Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors, KZN Interior Designer Blog

CHILDREN’S ROOMS

 Designing a children’s bedroom may seem like a daunting task, however, the process can be fun and full of creativity. The space is perfect for letting your inner child and imagination free! This blog post will explore fun and quirky ways to design a children’s bedroom.

.

 

Bunk Beds

.

Bunk beds are a great way to utilise space in a bedroom. You can either have a double bunk bed with a mattress on the bottom level, as well as a mattress on the top level. Another great way to utilise space through the use of bunk beds is to have a mattress on the top level, and a different space on the bottom level. This could be a work space, a living space or even a play station. The same thing can be done where the mattress is on the bottom level, and the play space is above. The following images show some beautiful ways to introduce a bunk bed into a children’s bedroom.

If you would prefer to have a ‘standard’ bed for your child, or do not have any spacial constraints, there are so many designs out there. You could have a built in bead with headboard, or a freestanding bed. A poster bed or a canopy bed with drapes always make for a feature in a space.

.

Here are some images of beds that your children are sure to love! Please remember that a bed always needs to be paired with beautiful linen. These include pillows, scatters, sheets, duvets and throws. These items will help soften the space, and are a great way to introduce patterns, colours and textures.

 Wallpaper

.

When using wallpaper in a child’s bedroom, the possibilities are endless! There are so many patterns, colours and textures to choose from. Be careful to use wallpaper that is very immature, as your child is still growing, and may grow to dislike the wallpaper very quickly. Below are some beautiful examples of all sorts of wallpaper options to inspire you.

Learn and Play Area

.

A learn and play area is a vital part of a child’s room. This will help them on their life’s journey. This space can be filled with toys, activities and learning materials. We have chosen some learn and play inspiration images that are sure to work in your child’s bedroom.

Storage

.

One of the most vital elements in a children’s bedroom is storage… lots of storage. There are so many different storage types and spaces. From shelving, to cupboards and baskets. Storage lower to the ground is a great way to get children into a habit of putting away items once they have finished with them. Something too high will be way too difficult for them. Below are some fantastic ideas to use in your child’s bedroom.

We could help turn your child’s bedroom into a sanctuary.

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

.

Yours in design,

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Ikat and Ivory, Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors South Africa Blog

THE BEAUTY OF BLACK INTERIORS

Since black is not technically a colour… in this post, we will refer to it as an ‘unconventional colour’. Black, in the past has often been associated with many negative connotations. However, this is not the case anymore! If you are completely against the idea of black interiors… then we strongly suggest that you read this post. Who knows! It could end up changing your mind. If you are totally for black being used inside a space, but have no idea where to begin… then you have come to the right post. We will list some great ways to incorporate this ‘unconventional colour’ into your space. If you are on the fence about this matter… These stunning images might help you make up your mind.

 

Our first way to introduce black into a space would be:

.

Painting your walls

.

Painting your walls black is quite a bold move to make, and it will certainly make a statement. There are so many shades of black that you could use to suit your space. Different types of paint and paint techniques will also impact the colour.

Bring in the furniture!

.

If painting your walls black is a bit too dramatic for you… Why not try bringing in some black furniture? Sofas, cupboards, beds and tables are all pieces that can help bring black into your space. Without, of course, being too overpowering.

Less black… more white

.

If you would still love your space to be bright and airy… Bringing in hints of black, whilst keeping the room predominately white will do the trick. The following images are all great examples of how this can be achieved.

If you cannot live without some ‘conventional colours’ in your space… Do not click away yet!

 

Add in some colour!

.

Now for those who say that black does not match any other colour… It may not ‘match‘ other colours in a conventional way. However, it surely does compliment many different colours. These next pictures include pops of colour with either a hint of black, or a predominately black space.

This may seem like a daunting task to do by yourself… but that is why we are here to help.

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

.

Yours in design,

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

BRINGING THE OUTDOORS… IN

As much as we are found inside concentrating on the interiors of the home, we never take for granted the importance of the connection between the outdoors and the inside. Landscaping and the interiors need to coexist and compliment each other.

What we like to do is create a connection, a talking point between the two. Therefore, this can be achieved by introducing a external texture like stone cladding, a live wall and even concrete works beautifully. Bringing in plants and decorative slips in votives is also a fantastic way to show the connection between the two spaces.

Wood Cladding

Cladding a wall is a great way to bring a sense of the outdoors, in. By using the same cladding material that is used on the exterior: inside, a seamless flow is created between the two spaces. Here are some beautiful examples of interior spaces that use cladding to create a link with the outside.

Stone Cladding

Using stone to clad your walls is also a great way to form a link from the outdoors. By using the same stone found on your exterior cladding, flooring or in your garden, a flow is created between the two spaces. This is the same case when you use a similar shade from the stone found outside.

Plant Wall

There could not be a better way to incorporate nature into a space, than by literally bringing it indoors. Be it real or fake, bringing greenery indoors will liven up the space, making it feel more open and fresh. You are creating a connection from the outside to the inside which is most important.

For more help with this matter, see our blog post: Tips on Using Plants Indoors

Would you like to incorporate aspects of nature into your space?

