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Choosing the interior style of a house is a big decision that could make or break how people feel living inside it. Clashing colours or materials could put visitors or potential buyers off so it’s important that everything flows. Metricon interior designer Kristina Carpenter knows what’s in fashion and how to make interiors shine long-term.

“Right now, the interior design world is going crazy for a combination of natural elements such as timber, marble, copper and concrete with metallic features. Feature lighting, decorative vases and ornate accessories are the perfect way to bring these new stylish trends into homes,” Kristina says.

“When it comes to styling the interior of a home it’s important to keep big-ticket items and hard surfaces such as kitchens and bathrooms neutral and classic and leave on-trend pieces to soft furnishings such as cushions.”

She says with colours it’s crucial to keep consistency in mind.

“Carry out a similar colour theme throughout the home to make it feel cohesive. This also makes executing a particular style easier.”

For people not lucky enough to have a new place to live but who would like to give their current residence a new lease on life can still do so with some simple tricks.

“Redesigning a home interior is a lot easier than most people think. A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and quickest ways to transform the feel of a room.

“Homeowners who aren’t fond of repainting could invest in new cushions or complementary artwork to express their personality, while maintaining the flexibility to easily change it,” Kristina says.

Another great way to get interior design tips is to visit home shows or exhibitions on interior design to see what works. Or spend a weekend checking out display houses to view the latest designs.

If all this talk of interior design has inspired some change at home or a spurt of creativity, embrace it and reap the rewards of living in a place that represents your individuality.

Rebecca Miller