A Key Feature of Interior Design in 2009

Clutter is thought to muddle the mind! Places to relax and unwind peacefully at the end of the day should be completely clutter free.

Finding storage space can be quite a nightmare in some homes. Hiding everything away in cupboards will provide a home which is clutter free, but it may also look unfriendly and uninviting. Having books and objects of interest placed on shelving can add interest to a room and reflect the lifestyle of the occupants.

There are many different solutions to finding storage and shelving suitable for all styles of interiors. Traditional style homes look good with dressers made from natural wood such as pine or oak. These can be used effectively in dining areas and be used to coordinate with stripped floor boards and wood blinds effortlessly.

More modern style interiors have look striking with either wall mounted or free standing shelving units. These are widely available in a wide range of colours and styles. Opt for something which is both visually appealing and practical. High wall mounted shelving can add the illusion of height to a room effectively as it will draw the eyes upwards.

Think of practicality when positioning wall mounted shelving. If you are going to use them to store books they need to be within easy reach without over stretching. Be mindful of head height and furniture which may be underneath. It will become annoying if every time you stand up you bang your head!

Horizontal shelving can be great for larger room. A couple of long low shelves are ideal for adding depth to a room. Adding a stylish table lamp will create some great low level lighting.





Modern designers have created some truly wonderful shelving in different forms which incorporate angles and interesting shapes. These can be used to coordinate with geometric patterns of curtains and floor rugs to add a sense of cohesion to a room.

With a little imagination shelving can be created from all manner of everyday objects. Stacks of engineering bricks with wooden planks laid across the top may not be the most alluring, but they are a great way to create practical shelving which can easily be dismantled and rearranged. This type of shelving is not advisable in homes with children, as they will love to climb!

Take inspiration from the Merduban shelving system by Lab Istanbul and use a step ladder with boards laid between the rungs for a fashionable and stylish way to display books and your favourite objects of interest. A classical wooden step ladder can either be painted or stripped back to reveal the natural wood to coordinate with your furniture or colour scheme.

Irrespective of what style of storage or shelves you chose the key point is to keep them in order. They should not merely be used to pick up clutter and place it on something new! The whole idea is to be clutter free and yet very personal. Even the trend of having a ‘shabby chic’ interior is not an excuse for mess and clutter. This style still requires a sense of order to be effective.

Terrys Fabrics retail in curtains, fabrics and table lamps

A Key Feature of Interior Design in 2009
By Helen M Green