Restaurant Renovations and Design Trends That Could Turn Tables in 2020

With the evolving landscape of global travellers and a growing number of people choosing to dine out more, restaurant renovation is booming as the industry seeks to become competitive, efficient and sustainable.

Integrating experience-driven design, ambience and menus to create a dining “story” is becoming increasingly important for differentiation. And with the new year just around the corner, upcoming restaurant design trends have a significant influence on what we consider to be authentic and visually appealing.Design trends in 2020 feature innovative concepts, shapes, colour schemes, novel materials or just playing with the known to create something extraordinary. Embracing new interior perspectives and accommodating changing tastes will impact restaurant construction in new and exciting ways.Blue Frog, IndiaHere is an intriguing look at the future of restaurant renovations and design trends in 2020, coupled with images of some of the most beautiful hospitality interiors out there.

Authenticity meets experience-driven design

What makes a restaurant authentic? Is it its location, design concept, menu, service and price point… or the combination of all? More than a spot to eat, restaurants are places we go for nourishment, both physically and spiritually. Restaurant authenticity leads to a positive perceived value and brand trust.Odette, SingaporeYounger patrons are becoming more attuned to what is truly real and expect to be told a “story”. They want to know what makes you stand out from the rest of the industry. What makes you different? The clever use of design is perhaps the easiest way to meet this demand.To merge authenticity and experience, restaurant owners can start off by investing some thought in developing fresh design concepts tailored to reflect what’s most important to guests, and creating unforgettable experiences that engage all the senses, not just taste.Toranomon HOP, JapanSourceReimaging the restaurant concept may also involve offering multiple dining areas and experiences to give patrons a choice of atmosphere. More importantly, service, spatial layout, operation as well as design need to come together to function seamlessly.

Sustainability as a necessity

Sustainability has become a more conscious topic of conversation in the culinaryindustry and will continue to gain momentum going into the new decade. Rightfully so, as designing for today’s health and wellness extends far beyond aesthetics.Nikunotoriko, TokyoSourceWith more eco-related challenges than ever, conscious consumers are increasingly wanting to see brands taking sustainability seriously, and that includes the restaurants they frequent. In response, material transparency is becoming important to restaurant owners, designers and building personnel — opting for more eco-friendly furnishings, paints, flooring and other materials free of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs)Creating a healthier environment for the people working in space and the guests is an essential first step toward making buildings more sustainable. Led lighting has also gone green and has replaced essentially everything. Utilising sustainably-harvested lumber in furniture, walls, and flooring is also showing up as key renovation and design trends for 2020.Nacrée, JapanSourceDoha is one exemplary city in its eco-friendly practices — design and architectural projects are largely driven by sustainability concerns. An elevated awareness of the environment has seen the integration of green design centred around reusable and renewable materials, spatial layouts, lighting aesthetics as well as underlying concepts such as durability and functionality.

Endless colour imagination

Restaurants are not just a service anymore; they have an opportunity to create more memorable visual landscapes that help them stand out. Studying how colours will affect customers is the key to a thriving restaurant business.Le Pain Frances Restaurant, SwedenWith Pantone’s official colour of the year 2020: Classic Blue (“emphasising the “desire for stability, creativity and more spontaneous design approaches”), 2020 predictions point towards striking a balance between minimalism and maximalism, with a few more grounded and bold tones introduced.Dandelyan, LondonSourcePairing this slightly darker blue with warmer tones like dark green and mustard hues is a fantastic way of creating relaxed yet intimate settings, perfect for trendy restaurant and romantic bistros. The return of daring colour palettes: millennial pink and crimson, turquoise and jet black, forest green and muted gold are brightening up spaces across the world.

Instagrammable focal features

Social media users have brilliantly changed the way that many businesses approach their restaurant design. Today’s customers are becoming accustomed to having digital experiences integrated into their everyday lives.Ammo, Hong KongWhatever your aesthetic preferences are — contemporary, traditional or coastal — giving your guests something worth shouting about can provide you with access to a whole host of new customers, and ultimately contribute toward making memorable first impressions. A recent study has revealed that 40.1% of millennials choose a spot based on its instagrammability. The kitschy, colourful and irresistible design features — as well as smells, sounds and drama of a working kitchen, can create quite a buzz.Hueso Restaurant, MexicoConsider introducing statement lighting or combining different materials in unique and intriguing ways. Standout features such wall art, patterned tiling and striking accent walls are great focal points from a design and aesthetic point of view, but also an extension of your brand and a powerful way to generate interest — and hopefully keep customers coming back for seconds.

Outdoor space with a purpose

Many restaurant patrons enjoy having the option of dining outside. To combat this, new restaurant design trends are focusing on installing retractable roofs so the outdoor space can be used all year round.Sirocco Restaurant, ThailandEstablishments with access to a patio or rooftop area are taking full advantage of this trend — making the accommodations for patrons to dine year-round — and offering beautiful views that elevate one’s experience.

Multi-functional, compact furniture

The world of furniture is shifting towards multi-functional, compact pieces, and new restaurant design concepts are riding in on the trend. This is particularly true for establishments that wish to incorporate different types of spaces within a restaurant without sacrificing aesthetics or floor footage.Taka Restaurant, New JerseySourceAdaptive spaces in Qatar’s restaurant landscape are becoming increasingly popular, and furniture has become the central focus in defining the atmosphere within the space. Multi-functional, compact pieces help to break up space visually but also provide different types of seating styles to suit the diverse preferences of customers.

Get started!

Impeccable restaurant interior design requires a deep understanding of the concept, hence engaging an expert restaurant designer will benefit you in a number of ways. Whether you choose to completely remodel or do a few updates to stay trendy, effective design planning, the right interior fit-out and detailed lighting design are vital to the success of any restaurant, from a fast-casual eatery to high-end, fine dining establishments.

