Los Angeles is one of the best cities in both the US and the world. With a population of nearly 4 million people, it is the second largest American city after New York City. This sprawling metropolis is home to the Hollywood film industry, a community that's ethnically and culturally diverse, as well as a warm, pleasing temperate climate that is, according to some, the one in which people feel most comfortable.
Given its sheer size and cultural influence, Los Angeles is also one of the first places to feel the pulse of new trends. In fact, many of the latest fads and fashions are actually likely to start there and then spread to other places. Interior design is one of these areas. So, if you've recently moved to the City of Angels, or would simply like to add some of that Californian charm to your home, here are some tips and props for where you could start.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/BdZPID68yjMDue to the pandemic and the ensuing lockdown, an ever-increasing number of people have felt the need to spend more time outdoors. Angelenos are no exception, and outside rooms have been increasingly popular in the city. Many residents have moved their kitchens outdoors, or created extensive sitting and dining ensembles outside. The materials they choose also tend to be organic, locally or sustainably sourced. This is both environmentally-conscious, as well as important if you're looking to get products that are going to last.
If your yard isn't large enough to support so many appliances, you can play on the connection between in and out by installing large windows. Sunlight is good for both your health and your mood, and there's nothing quite as nice as basking in the sunlight on a nice, lazy Sunday afternoon. And really, if you live in LA, missing out on the sun almost seems like a crime.
Natural light is not the only one that's appreciated in Los Angeles. Artificial lights are just as important, and if you're savvy about interior design, you know how much they can enhance (or downgrade) a design. Indeed, in many cases lights can make or break a room, which is why it's important to choose appliances that perfectly fit your indoors ensemble.
You need to choose a brand dedicated to bringing high-quality designs, but which also doesn't compromise on beauty and aesthetic appeal. Modern Lighting has many variations you can choose from, ranging from sumptuous floor lamps, to quaint, unassuming yet very elegant table lamps, as well as elaborate outdoor lighting appliances that can take your garden up a notch or two. If you're looking for something more luxurious, you can have a look at the chandeliers and pendant lights that'll make your living room seem more like a ballroom.
When you're shopping for artificial lights, don't neglect your bathroom and kitchen. While they're often overlooked, since you're more likely to focus on your bed and living rooms, you can't leave them out of the equation. In the case of your kitchen, overhead mounted lighting is going to be a definitive hit with your dinner party guests and make for a warm, cozy atmosphere. In the case of your bathroom, just think how much better it is to take a long and relaxing bath when you have the appropriate light illuminating. Harsh lights will make it impossible for you to relax, while ones that are too low will probably make you feel silly, sitting in the darkness all by yourself. Best to choose something in-between.
Color is very important when you're decorating your home. It's important to know what goes with what, and be aware that different shades of the same color will have a different impact and, by default, go with different ones. It's tough work if you don't have a keen eye for it, so you might want to get help from an interior designer in order to make sure everything turns out looking great.
When it comes to trends, however, Los Angeles is known for its preference for minimal palettes, particularly in dark tones. So, if you're a fan of maximalism or color blocking, this is a trend you might want to skip. However, don't believe this means that the only acceptable colors are beige or gray. Although those options are popular, antiquated blue, bottle green, and burgundy red are also popular. If you want to go all the way and feel bold enough, you can go straight for black, but be careful so you don't make the space seem smaller. Lighter colors have the added bonus that any room looks bigger and airier no matter how tiny they really are.
You can choose this color scheme for both your walls as well as your furniture. You can even find mix-and-match combos and add art in different colors to your walls. And when it comes to furnishings, the thing that goes best with dark colors (and is also uber fashionable at the moment) are brass pulls.
Wood is a timeless favorite when it comes to renovating your home, and it goes perfectly for both cabinets and flooring. Wide plank floors are particularly popular, particularly in a whitewash finish of French oak, as well as the classic light browns and soft gray hues. For kitchen cabinets, porcelain, plain stone, as well as quartz or granite are very popular options. The preferred way to install them is by using large slabs so the design is unbroken and the fitting is relatively swift and uncomplicated. Matte finishes are also more liked than glossy ones, as their design generally appears upscale and extravagant.
One trend that is increasingly popular is opting for brushed gold hardware, lightning and faucets. This is a winning option if you've got a kitchen with furniture that's mainly in black, or at least a very deep charcoal gray. Adding gold to the mix makes for a very chic combination that looks both muted and festive.
When you're looking to renovate your home, perhaps even go out on a limb and choose something completely different, it can be challenging finding something that's both fashionable and fits your taste. If you're looking for a source of inspiration, there is perhaps no better place to start than by having a closer look at LA trends.
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