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#TuesdayTips - give your home a show home finish

Posted 29 March 2016 by Helen Christie

Everyone loves #PropertyPorn, and we often get property envy when browsing new homes, so WhatHouse? thought we’d put together some tips on how to give your home a show home finish.

Hayley Holland, senior interior designer at Vogue Showhomes, worked on the show house at Priest Hill Heights, a luxury development from CALA Homes in Epsom, Surrey. She says: “A show home is very important, as it shows visitors how the space can be used and allows people to imagine themselves living there. At Priest Hill Heights, the beautiful rural setting, overlooking the nature reserve with views across to London, has been reflected in a classic design, using neutral shades; but we’ve added a contemporary twist, which appeals to both families and downsizers.”

If you want to create the show home look in your own home, follow Hayley’s top five design tips for the latest interior design trends:

Formal dress for dinner

Formal dining roomAlthough we love our informal family spaces where we can all get together for relaxed weekends, we are seeing the return of the formal eating space. Use symmetry to create a formal mood stunning crushed velvet seating around a dark wood table to seat ten. A matching sideboard is dressed with a pair of elegant table lamps either side of a beautiful statement mirror. A central chandelier finishes the look in this very sophisticated space.

Copper cool

Copper is such a versatile tone. Use it in its matte form and pair it with warm neutrals to create an inviting ambience with burnt oranges and sunset tones, or use it in its metallic form to create a sleek modern look. Dark gloss kitchen units set against pale linen walls will help you showcase the contemporary feel of this family room.

Feature furniture

To create a show home look, use a single stand-out piece of furniture in a room. Whether it’s a sumptuous sofa, an amazing bedstead or a sleek sideboard, every home has to have its hero piece. A bold colour makes a statement against a soft taupe on the walls and cream fabric on the upholstery, and is picked up in the jewel coloured cushions, creating a very grown up and sophisticated space – great for enjoying a coffee morning with friends.

Turn up the texture

Fusion of textures is still a top trend. Think about layering contrasting textures and patterns to create an opulent look like we have in the stunning master bedroom suite at Priest Hill Heights. Mixing soft velvets, smooth metallics, luxurious sequins, faux furs and glamorous glass furniture creates a room which is so very lavish, warm and inviting.

Boutique finish

When you’re thinking about the look for your bedroom, create the feel of a boutique hotel by using a simple template. A central bed with large feature headboard, symmetrical bedside tables, matching lamps and a feature chair or sofa. Keep your bed linen crisp and your cushions perfectly arranged and its will be like sleeping in a top hotel. And remember, you can change the look of your bedroom easily by updating your cushions, throws and accessories.


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