Final thoughts

From flexible seating design concepts to create an inviting aesthetic that allows customers to feel at home, 2020 brings exciting renovation and design trends that are predicted to take the culinary scene by storm. Paying attention to every single detail plays an essential role in creating the perfect interior for your restaurant concept, target audience and ideal customer experience.

Restaurant Design and Interior Layout - The Ultimate Guide

These days, eating out is an opportunity to immerse oneself in not only good food and conversation but in an environment that makes the ordinary world feel far, far away. It is a balanced mix of architects, interior designers, engineers, kitchen consultants, lighting designers, health department agents, and building officials working together to launch an all-inclusive and well-curated interior setting.

The way we design the inside and how we place all elements is a very important part of how well a restaurant operates. It does not matter how innovative a design theme is, how good the location is, how exciting the menu looks; if the interior space and layout aren’t just as functional, there are high chances that you will have difficulty in attracting and retaining customers.There are many factors to juggle — What will the restaurant style and atmosphere be like? How can the interior be beautified but still prove functional? Will the safety regulations allow for the design to take form? How are you going to attract patrons and give them an unforgettable experience?... As an aspiring or new restaurant owner, this complete guide will surely be the inspiration you need to design the ultimate restaurant.

Business plan

Planning is an integral part of the food and beverage industry. Imminent success is guaranteed when proper planning and strategies are enforced from the conceptual phase on-forth.SourceA restaurant business plan is a step by step blueprint from which you can start to piece together everything; from your management team to menu design and developing your ideas into a reality. It will prove the viability of your concept, with an engaging answer to the question: “What does this new restaurant offer that’s not on the market already?”The strongest business plans always include all or most of these components:

• executive summary
• vision and concept
• location analysis
• management team
• services
• sample menu
• interior design
• market overview
• business structure
• financial analysis

Types of restaurants

The range in the different types of restaurants continues to expand — varying from your executive fine dining establishment featuring a three-page wine menu to hip downtown burger eatery that serves a variety of hot sauces and cocktails.SourceYou have probably eaten at a restaurant and felt confused? Like an instance where the menu didn’t fit the overall ambience (too costly for a casual restaurant or too casual for a high-end restaurant). Usually, when this occurs, customers aren’t always looking forward to a repeat visit.To help avoid new restaurant growing pains, the initial stages of planning should involve coming up with an overall concept. Below are some basic restaurant types to decide from:

• casual dining
• family style
• fine dining or high-end
• fast casual
• fast food or quick serve restaurant
• café or bistro
• buffet
• pop-up restaurant

Restaurant regulations

The laws affecting restaurant businesses are diverse; mostly ranging from local building codes to health department regulations for foodservice operations.It’s a requirement to submit your floor plan for approval so that appropriate departments can sign off on operational elements that relate to your business; such as maximum occupancy, fire hazards, ventilation, food surface types, sink placement, ventilation, restroom regulations, and more.

Restaurant supplies, utilities, and catering equipment

An in-depth supplier database background research in your area is crucial to smooth operations. Convenience and promptness are very important also to the overall operations of the business.Don’t ignore your budget. Compare prices. Online reviews also help to make sure you choose the best vendors and suppliers that will contribute to the smooth running of the restaurant.

Restaurant floor plan

A successful floor plan is based on how it directs movement — or foot traffic. Make sure to consider all possible routes: where deliveries will be shipped in and how they shall be taken to storage, how chefs move from pantry to food prep, how servers pick up orders and bring them to the tables, and varying levels of comfort and privacy. Keep an eye out for areas where crowding could possibly occur.Essentially, the planning and design of a restaurant should dedicate 60% area in a floor plan to the dining area while the other 40% goes to the kitchen, storage, freezer, etc.The floor plan is commonly comprised of specific furniture elements such as dining booths, moveable tables and chairs, and bars/countertops. The dining area of a restaurant should also be flexible enough to adapt to unexpected demands.

Ceiling design

Above is where one looks when they enter a space for the first time. Why? It is a subconscious reaction ordered by the brain. From the beginning of human life, people tended to look up when they entered an unknown territory for safety reasons.Today, people look up when they step into a new place out of curiosity. In fact, this is the reason why it’s very significant to have a unique ceiling design that would captivate customers when they visit an establishment.

Entrance

The entranceway represents a key element — it can emphasise the hospitality the staff will deliver or it can bring forth the theme of the restaurant. A good entrance contributes to the natural flow of the interior layout. Signage, entrance lighting and waiting area ambience and decorations are just a few areas to consider when designing a new restaurant.

Storage

There should be enough room for food storage. This may include a walk-in refrigerator, a walk-in freezer and a dry storage area with plenty of shelf space. A new, spacious walk-in refrigerator is a must have for a new restaurant, since refrigeration failures are common and can result in serious losses. Store area is traditionally designed adjacent to the kitchen. This serves as a storage facility for the kitchen and cutlery of the restaurant.

Restrooms

The most revealing moment guest experiences in a restaurant may not be at the table but in the bathroom. A well maintained bathroom reflects a clean establishment and reinforces that you genuinely care for your guests. Having the restroom as an afterthought should be a thing of the past as a number of surveys suggest that more than 80% of consumers would avoid a restaurant with a dirty restroom.Above all, it is essential to keep the restrooms away from guest tables and, where possible, away from the kitchen entry; movement to the restroom near tables or the kitchen path can negatively affect the customer experience and waiter efficiency. These spaces should be clear and free of odour in order not to tarnish the image of your establishment.

Heating and ventilation

People are comfortable in instances where there are thermal comfort and indoor air quality (achieved by temperature, humidity control good and ventilation).The heat is expectedly high (especially in kitchens) due to cooking, lighting, electrical equipment and the number of clients. HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning) forms the backbone for achieving a functional restaurant design.

