Top Interior Design Tips & Design Misconceptions Addressed with Toni Empringham
Your Interior Design Questions, Answered With Expert Advice
Oztown introduces Toni Empringham, Owner and Interior Designer at Element Interior Designs.
Expert Advice From An Industry Professional
We gathered, industry expert and one of Oztown’s collaborative interior designer’s, Toni Empringham, to provide us with her best interior design tips for cohesive style and functionality, and help address some common misconceptions about the industry.
Element Interior Designs - Toni Empringham
Interior Design is Toni’s passion, and she works to achieve her client’s visions. Toni established Element Interior Design & Styling, 6 years ago, after a long career in Project Coordination. Working in the industries of Ship Building, Housing Development, Mining and Defence. Toni went back to her passion and completed her tertiary education in Interior Design.
Her experience comes not only backed by disciplined project coordination, but in many areas of interior design. From kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, custom home design, product selections and renovations. Experienced in the smallest design project, to large residential property design, Toni offers a range of services to help her client’s achieve their vision.
Common Interior Design Misconceptions Addressed
Before discussing the advantages of working with an Interior Designer, we must address some common misconceptions. One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that Interior Designers focus exclusively on high-end projects and charge exorbitant fees. In reality, I view my role as a vital trade, akin to that of a carpenter, plumber, or painter, and our pricing reflects this perspective.
Another misconception is that Interior Designers create impractical and costly designs. While we are capable of producing elaborate designs when required, our primary focus is on delivering practical, consistent, and budget-friendly solutions that align with your needs.
How do we achieve this? Through experience. Our expertise lies in designing functional spaces tailored to your lifestyle. We too utilise these spaces in our own lives, ensuring that our designs are practical and usable.
3 Benefits Of Working With An Interior Designer
Interior Designers offer practical, budget-conscious solutions, while ensuring your space reflects your vision.
Up-To-Date Knowledge: We constantly monitor the latest finishes and products on the market, keeping our samples current and engaging directly with suppliers for comprehensive insights on materials and their applications.
Value-Driven Solutions: Our primary goal is to create the space you envision without requiring a large budget. Smart design can achieve a high-quality finish, while remaining cost-effective.
Flexible Involvement: We can tailor our level of assistance to suit your project needs, whether you require full support or just a consultation.
Toni’s Top Designer Tips - Consistency
Maintaining consistency in your interior products and selections is essential for achieving a cohesive and stylish design that flows seamlessly throughout your space.
When I talk about consistency, some of the key elements include:
Fixtures and Fittings
Stick to the same brand and colour for fixtures and fittings across your home. For instance, if you choose brushed nickel tapware in your kitchen, ensure this is mirrored in the laundry, bathrooms, and your door hardware.
This consistency should extend to towel rails, hand towel holders, toilet roll holders, and any trimmings. Using the same brand enhances the overall fluidity of the design.
Stone Selection
Your choice of stone in the kitchen should also be applied consistently in bathrooms, laundry benchtops, and any custom cabinetry tops. When opting for off-the-shelf vanities or entertainment units, look for designs that harmonise with your kitchen stone.
Cabinetry Colour
The cabinetry colour selected for your kitchen should be extended to the laundry, bathrooms, and any other areas requiring cabinetry, such as TV units. This approach fosters a cohesive and timeless design throughout your home.
Bathroom Tiles
For a timeless and cohesive design, using the same tile for both the floor and walls creates a clean, sophisticated look that should be reflected in all bathrooms. If you would like to differentiate between spaces, such as the main bathroom and the master ensuite, consider using the same tile but in a different shade. This approach effectively creates a point of difference, while maintaining consistency in your overall interior design.
Quality Finishes
It's worth noting that achieving a high-quality finish does not require a substantial financial outlay. By maintaining consistency across the areas discussed, you can create a sophisticated interior that looks polished and inviting.
Main Flooring
When selecting your main flooring, there are numerous options available. It’s important to choose a product that fits within your budget and meets the practical needs of your space. To ensure a uniform look, opt for flooring that can extend to your external areas, promoting a natural flow between indoor and outdoor environments.
A key tip is to avoid polished tiles for the floor, as they tend to show footprints and marks easily, leading to more frequent cleaning —something many would prefer to avoid.
Summary
By focusing on these core elements when designing your spaces, you can create an interior that remains stylish and functional for years to come.
Collaboration
At Oztown Constructions, we recognise the importance of collaboration in creating exceptional spaces. We work closely with experienced interior designers to ensure your vision comes to life seamlessly. Our team is dedicated to connecting you with the right professionals across all relevant services for your build or renovation project. We facilitate a cohesive workflow that brings your ideas to fruition and guides you through every step, ensuring a streamlined process and a stunning outcome tailored to your style.
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