Luxury interior design: How to style your luxury apartment
- 11 Nov 2024
In luxury interior design, styling an apartment goes beyond simply choosing high-end furniture and accessories. It’s about creating a space that exudes elegance and sophistication while maintaining a sense of comfort and warmth.
Whether you’re styling a luxury apartment overlooking Sydney Harbour, Victoria Harbour in Melbourne or an equally stunning location, the principles remain the same: balance, quality and personal expression are key.
The foundation of luxury interior design is creating a harmonious balance between style and function. According to Sue Axlund, Interior Design Director at Axlund & Goldstein Interiors, the goal is to “create a space that not only looks exquisite but also feels like a serene sanctuary”.
This balance is achieved through thoughtful consideration of proportions, textures and colours, which together form an inviting and cohesive environment.
“Layering textures and materials adds richness to the space and lighting plays a crucial role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere,” she explains.
“Statement lighting is really important to create an ambience and a mood within the space. Also, artworks that echo the landscape or who you are as a person and something that reflects the beauty of the interior.”
Luxury apartment interior design and styling incorporates luxurious textiles such as silks, velvets and high-quality rugs, which not only elevate the room’s aesthetic but also create an inviting atmosphere. The varied textures add layers and sophistication, transforming the space into a luxurious retreat that feels both elegant and personal.
The world of styling is shaped by different approaches, from modern to moody, bohemian to bold. Two of the more popular concepts include classic luxury interior design and contemporary luxury interior design. The difference between these particular styles lies in the execution. Classic luxury tends to lean on timeless elements, such as a classic colour palette, well-crafted furniture or an heirloom Persian rug. Sue notes these pieces are not only beautiful but sustainable and meant to be passed down through generations.
In contrast, contemporary design embraces modern elements with clean lines, minimalism and innovative materials, offering a fresh take on opulence.
Colour is a powerful tool in luxury apartment interior design. It sets the mood, defines a space and brings harmony and balance to a room. When it comes to styling your apartment, Sue suggests using a neutral palette as your foundation, with carefully selected colour accents to achieve a luxurious feel.
“Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings, like the deep blues and soft greys of Sydney Harbour, can help bring the outside in, creating a cohesive and tranquil environment,” she adds.
From living rooms that balance usability with aesthetics, to bedrooms designed as serene sanctuaries and kitchens and bathrooms that offer both beauty and practicality, every detail matters when it comes to interior design in luxury apartments. Here’s how to style each room to achieve a luxurious, cohesive look throughout your apartment.
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Living roomNeutral base with colour accents
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BedroomLayering luxurious textures
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KitchenBeautiful and functional
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BathroomPure indulgence
Luxurious interior design styles often shine in the living room. A luxury apartment living room interior should be the centrepiece of the home and Sue suggests focusing on the flow of the floor plan to achieve a sense of balance and spaciousness.
“It’s important to maintain a sense of proportion and avoid clutter,” she advises. This can be done by choosing statement pieces that enhance the room without overwhelming it, such as a sculptural vase on the coffee table or a well-placed artwork that reflects the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
When styling a luxury apartment living room, Sue again suggests starting with a neutral base and introducing rich colours through accents like throw pillows and statement pieces.
Lighting is another essential element. Incorporating a mix of ambient, task and accent lighting ensures that the room is both functional and inviting.
“Low-level lighting, like table lamps and floor lamps, creates a cosy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day,” Sue says.
Styling bedrooms in luxury apartments is about blending comfort with aesthetic appeal. The focus should be on creating a restful and soothing space.
Low-level lighting takes precedence, rather than relying solely on overhead lights. Sue recommends layering textures, such as placing a soft rug underfoot or using luxurious bed linens that invite relaxation. She emphasises the use of double-layer curtains to allow for filtered light during the day and a darkened room at night, creating a hotel-like ambience.
For smaller spaces, Sue advises using multifunctional pieces like storage beds to maximise space while maintaining a sleek look. To further open up the room, she recommends using light, neutral tones and strategically placed mirrors, which can reflect light and expand the space while being mindful of feng shui principles. The neutral tones will make the room feel brighter and more spacious, while rich accents, like a velvet throw or brushed brass details, add a touch of opulence.
The kitchen truly is the heart of the home, and when it comes to styling, the focus should be on both aesthetics and functionality. Sue suggests using statement pieces like a large sculptural vase on the island or incorporating custom lighting fixtures to add a personal touch.
“The pieces you choose should not only be beautiful but also functional, serving both as decor and as practical elements in the space,” she advises.
In the bathroom, luxury bathroom interior design revolves around indulgence. Plush, high-quality towels, fragrant candles and carefully selected accessories can give your bathroom a day spa feel. You can also add greenery, such as humidity-loving plants, to create a fresh and tranquil atmosphere.
“A valet tray with your favourite soaps, hand creams and candles adds a luxurious touch and keeps everything organised and accessible,” Sue concludes.
Luxury interior designs are about more than just aesthetics – they are about creating a space that reflects your personal style while providing comfort and functionality. By focusing on high-quality materials, thoughtful colour schemes and balanced proportions, you can create a home that is both elegant and inviting.
Visit Lendlease Apartments to explore more modern luxury apartment interior design ideas and discover how luxury apartment interior design is being brought to life by Lendlease in iconic settings like Sydney Harbour and Collins Wharf in Melbourne.