Trendiy: Up close and personal with Sandi Larkin

With over 30 years of experience in the world of colour and design, Sandi Larkin, Hobart TrenDIY’s dynamic new in-house interior designer, will reveal the true beauty of your home. She is a specialist in conceptual design and has a unique outlook on space-planning. 

Sandi is an expert in the field of paint finishes and colour coordination. She will advise you on fabrics and curtaining systems, lighting, flooring, as well as soft furnishings and accessories. Every project is individually customised to meet the vision and budget of each client. This beautiful showhouse at Steyn City (below) was proudly styled by Sandi Larkin and her team of interior specialists from Hobart TrenDIY. This inviting showhouse exudes elegance and luxury with contemporary tones, modern furniture and quality finishes! We chatted to Sandi about her design style and creative expression in this beautiful showhouse. Here is what she had to say: What sort of style have you created? “I have tried to create an easy modern laid back, but still luxurious lifestyle, based on simple Scandinavian styled pieces and the idea of dead spaces, such as under the stairs being utilized for maximum storage spaces, but still looking stylish, clean and modern.” How have you managed to achieve such a welcoming ambiance? “I have created a striking entrance using both simplicity and texture. My entrance table is simple geometric design with an Ash Grey wooden top. The painting has layers of textures and copper, mauves and greys to offset the tear drop glass grey object, which has a sculptural presence.” You have managed to create large and airy space – what sort of lighting have you used? “Most of the lighting in this space is down lighting, but I have sprinkled some feature lighting in all the bedrooms as well as a custom made Scandi style standing light in the dining room.” Decorating elements – good balance and symmetry, but how did you achieve this in the interior? “I decorate using the the ‘Golden Means Ratio’, this is what gives my interiors balance, symmetry and creates a harmonious effect that makes the interiors seemly serene.” Tell us more about the soft furnishing you have used? “The couch and chairs are very modern and Italian / Modern / Scandi inspired. The feature chair in russet leather adds a quirky mid-century retro/modern feel to the main living room.” How do you draw colour and create a focal point? “I used a very clean pallet of pale grey greens, and ambers to offset the cool off grey/ white walls. I then introduced coppers and rose gold accents to infuse the space with character and warmth. I also use wood to add elements of modern mid-century/ Scandi feel in the Duplex. I also use quite luxurious fabrics in the main bedroom to add a layer of glamour.” What about the bedroom Interiors? “I used quite luxurious metalics fabrics in the main bedroom to add a layer of glamour. Metallics are still big in interiors.” Tell us about the kitchen layout? “The kitchen is an integral part of our day and entertaiment lifestyles and is perfectly portioned for having a quick breakfast or entertaining a larger crowd.” Any suggestions when buying a new home? All modern homes these days are built to smaller proportion than South Africans are accustomed to. They are now more in line with European standards, hence I used this philosophy when designing this home…..” Ikea on Steroids”. Be smart with your storage and eliminate clutter.” What do you think? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Visit TrenDIY for all your home décor and design needs.