The TV show that has got the USA in a frenzy has arrived on our screens! It has been described as a musical drama, add that to Cookie’s vintage but glamorous sense of fashion and you have my attention along with the rest of the nation’s.
A good TV or movie production really sucks you in. You find yourself watching not only for the storylines but also for the fashion, music and of course, the interiors. FYI there is an Empire Spotify Playlist where you can catch up on some of the songs.
The family living room oozes strong personality and exudes wealth. The gold accents form a stark contrast against black marble giving the space undeniable character. The beiges and yellows offer a sense of warmth and comfort, taking away that showhome or executive home feeling. Note the use of various textures which add to the sense of opulence, from rich dark flooring and leather seats, to upholstered furniture, sateen curtains and that trademark faux fur. While Cookie might appear slightly behind in her fashion style, the living room is decorated in a timeless, Classical design.
Wow Walls
Dulux do a period range called Heritage. The paints are made to look like they’ve been around for years as they are derived from research into authentic historical pigments. Cream and Ochre White with cream on the walls and ochre on the woodwork. Together they make a rich, warm combination that’s ideal for any size living room. The cream bears a closer resemblance to yellow, but it isn’t so bright that it becomes glaring in brightly-lit rooms. New to the UK is Valspar Paint, they can match absolutely any colour and you get your ideal tones in perfect coverage. If you’re averse to the idea of jet black accents, go for a dark shade of grey instead.
Sumptuous Soft furnishings
This is the place to add texture. While velvet is a lovely soft fabric, cotton sateen has a more timeless appeal to it and is very elegant when used as drapery. Scatter cushions in geometric prints add the on-trend factor as geometrics are very much all the rage. Soft furnishings add interest and layers, from faux fur and silk to velvet and cotton. John Lewis have a fantastic selection of cushions in an unrivalled range of patterns and colours. Struggling to find the perfect cushion? Have it made for you. Discontinued or end of line fabrics are usually reduced in price and you can obtain some good quality fabric for a fraction of the cost.
Accessorize with Care
The Lyon sitting room is decorated in a Classical style. The rule for Classical design is harmony and balance. Create a central focal point like your fireplace and mirror the design on either side. Accessories therefore should be purchased in two’s to create symmetry. When it comes to ornate designs of accessories, the Italians possibly are in the lead, like the table lamps featured. That can however cost a princely sum. A design trick is to buy a sizeable lamp base, large bases look more grand than the skinny ones and Homebase have a great selection. You can then have a shade custom made, bespoke lampshades are surprisingly cost effective as they are made with a fabric lining as opposed to cheap laminate.
The sitting room is dotted with carefully curated art and stone carvings. The gold console table caught my eye. It is very elegant and not at all gaudy or over the top. Oka have a fantastic selection.
Have you been bitten by the Empire bug? What are your thoughts?
