Lois Kuhle visits some sophisticated bachelor pads
A bachelor pad is apparently not a den of iniquity anymore. According to interior decorator Elle Suntheim, many bachelors are using her decorating skills to turn their lairs into something a little more sophisticated.
“I have a lot of bachelors as clients,” she tells us. “I normally suggest furnishings with strong clean lines that some would say have more of a masculine feel and then add a little ‘pretty’ to the rooms through soft colours and interesting textures.”
Armed with a degree in psychology, a vast knowledge of Persian carpets and training in interior decorating, Elle is more than qualified to make a difference in any home.
“People have a misconception that it is expensive to hire a professional, but this is not the case,” says the attractive, quietly spoken decorator. “We have good relationships with a variety of suppliers who provide us with goods at wholesale prices so the client doesn’t really end up paying more than they would at a retailer. Over and above this you have a much bigger selection of products and you avoid making those costly mistakes that frequently occur when you attempt it on your own. It is also not necessary to refurbish everything in one go, but rather to work in phases.”
Elle reminds us that décor and design isn’t just a service. “It’s a whole experience.”
She loves working with natural fabrics like linens and silks and prefers to focus on textures rather than colour.
“You have to be careful how you mix the two – if there’s too much colour and texture in a room it can look far too busy. I love wall papers. There are so many exciting ones around at the moment and they often give me inspiration for the rest of the room. I often start with a paper and then work from there.”
Natural woods with strong grains, marble floors and wide open free flowing spaces with high walls are one of Elle’s favourite palettes with which to start off any decorating job: she loves the subtle character provided by the natural elements and suggests never skimping on those bigger things when it comes to building a new home or renovating an old one.
“I like to use crisp white linen if the furnishing provides the texture and I love the contrast that creates,” she adds. Combining a contemporary style with classical textures creates a sophisticated, yet not overstated look.
“I don’t believe in introducing too much colour into the main bedroom. A bedroom should be a place of tranquillity and not too chaotic. You can also tire quite quickly of the colour, especially if it’s a trendy one.”
She loves subtle greens, and the fashionable duck-egg blue. Slim deep etched mirrors add interest in a bedroom, giving depth to a small area, reflecting light and adding height.
“It’s important to understand what people want for their homes. I don’t believe that being a decorator is all about creativity: it’s also about allowing personalities to express themselves.”
Useful info” “Elle on the inside” telephone 083 445 1554