By Hend Seif El Din
Similar to French country décor, shabby chic interiors emphasize the beauty of distressed items, imperfections, and timeworn objects. From floral “grandma” china to hand painted metal trashcans, this type of interior design is truly romantic. Opt for furniture that appears to have a history, with worn finishes, painted in neutral, light, and/or white hues. If you’re doing this yourself, use sandpaper to strip away some of the fresh paint, making the pieces appear “old.” When it comes to romantic décor, colors are key. Use soft tones and a neutral color palette, which includes sky blue, soft rose, neutral tans and beige, as well as eggshell white, to ensure a cottage-style, romantic appeal.
When it comes to lighting, consider original and curious pieces, such as unique scones and vintage crystal chandeliers. Also make sure the light is warm, harsh lighting will take away from the room’s charm. Opt for throw pillows with floral patterns, soft hues, lace borders, and crochet details. Feel free to mix and match when it comes to patterns. In other words, you can easily combine checks, stripes and florals.
If you’re worried that your space might end up looking “too old,” why not incorporate some modern elements? Try mixing stainless steel kitchen appliances with vintage cabinets. Also consider combining a modern pendant light with a distressed kitchen table and chairs, as well as a romantic lace curtain for the window. You could also purchase a sleek, solid wood dining table and “wear it out” with hand painted vintage-style chinaware and serving dishes.
The arrangement of your furniture plays another pivotal role in ensuring you get the comfortable feel shabby chic décor provides. Focus on conversation areas; provide numerous seating options, which emphasize laid-back conversations, and are family and entertainment friendly. When it comes to choosing your sofas, go for ones that look worn out, but are also elegant. You have to keep the balance to avoid creating a messy look.
Finally, pay attention to detail. Make sure that upon walking into your space, you’re met with a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers in a charming, vintage, crystal vase. Also consider covering your dining room table with an antique lace tablecloth and matching napkins. Think charming, quaint, unique, and hand painted accessories and accents. When incorporating plants, consider using a vintage birdcage instead of a regular pot; in terms of paintings, consider framing floral fabrics and patterns in stead.
Shabby chic interiors are soft, femininely styled, with vintage accents, and–in some cases–with a modern twist. Just keep it bright, comfortable, cozy and romantic.
