My top 3 design books to reflect your interior style

Design research can be an enjoyable and invaluable part of the creative process, especially when making significant decisions. You can gain inspiration by investing in quality design books and immersing yourself in diverse interiors. Pay attention to the designs you encounter in restaurants, hotels, galleries, and gardens. Observe the various styles and colour combinations, whether you're exploring locally or travelling abroad. All these insights will empower you to make inspired and informed choices for your project.

 
 

3 interior design styles and the accompanying books I would recommend:

 
 

1. Eclectic Style 

This playful blend of various styles creates a unique and vibrant aesthetic. It's all about mixing and matching colours, textures, shapes, and finishes in a harmonious and balanced way. The magic of eclectic design lies in its ability to make a cohesive statement, where every piece feels intentionally placed, no matter how diverse. So, go ahead and have fun experimenting, bringing together the unexpected to craft a space that's distinctly you!

Lola Loves: Every Room Tells A Story Kit kemp 

This book showcases Kit Kemp's inspiring interiors and reveals the stories behind each room. Known for her eclectic style, Kit blends contemporary and antique elements, using scale, colour, and pattern to create handcrafted spaces. Featuring insights into

 
 

2. Traditional/Timeless 

Step into a world of timeless charm with a style that celebrates classic and elegant historical characteristics. This look encompasses quality craftsmanship, perfect symmetry, and ornate period features. The colours are typically muted and neutral, letting the exquisite details shine. It’s a style that favours quality over quantity, creating warm, sophisticated, and inviting spaces that make you feel right at home in a bygone era.

Lola Loves: Heritage Style: A fresh new take on traditional design by Selina Lake 

Heritage style combines traditional charm with modern comfort. It uses panelling, floral fabrics, and heritage paint colours as backdrops for house plants and contemporary crafts. Upholstered furniture and vintage pieces from online auctions or Instagram create a warm, inviting, and sustainable home that's both modern and nostalgic.

 
 

3. Maximalism 

Maximalism is all about embracing colour, pattern, and texture to create vibrant and expressive designs. Imagine layering florals with animal prints and geometric shapes while mixing materials like velvet and leather for eye-catching contrast. Go bold with large abstract artwork and distinctive furniture pieces that make a statement. Showcase your collections, unique finds, and personal mementoes to add heaps of character and personality. It's a style that’s fearless, fun, and uniquely you!

Lola Loves: Be Bold with Colour and Pattern by Emily Henson 

Fresh greens, uplifting pinks, and moody blues are popular alongside the rise of statement wallpapers. Retro patterns like polka dots are making a comeback, reflecting a bold, individualistic aesthetic. In "Be Bold with Colour and Pattern," Emily embraces this trend, demonstrating how to integrate it into any home effortlessly.

Thinking of transforming your home? 

Take our design quiz and find out if you know your deco from your Boho! 

Whether you love traditional calm or busy maximalism, this quiz is for you. 

In our upcoming comprehensive interior design course, explore Lola’s full range of recommended books for 8 interior design styles, along with mood boards and shoppable products. 

Happy reading!

 
 
Lola Swift

Lola Swift, Interior designer and colour consultant, guiding you to design your home with colour and creativity. Let your home tell your story.

https://www.lolaswift.co.uk
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