Modern Deco: The Art of Living Comfortably

There's something about a room that's too perfectly coordinated that can make it feel a little impersonal. I've always preferred interiors that mix old and new, bringing together interesting pieces, beautiful materials and favourite finds to create spaces that feel comfortable, relaxed and lived in.

I've recently finished a living room project that brings many of these ideas together. My client wanted to mix original furniture with contemporary pieces, introducing natural materials, craftsmanship and character.

We brought the scheme together with beautiful wood panelling, warm colours and layered lighting, creating a room that feels personal, relaxed and comfortable without everything needing to match.

Modern Deco brings together so many of my favourite interior styles, from the glamour and curves of Art Deco and the warm woods of Mid-Century design to the character of traditional interiors and the relaxed, eclectic feel of Boho.

Warm colours, tactile fabrics, beautiful craftsmanship and pieces collected over time all play their part. It's about finding the right balance between elegance and comfort, creating interiors that feel considered without being overly styled, and full of personality rather than perfection.

Rich Colours, Beautiful Materials and a Little Glamour

Warm tobacco browns, olive greens and muted blue greys mixed with softer peaches and dusty pinks create a rich, comforting colour palette. Add walnut woods, velvet, leather and touches of aged brass for warmth and depth.

I'd pair a beautifully curved velvet sofa with an oval coffee table that combines soft upholstery and wood. Somewhere to put your feet up, but with room for a drink and a vase of flowers too.

Bring in a classic Eames Lounge Chair, a richly patterned Soho Home style rug, Christina Lundsteen cushions and a sculptural mushroom-shaped lamp. A few subtle geometric patterns give a nod to Art Deco, while the mix of shapes, textures and furniture styles keeps the room relaxed, personal and comfortable.

Craftsmanship, Texture and Atmosphere

There's a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship and the skill of the maker. Handcrafted ceramics, woven textiles, carved woods and vintage pieces with a little age and imperfection bring character and personality to a room. Layering tactile fabrics such as wool, velvet and suede adds warmth and comfort.

Texture needn't stop at the furniture. Textile wall hangings, ceramic wall art and sculptural objects mixed with paintings, prints and vintage mirrors bring depth and interest to walls.

Lighting completes the atmosphere. Sculptural table lamps, vintage brass fittings and pleated shades create soft pools of light. Add a patterned rug, a lambswool throw and a few favourite accessories, and you have a room that feels relaxed, personal and inviting.

The Art of Bringing It Together

The key to mixing different styles is finding a common thread. Start with a favourite rug or piece of artwork and pick out colours to repeat in your fabrics and accessories. Balance curved furniture with more structured pieces, mix different wood finishes and introduce pattern in varying scales.

Keep some quieter areas to give statement pieces room to shine, and don't be afraid to mix vintage finds with contemporary furniture.

Modern Deco isn't about recreating a particular look, but choosing the elements you love and combining them with pieces you already own to create a home that's personal, comfortable and full of character.

A little glamour, a little nostalgia and plenty of comfort.