Insiders: House of Wards
In the realm of home design, some individuals break free from the norm. Interior Designer and owner of House of Wards design studio, Helen Ward, is one such renegade.
Stepping into her captivating Edwardian home in Knowle, Bristol, you can't help but be drawn in by Helen's unwavering belief that a house should reflect your personality—a place where comfort and self-expression come together effortlessly.
One of Helen's fundamental design principles is all about colour blocking. She boldly challenges the idea that every room needs a plain white ceiling. Instead, she encourages you to think outside the box and explore a vibrant palette. Helen fearlessly paints walls, radiators, and door frames with a burst of colours, infusing her living space with a sense of energy and character. It's her way of leaving a personal touch on every corner of her home.
"I know people think it might be a strange choice to have a kitchen that is all black, but I absolutely love it!"
As you dive deeper into Helen's design journey, you'll discover her knack for creating visually captivating spaces. She believes that a room shouldn't have just one focal point. Instead, she advocates for multiple points of interest, keeping your eyes engaged and intrigued as you move around the space. This approach adds an element of excitement and dynamism, making every room a source of discovery and fascination.
Leaning into limitations: Embracing the Dark side
Contrary to the notion that a dark house needs an immediate white makeover, Helen chooses to embrace the darkness and make it work. Rather than trying to fix it, she carefully plays with lighting techniques and chooses colours that resonate with her soul. By doing so, she transforms the darkness into a cozy and captivating ambiance. Helen believes that this deliberate choice creates a more intimate and inviting home, full of character and intrigue.
Helen's design philosophy is a testament to the power of personal expression and creativity in home design. Through her fearless embrace of colour blocking, the inclusion of multiple focal points, and her ability to embrace the inherent characteristics of a space, she crafts a home that's undeniably hers—a reflection of her vibrant personality.
Helen's story inspires us to break free from conventions, have fun, and create a home that authentically embodies who we are.
