Category: blog

During the process of re-decorating, the spotlight often falls on the walls of the room, leaving the ceiling in the shadows, untouched. We’ve all been there: hours are spent contemplating wall colours while leaving the ceiling untouched, other than a re-coat of trusty white. We think this norm needs to be challenged, and the ceiling viewed as a canvas brimming with untapped creative potential—a crucial element that should not be underestimated when creating a cohesive space.

Farrow & Ball Vert De Terre No. 234 in Dead Flat

The conventional approach of painting the ceiling white, creates a stark contrast that accentuates the break between walls and ceiling, creating an illusion of reduced height. Surprisingly, if the goal is to amplify the feeling of more space, painting the ceiling the same hue as the walls can work wonders. This colour continuity eliminates any visual disruptions, resulting in an expansive feel. And with an appropriate colour choice spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms can still feel cosy.

 

Farrow and Ball Rectory Red No. 217and Paint and Paper Library’s ‘Slate I’

For the adventurous wanting a bold scheme, the ceiling offers a myriad of opportunities for embellishment. Wallpaper is a favoured choice, injecting a burst of personality and visual intrigue. However, we would recommend considering the pattern carefully, avoiding those with strong vertical designs. Extending the wallpaper to both walls and ceiling can create a harmonious, immersive effect.

 

Farrow and Ball Light Blue No.22, Valspar’s ‘Platinum Sage’ and Paint & Paper library’s ‘Marble I’

Alternatively, a more cautious approach would be to use subtle details to tie the entire design scheme together. Whether it’s a delicate line tracing the perimeter or an elegant moulding, these thoughtful touches contribute to a cohesive and polished aesthetic.

The ceiling holds the potential to redefine your living space. Embrace the challenge of elevating your interior beyond the walls, and see the profound difference a well-designed ceiling can make. Let your space tell a story from top to bottom.

Feeling inspired by the vast possibilities but unsure where to commence? Our design experts are here to help. Whether you lean towards the bold or prefer a more conservative approach, we can suggest a tailored scheme to suit your style and budget. Interior design doesn’t need to entail extensive renovations; even a modest refresh of paint colours can provide a transformative impact.

Whether you’re contemplating the purchase of a house for renovation or aiming to enhance your current home, in this editorial we have tried to help you navigate potential costs, accompanied by helpful budgeting tips. If you’re looking to increase your property’s value, create additional space, or simply refresh your living space, a renovation can prove to be an extremely beneficial option. Nevertheless, it can come with a high price tag. Home renovation projects can be a significant financial investment, and it’s important to comprehend the commitment before making a decision.

The first question that typically arises when considering such a project is, ‘What is the cost of renovating a house?’ While the answer is based on various factors such as the nature of the project, the quality of work, the size of the property, and more, we hope to assist you in arriving at a rough estimate to help your decision-making process.

There are a lot of factors that can substantially influence the overall cost of renovation. Key considerations for determining your budget include:

-Size of the property

-Condition and age of your home

-Necessity for structural work

-Construction of an extension to your property

-The complexity of your plans

-Quality of renovation materials

-Furnishings, design, and decoration

-Geographic location – for instance, labour costs in London or the South East may be more expensive than those in the North East

When embarking on a property renovation, it is crucial to establish a budget. Unforeseen expenses can arise so it’s important to set aside additional funds as a contingency.

Example of a building trade drawing

 

A plan of action is essential, and we highly recommend acquiring a set of detailed design drawings. These not only assist in refining your ideas but also serve as invaluable tools for builders, carpenters, and other tradespeople, ensuring an accurate quotation.

We recommend breaking your project down into certain categories and putting a budget figure against each one

Wall construction/repairs – Doors – Ironmongery – Floor finishes – Decoration – Kitchen-  Plumbing – Electrics – Insulation – Bathrooms – Heating – Lighting – Furniture and fittings

A good spreadsheet will help you budget for the project.

For actual figures, it is very hard to generalise, as every flat, house or space has different requirements. However, many people with a 3 bedroom two storey house may spend £60 k – £80 k plus VAT on an interior renovation. This can add value to your home, and therefore it may help to consider it as an investment.