Restaurant theme

Many new restaurants are building their business around a central theme or concept, and those concepts extend to how the dining space is organised and designed. The theme needs to be decided earlier on in the design process, as this is what will contribute to the majority of your design decisions.SourceThere are so many various options for restaurants when it comes to concept ideas. An apparent theme, for instance, would be to base it around the type of cuisine the restaurant specialises in. Whether it’s Arabic, Mexican, Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Turkish or Indian, you can utilise the food’s country of origin when designing, and make it as subtle or as obvious as you like.Subtle themes, such as a modern diner, contemporary bar theme or romantic restaurant theme will also get customers into your restaurant — it’s just a question of considering the kind of atmosphere you’re looking to create.Of course, before settling on a theme, the aspect of longevity plays a huge role. Whilst you may have the budget for further future renovations, ultimately you may want to be more realistic and pick a theme that will stand the test of time, instead of a fleeting trend that will soon be a thing of the past. Think about coming into your establishment in five or seven years’ time — will it still be as appealing and exciting as it is now?

Colour scheme

The use of colour to elevate an interior space into an upscale restaurant should never be taken for granted or be an afterthought. Colour affects far more than just the aesthetics: it can touch on the mood of inhabitants; stimulating different emotions in many ways including what food they choose or the amount of money they decide to spend.SourceDifferent colours stimulate different subconscious reactions and can profoundly impact feelings of hunger, thirst, alertness etc. For this reason, specific colours in interior design are suggested for certain restaurant formats.

Decorating with warm tones enhances the mood as well as taking on double duty to entice your clientele into having a good experience.Cooler shades send a psychological impulse that makes people think that the temperature is more calm and relaxed.Having a great dining experience will essentially give pleasant memories of the restaurant atmosphere.These feel-good memories, in turn, will play a huge impact in inviting your clientele to come back for a repeat visit.

Popular restaurant interior colours and their impact on customers include:

Light neutral colours: white, beige, and light grey

Like with any other small interior space, painting interior walls with any of the light colours will help you make a compact restaurant feel roomier and airy. Light hues such as white and beige have been proved to evoke a leisurely and sophisticated atmosphere, making guests want to stay more as they feel cosy and relaxed.

Relaxing colours: green and brown

Green is known to be associated with nature, as it creates a calm atmosphere within and around interior spaces. Painting the restaurant green communicates freshness and healthy options. Health-based restaurants should apply a calm tone of green on their walls, and a little hint of woody brown helps convey a more elegant experience.

Strong appetite stimulants: bright shades of red, orange and yellow

Yellow, orange and red are widely used in logo design as they are the most comfortable colours to see. These colours are known to increase heart rate and blood pressure while creating an exciting emotion, resulting in fast consumption and early exits. Therefore, it is advisable that this colour palette is used for places which have a high footfall and require customers to move along quickly.

Furniture

The furniture determines the nature, quality and overall style of your restaurant. Comfort is a worthy consideration; will guests feel wowed when they’re sitting for half an hour or more? The external design and visibility matter too. Is your furniture handcrafted and ornately styled? Is it minimalistic and in tune with the times?Picking the right chairs and tables for a restaurant is no easy task. Many parameters are taken into account: the price, design and space constraints. On that note, design alone should never take precedence over comfort and functionality. Regular changes may have to be maintained from time to time to suit the customers’ needs.

Chairs, barstools, booths and benches

Seating comes with many possibilities, unlike tables. There are single chairs, stools, booths, sofas or a mix of them. Next, you have to decide on material and finishing: wooden, leather, metal or plastic. The decisions though should reflect the desired ambience and theme.For example, sofas and booths usually fit well in a family-friendly restaurant and casual eateries as they add to the intimacy of the meal. On the other hand, elegant leather chairs are a better choice for formal or fine dining restaurants.

Square, rectangular and circular tables

Restaurant chairs go hand in hand with the table choice. They should comfortably fit under the table and match the design. Square tables are the most popular shaped table in restaurants.They are used alone to cater for two or four guests or can be close together to cater for larger groups. Rectangle shape tables are suited for restaurants at which larger groups are expected; while circular tables are used in more casual establishments.

Lighting

A well done interior design will improve people's mood and having the right lighting is a key part of making sure your restaurant does so. The correct lighting can turn patrons into loyal customers.Source

Exterior lighting is crucial

Correctly lighting the exterior of the building helps to draw attention to the restaurant and let potential diners know that it is open for business. The lighting has to add appeal to the exterior and provide enough illumination to give a sense of security and visibility.

Layer light to set the mood and accent the decor

In order to have the proper lighting effect, you'll need a couple of layers of light to set the tone for space and distinguish the different area. Ambient light contributes to the general level of lighting, while accent lighting can focus attention to the architectural elements of the room. Direct illumination will also be necessary for areas such as cash registers, bar area, and the kitchen.

Pay attention to light presentation

The restaurant lighting should show the true colour of the food and drinks being served. If the lighting changes the colour of the food, it detracts from the visual impression and the overall dining experience.

Setting an ambience

The right mood setting or ambience plays a pivotal role in customer satisfaction and retention. So, even though your design scheme and fantastic food will undoubtedly be the main focus of your operations, it’s important not to underestimate basic decisions such as the aroma and music in the planning process.SourceScents that trigger a response in most people are requisite; for example, lavender has a relaxing effect on the human brain. Vanilla and chamomile aid in reducing stress, depression and anxiety while citrus and peppermint can enhance alertness.There are also smells that can influence how we perceive a room. Apple and cucumber scents will make a room feel more open and airy while barbecue smoke, makes a room feel compact and stuffy than it really seems.Music decisions can also change everything. A certain tune may immediately transport you to a different time and place. In the right atmosphere, music is not just notes — it’s an experience.Decide on whether you want to create a fun, casual vibe for game days or a romantic spot suitable for date nights. Thinking of your guests' needs will be a handy reference point for the overall ambience scent and music choice.

