August 2014

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My Design World

Hotel guest rooms … the latest in layout 4975

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Many hours have been spent by designers thinking about how to improve .. or even just vary, the layout of a hotel guest room.  Let’s face it .. they are all pretty much the same in layout, everywhere.  There is definitely rationale for the way they are .. and it works.  The only problem is that it is rather boring to walk into a hotel guest room, no matter where in the world and find the same layout .. entry hall, bathroom to the left or right, bed, desk etc
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The only variation on the theme appears to be where the constraints of existing architecture (in a building not purpose built for a hotel) dictate a change !!! And how refreshing it is to find a bathroom built where a dressing room may have been.  
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In defence of the tried and true layout, there has been considerable success with the opening up of the fully enclosed bathroom to capture natural light and possible views. The introduction of a glass panel/sliding glass panels or even shutters to the guest room and view beyond has been fought for by designers, however not always embraced by hotel operators.  
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The layout above makes a lot of sense in this environment. It reflects the casual beach holiday lifestyle. The shower cubicle with frosted glass panelling, separate to a freestanding bath and basin .. what better way to capture the amazing light and beautiful view.
Lets hope designers keep thinking of ways to reinvent hotel guest rooms or at least try for a little creativity .. particularly where the geography is conducive.
images: bill & coo hotel, mykonos
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My Design Tips

The new neutral interior … how to create this look 2198

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The new neutral is really just a combination of black and white, grey and timber … think Scandinavian and pared back design.
It is natural, organic and calming.
The perfect backdrop for vibrant colour, should you desire it.
To achieve this look, your first stop should be Ikea for wall hung storage in all shapes and sizes.  This helps create a sense of space and clean lines. 
For ‘modern classic’ timber and painted furniture, visit Thonet.  Bentwood always works and you can customise your colours.
The choice in pendant lighting is endless however Huset will give you an overview of the different styles.  Once you have decided on your look … and budget, you can start shopping.
Koskela is all about thoughtful design … rugs, fabric and homewares, followed by lunch at Kitchen by Mike, under the same roof.
  
My Design Tips

Stylish Inner City Living with a Smart Studio Apartment Makeover 1746

THE APARTMENT
A 30 square metre studio apartment on the top floor of one of Potts Point, Sydney’s finest Deco buildings.
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Potts Point, Sydney has the best of both worlds … proximity to the city and the buzz of the best restaurants, bars and cafes on your doorstep combined with the Botanical Gardens and Rushcutters Bay for a breathe of fresh air.
THE INSPIRATION
To transform a tired, cluttered space into a stylish, functional apartment on a shoestring budget and in a limited timeframe. Inspiration for owners wishing to spruce up prior to selling or buyers looking at an investment property with potential. 
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WHAT I DID
I wanted to create the illusion of space and maximise storage.
This was achieved by choosing a colour scheme of simple black and white. Crisp white walls to lighten and brighten, contrasted with a smart black floor of painted floorboards. 
Fortunately, the sliding wardrobe doors were mirrored, reflecting both light and the view. An additional wall was mirrored to further enhance the reflection of light.
To maximise storage and create a decorative element, bookshelves were built in on the wall surrounding the bed.
A range of lighting options and dimmers were installed, allowing for
a change of mood and focus depending on the time of day.
 
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MY ADVICE
Create as much hidden storage as possible.  
Disguise doors to storage cupboards where you can and split a door into a pair, so as to limit intrusion into the space.
Apartments in Deco buildings usually still have the wonderful original bathrooms.  These can be added to but do not necessarily have to be replaced.
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FUTURE PLANS
Unfortunately the tight timeframe did not permit a new kitchen at the time of the original makeover.  Three years down the track the next step is to install a new all white kitchen. A simple and stylish design, with mirrored splashback will add even more light and further expand the space. 
To provide more flexibility when entertaining, a customised wall bed is an exciting option under consideration.
With a small space, good design does not have to cost a lot of money. 

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