Secrets to Stylish Living

Creating a luxe look for your living space doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg - the right amount of detail can go a long way.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
Creating a luxe look for your living space doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg - the right amount of detail can go a long way.
Terracotta tray in gold, $55, from ClusterCluster.
Terracotta tray in gold, $55, from ClusterCluster.
Doubleduty Decorative Trays

Turn your countertops and table clutter into gorgeous vignettes with a tasteful tray that can also be used as serve ware when guests come around. It’s an effortless and elegant combination of form and function.

Feathers rectangle cushion, $38.70, from Hipvan.
Feathers rectangle cushion, $38.70, from Hipvan.
Lay Out Plush Cushions

Lounge with one or two velvet, linen or suede cushions that will instantly lift the look of any sofa. Consider elegant prints to give a bit more personality to your room. 

White marble bean bag, $220, from Naiise.
White marble bean bag, $220, from Naiise.
Add a Hint of Marble

Marble is currently much loved by designers but it can get expensive. So try infusing just a touch of it to bring understated elegance to your home. Who says it needs to be marble slabs? Go for a couple of pieces like clocks, trivets, bowls and even bean bags with a marbly fabric.

GM 30 pendant lamp, $889, from Grafunkt.
GM 30 pendant lamp, $889, from Grafunkt.
Candelabra 3 lights, $179, from WMF.
Candelabra 3 lights, $179, from WMF.
Reflect on Metal

A pop of polished copper, brass and silver elements will bring an air of sophistication to your space. Metallics are trending but if the industrial look is too cold for you, look for accent pieces such as pendant lamps, centrepieces and side tables. 

Ung Drill mirror, $29.90, from IKEA.
Ung Drill mirror, $29.90, from IKEA.
A Return to Vintage

An antique-style mirror is the perfect complement to a modern interior as it lends richness and detail to a room. Extra perk: It makes the space look larger as well. A matte-black frame makes it all the more alluring. 

My Reading Room
Make a Painted Statement

An accent wall using deep, rich shades ushers in depth and a bit of drama, and can be used as a backdrop to make other elements in the room stand out. Just remember to create balance by complementing with lighter-coloured furniture. 

Rug Up

Roll out a chic geometric-patterned area rug under tables or sofas to add dimension and flair. Don’t be afraid to mix and match with upholstery; the trick is to vary the scale of each pattern so it doesn’t become too cluttered-looking.

More: space marble