Time For A Little Reflection
As the last days of 2015 draw to a close, it's naturally the time to reflect on the events of the last year. I like to think about what was accomplished over the last 365 days, what goals were achieved, and what I would like to see for next year. This year, I would like to focus on a different kind of reflection: shiny lacquered walls! I know, I know, this isn't exactly what you had in mind for a moment of reflection, but one thing I did accomplish this year was a minor renovation of my own home to embrace this design idea that I absolutely love. At Source Interior Designs, I am employing the practice of painting walls with a very high gloss that not only lightens and brightens rooms, but gives walls a truly deep, engrossing texture that really makes the walls stand out on their own.
This is a very recognizable image from House Beautiful, featuring these wonderful chartreuse lacquered walls with very heavy wainscoting in an entryway. This affect is acheived using a really high quality paint like Fine Paints of Europe and applying layer after layer until the desired sheen is present. I love the dark herringbone floors with this statement color- it works well to balance out all of the elements.
This room was featured in Architectural Digest and it really explores how this technique can be used in a more neutral space. They have achieved congruence by having a lacquered ceiling, yet using a shiny marble on the floor to really expand the space visually. Combined with neutral tones on all of the furniture, it really is stunning. Lacquering the ceiling can have this effect on a space that is short on size or with a large room like this to give it an endless quality.
This article, in Elle Decor, is smartly called "Why All You Need Is More Paint". As this technique is now coming into vogue, lacquering walls was widely not done. Imagine if this wall featured in the photograph did not have a lacquered wall- it would simply be another beautiful breakfast area. Yet, with the shine and texture of that paint, it transforms the space into something entirely else. While I wouldn't recommmend lacquering EVERY room in your house (imagine the time and the effort!), doing this in a small space or somewhere you would like to make statement can really make an impression.
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from Source Interior Designs!
Until next time,
Evie Clinton
