Property insight from interior designer Antonia Stewart

Interior designer Antonia Stewart shares her insights into current home interior trends, buying a period home and what to invest in.

Current trends in home interiors

‘People are focusing on buying essential items that will allow them to live more comfortably while personalising their home. There has been a return to classic designs – which will fit into any scheme and will not date. Likewise there has been a shift to purchasing good quality products that will look better and last longer than poorer quality versions. The environmental impact of the goods we buy is also very much in our minds at the moment. Never has there been a better time to buy British – there are so many great UK designers to choose from that whatever your requirements or price bracket, there should be something to suit you.’

Key features to look for when buying a period home

‘A good survey will highlight any items of concern, so read this carefully before buying a period home. A new owner could face large bills in addition to the purchase price if major works are required. Check also to see if the house is listed as to make changes to a listed property is more difficult than usual. With this in mind ensure that not too many of the original features have been destroyed.’

What’s worth investing in for your house

‘The best money you can invest in your house is on the building itself. If, in the first instance, you can get the space right followed by the architectural details: skirting/architraves, fireplaces and flooring – you can then let the contents of the house evolve over time. Refurbishment and repairs should be done in accordance with the history and fabric of the building – an owner of a period home has a responsibility to preserve it for future generations.’

What’s worth spending on

‘Things that can come with you. Beautiful furniture, art, a fabulous cushion or rug. It doesn’t matter what it is but if you buy something that is made well and looks good, you will always want to have it in your house. Fresh flowers are also a favourite, as are lots of pictures, books and photographs; a house feels so much more alive when it is filled with the character of the people that live in it.’

What’s worth saving on

‘Equipment that is difficult to work. With little enough time in the day, complicated equipment ultimately just becomes redundant. Manufacturers have realised that simplicity is the key and that people would rather be able to use their common sense to achieve a task than spend hours reading small print about functions that they will never use.’

Find out more about Antonia Stewart's interior design services at antoniastewart.com

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Featured in the February 2012 issue of Period Living