NASA
ojovivo
h
Game of Thrones Daily
wallacepolsom
we're not kids anymore.
Sweet Seals For You, Always
2025 on Tumblr: Trends That Defined the Year
Show & Tell
i don't do bad sauce passes
@theartofmadeline
art blog(derogatory)
Kaledo Art
One Nice Bug Per Day
he wasn't even looking at me and he found me
Not today Justin
Jules of Nature
🪼
Discoholic 🪩
sheepfilms
seen from United Kingdom
seen from Canada
seen from Türkiye
seen from Bangladesh
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Malaysia
seen from India
seen from Bangladesh
seen from United States
seen from Malaysia
seen from Malaysia
seen from Singapore
seen from Malaysia
seen from South Korea
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Mexico
seen from Malaysia
seen from Brazil
@jenniferings
3.1 Townhouse Brief - Update
So it’s now July and this is my updated design:
Living Room:
and my dining room design:
I’ve done my sampleboard for the Living Room and am just waiting on a couple of samples for the Dining Room before putting it together!
3.1 Townhouse Brief - One step closer
Nearly there. I’ve started to crack it now and feel like I’m onto a winner. I drew up my inked plan today (and literally changed my mind on a few things during this process as I realised some of the layout didn’t quite work).
I then mocked up each decision change in DesignFiles so I could see how it all looks!
The two images above show each end of the Reception Room. This is how I started today: I was still in two minds about the ‘knot rug’ in the bottom image. During inking up I realised that the lovely Kelly Hoppen side table just would not fit next to the sofa like that and it got me thinking, should I have more surface space for drinks/lamps etc? When 8 adults are all watching a film, where are they going to put their drinks!? (crucial!). I’ve also ditched the blue chair (which I would have chosen a different fabric for because the shape is right but the blue doesn’t quite fit the concept), because it doesn’t really fit spatially.
I found some fabulous nesting tables (thanks Eporta), umm-ed and ahh-ed over the coffee table (I still think it fits the concept and just clicks into place, it’s quirky but not over the top) and had a play around with more samples that arrived this week and some of the colours I highlighted from the Little Greene Swatchbook:
Now we have MORE blue (from the concept), reference to trees (concept), wood (concepttttt), linear shapes but also shapes from nature (concept!) and I have added beanbags for extra seating during film nights (8 adults, thats a lot of bums!).
I am still iffy about the blue. I just don’t like it to be honest but I think I have to stick with the concept here. I wonder if this is where I would look to offer a couple of different options for the client to view? Sorta like ‘this blue could also be represented with this floral wallpaper, or we could take it down a notch with a paler blue like THIS’, etc). I am definitely finding myself thinking more about what the client wants (rather than ME!), but of course this is really tricky because I haven’t actually met these fictional people! Also, look at that fabulou Cole & Son Woods Wallpaper. and that rug.
So further to some more samples arriving this week, this is much closer to the final now and I feel I can push forward onto the window treatments and working out wallpaper/paint etc. So close! I’m also going to look more at panelling, and work out how this would bring something to the scheme AND decide on a colour for woodwork/trims etc.
3.1 Townhouse Brief: Walls, Walls, Walls
Today I’ve been looking at the samples that have arrived throughout this week and GOD colour differences on screens really are a pest aren’t they!?
I really liked the tone of the Andrew Martin Japan Powder wallpaper on screen, but it is so much paler than I was expecting that I’m now not sure it would work. But hey ho! It’s a beautiful material so definitely going in my catalogue...
I am really feeling a bit stuck on the wall finishes. I have therefore created some images on ArtiCAD so I can sketch in some ideas digitally including picture rails etc. I need to break up the colours with texture too, so I’m looking at some really high end luxury wallpaper to try and bring it all together.
I’ve also had this urge to add in a mural. I really think something bold and high impact needs to be included in the finishes, and the ceilings are really high (3m!) so imagine a lovely beautiful mural/pattern tying it all together. It would look amazing... IF I can find what I have in my ‘mind’s eye’.
Here are some photos I took while playing around with different sampleboard compositions. This has really helped me in my decision making as I can see more clearly how the samples go together, especially when taking into consideration things like light reflective materials and the texture (rather than just colour) of each sample.
3.1 Townhouse Brief Cont’d - Living Room
This weekend I have concentrated on getting my admin sorted (spreadsheets!) so I can keep track of all the items I have chosen/need to choose/samples to order etc.
I have also changed the layout of the living room! I couldn’t get the rug to sit properly in the space because of the door opening onto the rug (depending on the rug thickness this could be an issue, imagine the door catching on the rug everytime you open it!). So the rug would have had to either a) be smaller or b) move over towards the window and therefore not sit in with the location of the sofa. A smaller rug looked like a ‘rug island’ which is generally a no-no, and of course the final rug options were limited in sizes available.
So I changed the sofa around to the opposite side of the room with the alcove behind it and I actually prefer it. It feels ‘right’, sometimes you just know when you see something that it works better and this is one of those times!