Menu design

Wondering how to create a restaurant menu? Once the decision on the concept of the restaurant is finalised, you’ll need to think about the menu because at the heart of any successful marketing plan is a well thought-out menu design.When writing your menu, it’s important to understand the link between your kitchen and your menu, as well as the client demography the restaurant is looking to attract. The size of your kitchen will have a direct impact on the size and style of the menu at the offer.More importantly, your menu should be able to convey the restaurants’ brand identity, in the manner that will educate a guest about the experience they are about to receive, get them excited to be there and make them want to come back.

Staff uniform

The role of uniforms in the hospitality industry is manifold. First of all, it identifies the working staff in the restaurant, instils guest confidence and protects the restaurant image by creating and emphasising the brand. In addition, it promotes a productive working environment that meets all the safety and health requirements.To attract high-end customers, you may want to opt for a uniform that matches the atmosphere of the business, such as a neat, crisply professional look — like formal waistcoats and pants. On the other hand, a casual café is likely to spot a more laid-back uniform style that still looks professional and neat.Very formal settings often follow the tradition of formal gatherings: hence uniforms in a neutral palette of black or navy with white or beige are most common. For more casual settings, consider a vibrant colour choice, as long as it’s in line with your brand and the energy level of the restaurant.

Final thoughts

It’s not enough to design a pretty restaurant space; it should be functional and smart, too. To make the most out of every inch in your rented building, proper planning and layout are needed to ensure the great customer experience.However, getting your restaurant interior design completed shouldn’t be your only priority. Making sure it’s done correctly is also crucial to its operation, workflow and circulation. Have as many hands on deck as you need to ensure a seamless and consistent process.To avoid getting lost in the details, it’s best to contact and hire a consultant or interior design company to visit your restaurant and help adjust its floor layout, lighting, flooring, paint colours, furniture, and decoration.The team of professionals are trained to be organised, creative, and versatile — and will make it a point to focus on the design elements that make up a functional space — and provide you with a unique interior engineering process that facilitates a successful operational circulation in the eatery.This means you have ample time to focus on the business aspect of things without having to approve every design detail; which saves you time and money in the long run. After all, it’s their job to make sure the finished product reflects your restaurant’s essence and ultimate goals.

Small Bathroom Design Ideas to Make the Most of Your Space

Bathroom layouts can be challenging, but a small, dark and uninspiring bathroom can be particularly frustrating. Are you ready to finally give yours an overhaul? Well, if your bathroom is short on space, there’s no better time to give it a fresh, updated look.

Whether it's a tiny powder room, a cramped up en-suite or a shower stall with barely enough room, it's time to step outside of your comfort zone and give this room the love it deserves. From clever storage options to smart finishes, a compact space can be stylish, practical and, with the right know-how, space-efficient.We have put together a few tips and tricks for designing a perfect small bathroom space!

Be smart with storage

A compact bathroom space doesn’t have to look cluttered or cramped when you incorporate the right storage. Instead of filling the room with large traditional cabinets, opt for wall-mounted open shelving to save floor space and make your small bathroom appear more open.SourceEven better, open shelves allow you to showcase your colourful, textured towels and bathroom accessories. This not only adds warmth and playful colours to your interior but will turn the most modest of bathrooms into an enviable space in minutes.Ideally, you may want to opt for glass shelving to add brightness and lightness to space and avoid cutting off the room in the way regular shelving would. Floating glass shelves offer storage for your everyday bathroom essentials without drawing the eye away from the overall décor scheme.

Think stylish but functional

When you have a tiny bathroom layout, it’s easy to feel frustrated trying to create a functional space without compromising on style. But the good news is that a well-thought-out small bath space can be both gorgeous and practical.SourceKnowing how to eliminate unnecessary clutter and adding only design elements that are functional is key to achieving the desired décor scheme. Architecturally and visually, it is best to keep things simple and choose furniture and accessories with clean lines to create a feeling of space.

Plan your colour palette

There’s no doubt that the colours you choose for a small bathroom interior will have a huge impact on the look and feel. Hence, when it’s time to paint, make sure to have planned your colour scheme to suit the size of the room.SourceIn a tight bathroom space, white and neutral greys are often a reasonable pick to make the room seem bright and airy as possible. While conventional neutral colours are best for small spaces, bright and bold hues in a tiny bathroom can really bring the interior together and give a small, drab room energy and personality.More importantly, how you paint your bathroom can also help give an illusion of height. For instance, painting a darker shade halfway up a wall creates a distance from the upper portion of the wall. Whereas if the wall was all one shade of colour, the room wouldn’t have as much dimension and depth.Alternatively, you may add a dark colour of choice to your ceiling and keep the rest of the room lighter. This helps draw the eye up and give the room an illusion of height. These clever, yet simple paint tricks are a great way to make a small space appear larger than it really is.

Characterise with an unusual accent

To create a real wow factor, despite a small square-footage, add a hearty dose of colour or unexpected metal finishes to inject charm and personality into a bathroom interior otherwise at risk of feeling clinical and characterless.SourceTry to transform the fixtures, like the door handle, knobs and even drain, into a brass or gold colour for a unique, yet elegant touch to the bathroom. This will give the space a new vibe and allow the room design as a whole to feel clean and open (but not overwhelming).

