How the build of your home can dictate the interior design

In the UK the homes we live in can span from many different eras of construction. From the new build homes in County Durham to the old glory of the granite city of Aberdeen - there is arguably a greater diversity of lived in buildings in this country than anywhere else in the world. So how can the outside of your home influence the interior design?

Modernist design

If you live in an architect designed home that looks more like a collection of steel and glass boxes than a traditional brick built terrace house, you will probably want to choose contemporary styled furniture with simple clean lines rather than flowery patterns and frilly fabrics. Steel and glass can seem very cold design features for a living space but by cleverly combining them with warm wooden floors and key statement accessories in rich colours you can transform a space into an inviting and luxurious home.

Period Property

A well kept period property can have no end of original features. Stained glass doors, tall ceilings, sash windows and Victorian tiled floors are all sought after and much loved attributes that can be huge selling points for any property. One reason that many people love an older house is the excuse to install a traditional styled bathroom. A roll-top bath, whether reclaimed or brand new, is a beautiful focal point in a period bathroom and oozes a sense of elegance and indulgence.

Rural Cottage

Moving away from the hustle and bustle of inner city life generally comes with the decision to get away from ever-changing modern day trends. Rural cottages with their thatched roofs and inglenook fireplaces bring with them a different way of life. Although it's possible to update essential features such as hot water systems and power supplies, the charm of an open fire and an Aga stove bring with them a more cosy sense of interior design with large cushioned sofas, fireside armchairs and natural fibres.

Exceptions to the rules These three examples demonstrate that interior design often follows on from the outside style of a home. However, the real cutting edge trends are all about throwing the rule book out of whatever style of window you have and mixing and matching styles to reflect your own personality. That's why these days it's not uncommon to walk through the door of a period terrace to see an interior that's more suited to a futuristic way of life.