Looking for guidance or simply an interesting read? Turn to the blogs on Henrietta Heisler’s website for her observations on what is transpiring in the world of interior design. What follows are some words of wisdom taken from those blogs.
Defining Interior Design …
According to Henrietta, “Interior design is more than just arranging furniture and choosing colors; it’s about creating spaces that evoke emotions and enhance the lives of those who inhabit them. A well-designed space can boost productivity, improve mental well-being, and create a sense of harmony and balance. With the right combination of aesthetics and functionality, interior design can transform any space into a haven of comfort and style.”
Timeless vs. Trendy …
Henrietta maintains that “timeless interior design transcends the transient nature of trends. It’s about crafting spaces that remain beautiful and functional for generations.” Her key principles that “underpin the concept of timeless design” include quality over quantity; a neutral foundation; classic architectural elements; functional layouts; and a balanced mix of styles.
Getting Started …
How can you bring the essence of timeless interior design into your home? Henrietta’s practical tips for getting started include invest wisely; opt for timeless materials (hardwood, natural stone); embrace classic patterns (stripes, checks, subtle florals); mix old and new; edit and simplify (less is more).
Make an Immediate Change …
Henrietta lists three elements that can immediately transform a space.
Bring the outdoors in: Maximize your window space to take advantage of any natural lighting you receive. Don’t forget to take the indoors outside as well! Outdoor living spaces are a beautiful way to extend your home’s footprint.
Color: Adding colorful appliances is a new and exciting way to personalize your space. With brands like Officine Gullo at the forefront of this design trend, more economical brands like Smeg and Samsung are offering a range of bespoke appliances. We are seeing a shift from the standard stainless steel to white glass, light blues and beiges.
Wallpaper: Adding wallpaper to a powder room or an accent wall in a dining room is an excellent way of playing with patterns and combining texture to create an interesting perspective.
The progress of wallpaper is constantly pushing boundaries and delivering innovative experiences. The textures and materials available now compared to the past are truly remarkable.
Zeroing In On … Lighting
Henrietta points out that “defining spaces with lighting is an excellent way to create an intentional journey through the home. Lighting creates dimension and layers in the home: A breathtaking lighting configuration above your dining table, a stunning floor lamp beside an accent chair for a moment’s pause, and a joyful table lamp in the entryway to welcome you and your guests. Lamps are a great way to add an antiquated piece to a space.”
Pets
“Making your home pet-friendly is more than just a trend; it’s about creating a space where both you and your pets can thrive,” says Henrietta of the fact that pets are perceived as beloved members of the family. To create such a home, she maintains that it’s important to incorporate pet-friendly fabrics, pet zones, flooring that ensures safety (for humans and pets alike), natural light, safe plants, pet-friendly accessories (stairs/ramps for smaller/older pets), secure areas (for items like cleaning products), organized spaces (storage for toys, food, leashes/coats), grooming stations and technology (automated pet doors).
Closets
In the case of established walk-in closets that need a refresh, Henrietta points out that “the key to a well-organized closet is not just about adding more space but using it effectively. Keep your walk-in closet tidy and well-maintained, and it will make getting ready a breeze.” To do so, Henrietta has a 14-point itemized list that starts with decluttering and continues with notes on lighting, storage options, vertical space, quality hangers and more.
Bathrooms
In helping a client update a bathroom, Henrietta says, “The decision to remove the old corner tub was a game-changer in this bathroom renovation. In its place, a fully frameless neo-angled shower now stands proudly. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetics of the bathroom but also maximizes the available space.” Plus, it boasts a built-in foot-rest niche.
Kitchens
Even a cabin in the woods can benefit from the expertise of an interior designer. Henrietta points out the kitchen renovation project for clients who own a lakeside log cabin “was a true joy to undertake. By incorporating open shelving, preserving the integrity of the log walls, and focusing on functionality and accessibility, we were able to create a kitchen that perfectly blended with its natural surroundings. The addition of center lighting and heated floors added the perfect finishing touches, creating a space that is not only visually stunning but also highly practical and inviting.”
Don’t Forget the Business World …
One of Henrietta’s latest commercial projects centered on creating a look that reflected the name of one of Lancaster’s newest restaurants, The Coffin Bar, which is owned by Spring House Brewery. In her estimation, “In the dynamic world of hospitality, creating a distinctive atmosphere is crucial for a restaurant’s success. To emphasize The Coffin Bar’s theme, we focused on creating an immersive experience for patrons. Dark color palettes, gothic-inspired artwork, and dim lighting were key elements incorporated into the design. The space was carefully segmented to create different zones, each with its unique appeal, adding to the overall thematic experience. By emphasizing the theme, selecting appropriate furniture, and carefully crafting an overall color scheme, we were able to create a unique and memorable ambiance.”
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