Grand designs for the hall
Emma and Nick, from the Velvet lifestyle and furniture stores, answer your design questions
I’m decorating my hallway, and want it to have a fun, modern feel but with a twist of Rococo elegance! Could you give me some suggestions of what colour to paint the walls and how to furnish it?
Hannah Lewis, Kemp Town
Emma says: Wow, this sounds like fun! My suggestions depend on who has to live with this décor, aside from yourself! One idea is to paint the walls a bright magenta – furnish with black classical French furniture, such as our Moulin Noir Range. Prices start from £195.
And accessorise with damask prints in white, pink and black. Alternatively, using the same furniture, keep the walls white and decorate with bold pop art. A hallway must have is our hard-wearing coir doormats. They cost £18 and come in a variety of designs from stripes to damask, floral to polka dots.
I heard that a trend in interiors this season is the ‘preppy’ look. What exactly does this mean for home style and how can I achieve it?
Richard Harrowing, Kemp Town
Nick says:The preppy look this season is all about embracing that tailored college look. Think traditional desk lamps, trendy ‘Paul Smith’ stripes, letter emblems and vintage leather – and all in time for the new school term! This is a gentlemen’s smoking lounge look but with a modern, trendy and all together younger touch.
The great thing about this trend though is it’s timeless quality – so invest in this season’s key pieces and you won’t regret it a few years down the line. We sell amazing vintage leather chairs and sofas that are just perfect for this look (prices start at £699) and ideal desk lamps starting at just £35.
Tip of the week
If you get a chance, check out all the design shows that are happening in London throughout September.
Furniture, lighting, mirrors and home accessories
NEW SHOP 66-68 Church Rd, Hove, 01273 725992
29 Bond Street, Brighton, 01273 326322
Gifts, clothes, shoes and accessories
27 Bond Street, Brighton, 01273 326007
10 George Street, Hove, 01273 775758
