Celia Bernardo, the renowned fashion designer behind the Celia B label, brings her signature style to her home renovation in Oviedo, Spain. Her approach to interior design is a reflection of her creative process, blending her love for travel, vintage finds, and a deep appreciation for the building's historical significance. In this article, we delve into her journey of adding a vibrant color scheme to her 100-year-old home, offering a unique perspective on how to infuse personality into a historic space.
A Designer's Sanctuary
Bernardo's home is a sanctuary, a place where she curates a collection of cherished items, each with a story to tell. Her renovation process was a thoughtful one, considering the specific activities that would take place in each room. The day-room, for instance, was painted in a light Farrow & Ball yellow, setting the tone for the rest of the space. This decision was not without its challenges, as she grappled with self-doubt and even considered a complete whitewash.
The building's rich history, designed by the esteemed architect Manuel del Busto, presented an opportunity to preserve the original features while infusing a bold color palette. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, with the designer's personal touch evident throughout.
Five Tips for a Vibrant Color Scheme
- Start with the Kitchen: According to Bernardo, the kitchen is an ideal starting point for creating a cohesive color scheme. It helps to envision the space as a whole, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to color selection.
- Mix Cold and Warm Tones: While mixing cold and warm shades is a classic approach, Bernardo highlights exceptions, such as the harmonious pairing of green and blue, or soft pink and red. Her preference for Farrow & Ball colors adds a touch of sophistication to any space.
- Revive Second-Hand Furniture: Painting second-hand furniture in various hues is an affordable way to add color. This approach allows for a unique, personalized touch, and the process of collecting and restoring furniture becomes an integral part of the design journey.
- Embrace Color in the Dining Area: From tablecloths and napkins to candles and flowers, the dining table can become a canvas for creativity. Bernardo's suggestion to incorporate color in this way adds a festive touch to any meal.
- Ignore Seasonal Trends: Bernardo challenges the notion that interior design should be seasonal. She believes that all colors look their best regardless of the weather, and her home in the rainy north of Spain serves as a testament to this.
Personal Interpretation and Commentary
Bernardo's approach to interior design is a testament to her creative spirit and unique perspective. By preserving the building's original features, she has created a space that feels both timeless and contemporary. Her tips offer a refreshing take on color coordination, emphasizing the importance of personal connection and instinct in the design process.
One of the most intriguing aspects of her philosophy is the rejection of seasonal trends. In a world where interior design often follows seasonal patterns, Bernardo's belief in the universal appeal of colors adds a layer of complexity. This perspective challenges the notion that design must conform to external expectations, instead emphasizing the importance of individual expression.
Furthermore, her emphasis on the kitchen as a starting point for color coordination is a practical and intuitive approach. By focusing on a single space, designers can create a cohesive foundation, which can then be built upon with confidence.
In conclusion, Celia Bernardo's home renovation project is a testament to the power of personal expression in interior design. Her tips and philosophy offer a fresh perspective, encouraging readers to embrace their creativity and challenge conventional norms. As an expert in her field, her insights provide a valuable guide for anyone seeking to add a touch of vibrancy and individuality to their living space.
