[int]: living room - photo to interior

When designing an interior, I like to start with an idea that sums up the project. That could be anything from a quote to a colour scheme. A photo works really well, but I'm always cautious of using a photograph of an interior I like, in case it locks me down into an idea I won't be able to accurately replicate.

I took this photograph in Kew Gardens. I love the distressed paint next to the clean green of the plants, a look that would be great in a industrial style living room, with big french windows out to a garden. I'd start by fading the boundaries between inside and out, bringing plants indoors.

Hanging planter, photo from theglitterguide.com

I'm absolutely in love with these hanging planters. Choose a plant with luscious green leaves like a peace lily or a fern, and a simple pot.

DIY copper vase, Bloglovin.com

This idea for a copper vase is gorgeous, and picks up on the industrial style from the photograph. The shining, sleek metal contrasts perfectly with a distressed look, which you can easily get with some second hand furniture. Use chalk paint in a gentle off-white, and sand back around the edges that would get bashed up over use. Wax over the top to complete the look and seal the furniture. I'd be careful not to go too far with the distressing if you're also buying new furniture. A little contrast is good but a lot is jarring, so you may even want to opt for plain white furniture or wooden pieces, depending on what else you're working with.

Weathered coffee table, photo from blesserhouse.com

White interior, photo from stilinspiration.blogspot.co.uk

The interior shouldn't become too cluttered, so I'd keep the walls painted white, with a few simple frames. Soft furnishings, however, are a chance to bring in some more of those gorgeous green tones. Choose a green sofa or a patterned green chair, or accessorise neutral furniture with cushions and throws. Don't be afraid to play around with shades of green, but check before you buy that they aren't going to clash.

Jangala leaf cushions on green sofa, Made.com

Green leaf cushion on neutral sofa, photo from estmagazine.com.au

All these different ideas need one single focus point. Keep the emphasis on one item, and make sure the other pieces of furniture aren't strong enough to compete with it. You could pick a large floor planter, a copper lamp, or a statement chair.

Chicago floor lamp, Made.com

And don't forget to consider what you're going to feel under your feet. Wood flooring will help that feeling of being outside. Though the texture is different to wooden decking it creates that connection to the natural world.

There are a few routes you could go down with this interior, sleek with deep greens and shiny copper, or a more lived-in feel. If you enjoyed this post, please go ahead and share!