interiors interiors trends
The times - and rooms - they are a - changing, says designer Linda Barker
Interior designer and television presenter Linda Barker is best known for her work on the BBC’s Changing Rooms. Here the south west Londoner answers Marie Teather’s questions about her style and inspirations.
What do you think makes living in south west London so desirable? It has a fantastic variety of quirky properties, you have space and the people are lovely. I like the fact that south-west London is on the cusp of something happening but far enough away to have some space.
People are not moving house much now. Do you think this has affected interior trends? People are learning to love their homes. It’s great to see so much colour and integrity happening again.
How can people give their home a fresh look when moving is not an option?
People think they need to move when they can often create more space with what they have. Put a chair in a spare corner for reading, for example, or try a dining table in the garden in spring and summer. Utilize every corner of your house.
What would you say is your signature interior design look? It’s eclectic. It’s rustic, organic and even industrial at times. Comfort is my priority and I like to use natural materials. There’s always plenty of stone and wood.
Do you tend to let your rooms evolve or do you give your rooms a major overhaul?
I tend to tinker. I get so much pleasure from moving things around, adding a picture, or potting a plant.
Where are you taking inspiration from for the design of your new home? I’ll create a strong palette of colour first. I’m also using a lot of re-cycled materials to make this project eco-aware. The kitchen has been hand-built by a local carpenter using old lab worktops.
How do you measure a room’s design success? If people to stay or linger in a space that you’ve created, you’ve done well. It’s all about creating comfort.
See Linda’s seminars and demonstrations from the Ideal Home Show at
www.idealhomeshow.co.uk;
www.reallylindabarker.co.uk
24 . april 2011 .
timeandleisure.co.uk
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