Style File - Stacey Kouros

What inspires you when you are styling a room?

Usually the first inspiration for me is deciding on a colour palette. To do this, you should think about what elements of the room you will be keeping, then really play on that. If you have a much loved artwork, take two or three shades that compliment it to use as decorative objects or paint colours. For example, if your artwork is white, blue, green and yellow, you could choose a lighter shade of blue for your wall colour; paint your skirtings, architraves, cornices and ceilings white (this always looks sharp); then add green and yellow to the space with lamps, rugs, vases, objects, curtains, or cushions. If you are feeling really creative, choose one other contrasting colour to make the space pop!

What are some simple tips for introducing colours and textures into a space?

It’s always good to start by creating a look book with magazine cuttings etc. Then cull! Although it’s great be excited about different colours and textures, a room is often more successful when there is an element of simplicity. Don’t try and crowd ideas and looks into the one space just because you love the individual items. Decide on a look, and try to stick as closely as possible to it. But don’t be afraid of colour, and have fun with your home – it is an expression of you! Remember that you can always move things around to create a totally new look without having to buy all new pieces. I have a collection of vintage ceramic birds which I constantly move around my house to mix things up.

What advice would you give to brides who are choosing items for their registry?

Although it’s important to have the practical and day-to-day items on your registry such as cutlery, dinnerware, bed linen etc, you can still have fun with some of the pieces! You only get one opportunity to have a registry, and it should be exciting. Don’t feel embarrassed to say what you really want because your guests will be much happier to buy you something they know that you will actually love and use.

Stacey’s stunning yellow-themed wedding in our Real Weddings section.

Visit www.staceykourosdesign.com.