TRAD Home: Issue #1

I've finally had a chance to flick through the virtual pages of Lonny/Traditional Home's new collaboration, TradHome.  The first issue is an absolute treat and there are numerous reasons to add it to your "must subscribe" list.  Oodles and oodles of images to take in and new designers to be inspired by! 

                  Velvet tub chairs and tall bookcases.                              Wallpaper.

 

Brass occasional table.

                        Drum stool.                             Lamp base.                      Picture wall hallway.

Cosy reading nook.

Back to back sofas.

Of the 20 new traditional designers they name to watch, the one I was most interested in was Erika Powell.  I've been reading her blog Urban Grace Interiors for some time now and was excited to see her work featured.  One of the things she remarks on while talking about her current project is that themes make her cringe.  I thought how true that was and what a great point to remember when planning a room.  Not too matchy matchy (very technical term).  Along with the other 19 designers Erika had 5 tips from the trade for we civilians :)  I've collated my favourite 12 here:

1. Declutter, declutter, declutter!
2. Go to estate sales and flea markets and go early.  When you're there know the manufacturers name on a piece and do your RESEARCH.  Know the difference between real and fake.
3. To make retro work - allow the house to breathe by not having EVERYTHING vintage.
4. Invest in one or two pieces of well-designed, well-made furniture.  They will stand the test of time.
5. If you see something interesting on your travels take it home and incorporate it.
6. Don't be afraid to use bold wallpaper (or wallpaper for that matter),
7. Don't upstage good architecture with ornate furniture.
8. Frame great windows with simple and elegant window furnishings.
9. Don't buy something just because it's a trend.  Buy what you truly love.
10. Art makes a home.
11. Mix mass-retail furnishings with antiques and mix finishes.  Include at least one patterned fabric and antique piece in the design of each room. 
12. Consider real life (boisterous kids, pets, red wine), upholstery should be durable!

Can't wait for the next issue!

Nicolex