Top tips to elevate home interiors

Interior designer Oliver Steer is known for creating award-winning interiors and heads up a team of craftsmen, artists and specialist contractors committed to the best of British craftsmanship

Oliver is now up for two more awards at the Northern Design Awards 2023 and here is his top interior design styling advice:

1.     Avoid cookie-cutter off-the-shelf furniture

When it comes to furnishing a space, I always aim to avoid cookie-cutter, off-the-shelf furniture. Generic, mass-produced pieces lack the uniqueness and character that can truly elevate a room. I love to discover one-of-a-kind, distinctive furniture that tells a story and adds personality to the space.

2.     Don’t play it safe, be bold

Playing it safe with bland, uninspiring colour palettes is not my style. I'm all about embracing the unexpected. Selecting bold and exciting colours is my way of infusing energy and vibrancy into the design, making it an unforgettable experience for my clients.

3.     Mix and match styles, textures, and materials

Oliver is not a fan of specifying complete decor sets that make a room look like a predictable catalogue showroom. My passion lies in the art of mixing and matching different styles, textures, and materials. This approach creates an eclectic and captivating atmosphere that keeps people engaged and intrigued.

4.     Explore unconventional lighting solutions

Dull and monotonous lighting plans are a designer's nightmare. I thrive on the creative challenge of thinking outside the box. My goal is to explore imaginative and unconventional lighting solutions that can transform a room into a magical and inviting space, where light becomes an integral part of the design.

5.     Stay original

Break free from design clichés and overused trends. Staying true to originality is my mantra. I take pride in introducing fresh and imaginative design concepts that spark curiosity and conversation, ensuring that every project I undertake is a testament to innovation and creativity.