Understated Opulence

For as long as I can remember, luxury in interior design has always been unapologetically loud. When most of us hear the word ‘luxury’, our minds instantaneously wander towards opulent materials, and extravagant finishes. Luxury has had this reputation for being grandiose and attention-grabbing, and is often defined by excessive opulence rather than subtlety or nuance. I’m not arguing the freedom to choose the style that resonates most with you, I’m simply advocating for a more conscious approach to selecting materials and finishes.

Luxury doesn’t have to be loud to be heard. It should exude a quiet confidence, one that makes you stop and look closely. It should not be defined by flashy finishes that scream, “Look at me!” It should emanate an understated elegance that whispers rather than shouts. It’s about finding the beauty in simplicity, and appreciating those finer details, the ones that demand a closer look to be fully appreciated.

If someone asked me to define luxury, I would say that it’s all about creating environments that feel authentic, without having to sacrifice sophistication. The focus should be on quality over quantity, investing in pieces that are made to last, both in terms of the style and it’s durability. This means selecting materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also ethically sourced and environmentally friendly. It’s a movement towards a more conscious consumerism, where every choice is made with intention and awareness of its impact.

True luxury cannot be defined by how much we spend, instead it’s how we choose to spend it. It’s about crafting spaces that reflect our highest self and our commitment to leaving a positive footprint on this earth.

Dale Alleyne-Ho

Interior Stylist. Colour Connoisseur. Plant Enthusiast. Biophilic Design. Founder of Alleyne & Co.

*New Course Coming Soon* - Styling With Plants

https://www.alleyneandcodesigns.ca
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