I’m also veering towards having more colour on the walls, but I am waiting for some samples to arrive first so I can see whether the wallpaper I have in mind works with the scheme.
I’m still finding this really challenging, mainly because there is no client feedback. In my day job as a Kitchen Designer, the focus is on the client and you build up a relationship with them, get to know them, meet them in person (or, as per the current pandemic situation, by Zoom!) and gauge their reactions when you show them samples, presentations etc. This is of course an assignment where the client is fictional and it is more about learning about the process, but I still want to get the design right! I am trying to move through the assignment more quickly now, trying to be more decisive, but it is tricky.
Lots more to do, as follows:
- order and receive samples, check against visual concept
- Complete the inked plan now I have decided on the final layout!
- Keep updating spreadsheets with any items added or changed
- Draw out and render the window treatment for the reception room windows (currently this is curtains but I need to consider blinds too).
- Design on SketchUp or ArtiCAD the bespoke cabinetry for alcoves - make this quick and simple!
- Produce 2 x A3 sampleboards (hence why I sorted all my samples this weekend and are starting to get them ready for mounting/presentation)
- Section Drawing (by hand)
- Furniture and Equipment Presentation (Word doc, PPT or I may use Canva because the editing capabilities are better)
- Client Talk through. I may use Loom for this so I can present the digital presentation on screen.
God, that’s an overwhelming list. After this assignment are several more, including Lighting Plans, an axonometric drawing and Colour rendering. CAN TOTALLY DO THIS!
3.1 Townhouse Brief Cont’d - Dining Room
I have developed my dining room design further, as follows:
- I have experimented with different light fittings, and while I liked so many of the options I have chosen the wave-like Mediterranea light fitting as it is the right size and proportion for the table and fits in with the structured yet floaty/draped parts of my concept image
- I have also changed the flooring and the rug, the previous oak flooring was too orange. While there are warmer/orange elements within the concept, the flooring is such a spacially large part of the scheme that the oak choice wasn’t in proportion to the amount of orange in my visual concept. I have therefore opted for a lighter wood tone.
- the new rug choice has lots of graphic elements which again ties in with certain parts of the visual concept (e.g. the ‘stripes’ and grid, and the abstract formation of shapes and lines)
- I have also added some wood panel cladding to draw some attention to the centre of the room, and bring in some of the warmer wood elements that I lost by changing the floor
I ummed and ahhed over the dining table. I personally prefer the table in the earlier images above, however the ‘knotted’ table bases on the glass table were just too good to pass up on, as there is a knot motif in my concept!
Next to fully assess window treatments for the reception room!
3.1 Townhouse Brief - Dining Room
I’ve now started to focus on the layout of the dining room. It needs to accomodate up to 10 people, so a large table is required. Seating space per person (comfortably) is 600mm, so seating 4 people either side and 1 at each end would mean I need to source a dining table of at least 2400mm x 800mm, and of course 10 chairs.
Here I have worked through the dining space starting with the dining table, then the space required for chairs, and finally adding a sideboard/cabinet under the window as a decorative feature and to provide space for tableware, drinks, glasses, etc.
Here are some of the dining tables I sourced for this scheme. Part of the concept image was based on the principle of balance, and I have recreated the balance image in my concept in the form of the table (with a central support, or two symmetrical supports). I did really like the 3rd option in the image below (with the spherical off centre support) but the circular shape of the table is not suitable for the layout of the room (being rectangular rather than square).
These images show some space planning, checking that a table of 2500x1050 (as per the typical dimension of the examples above) would fit well within the space, of course with chairs added too.
Here, I start to experiment with each table choice in line with my visual concept. I have also started considering lighting, rugs, dining chairs and artwork. And of course, the style of door into the reception room!
As I start to move down my ‘Shopping List’ I am feeling more confident in what I’m doing, and really enjoying it, though I feel like there is more work ahead. Part of this is being organised and remembering to record what I’m doing for the assessment. I’m using Design Files to create the above images and floor plans, and this will help me generate a branded Product List/Booklet later on which is part of the presentation to the client (and part of the Brief), so this will help me save some time collating everything and keeping track of all of the products.
3.1 - Townhouse Brief - Layout & Sourcing
I took a break from Diploma work throughout December as my main job was exceptionally busy and then it was Christmas, so here is where I am at with the Townhouse brief:
I have explored layout ideas particularly trying to bottom out the seating arrangements:
I have settled on this layout, with the large corner sofa situated right into the corner. It meets the requirement for number of seats and feels ‘right’ here, too far into the room just didn’t work and it became this mammoth sofa beast in the centre of the room. Nope.
I have also, through process of elimination, chosen some final finishes and furniture/accessories. I had to refer to my concept a lot (it is pinned on the wall above my desk!) to ensure I am keeping the aesthetics in line with the concept I developed.
I am pretty pleased with how this is coming together. I’m now going to focus on the dining room layout and then review the finishes across the two rooms so they are part of the same scheme.
