insideKENT Magazine Issue 36 - March 2015 | Page 99

INTERIORS
INTERIORS AROUND THE WORLD cont.

Scandinavian
We’re not just talking IKEA here, although the
modern functionality of some of its furniture
definitely incorporates the Scandinavian design
ethic. For this kind of home interior, it’s all about
looking cool and calm, with the added bonus of
making any space you may have into a useful
space. With furniture that doubles as storage,
cleverly hidden cupboards and shelving that often
has an ulterior motive (it’s where the lighting is
set, for example), Scandinavian interior design is
clever, innovative, and stylish.
Light is essential for a truly authentic Scandinavian
look, so choosing neutral fabrics and carpets for
your windows and floors is a good idea.
Alternatively, if carpet isn’t your thing, why not
use ceramic tiles? They should be white, cream,
or grey, and should be a contrasting in colour to
your walls – white walls with light grey flooring is
a popular combination.
Scandinavian design incorporates wood as much
as possible, keeping it natural and on show. By
adding some cladding to walls and ceilings (not
too much, just something to catch the eye), you
can create a little warmth in your room.
A Scandinavian home is clutter free, so scale
down the knick-knacks and keep your surfaces
as clear as you can.

Mediterranean

your home. Tile manufacturers have realised just how popular Mediterranean
mosaic tiles are, and they have created large tiles that look like smaller ones
– giving the same effect for a lot less money. Alternatively, you could add
mosaics to your mirror frames, tabletops, and bathrooms.

The Mediterranean style is all about reflecting nature in your home, so when
it comes to choosing colours, you need to think about finding ones that are
reflected in the outside world. Blues, greens, browns, reds, yellows, and
purples are great, but if you really want to make a stat ement then consider
planting some pots to match your interior colour scheme too.

Textures and patterns are extremely important when it comes to getting the
Mediterranean style just right. Using patterned textiles and fabrics, inlaid
furniture, and ceiling decorations will all give the right look. Stucco is
especially handy when you are looking for a new way to make your walls
look cool and different.

Leaving things 'as they come', without adding paint or ‘tidying up’ rough
edges is another element celebrated in Mediterranean design. This includes
wooden beams, handmade tiles, and mosaics. But don’t let these ideas
put you off – there are easy and inexpensive ways to incorporate them into

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