As the sun begins to warm the earth and flowers bloom with vibrant colours, there's an undeniable energy in the air – a sense of renewal and rejuvenation that inspires us to refresh our surroundings. And what better way to welcome the season of rebirth than by infusing your home with the timeless elegance and unique charm of Nix’s Interior Design Principles?
Our founder/creative director, Nicola Harding, fondly known as Nix, is a visionary interior designer renowned for her ability to create contemporary spaces with classical roots. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Nix creates richly atmospheric spaces that reflect, serve and truly hold the people who use them. Today, we delve into her design approach, exploring the principles that guide each Nicola Harding & Co project and that can help you breathe new life into your home this spring.
Bring the outdoors in
Nix's design philosophy revolves around honouring the natural world, incorporating organic materials and textures to create spaces that feel grounded and harmonious. As you embark on your spring refresh journey, consider introducing elements such as reclaimed wood, woven textiles, and stone accents into your home. Embrace the beauty of imperfection – let the grain of the wood tell its story, and allow the rugged texture of stone to add character to your space.
Incorporate touches of greenery throughout your home, bringing the outdoors in and infusing your space with life and vitality. Consider a lush fern in a ceramic pot or a cascading pothos plant adorning a sunny windowsill. Not only do plants purify the air and promote a sense of well-being, but they also serve as timeless decorative accents that evoke a sense of serenity and calm.
“Plants, like a lot of things, look best as a collection, in a group,” advises Nix. “However, don’t necessarily have lots of varieties, as that can feel chaotic. Rather, play with scale repeating up to three different varieties but at different sizes and different heights.”
Look for longevity
While trends may come and go, Nix believes in the enduring appeal of elegant pieces that are well-made. Channelling the spirit of classic design, she incorporates elements of understated luxury and refined sophistication into every space. This spring, elevate your home with pieces that stand the test of time – think heirloom-quality furniture, statement lighting fixtures, and exquisite textiles in muted tones and sumptuous textures.
Invest in pieces that resonate with you and speak to your soul, rather than succumbing to fleeting trends. Seek out craftsmanship and attention to detail, opting for pieces that are built to last and destined to become cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. Whether it's a handcrafted leather armchair or a vintage Persian rug, let each piece in your home tell a story and evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity.
“Our projects celebrate craftsmanship with pieces made by local makers using materials that wear beautifully and improve with age,” reflects Nix. “All of the pieces in our NiX collection are designed to be affordable investment pieces. Beautifully crafted in the UK and Europe, they are future heirlooms that we hope will be passed down through generations.”
Choose Colours that Calm
Spring is synonymous with soft pastel hues – delicate shades of blush, mint, and sky blue that symbolise serenity and renewal. Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the season, Nix recommends infusing your home with a palette of soft, soothing colours that invite relaxation and contemplation.
Consider painting your walls in a soft shade of pale peach or powder blue, creating a serene backdrop that sets the tone for the rest of your space. Layer in accents of pastel hues through textiles, artwork, and accessories, adding depth and dimension to your interiors. Mix and match complementary colours to create visual interest and balance, experimenting with different textures and finishes to create a sense of tactile luxury.
“The most successful colour schemes blend bold hues with more restrained colours,” explains Nix. “For example, the vibrant green of a kitchen island might be repeated on a set of internal doors or a piece of furniture in the next room. This cohesion makes for a home that is calm and composed, flowing effortlessly gliding from one space to the next.”
Embrace Eclecticism
At the heart of Nix's design ethos lies a celebration of eclecticism – the art of layering styles, eras, and influences to create captivating and unique spaces that reflect the people who live there. This spring, embrace the unexpected and let your imagination run wild as you curate a collection of furnishings and accessories that reflect your individuality and creativity.
I would say eclectic interiors are the most timeless,” comments Nix. “Something that is intelligently layered, with a sensibility to the nature of the building and its location, becomes timeless because it’s hard to date. It becomes about a meaningful sense of place, rather than a passing trend, and that ensures its longevity.”
Mix antique treasures with modern marvels, juxtaposing sleek, contemporary pieces with time-worn classics to create a sense of visual intrigue and depth. Don't be afraid to experiment with pattern and texture, layering in textiles and artwork that add personality and charm to your space. Celebrate the art of storytelling through design, incorporating pieces that speak to your passions and experiences, infusing your home with soulful energy and personality.
Spaces for Living
Above all, Nix believes that a well-designed home should prioritise comfort and functionality with spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel welcoming and livable. As you embark on your spring refresh journey, consider the way you use each room in your home and tailor your design choices to accommodate your lifestyle and needs.
“I always begin every project by getting a clear idea of what my clients spend most of their time doing at home and discovering how they want to live,” explains Nix. “For instance, ask yourself what is your idea of the perfect weekend? What does your does your dream Christmas look like? How do you envision putting the children to bed? By painting a clear picture, you can start to build a space that prioritises your needs and feels deeply nurturing.”
Invest in comfortable seating and cosy textiles that invite relaxation and encourage connection, creating intimate gathering spaces where friends and family can come together to create lasting memories. Opt for furniture with clean lines and versatile silhouettes that maximise space and promote flow, ensuring that each room in your home feels open and inviting.
Incorporate thoughtful storage solutions that help keep clutter at bay, allowing your space to breathe and your mind to relax. Whether it's a built-in window seat with hidden storage or a stylish sideboard that doubles as a media console, prioritise functionality without compromising on style.
Above All, Enjoy
We hope you can use these principles to revitalise your own home, infusing it with elegance, comfort and charm. Embrace the beauty of nature, invest in pieces that stand the test of time, choose colours that evoke tranquillity, and celebrate your individuality by layering pieces of different styles and eras. By prioritising comfort, functionality and personal expression, you can transform your home into a sanctuary that truly reflects your style and enhances your daily life. Let this spring refresh be a catalyst for creating spaces that inspire joy, connection, and renewal.
