Celebrating 40 years of transforming rooms with her calm-yet-dramatic aesthetic, Kelly Hoppen’s new book invites readers into her own past and present homes.
“Creating a sense of theatre is essential in any living space,” declares Kelly Hoppen, and the dramatic settings in her home, a converted auction house in central London, amply prove her point.
“I bought the building as a shell with nothing but a floor, an impressively high ceiling and the structural columns,” she says proudly, gesturing at the vast open-plan living area which runs from an entrance hall at one end through to the study at the other, with living and dining areas in between.
The space is decorated in her signature shades of taupe and white. “I’m not frightened of colour, but neutrals are who I am. It’s worked as my signature colourway for 40 years and I’ll continue the Hoppen style.”
It’s this distinctive style philosophy that has won her a portfolio of A-list clients, including David and Victoria Beckham – and now she reveals her decor secrets, and the wisdom that’s helped make her internationally renowned, in her beautifully illustrated book, House Of Hoppen.
Kelly’s decor tips include:
COLOUR UP
Splashes of burgundy, dark grey, pastel pink, emerald green, and burnt orange will be the shades of this year.
EDGY MIX
An industrial look in design has made a comeback. “Using industrial materials, such as concrete, will automatically inject an urban feel into your home no matter what the location. This versatile material looks incredible contrasted with metals and textures. Mix it up with antiques which will shock and contrast beautifully with this sleek look.”
WAKE UP WALLS
“Wallpaper should be a wonderful, luxurious piece of texture, which draws you in but at the same time is a backdrop to whatever style you choose for your home.”
LIGHTEN UP
Create a lighter feeling for spring by substituting curtains and loose covers in heavy fabrics for more delicate alternatives, such as sheers and cottons. Use mirrors throughout the home where possible.
FLOOR SHOW
Different materials and effects will make floors the star of homes this year, Hoppen predicts. “Retro tiles paired with wood, herringbone flooring matched with ceramic tiles, and old wooden floors mixed with stone will be just a few of the new pairings.”
