office walls to integrate the aesthetics of raw earth into an urban workspace, while also improving the acoustic and thermal performance of the space. #Clayworks #TexturedWallFinishes #InteriorDesign #RammedEarth #ClayPlaster #OmbreWalls #SustainableMaterials #ArchitecturalFinishes #ResidentialInteriors

The article provides an intimate look into the Sunfish Lake home of antiques dealer Robert Riesberg and his wife, Christine Hartman, which doubles as both their residence and a by-appointment-only gallery for Riesberg's business. Their Federal-style house, built in 1925, is characterized by a blend of traditional design and warm hospitality, furnished with museum-quality 17th, 18th, and early 19th-century antiques, art, objects, and rugs. Riesberg, with over 50 years of experience, emphasizes buying pieces he would personally want to keep, noting that this passion drives his successful career. The home features a series of formal rooms, including a front parlor with a mahogany drum table, sideboard, and a 1760 cherry New England flip-top secretary desk, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Rosy Apple. A light-filled formal dining room and gallery, added by Riesberg, is used for parties and family gatherings, showcasing French Louis XV rococo console tables with rare brèche d’alep marble from approximately 1760. The exterior of the home maintains its Federal-style architecture, while the kitchen, though the least formal space, is adorned with 18th-century Windsor chairs and Delft tiles depicting manganese figures from the same period. Creative design solutions are evident throughout, such as a small closet ingeniously converted into a walk-in bar with a Dutch door. The sunporch, featuring terrazzo floors and shelves filled with Delftware, opens to a grape arbor, offering a serene space. The fireplace mantel and paneling were custom-designed based on Connecticut fireplace patterns, symmetrically decorated with blue-and-white 18th-century Delftware. The central hallway boasts ash and walnut flooring modeled after traditional French parquetry, complemented by 19th-century oil landscapes, a late 18th-century portrait, and a Regency commode from around 1710. Riesberg’s study, designed with Connecticut inspiration, features millwork painted in a custom green and houses a substantial collection of books and catalogs on antiques, art, landscaping, and architecture. The article also includes five tips from Robert Riesberg and Christine Hartman for incorporating antiques into one's home. These tips encourage individuals to discover their personal taste by visiting various sources like museums and antique shops, and building a file of preferred items. They suggest taking inventory of existing belongings to identify pieces that don't align with one's aesthetic or function, thereby creating space for new acquisitions. The couple advocates for broadening one's scope beyond furnishing a room strictly by a singular period, encouraging the mixing of contemporary furnishings with antique gems to create a space that reflects individual taste and personality. Riesberg advises understanding the craftsmanship of antiques, particularly those made before the machine age (pre-1840), to appreciate their design details and value. Finally, they recommend taking a slow approach to building a collection, emphasizing that a few beautiful, well-chosen pieces are more valuable than a multitude of mediocre ones, and that truly beautiful homes evolve in stages. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #FederalStyleHome #VintageDecor #HomeTours #LuxuryInteriors #CollectingAntiques

The article discusses the growing trend of designing dedicated mahjong rooms in homes, highlighting a shift in interior design towards spaces that foster human connection through games. Jean Liu, a designer, notes an increase in client requests for mahjong tables in living or great rooms, a significant change from two years prior. The focus is now on integrating game tables early in the furniture layout process to prioritize social interaction. Mahjong, a Chinese tile-based strategy game originating in the mid-1800s, translates to "sparrow," referencing the distinctive clicking sound of shuffling tiles. It began in Southern China's metropolitan areas and quickly spread across the country, becoming a popular social pastime that fostered community. The game gained international traction in the 1920s, particularly in America, where its ability to bring people together was embraced. Christine Lin of Form + Field describes mahjong as a versatile game that can be played casually or with intense focus, enhancing social engagement among players. The game typically involves four players whose objective is to form four sets of three tiles and a pair from a complete set of 144 tiles, which includes four of each tile across three suits: sticks, dots, Chinese characters, and bamboo, numbered one to nine. Mahjong's popularity stems not only from its social aspect but also from its tactile nature. Liu emphasizes the physical engagement with the tiles, contrasting it with digital experiences. The availability of beautifully hand-painted and carved mahjong sets further contributes to its appeal. Designing a mahjong room reflects a broader trend of incorporating permanent game features into home spaces, driven by people spending more time at home and valuing domestic experiences. Lin advocates for dedicated game tables with comfortable seating and adequate space, allowing games to be set up and revisited without disrupting other areas like coffee or dining tables. When designing such a space, Lin suggests considering the type of games to be played and the number of players, noting specific requirements like felt tabletops for card games. Liu also points out the importance of location, recommending placing the game table near a kitchen for easy access to food and cocktails, as mahjong games often double as social gatherings. For those hesitant to commit to a specific game, starting with a versatile option like card games is suggested due to their timeless appeal and simplicity. Overall, the trend underscores a desire for intentional spaces that promote shared experiences and connection through traditional games. #InteriorDesign #MahjongRooms #GameRoomDesign #HomeDecor #SocialSpaces #ChineseCulture #TileGames #DesignTrends #EntertainmentSpaces

The blog post focuses on Babouche No. 223, a yellow paint color by Farrow & Ball, which the brand's color curator, Joa Studholme, describes as "uncomplicated" and capable of making rooms feel full of sunshine. Despite yellow's reputation for being a challenging color to use in interiors, particularly in paint form, the article argues for the appeal of Babouche No. 223. It suggests that while yellow can be tricky, this specific shade offers a cheerful alternative to more muted tones like sage or greige. A key recommendation for effectively incorporating Babouche No. 223 is to integrate the paint into a pattern, such as a checkered floor. The article highlights an example of a plant-filled bathroom featuring a yellow checkered floor where the design extends up onto the tub, creating a modern optical illusion. This technique is presented as a budget-friendly alternative to expensive marble or tile, achieved with paint and stencils. The resulting aesthetic is described as evoking "spa vibes" rather than an overwhelming "Big Bird" effect, indicating a sophisticated use of the color. For those hesitant to apply the bold yellow shade across large surfaces, the article provides alternative ways to introduce the color into their decor. It suggests incorporating smaller, sunny-colored items to infuse light and cheer on a more manageable scale. The author then curates a selection of products that embody the bright and cheerful essence of Babouche No. 223 without requiring a full room repaint. These items include a Palo Modular 2-Seater Sofa + Armrest, a Trellis Planter in yellow, a 14in Pleated Daun Cotton Lampshade, and Pill Switch Plates. Each product offers a distinct way to bring the sunny hue into a living space, ranging from furniture to decorative accents. The article also touches upon the general perception of yellow as a cheerful color, while acknowledging its common challenges in interior design. It encourages readers not to be intimidated by the vibrancy of Babouche No. 223, presenting it as a classic take on the hue that can be successfully integrated into various home settings with thoughtful application. The discussion aims to demystify the use of this particular shade and empower readers to experiment with it, whether through extensive painted patterns or subtle decorative elements. Ultimately, the piece serves as a guide for embracing a vibrant, trending paint color, offering practical advice and product suggestions to help readers navigate its application effectively. It reassures potential users that a bold color choice like Babouche No. 223 can be both stylish and accessible, provided it is approached with creative and strategic design considerations. #FarrowAndBall #PaintColor #YellowDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #BaboucheNo223 #ColorInspiration #DIYDecor #DesignTips