Photos taken during site visit

 

For those contemplating a renovation but uncertain about where to commence, we are here to help. We can deliver a project from 2D plans through to project completion, encompassing project management and construction. By working with our skilled and trusted tradespeople, we ensure that the project is executed in a timely and budget-conscious manner. While unforeseen challenges may arise, our years of experience and skillful tradespeople enable us to minimise surprises and address issues as they arise. Contact us today if you are contemplating a renovation and seek guidance on your journey.

Unlocking the Charm: Mastering the Decor of North-Facing Rooms

North-facing rooms often unfairly earn a reputation for being dim and gloomy, but we are here to debunk that myth. The lack of natural light doesn’t condemn your space to coldness; instead, it’s an opportunity to get creative. Whether you’re drawn to darker shades or opting for a palette of warm tones, there’s a world of possibilities waiting to transform your north-facing room.

 

Farrow and Ball Inchyra Blue No.289 in Estate Emulsion and Full Gloss

Colour Selection for North-Facing Rooms:

Choosing colours wisely is the secret to conquering the interior of a north-facing room. Since northern light tends to cast cool hues, your paint selection becomes vital. A grey paint in a north-facing room might take on subtle purple or blue undertones whereas in south-facing rooms the warmer tones come through. It’s all about understanding the effect of light.

For the best results, consider embracing the room’s natural darkness. Balancing the natural cool tones with warm, inviting colours can create a soothing atmosphere. Alternatively, dare to go bold with deep tones to accentuate the room’s charm.

 

 

Farrow and Ball Jitney No.293, Stirabout No.300, Fruit Fool No.9911

Strategic Lighting:

In the absence of abundant natural light, thoughtful lighting becomes a game-changer. From ceiling fixtures to wall lights and carefully placed lamps, it’s essential to create a multi-layered lighting scheme. Steer clear of harsh overhead spotlights, as they can create a sterile ambience that’s particularly unwelcome in a room longing for light.

 

 

Farrow and Ball Templeton Pink No.3303

Artful Accessories:

Mirrors play a crucial role in maximizing available light. Strategically placing mirrors where natural light hits can effectively bounce it around the room. Opt for glass or brass accessories to achieve a similar effect. If gloss paint is your preference, consider painting certain features with a glossy finish to enhance light reflection and add a touch of sophistication.

In summary, transforming a north-facing room is not about overcoming its light challenges but embracing its characteristics. By playing with a palette of colours, strategically incorporating lighting, and thoughtfully arranging accessories, you can effortlessly create a cosy and welcoming aesthetic. If you’re eager to bring out the best in your space, contact us today. Let’s collaborate to illuminate your home intelligently and let your north-facing room flourish.

Expert interior design tips for a post-Christmas refresh

 

The post-Christmas period often leaves us with uninspiring, dimly lit spaces, void of the festive cheer that recently filled our homes. As the decorations come down, a sense of emptiness seeps in, urging us to seek a fresher interior. With budget constraints in mind, our designers share invaluable tips on how to breathe new life into your home without breaking the bank.

King & Mgaw | Vogue October 1965

Mix things up

A cost-effective and bold strategy is to shake things up. Clear your surfaces of all decorations to provide a fresh canvas to start again. Not only does this provide an opportunity to declutter, it also allows you to identify and fill any gap in your décor. Introduce vibrancy with carefully chosen artwork. You could explore affordable prints online at @Kingandmcgaw to add a touch of personality to your space.

 

 

Bauwerkcolour  | Linen

Embrace the power of paint

Transforming a room doesn’t always require a hefty budget. Consider a fresh coat of paint to bring a breath of fresh air to your interiors. While we recommend professional assistance, even the average DIY enthusiast can get involved in a project with a few essential tools. Seize the opportunity to be bold and adventurous with your colour choices. Step out of your comfort zone and try the colour you’ve always admired but never dared to use. For those craving a Venetian plaster aesthetic on a budget, explore lime wash paints such as those from @bauwerkcolour. These paints not only deliver a cost-effective way to achieve a stylish finish but also come with online tutorials for easy follow-along instructions.

