Interiors Column - June/July 25
Stripe It Lucky
Stripes not only make a great fashion statement, but they can also add style and flair to your home. Here are some of the ways those simple lines can transform even the plainest of rooms into something lovingly lavish.
Paint pals
In the same way that vertical stripes on a dress can make you appear longer and slimmer, they can make a room appear taller and more spacious.
Choose contrasting colours for a dramatic effect or subtle tones for a more elegant look. Horizontal stripes on the other hand are perfect for making a room look wider and more expansive. This is ideal for smaller spaces that need a visual boost.
Alternatively, select just one wall to draw focus on and make it wonderful.
Wallpaper wonders

Wallpaper is much cooler than it used to be and stripes, well they are always on trend; therefore, you can’t go wrong with striped wallpaper. Choose wallpapers with strong stripe patterns to create a striking effect. This works well in hallways or small rooms where you want to make an impact.
As a simpler variation, understated stripes can add texture and interest without overwhelming the space.
Soft stripes
Stripes aren’t just for your walls. Chairs, sofas, and benches with striped fabric can become a talking point in your home, while striped rugs can be used to add colour and cover up a dull or stained floor.
Striped curtains can frame your windows beautifully and add vertical emphasis to the room, or if you don’t want to fully commit to the stripe, simply invest in a few throws or pillows for a more informal feel.
Earn your stripes
Wall art that features stripes is a terrific way to brighten up a dull and gloomy room, particularly if it is textured using different paint styles or fabrics.

You can also invest in lamps and shades that boast a funky pattern to liven up a drab bedroom, or those with a more gallic inclination can purchase linen tablecloths, runners or napkins to add that classic French elegance.
Mix and match
Combine floral patterns with stripes for a balanced and more feminine feel. Stripes paired with geometric shapes will make your space feel supremely cool and modern, whereas those in differing shades of the same colour are more subtle, for those who prefer a more understated look.
Colour wise, bold tones add energy and style, muted numbers add a more timeless feel (for the traditionalist), and contrasting colours are for the quirkiest among us, or die-hard Austin Powers fans. Groovy baby!