Make use of corner spaces

When working with compact bathroom design, it can really make a significant difference to make use of every available inch of space without ever sacrificing on aesthetics. And when you’re working with a tight space, those desolate corners can come in handy indeed.SourceAn obvious choice will be to transform an empty corner into a practical storage area with a specially designed corner vanity. But an offset quadrant shower enclosure has become a worthy contemporary design statement in most homes — or if you prefer a bath then you might want to consider a corner bathtub instead.Incorporating a corner bathtub can break visual monotony in tiny contemporary bathrooms, and their distinctive curves and unique style bring contrast to a space dominated by simple, straight lines. Both corner showers and bathtubs can be large enough to create a more open and airy ambience while offering a totally luxurious experience.

Install a skylight

Many small bathroom ideas just toss out the whole idea of sufficient lighting. Natural light is the key to brighten the interior and significantly improve the look and comfort of the room. Skylights are a great option for when conventional windows aren’t enough.SourceA Skylight doesn’t have to be grand and dominating to have a great visual impact. A modest size is enough to open up a dull and dreary space into a cheerful, exciting room with a new lease on life. Opt for light, muted hues for the rest of your bathroom’s decor scheme so that the natural light is reflected around.

Swap sconces for pendants

Here is another best decor suggestion for small bathroom ideas, swap sconces for hanging light fixtures! Although in vogue right now, wall-mounted sconces can take up a lot of useful space. Simple pendants are a subtle accent with a big aesthetic impact.SourceIf your bathroom is on the petite side, consider hanging a pair of handsome pendant lights on each side of your vanity and the whole room will feel more considered and complete. That way you'll free up wall space for hand towel holders or larger wall mirrors.An oversized pendant light over the bathtub creates visual interest and draws attention away from the compact feel of the room while highlighting a prominent bathroom feature. Look for a light fixture with an unexpected finish, preferably one with plenty of texture or geometric lines for a unique decor finish.

Trick the eye with tiles

As design experts know, the amount of floor footage you have and what the eye perceives isn’t necessarily the same thing. Play with the boundaries of perception by using the same tiles on the walls and around the edge of the bath — it makes it hard to distinguish when one begins and the other one ends, thereby making your space feel larger.SourceAnother tile trick that will help open up your space is to blend the floor tiles with those on the wall — that is, pick tiles in the same colours across the floor and the walls to continue the seamless appearance throughout the entire space. This eliminates the dividing lines which canoccur as a result of breaks in colour or tile design and allows your eye to travel fluidly around the room.

Complement dark floors with lighter walls

With small bathrooms, you want to be strategic with your colour scheme. Using lots of different colours and patterns in your bathroom makes it appear cluttered. Soft hues reflect more light and make a tiny bathroom feel spacious. Dark, moody colours or bold graphic patterned tiles can be reserved for the floor as long as the overall scheme is kept light and simple.SourceFor a bathroom interior space with wood floors, look for shower tiles that are slightly lighter than the wood in colour and tone. This will create a contemporary look without the jarring visual breaks to shrink your perception of the space.

Splurge on finishes

A smaller bathroom won’t cost as much to remodel, so if you have the cash, splurge a little for some higher-quality fixtures, tiles and finishes. It’s time to break out of thinking that a small bathroom isn’t worth the money.SourceChoose quality materials for your accent lighting fixtures, add a towel warmer, swap the toilet for a new floating style, upgrade to a glass shower door and see how this tiny space transforms into a million bucks’ sanctuary.

Wall-mount everything

In a tight bathroom space, float everything: toilet, cabinetry and basin, to allow the floor space to breathe. Not to mention, the peep of flooring underneath makes the area feel a notch more open.SourceBecause our eye tends to judge space by analysing the floor area, the last thing you need are fixtures that further crowd your floor space. You also utilise valuable wall space, which is often left bare.

Opt for a seamless glass shower door

If space is at a premium, consider a modern walk-in shower surrounded by seamless glass. Seamless glass doors may be more expensive than a shower curtain, but will definitely win on durability, simplicity and openness.SourceEven better, a glass enclosure emphasises visual pass-through and brings natural lighting beautifully into the room.

Exaggerate space with a mirror

If there’s one item that does an incredible job at creating the illusion of more space, it’s a mirror. Splurge on an oversized mirror with a stunning frame, or go wall-to-wall with a custom-sized piece.SourceThe effect can be so powerful that you need little else to make the room look perfectly finished. This can be particularly effective in solving design dilemmas in slim rooms with small walls and insufficient lighting.

Small Living Room Ideas to Maximize your Space

Size is not measured in square feet; hence the best living room designs are those that balance the use of limited space, smart storage, and functional furniture.

It's only natural to want your home to look and feel it's absolute best — and there's something incredibly thrilling about size-challenged decorating that really forces you to get creative.But in such modest proportions, designing a tiny living room can be a minefield. You’ll obviously make tons of mistakes along the way — but when decorated well using a few simple tricks, small living rooms can look seriously stylish.So, we've rounded up some of our go-to upgrades, alongside inspirational interior images, to help you decide the best ways to expand your square footage without any demolition; and make your space feel large enough to serve all your entertaining and lounging dreams.

Add an illusion of space with mirrors

Tiny, often-overlooked spaces present countless creative opportunities to take advantage of. And the best way to get started is to use decorative mirrors to create an illusion of more space.Mirrors make a boxed-in room feel open and airy, especially when placed strategically. For dramatic impact, opt for multiple mirrors to reflect any and all light available in the living room.If you place a large or multiple pieces on the adjacent wall to your biggest window, all the better — the mirror will reflect the most light and add depth all at once.However, if you have a tiny living room that’s short on windows, try placing a tall mirror behind furniture to create the visual impression of another room opening up beyond.

Play up the light with light-weight curtains

Curtains have the power to completely transform a room; they bring in color, pattern and a feeling of comfort to an interior space.When in pursuit of the perfect curtain for a small living room, think about function before style.If yours are bulky and in darker shades, why not swap them for the lightweight fabric to allow more light into space. Opt for white or pale colors to let in tons of natural light and increase the brightness of a room.

