A European-inspired scheme feels especially on-point right now. It’s centred on a look that’s rich in texture, reflected in a tonal colour scheme, layered in neutrals with warm undertones. When it comes to decoration in this scheme, it’s about showcasing few pieces but making sure each piece is a piece of art in its own right.

Conceiving the colour palette

We’ve kept the colour palette in this look very tonal which highlights the range of textures in the materials. The warm pink undertone of the tile was my starting point and in painting the batten board in Dulux Eggshell Pink Quarter we’ve extended the colour, allowing the materials to do the talking. Laminex Peruvian Clay and Laminex Porcelain blush are perfect laminate colours to complement the scheme. We’ve seen these colours work beautifully together in joinery. 

Credit: Design Hunter UK

Selecting your hard finishes and fixtures

The Laminex batten board (Laminex Surround Batten 25) feels very contemporary with its deep grooves and linear architectural profile. We love how it juxtaposes the more organic, fluid pattern in the tile and would make a striking wall detail. 

The simple, small square tiles add to the materiality without introducing a new colour. They’d add life to a kitchen splashback or bathroom wall. It’s also worth noting that you shouldn’t feel compelled to tile an entire bathroom. The floor and shower walls obviously require tile or alike, but you may prefer a wall panelling or even just plasterboard on the remaining walls.

The aged bronze handle adds a sense of warmth to a space and its muted finish makes it very easy to work into any scheme. You could also use brushed or living brass or copper (warm metals) in this scheme with similar success. The scale of the handle also adds an element of drama, perfect for a restricted colour palette such as this.

Credit: YSG

The rich walnut timber grain laminate provides enough contrast to help anchor the look and is a more budget-conscious option than a timber veneer to apply to kitchen cabinets, TV units or bathroom vanity. And the PGH Morada Ares brick is the most sublime colour that I would easily introduce on the face of an indoor fireplace and/or plinth. The PGH Fieldstone Aspen dressed, is the organic element that this space needs to keep the space feeling relaxed.

Credit: Sarah Ellison

Soft Furnishings

The approach to decorating your European scheme relies on providing layers harmoniously. Grasscloth wallpaper has been used for hundreds of years in homes. It adds texture without adding a pattern into the mix, which I think goes towards the timelessness of this scheme. 

Boucle fabric included in the scheme is having a real moment in interiors right now. Its highly tactile composition adds a sense of sophistication and softness that makes you want to curl up and just melt into the space. It’s even more luxurious paired with a rich, smooth velvet. Then there is tan leather which can just so easily slip into any interior scheme like a quiet, loyal friend, ideal on a sofa or banquette seat.

Credit: Three Birds Renovations

Let’s Get Started

Creating a mood board for the design of your future home will not only assist with communicating your vision to your colour-selection specialist but will also give you confidence in the outcome of your home design. A reference you can always go back to in future, keep your European inspired mood board close during your home selections process.

Don’t forget to share with us your mood board design by tagging @ausmarhomes on Facebook and Instagram.