In conversation with journalist and stylist Erica Davies
Meet journalist and stylist Erica Davies. We chatted to her about the joy of eclectic design and she shared her top sale picks, showing that pre-owned doesn’t have to be expensive.
How do you describe your interior design style?
I would describe my interior style as considered eclectic. I am happiest when surrounded by colour and print, but it has to be cohesive and thought out. I am also a fan of layering spaces – so I take my time to ‘build up’ a space. Vintage pieces, for me, are a big part of that and you find the perfect pieces when you’re not looking for them!
Where do you go for inspiration?
I absorb my surroundings, so get a lot of inspiration from hotel and restaurant design, even shops. I love to see how other eyes put things together – I am drawn to interesting colour combinations, a fusion of new and old. For me, a room is not a room without a few key vintage pieces.
Do you think your fashion style influences your interior design?
Yes definitely. The way I put an outfit together is definitely similar to the way I consider a space. It’s all about the colours used and the proportions they are used in, the accent shades or prints that tie a scheme together. In my fashion, I love a mix of colour, new and vintage and that is also true of my home décor style.
How do you incorporate vintage and antique pieces when designing a space?
There is always a space for a piece of vintage art, or sign, or a little cupboard. I have a wall of vintage pink glass mirrors that I have collected over the years. A few key items, such as a much-loved relative’s crockery can look amazing displayed in a modern kitchen, or a few plates from a charity shop mounted on a wall. It’s about adding a layer to tell a story or say something about you. The high street is brilliant for design, but there is absolutely nothing like the stories vintage pieces can tell.
Any tips on looking for vintage pieces?
Be really specific, but also, have an open mind! An oxymoron? Maybe! Often, I will come across something I didn’t think I wanted but it gets my heart racing and I have to have it! I also find pieces that I wasn’t looking for that inspire complete schemes. That happened with a mirror I found for my bathroom – I saw it and it sparked the entire remodel. When it comes to looking for things online, be as specific as possible. If you know the brand name, or decade it was made, that is really helpful. But don’t be afraid to scroll!
Favourite design era?
I am a big fan of mid-century design, mixed with some ‘70s.
What’s on your vintage shopping list?
At the moment, I am looking for a statement piece of wall art for the bathroom. I am not entirely sure what it is I am after, but I’ll know it when I see it. I am also toying with the idea of replacing a sofa with a vintage Ligne Roset, but we will see!
