Year-Round Warmth for a Modern Interior

A modern interior doesn’t have to feel cold and unwelcoming. I rely on a sense of proportion and balance to maintain a calm, relaxed and inviting warmth in my modern designs. Here are some ideas to help achieve that balance.

• Add a sculptural element as a focal point. A large Buddha statue, especially when lit, evokes peace. An indoor water wall, fountain or waterfall can be soothing.
• Nature — and even symbols derived from nature — can promote a feeling of relaxation. If your budget allows, incorporate a living wall, such as a wall of succulents. If you’re on a smaller budget, include a beautifully framed, black-and-white nautilus shell photo in one of your interior spaces.
• Mixing modern elements with accessories that carry a sense of history will bring warmth to a room. For example, accent the space with a large global artifact, a reclaimed decorative object or an ethnic-patterned area rug to ground the space.
• Make sure you have ample furniture — large sofas, ottomans, benches and barstools — for guests. Group furniture for easy conversation to help create an intimate setting for an inviting, welcoming ambiance.
   

Kim Nadel
NICHE design
119 Mozart Ave.
Cardiff by the Sea, CA 92007
760-822-4787
niche-design.com