We love chatting to industry experts to find out their tops tips for decorating homes in style. Our latest interview is with interiors blogger Jen Stanbrook who shares advice for tackling room renovations, using social media to mood board your ideas and trends to have on your radar. Enjoy!
Can you tell us a bit about your background and experience in interiors?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved interiors. Even when I was younger, I would tear up magazines and make mood boards in old scrapbooks, dreaming of how I’d decorate my home.
I’ve lived in a lot of rental properties so found it frustrating not being able to put my stamp on my decor, so once I did buy my first home I couldn’t wait to get started. I experimented a lot with paint finishes, wallpapering and making creative use of space. Needless to say, I made a lot of mistakes but I loved the process.
Then in 2012 I created Love Chic Living – a home interiors blog focusing on inspiring yet achievable home decor for families. It’s been my passion ever since.
What advice would you give to someone embarking on a room makeover?
I’d say a room makeover is an exciting opportunity to try something new. Even if it’s just a small aspect of the decor, adding in something you’ve never tried before can be great fun. Apart from that, I’m a fan of research. Use tools like Pinterest to hunt out your favourite looks and styles before you start. Make a Pinterest board and save all the ideas you love, then refine those ideas until you have a look that you’re pleased with.
How do you find your own unique style?
For me, my style is a real mix of looks that draw my attention. I love snooping around other people’s houses and seeing what they’ve done with their homes. I guess that’s why we all love home decor on Instagram; we get to see real homes and how they look.
What’s the easiest way to add personality to your interiors?
Copenhagen chest of drawers | @renovating_wynd_house
When a room needs a personal touch, I love to accessorise with my favourite wall art. Even a small piece can make such a big difference to a room that feels bland or uninspired.
Photographs of your family, your holidays, and other special moments can be professionally printed and make for beautiful and unique finishing touches that will always remind you of important memories.
Family heirlooms like a beautiful photo frame or some silver candlesticks – or other bought antique pieces – will add a lovely personal touch by mixing the old with new and using pieces that can’t be bought now, completely unique!
Is there a particular room that you enjoy decorating the most?
I love decorating my bedroom. It’s a place that you spend so much time in and is just for you. Creating a calm and peaceful environment where I can relax and unwind after stressful days is so important to me. I always keep everything simple, but really enjoy picking those special touches you can create through carefully chosen art or a beautiful mirror.
What are your favourite Oak Furnitureland pieces and how would you style them?
Parquet chest of drawers | @thelightshesees
I’m a huge fan of the Parquet range of furniture for its sleek Scandi vibe and modern design. Even if I couldn’t fill a room with these pieces, just one or two in a bedroom or living room can be easily accessorised with neutral colours, soft rugs and lots of candles.
Over the last couple years, I’ve spent so much time in my office, and I’m finally thinking about updating my space. I love this sleek, minimal Spot desk with just enough storage space for key papers and pens which would fit easily into my small study area.
What are key trends that you’re seeing at the moment?
I’m seeing a lot of statement pieces being used without fear. Don’t be afraid of bright colours, funky patterns, or bold shapes to add something unique to your interiors. I’m also seeing lots of wickerwork, perfect for summer. It’s so easy to add to your own home; I’ve used wicker plant pots for a small, stylish touch.
How has social media changed interior style?
Social media is amazing because it allows you to see so much inspiration in all types of styles. I love seeing everyone else’s styles and being able to take those ideas and put my own spin on them.
I think it’s increased the amount of colour and bold design we’re seeing. I love when interiors are fun and exciting, and social media has provided that space for unique styles to flourish.
What’s your advice for using Pinterest as a tool for planning decor projects?
Pinterest has been my passion since I was an early adopter back in 2013. When you’re planning a new project, this is my advice:
- Search on the room you’re planning to makeover, for example, living room updates.
- Then scour the search results for imagery that jumps out at you. Don’t think about it too much, just save those images to your board.
- Then when you’re done, go back through your board and delete photos you’re not keen on. Again, don’t think about it too hard.
- What you’re left with is your gut reaction of styles that really resonate with you. Patterns and particular designs will start to emerge and you’ll get a real sense of what you naturally like.
What are the most important things to consider when shooting images for social media?
Highgate dining set | @mo_morshuis
When I take photos for social media, I’m always trying to create perspective and different heights to add visual detail, by just moving around accessories. Grouping things into threes is such an easy and simple way to improve your images.
Creating negative space in your pictures is also so important and can make a super impactful image for social media. Trying to stand out on social media can be really difficult, but bold and eye-catching imagery is a great start.
Do you have any tips for renovating on a budget?
Always start with a plan so you know your budget and where you want to spend your money. I always like to use a spreadsheet so I can keep track of all my purchases and make sure I’m not going over budget.
I will always look for second hand, eBay and Facebook Marketplace are my go tos for finding beautiful pieces on a budget – and don’t forget charity shops for those hidden gems. But I also think it’s important to spend a little extra on high quality pieces that will last forever, like the gorgeous Evie corner sofa from Oak Furnitureland.
Find design inspiration for your home on Jen’s blog, Love Chic Living, and don’t forget to check us out on Instagram.