 

 

Fake it flowers | Ficus Lyrata

Greenery takes centre stage

With the departure of Christmas trees and festive foliage, consider welcoming natural beauty into your home. Beyond their psychological benefits, plants add great interest to your interiors. If you lack green fingers fear not; there are low-maintenance options available. Alternatively, explore the world of faux plants and flowers, where brands like @Haox and @fakeitflowers offer realistic alternatives

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or in need of professional guidance, our tips offer an affordable way to breathe new life into your home. Don’t let the post-holiday blues linger; contact us today and let our designers assist you in creating a revitalized interior.

hello@monnowinteriors | 01600 730 484

When it comes to Christmas table settings, unleash your inner maximalist! Break free from the norms and embrace extravagance—Christmas is the perfect time for it. In our latest blog post, we explore three stylish examples that encourage a bold approach to decoration.

If you find something you love, throw out the rule book and use it, regardless of scheme or even good taste! We’ve pulled together three examples and some ideas for a stylish Christmas table setting.

 

For those who prefer a more conventional approach

For an understated approach, opt for two colours and introduce the ‘wow’ factor with layering and delicate details. The combination of blues and golds, as seen here, radiates elegance. Embrace the art of layering- it’s the secret to a captivating tablescape. Dust off your placemats because they are having a moment; layering not only adds depth but also sparks interest in your Christmas table setting.

 

For the Maximalist

Luke Edward Hall and Duncan Campbell’s table setting beautifully demonstrates how mixtures of colour, textures and patterns achieves a charming and cohesive look. During the festive season, indulge in your favourite colours, patterns and styles. Our one piece of advice: Limit your colour palette to three colours, varying the shades. This ensures that no matter what elements you introduce to the table, it stays concise and stylish.

 

For someone with a more classical taste

Opt for rich greens and beautiful reds for a classically warm and nostalgic Christmas aesthetic. Experiment with different shades of red, greens, textures and patterns to create a layered look. Mix up the patterns and play around with bold table cloths. Layering this with understated plates ensures your table looks fabulous as guests move through each course.

Perfect for the nature enthusiast

For a more natural setting inspired by the outdoors, use foliage, soft linens, and calming colours. Opt for earthy tones, muted greens and browns, complemented by rustic linens. Add a touch of woodland charm with leafy branches and pine cones.

 

 

We understand that one of the most challenging aspects of renovating your home is trying to imagine what it would or could look like. You want to make sure the final result will be exactly what you want, and this is where 3D visualization comes in.

3D visualization is something that’s relatively new to the industry and is progressing at a rapid pace. The ability to create photo-realistic renders is a service we think is crucial and we offer it to most of our clients – Depending on the project.

 

First of all, what is a 3D visual

3D visualization is like creating a piece of art. The process starts by modelling a space, by changing a 2 Dimensional plan to 3 Dimensional model. This would include walls, doors, chairs, furniture, lights etc. Once the model is constructed on the computer, the designer applies materials to each surface. This is a creative process where the materials (wood, metal, fabric), colours and textures are selected.

This process allows a designer to develop the brief, ideas and aspirations into computer generated model. The next stage is to “render” it, which is where the computer creates a photo-realistic image from the Designer’s model and design choices. This allows the client to see exactly what their space could look like. The visualization can be an image, a video walk through or an image in virtual reality.

A 3D visual is an amazing communication tool for the Designer, as it allows them to show the Customer what the décor, materials and colours will look like in the project. It has the ability to capture the atmosphere, proportions, as well as all the small important details. To create a good visual is a specialist skill which requires in depth knowledge of the software. Even then, it takes time.

 

Why do you need one?

We don’t recommend a 3D visual for every project but if you have a project involving a lot of work such as- new flooring, decoration, furniture, structural work, new layouts, we would recommend asking for one. It is more than just an image: It helps you to visualize how the space will look and feel.

Making changes or exploring ideas in 3D is a fast and effective approach enabling you and your Designer to reach a theme that you are happy with. It’s easy to change colours, add, remove or shift elements once the main model is built.

We find this to be an extremely time effective communication tool which minimizes any surprises or uncertainty.