There’s a power in walking into a space that feels truly unique. Personalising your home through interior design isn’t about following trends or mimicking someone else’s spaces; it’s about shaping an environment that tells a story (your own story). Who you are, where you’ve been and what you love. The best part is that it’s the smaller touches – artwork, textiles, collectables – that make the biggest impact.
While personalised interiors have always been a priority for homeowners – over the last few years, people have become accustomed to spending more time at home and home is a sanctuary; a safe space and it’s become more of a priority to make them as comfortable and personal as possible.
Building blocks
Part of the design process is helping a homeowner express themselves – to steer them, rather than choose for them. We get to know our client’s tastes so that we can help curate their vision, according to what feels right for them, and their lifestyle. It’s a give-and-take process that involves incorporating our advice while staying true to who the client is. The art is to apply our expertise while creating a space that feels unique to the homeowner. The bottom line is that the pieces in your home must speak to you – it’s a balancing act between getting good advice, and going with your gut.
For Sumari, creating a personal interior is contingent not only on choosing the finishing touches well, but creating a foundation that’s expressive rather than sterile. Here, natural materials trump everything else – granite or marble tiles over porcelain; solid teak furniture from Gommaire over synthetic outdoor materials, etc. Natural materials also always have an ‘imperfectness’ about them, which means they’re unique by default, and this allows them to create a personal feel in spaces.
It’s the little (and big) things
As a general rule though, the areas that allow you to really drill down into what makes a space yours are accessories (check out Pols Potten, 101 Copenhagen and Dutz’s ranges) and artwork. The blanket finishes like floors and cabinetry are designed to be neutral so it’s in the finishing touches that you can put your stamp on a space. Colour too, can be a powerful tool for creating a sense of identity.
If furniture is the substance, textiles add the softness. Cushions, throws, rugs – upholstered chairs and sofas. They soften hard edges and straight lines and bring in texture, warmth, and colour. More importantly, they allow for instant personalisation. Don’t be afraid to mix textures, patterns, or even clash a little. That tension creates interest.
Start with art
Art is one of the most direct ways to say ‘this is who I am’. Whether it’s a bold abstract, a series of beautifully framed photographs or a collection of delicate watercolours, what you choose to hang on your walls says a lot. How you display them too, speaks volumes – lean larger works against a wall, hang small pieces in unexpected places (like the kitchen or bathroom), or mix mediums. They should take guests on a journey.
Every object has an origin story, but some have more to say than others. And and when you surround yourself with things that hold meaning, your space becomes layered. Collectable design pieces – handmade, vintage or limited-edition objects – add depth and character.
They don’t need to be valuable in a monetary sense to elevate your space though. It could be one-off bowl, or a signed print in a limited run by an up and coming artist. These unique items anchor your space and spark memory and conversation. La Grange Interiors has always championed the handmade and the one-of-a-kind – wandering through the showroom you’re able to touch and look at pieces, feel what resonates with you.
putting it all together
Personalising your space isn’t about perfection – it’s about personality. Your home should evolve with you, reflect your experiences, and feel lived in. Collect as you go, create ongoing stories in display cabinets alongside well-loved books. Combine contemporary furniture you love, with interesting collector’s items and colourful art. This is how you make a space truly yours.
At the end of the day, great design has to do more than just look good, it has to feel good too. So trust your instincts, lean into what you love, and don’t be afraid to break a few rules.