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

.

Yours in design,

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

FIREPLACE DESIGN

One of the many simple joys of life can be sitting next to a fireplace, bundled up in blankets, drinking your favourite hot drink. Do you dream of having a fireplace in your home, but do not have the right structure for it? Or, are you dreaming of incorporating a fireplace in your new build home? I am going to take you through a few examples of fireplaces, to suit your style and your structure.

 

.

1. Traditional

.

A traditional fireplace is commonly found already built into the structure of a house. This simple, yet elegant fireplace can be dressed up with accessories, or left plain, whichever suits you! It is possible to add on this fireplace. It can also be found as an extension on a home, bound to the external wall.

 2. Traditional… with a twist

.

If you currently have the traditional style fireplace in your home, but wish to liven it up a bit more… Do not fret! There are different ways in which this can be done:

.

  • A colourful coat of paint could do the trick.
  • Wallpaper those walls!
  • Cladding, be it wood, brick or stone will turn your fireplace into an unmissable feature in your home.

3. Space Savers

.

If there is no way you can alter the structure of your home… A Bioethanol Fireplace would be the perfect compromise. This form does not have a chimney. Therefore there is no need for a bulky fireplace, or the need to alter your structure. It does not give off smoke, and does not need a gas pipe.

It could be perfect for any bedroom or living space!

4. Ultra Modern

.

The possibilities are endless nowadays with the constant expansion of design. There are so many shapes and sizes of fireplaces that could suit your space.

Furthermore, there are also many different materials you could use for your fireplace: marble, cement, metals, stone, etc.

Winter is coming! If you have any fireplace queries:

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

.

Yours in design,

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

BRITISH COLONIAL DECOR, AT IT’S BEST!

Now for a little history lesson on how this gorgeous style came to be… As the British moved from country to country colonising the world, their subjects, still true to their grassroots were influenced by these new tropical surroundings and new materials.

What I love about this style is that even though the British were influenced by the new environment, they still found the need to bring pieces from home. So what came to be, was actually an amalgamation of many different styles.

 .

Plants indoors:

Being captivated by these new lush surroundings, the British found themselves wanting more of the outside, inside. So then came potted plants and trees inside, giving homes more of that tropical feel. As you can see, this was a great move!

.

How to get the look:

Find some beautiful woven baskets to put potted plants in, because remember, in British Colonial style, texture is key! Pop down to your local nursery, be sure that you are purchasing indoor plants, and get a little tropical! Find some stunning palms and ferns and give your home a fresh new feel. Mix and match with some tall potted tress and tabletop ferns. Slips of palm leaves in glass votives are a great way to create drama using plants!

 Furniture:

As the British were forever on the go and finding new places on their journeys, travel needed to be done smartly. In this, the pieces of furniture were collapsible and beautiful trunks were used for easy storage. These furniture items were called ‘campaign’ furniture. Once settled, all these items were incorporated into the space.

.

How to get the look:

Using items that have the illusion of campaign furniture such as trestle legs, even using stacked antique trunks paired with a coffee table are ways to bring the look together. Place together a natural combination of textures such as rattan, teak, mahogany and sisal. Sisal or hemp rugs are an easy way to incorporate this style into your space.

 Patterns:

The British seemed to forget about their soft and simple patterns, but instead, welcomed the busy and vibrant patterns of their colonies. So, botanical prints, paisleys, ikats, animal prints and other exotic patterns were used.

.

How to get the look:

There are so many different ways of incorporating patterns into your space. Rugs, throws, scatter cushions, vases and other textiles are just a few I could mention. The list goes on and on! The British were not afraid to use animal prints, so neither should you. Animal prints will add interest and fun to your space. Another great way to include animal prints is by bringing in animal hides. You can layer these on top of sisal or jute rugs to create texture.

 Accessories:

A fun way to accessorise was to show off items from one’s travels. Exotic pieces were featured in British Colonial homes in order to seem opulent, well travelled and educated. Accessories were put on display from countries such as China, the West Indies, the South Americas and from countries all over Africa. Another great way to show that one had travelled was by using travel tools as accessories. These included binoculars, maps, compasses, globes and books.

.

How to get the look:

There are many stores that sell original antiques and collectables. However, these may cost one a small fortune. Many furniture and decor stores sell all sorts of items that are replicates of antique pieces. A great place to shop for these items is at Weylandts South Africa. Many charity stores also sell beautiful antique pieces for incredible prices.

Would you love to incorporate this beautiful style into your space?

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

.

Yours in design,

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

BATHS

Having a long, relaxed bath at the end of a stressful day can be one of life’s many pleasures. A bath can be a reflection of your taste and style. A ‘bathroom’ would simply be a ‘room’ without a bath. Here are some baths to inspire you for your home.

The Classics:

Simple, yet elegant.

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog
  1. Relax and unwind in this modern, yet classic, white ceramic bath.
  2. “Built in bathtubs are boring.” WRONG! This white built in bathtub screams simplicity and elegance.
  3. Go back in the ages with this beautiful ball and claw bathtub.
Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog
Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

The Colour Pops:

Add some fun to your bathroom.