Add extra seating with a window seat

One way to maximize the potential of a small space is to turn a window niche into a mini living area with a window seat.When selecting the ideal seat, you may want to opt for slender, sleek furniture that takes up less visual space. These pieces of furniture help fool the eye into thinking space is less cluttered.Topped with simple plump cushions, this becomes a beautiful retreat that makes it easy to read, converse, or sit and gaze at the landscape and sky.

Design to emphasize the vertical

In any interior space, there is both a vertical dimension and a horizontal one.If your living room lacks in square footage and surface area but has a high ceiling, you can get a lot of mileage out of extra space by decorating it in a manner that draws the eye upwards.Floor-to-ceiling drapes are a stylish way to take advantage of vertical space. This technique will not only accentuate tall windows but will add airiness and height to a compact living room.Similarly, eclectic wallpaper or a menagerie of small to midsize artwork also emphasizes the vertical dimension by inviting the eye to roam beyond the eye-level, making a confined space feel far larger and grander than it actually is.

Distract with statement pieces

Don’t let a living room that’s limited in size stop you from making a big décor statement.Pick one or two well-curated items, such as an eye-catching artwork or a bold and hefty light fixture to create a dramatic design moment. Adding an attention-grabbing accent piece brings a fresh twist to a tiny space while creating contrast and intrigue.Keep the rest of the room relatively clutter free to balance scale and draw attention away from the room’s size.

Opt for a large area rug

Looking for another trick to make a room feel bigger? Choose a rug large enough to visually set apart the floated sitting area from the room’s other functions.A rug is both functional and stylish, but more importantly, it anchors a space and provides a stage for furnishings.Unlike small rags, a large size gives a small space a sense of structure while also providing an illusion of additional length and width. Just make sure it’s big enough to accommodate all legs of furniture, so it doesn’t give the illusion of shrinking space.

Use neutral color throughout

To design a room that lacks in surface area, you need to pull out every trick in the book to give it an illusion of a bigger space.Using a neutral color scheme is perhaps one of the best ways to push back the walls and make your room seem open and bright. What’s even more fantastic about neutral tones is that they are easy on the eye, and makes the room’s interior feel ultra-modern, sophisticated and expensive.While white, beige and soft grey may seem like obvious choices, they aren’t the only options. Muted shades of blush pink, pale blue, dusky lilacs and a subtle green can evoke a fresh, warm and inviting ambiance, and won’t make the walls feel closed in.Light bounces off these muted hues beautifully — and using a similar color on your ceiling can accentuate the sense of cozy and intimacy even further.

Opt for visually lightweight furniture

Light-colour furniture pieces that have a lightweight appearance keep things looking spacious.When shopping for furniture for a small living room, ideally, you may want to pick out pale colors over darker once; and select leggy pieces, glass table tops and see-through furnishings that make a room seem less constrict.

Do scale down on furniture

Any furnishing that consumes very little visual space will make an area seem more open.For instance, playing with proportion and scale, like a lower couch with thin arms and a tightly upholstered back, helps create a feeling of volume in the room.In any case, low-profile, streamlined furniture, particularly sofas, won’t appear to overpower or dominate the space.Alternatively, you make use two loveseats or ottomans in place of a traditional sofa and coffee table. The light-weight design and small scale work well in a compact apartment space — they are better for traffic flow and offer more arranging options to play with.

Keep the room feeling cozy

Turn a cramped living room with a few décors touches to make it into a cozy haven.You can start off by adding a mural accent wall to give the space some much-needed dimension. Introduce a homely leather armchair or a natural flooring rug to take the chill off a compact nook — then layer in tactile cushions and a soft throw for a complete designer touch.The idea is to lean towards a less-crowded and functional interior that still feels cozy and super welcoming.

Make furniture multi-functional

When you lack the luxury of space, hard-working, multi-functional furniture pieces are your best friends.A pouf can easily turn into a coffee table; you still have a spot to place a book or remote, but also able to provide extra seating when you have guests over.You can also invest in a sofa with storage under the seat, allowing you to clear away any clutter at a moment’s notice.Most small apartment living room furniture proves that the right piece can be used in multiple ways and still look stunning, despite the shape and size of the room.

Float a selection of furniture

When floor space is at a premium, floating your furniture tricks the eye into thinking less space has been used up.Think furniture pieces that don’t touch the floor or can be easily wall-mounted. For example, a hanging lucite chair makes an ideal apartment living room furniture — it’s see-through, eliminates the clutter of legs, creates an illusion of extra space and it’s super fun and funky.A mounted sconce in replacement of a floor lamp; a mounted wall holder instead of a coat rack… the options are endless!

Display artwork strategically

The classic tip of decorating with art is still spot-on advice for small room decorating ideas. Bringing artwork up draws the eye upwards and sets the tone in a small space.A gallery wall can make a smaller space stylishly inviting — and when it extends to the ceiling, the eye is instantly drawn to this standout feature, and gives it an illusion of visual height.

Keep your space alive

Nothing prettifies a small, sort of sad living space like decorating with greenery.Blooming perennials and leafy beauties like fern and spider plants are perfect for blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Like wallpapers and decorative accents, plants can effortlessly at color, texture, and depth to a small living room.Get creative with how you add them to your space — hang lush greenery as to not take up any precious floor space and allow them to fool the eye into thinking there is more to the room than there really is.

Layer your lighting

Why is layering light in interior design essentially?Well… firstly, it helps create an atmosphere in a room. But, more importantly, putting together different lighting in a small living room create a particular mood and interest.​The way you layer and play with lighting can take a dull, confined space far from basic. Combining different types and keeping light sources at multiple levels — floor lamps, chandelier, and task lights — is the secret weapon for illuminating a tiny living room, making it feel bigger and more visually appealing.