~
3.1 - Townhouse Brief - Sourcing!
I’m now well into the process of sourcing furniture for the Townhouse Brief. My shopping list is:
seating for 8 adults, side/coffee table(s), flooring, wall treatment, rug (s), lighting, and audiovisual equipment that can be concealed
dining table for 8-10 adults, sideboard/console, rug, dining chairs, lighting
as well as artwork, decorative accessories, textiles such as cushions and throws, and tableware for the dining area.
So firstly I have tackled some of the room layout issues, such as how am I going to fit 8 adults in this room all at the same time and all facing in the same direction (ish) in order to watch a film? My first thoughts are to get a large curved or corner sofa, with a cuddler style sofa to boost the seating numbers, all facing towards the chimney breast where the TV will be located. I have also thought that some big squishy comfy floor cushions or beanbags could be used as additional film night seats, as the rest of the floor space is available and these could be stored away when the room is to be used as a regular reception room.
I’ve worked out using the scale floor plan what min/max dimensions I should have for the sofa, dining table and chairs, so now I just need to decide on the style of these items using my Design Concept.
Audiovisuals wise, I did have the bright idea of a projector (concealed in the ceiling and pops down at the push of a button), ditto with the screen, but I am in way over my head tech wise with such a setup, so I have opted for a super awesome Samsung Frame on the chimney breast which can be put into Art Mode during non-film night use, for a sophisticated ‘this isn’t a media room’ vibe.
Here are some of my screenshots from Design Files, which is the super handy system I am using to capture each product that I find, (so I can play around with the visuals without printing lots of paper off). Some of these items will not be suitable in the end, when comparing with my concept and the needs of the clients, but you can see the direction it is going in!
Need to study each item against my concept now, in order to eliminate certain items and whittle the choices down further!
Section 3.1 - Townhouse Brief - Final Concept
Here is my finalised Concept for the Townhouse Brief - I have made some changes to the Concept I submitted in the last section, after reviewing my feedback. Now to crack on with the sourcing of Audiovisual Equipment and Furniture!
A throwback to a project I did for RoomLab a couple of years ago! A mid-century inspired living room. A bit of an awkward shaped room, I worked with the client to create a nook in the smaller part of the room using the West Elm open shelving units to create the divide. The gorgeous soft velvet sofa was from sofa.com and the client chose the beautiful dark colour for the walls, and the Borastapeter wallpaper.
The wonderful Louise Bourgeois. My art idol. Such rich, tactile and balanced work. Simplicity, line, geometry.
I did it! I got an A! I'm absolutely thrilled, I really didn't expect to get such a high grade but I think this the downside to Open/Distance learning, it can be hard to gauge how well you are doing until something is marked.
Onto Section 3 now, need to give myself a decent deadline to work to, perhaps September 30th?!
KLC Progress
I’m about to submit Section 2 (of 6! Aargh!) of my KLC OL Diploma, and plan to use this tumblr for the next Section as a part of my PRJ. I use a lot of digital images in my research so rather than print them off and stick them in my PRJ, I want to reduce paper and ink use and use a digital resource for those instances. I can still use my PRJ to collect and draw, but I feel this is a better way for me to create a PRJ.
Just bear with me while I figure out how to best use tumblr! >.<
Stunning colours, details and composition. Would love a mural like this!
In order to gain some experience in working with clients, and designing real life schemes for real life people, I applied to work with RoomLab and was accepted. To say I’m thrilled to be working with such an exciting startup is an understatement!
 So far I have completed a range of small and not so small projects, ranging from an awkwardly shaped hallway, several living rooms in different styles, to a formal home office. And I am absolutely loving the variety of styles and budgets – it’s great experience, all my clients have been lovely and I’m really excited when a new project pops up in my inbox.
That is how I know this is the right industry for me!
Another reason I am really pleased to be working with RoomLab is I genuinely share their passion for affordable interior design. I truly feel everyone should be able to get the most out of their home, and there are lots of designers out there that have the ‘eye’ for what will work, and can translate their client’s requirements into a fantastic and unique scheme. So reaching out to those designers via RoomLab is a really good approach.
You can read more about how RoomLab operate here – in the meantime, head over to the grid to see some of the projects I’ve worked on so far.
Good intentions...
Good intentions…
So I promise I had really good intentions to write a blog post once a week. Then it became once a month. Because I won’t lie – on top of all the KLC work, my own projects and ideas and you know, life, blog posts just aren’t my priority and to have anything to show you, I need to do all the other stuff. Soz.
But I’m also not sorry, because I’ve been really enjoying everything else. Plus, I have a…
View On WordPress
Monthly Finds: Colour Pop
Monthly Finds: Colour Pop
Part of developing an interior scheme is deciding on colour. I personally feel that colour is nothing to be scared of and can bring great things to a home – ultimately if you paint a wall and decide it isn’t right then apart from the inconvenience of having to repaint, it really isn’t a big deal. Nobody is going to shout at you! However, paint is not the only way to add colour and this is…
View On WordPress