Interior designers like Jean Liu make beautiful spaces look so effortless. But the process is anything but—every single design choice Liu made in the Los Angeles home of award-winning actress Jenna Ushkowitz and her husband David Stanley, featured in Cambria Style, was intentional and deliberate. Getting that easy, pulled-together look comes through a process that’s second nature for an experienced pro like Liu—but you can do it in your own home, too. Here, three of Liu’s favorite strategies for getting that “designer” look.
Find Your Red Thread
You know how homes designed by professionals have a flow—the rooms all look different, but like they go together? Designers get that effect with subtle repetition. Liu says, “I encourage people to pick a handful of things—maybe three—whether it’s a style of design, or a color palette, or a material, and use them throughout the space so there’s a sense of cohesiveness when it’s all done.” For example, Liu did this in Ushkowitz’s house by repeating the colors green and black in different rooms. She adds, “Other people might not consciously notice the repeated elements—but they’ll register beneath the surface, and make everything feel cohesive.”
Cambria design shown: Swanbridge™
Focus on Texture—Not Color
This applies to rooms in many different styles. Liu says, “I often have clients who want a very minimal look, so they’re wary of color. But I know they don’t want to live in an all-white art gallery. So we can give them a very neutral space that feels warm and livable by adding a lot of texture.” On the opposite end of the taste scale, Liu might try to edit the palette of color enthusiasts. She says, “A more limited palette will give the room more longevity. You won’t get tired of anything if you keep the overall palette pretty neutral. You can add in a few bright elements here and there—and remove them when you change your mind.”
Bring in Natural Elements
“You can add texture with fabric, but also look to materials like woven cane or rattan to give things extra definition, and of course wood and stone,” says Liu. This technique of incorporating materials found in nature adds depth and interest, especially if you go for contrasting textures.
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