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog
  1. Feel like a mermaid in this turquoise tub.
  2. Pink lovers unite! This classic tub with a twist would be welcomed by Elle Woods.
  3. Black (although not technically a colour), adds a hint of drama to this black and white bathroom.
Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog
Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

The Oh-so-Opulent Baths:

Fit for Royalty. i.e You.

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog
  1. Lie back and imagine that you are under a magnificent waterfall, in this bathtub.
  2. Imagine being able to take a bath in a hammock. Well now you can! This beautiful bathtub is suspended, allowing you to relax and unwind.
  3. A vividly gold bathtub… Gatsby would definitely approve of this.
Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog
Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

Bring out the best of your bathroom.

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

Yours in design,

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer Blog

CLOSET DREAMING

A walk in closet is a space that allows us to set the tone for the day. Be it throwing on some comfy sweats, or dressing up for a big meeting. It could even be putting on the running shoes to head over to the gym or to run around after the kids. This is a safe place where sometimes, we feel like we can take on the world, yet it could also be the space where we maybe don’t always feel so great. So with that being said, it is so important that this space resonates with our personalities and makes for a functional area in the home.

Designing a walk in closet requires a lot of thought, so here are some tips on the important areas to take into consideration.

 

.

Organisation:

The most important part of a closet is the organisation. You should be able to find what you need, when you need it. Everything should have its place.

    

  • Jewellery should be kept separate from other items. Trying to untangle that necklace in a rush can actually be avoided!
  • Multiple (smaller) drawers can work to keep your jewellery neat and organised.
  • Every pair of shoes should be visible and have its space, they should not be piled on top of each other and in hard to reach spaces.

.

Lighting:

Don’t you hate it when you are in a changing room at a store, and the lighting affects the way you look (in a horrible way)? Imagine this being the case, every day of your life. This is one of the reasons why lighting is SO important in a walk in closet.

    

  • If your space does not have any natural lighting, do not be disheartened!
  • Lovely lighting can be achieved through the use of artificial lights.
  • These could be simple downlights, pendants, strip lighting or even chandeliers!
  • A great way to add light to the room as well as show off your beautifully organised space is to incorporate strip lighting into the cabinetry.
  • Another important area where lighting needs to be on point is the dressing table. Ladies we all know the struggle when you think your make up looks fabulous and then you catch a glimpse in natural light and want to run and hide! Avoid all of that with some directional lighting at your dressing table mirror.

.

Comfort:

Comfort is such an important part of a wardrobe. Getting dressed and ready should not be an uncomfortable task. Walk in closets should have ample space in order to put on those skinny jeans without knocking into everything!

    

  • Make sure you have ample space between pieces of furniture and your cupboards, 900mm is a good start but more is better.
  • You should be able to put on your shoes whilst sitting comfortably on a beautiful sofa, chair or ottoman. So include that into the space, whether in the corner or in the middle of the room if possible. 

 

.

Mirrors:

You walk into your office when someone stops you and says: “Your tag is on…”. This could have been easily been avoided if you had different mirrors to see your outfit!

    

  • Mirrors are also a great way to make a space look bigger, and it helps to reflect light. Meaning, your space will feel brighter and bigger, win win!
  • An easy way to achieve this is by having some doors made out of mirror. Of course we want to optimise the space and get as many cupboards in as possible. So this is a good way to get both in.

.

Need some help with with designing your dream walk in closet? We are here to help!

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

Yours in design,

.

( images sourced from Pinterest )

Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors KZN Interior Designer South Africa Blog

2018 COLOUR OF THE YEAR

So I must admit, at first this was not my fav and a bright violet has never really been at the top of my ‘to decorate’ list… but that being said, the more I let the creative juices flow and kept reminding myself that all colours are beautiful, the more this tone started to speak to me.

Pops of Colour:

            

If you, like myself, are a bit wary about using Ultra Violet in your space, a good place to start is by using pops of the colour. The above images have hints of violet in the space.

The first image contains a rug, and scatter cushions which both contain the violet hues. The middle image is a predominately white space, with a small use of violet though the use of a duvet set. This can easily be changed to a different colour of your choice throughout the year to change up your room. The third image contains a violet chair which adds a sense of fun in the grey surrounds.

All out Violet!

If you are confident and ready to dive into the colour of the year, here are some images which have used Ultra Violet as a predominate colour in the rooms.

            

The above images are bold examples of Ultra Violet within a space. The colour has been used on wallpaper and wall paint colours. There are different textures in the violet hues which add vibrancy and interest to the rooms. Towels in the bathroom, curtains in the living room and covers in the bedroom. These are more simple ways to add the colour into the space.

Combine the Colour:

Ultra Violet can be paired with a combination of colours to add a modern and fun approach to a space.

              

Pairing colours that do not “match” is a great way to add a bold look to the space. Reds, jades and blues have been paired with shades of violets. This ‘colour blocking’ technique can be achieved through the right use of materials and tones. Get creative! Play around with colours, textures and materials. You can follow some easy tips from our blogpost: colours.

Need some help with with decorating your space? We are here to help!

Contact us today for an enquiry and all your interior needs.

Yours in design,

( images sourced from Pinterest )