Bring storage near the ceiling

Instead of dotting lots of different types of furniture pieces around a room, why not make use of vertical space by devoting the top of the living room wall to storage.Cleaver living room storage can give a tiny space grand character and maximum function — floating shelves, ladder style shelving, and wall mounted magazine racks are some of the smart ways to incorporate plenty of storage and display opportunities with a minimal footprint.

Keep it simple but stylish

A small space obviously presents a few design challenges, and it’s easy for furniture to take over the personality of the room.When you don’t have a ton of room to play with, you may want to keep things simple… but simply doesn’t mean boring. Since this is the spot where we spend most of our time, it’s important to imbue the room with décor elements that reflect your personality and taste.Start off by mixing vibrant colors, varying textures, and patterns to keep things fresh and lively; and infuse a few neutral elements to keep the scheme of things from feeling overdone.A mix of metallic finishes, sentimental knickknack or personal artwork injects a sophisticated flair into a small space.

Ways to Incorporate a Pop of Color Into Any Space

Moving away from well-curated and sophisticated neutrals, modern trends are feeling braver and edgier with bold and bright color choices. The best aesthetics always have a story to tell; bringing a sense of adventure to any space in a variety of ways.Dipping a room in deliciously inviting hues and giving it an exciting boost instantly set the mood and tone for the rest of your home.From a vibrant accent wall to decorative accessories and statement rugs; below, we look at stylish ways to revamp your home into one that will brighten your spirits.

Rich and bold seating

Finding an element that adds energy to your décor scheme is a great way to create a space that makes you happy.SourceSelecting a perfect sofa for your home is a great investment — not only does it anchor the living room, but it’s also a fantastic piece to introduce color and personality.Switch from the “safe” neutral and opt for an eye-catching design either in a bold solid color, or one with visually interesting graphic patterns.To get it right, decide on a color or print that you’ll be happy to live with for a long time to come.

Vibrant wallpaper prints

Walking into a room and being confronted by a colorful decorative feature can be both delightful and intriguing.From the bedroom to the powder room and beyond, wallpaper is a stunning way to breathe new life and artistry into your home. Tropical patterns that mix plenty of lush and energizing greens are effortlessly chic and strongly in vogue.Similarly, 3D geometric prints lend a mid-century touch and are a stunning way to add character and an unexpected twist to a ceiling.

Explore colorful bathroom tiles

Injecting color into your bathroom can transform the space from sterile and uninviting into a rebranded sanctuary for you to indulge and unwind.SourceA wide variety of bathroom tiles allows you the freedom to play with different shades and patterns to draw attention to a focal point.For an instant, accent mosaic tiles in jewel-tone hues are so on-trend — they add character and charm while giving off an eclectic jolt.Consider the style you wish to achieve and remember it is the small things that give a bathroom space the wow-factor. You may want to choose tiles in two or three shades instead of one, to create a strong sense of contrast.

Color personality with floor coverings

Accent rugs are the perfect finishing in any interior aesthetic — they lighten up a room’s décor and infuse color and personality to a typically cold space.Persian rugs, for example, are known to bring in undeniable charm and sophisticated flair to the scheme of things. Not only are they comfortable under-foot, but they also make a huge visual impact.Use one that ties the lounge or bedroom color scheme for a truly cohesive look or add fullness and cozy between the kitchen island and perimeter countertops.

Art is always a good idea

A striking piece of art can add an instant pop of color and accentuate the room’s interior into something far from basic.SourceThere are interesting ways to display art in your home without it looking tacky. A room dominated by a neutral color palette can act as a perfect backdrop for an art piece that incorporates few bold colors.The artwork adds a punch and takes center stage without detracting from the rest of the room’s decorative elements.Alternatively, if you have a gallery of art displayed in your home, painting the backdrop in a vibrant shade; think statement blues, tonal reds and energizing oranges will make the colors in your art vividly pop.

Incorporate flowers and plants

Plants and floors are increasingly being seen as a way to boost up a room’s overall appeal and ambiance.SourceColorful foliage such as Red Aglaonema, Fittonia, and Croton can bloom throughout the season and transition beautifully from the garden into the home.Hang flowers like lavender to add color and give your home a deep characteristic fragrance — when grouped in an attractive arrangement, they act as a gorgeous centerpiece.Use equally stunning decorative vases and unique planters to add to the room’s personality.

Make your kitchen pop

You can never go wrong with a classic white kitchen; however, a pop of color keeps things visually interesting.SourceIf the idea of committing to an entirely vibrant space freaks you out, try working with one accent at a time. Think emerald green cabinets, indigo stools or maybe a special extra touch of a red accent wall — the results, subtle yet striking.When experimenting with color, you may want to keep your floor choice simple; perhaps work with a hardwood floor in a beautiful, natural patina.

7 Practical Design Ideas to Make Your Home Look Luxurious

Luxurious homes have a distinctive aura about them; they exude sophisticated flair, feel spacious and effortless, and are expensive, most of the time. But the secret to homes that look elegant and opulent is that not everything in them actually comes with a high price tag.A touch of affordable home décor finishes can simply help lavish a space.Because we are all for stylish and statement interiors; below are some ways to fake fanciness, without looking cheap… or breaking the bank.

Bring in metallic accents

It probably goes without saying that infusing hints of shiny metal accents can accentuate the room’s appeal and make it look elegant and opulent.What’s more special about metal finishes is that they fit well with every design style; from the minimal to the maximal, while seamlessly bringing in warmth, texture, and depth to space.Gold, brass, silver and copper work especially well when paired with jewel-tone colors like emerald green, ruby red, yellow topaz, and sapphire blue — and rich and soft fabrics such as velvet and silk.Test your tolerance with the inclusion of metal in key pieces like light fixtures, occasional tables or stools, sculptural vases, ornaments, and picture frames.

