At the start of each new year many of us make resolutions, that usually by now have been long forgotten. In the Chinese Zodiac the year of the tiger is upon us. I am looking forward to this year.

Judging by the For Sale signs around town, the real estate market is healthy in Trentham. Some of the vendors have engaged professional property stylists, achieving great sale results. Emotion can drive sales, especially in a competitive environment.

An empty home may look clean, but can appear impersonal, making it difficult for potential purchasers to visualise how their furniture and possessions could be arranged. A professionally-styled home can transform each room into something special.

As a property stylist, I have already started several projects for this year. My stockroom has a large assortment
of items that I put together and tailor for different assignments. It’s always interesting to see objects in different combinations and settings: a special lamp used once in a living room now placed in a bathroom; the pile of cushions styled on a sofa now on a bed. An interesting artwork leaning against the wall and a handful of decorative accessories can transform the space.

Several clients have recently completed building their new homes and are now ready to start the journey of developing and styling their interiors. Any design project requires plenty of consultation and open communication. We have selected internal finishes, and are now ready to purchase and place large furniture items. After this, the fun begins, putting the décor into the design!

Finding something unpredictable challenges the clients’ boundaries. To source special items, I scour second-hand auction and clearance outlets; the pre-loved patina of second-hand furniture always adds character. A few metres of remnant fabric can be turned into three or four beautiful cushions; you can always add some striped cushions to complete the look.

In the past I have conducted several workshops in various aspects of interior design. Later this year I am planning to offer a series of interior design master classes here in Trentham, exploring key design considerations.

Published in the February 2022 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet