Creative Director's style tips for Rookie Stylist entries

In this year’s popular Rookie Stylist competition in partnership with Mr Price Home, the overall winner will not only receive a Mr Price Home voucher valued at R15 000, but will also get a professional photoshoot done by the Home team that will be featured on the cover of SA’s best-selling décor and gardening magazine.

Are you eager to participate, but still hesitating if your photos will wow the judges? Our Creative Director, Marian van Wyk, shares practical tips to style your space like a professional.

BEDROOM

Start at the bottom. A bed base peeking out from under a duvet looks unattractive, no matter how little it sticks out. Cover the bed base with an oversized sheet in an accent colour.

A neutral palette creates the kind of tranquillity you want in a bedroom. After all, it’s where you switch off after a busy day and recharge your batteries. No, not your cell phone’s; your own “batteries”!

Now for texture! Create a cosy cocoon with a loose rug, throw and several cushions in different earthy, natural textures. This adds interest to a neutral space.

Proportion is key. An extra-tall headboard requires extra-large cushions. Use your pillows as a base at the back, and combine scatter cushions in different sizes and shapes in front of them for an interesting composition. Make sure there are at least two oversized ones.

Think smart about storage space. A bedside cabinet with both open and closed storage areas is a must; this allows you to display your beautiful things, as well as hide your vitamin bottles in a drawer.

Aim high! Bedside lamps that are almost as tall as the headboard create a feeling of opulence and are the right proportion for a tall headboard such as this.

LIVING ROOM

Anchor the room. A corner sofa is an excellent space saver as it utilises every centimetre. A lounger that offers extra seating without making the space look overcrowded is a versatile bonus.

Make it interesting. A loose rug does more than just demarcate the lounge area and add warmth. Choose one with a cheerful pattern, as well as pops of colour that complement the sofa but don’t necessarily repeat its colour.

All the right curves! A round coffee table is the right proportion for a corner sofa and facilitates ease of movement in a compact space; people can walk around the table without bumping into sharp corners.

Choose an armchair that makes a statement. The days of a lounge suite are over – you don’t want everything to match. Choose an armchair that provides contrast. Mustard-yellow is on-trend; just look at how this chair adds warmth to this cool palette!

Side tables are a must. They are wonderfully versatile and enhance a cosy, comfy atmosphere. Choose a lightweight design that you can easily move around as needed.

Create atmosphere. Floor lamps are an excellent way to add height, and also create soft lighting at night when you want to relax. They also serve as task lighting for reading.

Invite nature indoors. Houseplants are back in fashion, all the more so if they’re a hanging plant.

Scatter them! Scatter cushions remain the easiest way to bring in trendy colours and patterns. Have fun; place them randomly! The whole idea is that nothing should look stiff and formal.

HOW IT WORKS

1 Take a photo of your favourite space in your home, using your cellphone (take it in natural light for best results). Do a close-up or step back for a wide-angle shot. You could choose an entire room, a stoep, a focal wall, shelf or bed – anything goes, as long as it’s pretty and styled to your satisfaction.  

2 Upload this picture to your Instagram account. If you don’t have an account, create one by downloading the app in the Apple app store or on Google Play.

3 Write a short caption; add the hashtag #mrpricehomerookiestylist2022; also tag @mrp_home and @tuishomemag – and off you go! The competition closes at midnight on 19 June 2022. 

If you missed it, find it online here.