Page 134 - Homes amp Gardens UK February 2021

DESIGN

Combine budget items
with an ‘investment
piece’ rug from THE INTERIOR DESIGNER
Guinevere (guinevere. NICOLA HARDING
co.uk) advises Nicola

WITH more than 12 years’ experience of running
her own interior design practice, Nicola Harding
knows all about managing residential projects, large

and small. Nicola and family recently moved from
London to a house in the country so she speaks from
personal as well as professional experience.

Resist the temptation to start with a clean decorative
slate. ‘I look closely at what is already there and how

it might be reimagined. Consider finishes (flooring,
wall tiles), architectural elements (doors, windows,
fireplaces), ironmongery, sanitaryware, curtains,
furniture and light fittings. This approach not only

saves money, but also the environment.’
Don’t just think about what you want, think about
why you want it. ‘Often people believe they need

something without thinking about it thoroughly,
deferring to something that is in fashion, or that
other people have, or that they grew up with.’
No matter how small your budget, good lighting

is non-negotiable. ‘It’s probably the most important
thing to get right, and it doesn’t need to be expensive.
Use ‘placeholders’ while
Poor lighting is the quickest way to kill atmosphere.
you budget for future
buys says Nicola – a Downlights can quickly blow the budget – they are
shelf like this could be expensive and not to my taste. My secret is lots of
replaced with units lamps with warm white light bulbs, so use your

budget for good quality bulbs and always ensure
that light switches are dimmable.’
Joinery is important so budget accordingly. ‘Only

add fitted joinery if you can afford fairly good quality.
An alternative route could be to reduce the amount
you need to help focus your budget. For example, use
free-standing pieces of furniture in the kitchen and

have a nearby cupboard or small room as a scullery
where you can store food, appliances or serveware.’
PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL MASSEY ‘Tinsmiths (tinsmiths.co.uk) is brilliant: good value,
Search out the best modestly priced products.

conscientiously sourced products and its mail-order
curtain-making service is fantastic. For all-round
online finds, try Nkuku (nkuku.com) and Cox & Cox

(coxandcox.co.uk). Brisbane Moss (brisbanemoss.
FEATURE KATE BURNETT co.uk) supplies corduroy that is ideal for upholstery

and curtains. Don’t spend on expensive radiators –
B&Q (diy.com) does great value column rads.’
■ nicolaharding.com →

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