Add something soft to treat your feet

Be it an entrance hall, lounge area, bedroom or dining space, laying down an ultra-stylish rug is the perfect way to lavish your house interior scheme.No matter how minimal the décor and spirit of your home may be, a good quality rug usher in an irresistible cozy aesthetic and provides a stage for furnishings, giving them a visual home in the room.Choose one that complements the room’s colors and textures, and adds an element of comfort and warmth.

Make your home feel spacious with mirrors

Besides adding sparkle and a touch of elegance, mirrors are a fantastic way to open up your space and maximize a room’s style.Even better, they play a more supportive role in any home décor scheme; for instance, an accent mirror can easily become focal in a room and also act as the artwork in minimal settings.Go for something unique and a little bolder for an instant wow factor: a frame in a geometric shape, a finish in shiny glints of gold, and a size too big, extra big!

Decorate tastefully with lighting

A bold and hefty crystal chandelier can spruce things up over a dining table, add modern sophistication in the entrance hall, or take center stage in a large bathroom — and at the same time, an ornamental or sculptural lamp can accentuate your living room into a beautiful showcase.Add depth and luxurious sense of comfort with the right lighting and witness how your house interior design transforms into a seamless combination of functionality and style.

Introduce various textures with cushions

The hallmark of sophistication and luxurious living lies in the textures and fabrics incorporated into an interior space.Cushions are the perfect feature; they add warmth and cozy to a room and complete any design style with additional opulence. Layer plush cushions in different fabrics: velvet, wool, cotton, faux fur on a sofa or bed to create a fashionable and elevated style statement. Your room is sure to look even more enticing with all its coziness!

Invest in statement artwork

Statement art breathes life and soul into space and can become its focal point that doubles as a conversation starter.Art goes just about anywhere, but for it to look special, invest in pieces that make space feel true to you. For visual impact, create a gallery wall with pieces that tell a story — it’s these little details that enhance the room’s aesthetics and create a casual yet sophisticated vibe.

Refresh your room with a classic color palette

Regardless of the latest trends in interior colors, a neutral palette exudes warmth and sophistication that’s often hard to resist.They allow the room’s architectural elements and textures to take center stage and blend together with a subtlety that creates a luxurious appeal. Soft grey, sandy beige, sea glass blue, taupe, fern green, and ivory are just some of the shades that add an elegant feel to any interior aesthetic.

5 Easy Interior Design Trends That You Can Add to Your Home

Entertaining during the holidays and looking to jazz up your home?Or are you simply on the lookout for an easy way to freshen up your home?Here are 5 easy ways to add some drama to any space!

Geometric Patterns

Geometric patterns have made a splash in recent years as a design feature. These patterns are easy to incorporate with your preexisting style or can be used by themselves for a whole new look and feel.Try adding in an upholstered armchair or coffee table that will draw focus and attention.If you’re looking for a more casual way to add in some fun patterns, maybe consider a geometric rug or throw. These additions are both cheap and non-permanent and are perfect to try out if the thought of a permanent fixture is overwhelming.These additions don’t have to furnishings either. Look for geometric vases, lamps or candle holders. Extra points for gold pieces!

Plants

Greens are in! Indoor plants have been all the rage lately. With many people finding it difficult to spend time outdoors, plants are a great way to add a bit of nature indoors!Apart from the breath of fresh air, plants also make for an aesthetically pleasing element.They work especially best in neutral rooms where the hint of green can brighten up your space. Adding a nature element also creates a more living space rather than a stale environment.Plants also improve breathing air quality and homes with indoor plants have lower pollutant levels. Another added benefit is the sound absorption quality of plants resulting in a more quiet space.Plants have another decorative element in way of the pots that they come in. If you’re looking to add color to your space, find a colored planter pot!

Accent Lighting

Lighting is a pretty essential component of Interior Design. Accent lighting, in particular, is a great (and cheap) way to jazz up any space.It can be used to highlight a focal point of interest such as bookcases, art, fireplaces, sculptures and/or plants. which can change the mood and add drama to any spatial interior.It can also be used to expand the visual perception of a room thereby making it look bigger than it really is. This is particularly useful when dealing with tight spaces.Lighting options are pretty endless. Do you have a neutral space that you’re looking to brighten up? Think a funky lamp that can work as an interesting element.A teenager’s bedroom that needs a little lift? Try pretty fairy lights that are both an easy and cheap option. If you’re looking for a pretty simple and easy new addition, consider lighting!

Marble Accents

If you turn to Pinterest for design inspiration, you will notice a comeback in Marble decoration. While authentic marble tiling is expensive, you can jump in on the trend by adding small faux marble knick-knacks around your home!Consider refreshing your bathroom space by replacing your tired old accessories with faux marbles ones such a marble dispenser, toothbrush holder or storage tray!While mostly seen in and around bathrooms, marble accents are slowly making an appearance all around the house. Marble and gold coffee tables have slowly become a popular trend in the design community.So whether you need a simple makeover or a more elaborate renovation, you may want to consider marble!

Accent Wall

Who doesn’t love a great accent wall? These walls are a fantastic way to liven up any room and create a focal point that draws the attention of inhabitants.The best thing about accent walls is that they are super customizable and no two are alike. There are several ways you can create a unique accent wall!A great way to create an accent wall is to paint your wall one solid color. This works best when a contrasting color is used in relation to the rest of the space.Accent walls can also be created by using the wall as your own art gallery. Putting up pieces of art you enjoy or even your own artwork works great.You can even use large ornate mirrors to create a focal point! Your options are endless.