Your client refuses to part with beloved furniture pieces. How can you ensure the design remains functional?

Assess the pieces for functionality, size, and condition. Incorporate them as focal points, reupholster or refinish if needed, and design around them to ensure harmony and practicality in the overall layout.

Make an inventory of the furniture that your client wants to keep and respect the sentimental value that the client has. The step to follow is: - Selection and inventory. - Measure and evaluate the properties. - Adapt and restore if necessary. This approach allows the client to preserve their most precious items, while saving money and achieving the desired design objectives.

If my client loves a piece, then, I'm going to love it enough to incorporate it. Many years ago I had a client that inherited a gorgeous curved sofa and a pair of wingback chairs from her late parents. Rather than throwing these beloved pieces out, I took them to a local upholstery and gave each piece new life with new cushions and fabric. A client wanting to keep a beloved piece doesn't mean that the design has to falter, it means we need to figure out how to enhance these pieces to incorporate them in the work we are doing.

Absolutely, it’s a challenge, but one that allows for creative problem-solving. My approach starts with understanding the sentimental value of the beloved furniture piece and assessing how it fits within the overall design theme. I work to seamlessly blend these cherished items into the new design, respecting the emotional connection clients have with their furniture. As a designer, my goal is to harmonize the existing pieces with quality, functional interiors that align with the client’s vision. By prioritizing their needs and preferences, I ensure the space remains both aesthetically pleasing and meaningful.

. Condition and Suitability: Evaluate the condition and suitability of each beloved furniture piece. Determine if the items are in good condition and if they can be integrated into the new design without compromising functionality. . Stylistic Fit: Assess how the beloved pieces fit stylistically with the overall design concept. Identify common design elements or themes that can help integrate these pieces seamlessly into the new space. . Functional Role: Determine the functional role of each piece within the design. Ensure that the beloved items serve a practical purpose and contribute to the functionality of the space.

Selecting a colour palette that complements the client's favorite furniture, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing design. The goal is to make the old and new elements work together seamlessly, resulting in a harmonious and inviting space.

The furniture to be retained should be the basis for creating a colour palette that connects with the whole. For example, colour harmony can be achieved by: -Distributing the visual weight of elements in a composition evenly. -Creating differences through the use of contrasting colours. -Establishing a focal point through the use of colour, shape or size. -Use repeated elements to create cohesion and consistency in the design. -Create a sense of movement or direction in the composition. -Using empty space strategically to improve legibility and clarity. -Introduce diversity in the composition to avoid monotony.

For space planning to be effective, the space must first be zoned and all existing furnishings must be incorporated. Zoning the social, intimate and service space, along with traffic flow, and then arranging the existing pieces and other elements, will help your design to be well targeted, harmonious and able to cohabit the new with the existing.

. Layout Optimization: Optimize the layout to accommodate the beloved furniture pieces. Consider the flow of the space and how these items can be strategically placed to enhance both aesthetics and functionality. . Zoning: Create designated zones within the space to highlight the beloved pieces. Zoning allows you to feature these items prominently while ensuring they don’t disrupt the overall design. . Proportional Balance: Ensure proportional balance by arranging the beloved pieces alongside other furniture items. Proper spacing and placement help maintain visual harmony and functionality.

. Blending Styles: Blend the beloved pieces with new furniture and decor to create a cohesive look. Use complementary colors, textures, and materials to tie the old and new elements together. . Eclectic Design: Embrace an eclectic design approach that celebrates the mix of old and new. Highlight the uniqueness of the beloved pieces while ensuring they harmonize with the overall design aesthetic. . Layering Elements: Use layering techniques to integrate the beloved pieces seamlessly. Layering rugs, combining different textiles, and mixing decor items can create a rich and cohesive design.

. Coordinated Accessories: Use accessories to tie the beloved furniture pieces into the overall design. Coordinated accessories such as cushions, throws, and artwork can enhance the visual appeal and integration of these items. . Functional Decor: Incorporate functional decor that complements the beloved pieces. Items like lamps, side tables, and storage solutions can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the space. . Personal Touches: Add personal touches that resonate with the client’s preferences and style. Personalized decor items and meaningful accessories can create a cohesive and functional design that honors the beloved furniture pieces.

The accessories are what will complement the visual aesthetic image of the whole. "The icing on the cake will be a balanced fusion of your design style and the personalised response of your project proposal. There are various elements such as cushions, duvet sets, lamps, artwork, murals that can serve as a bridge between the old furniture and the new design. Remember that the idea is to have an open space to create the atmosphere and harmony that is expected.

It is a good idea to highlight your client's cherished pieces with the right lighting to create the desired atmosphere. Use a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting to enhance the beauty of the furniture, highlighting the emotional value these items have for your customer.