How to layer pieces for stylish lounging with Simone Haag
Teleisha Thomas
November 2024Interior stylist Simone Haag is a leading figure in the Australian design scene renowned for blending vintage and contemporary pieces to create richly textured spaces that reflect her clients’ unique personalities.
We visited Simone at Red Crest House, a stunning mid-century modern home that combines rich materials and a warm palette to echo the beauty of its picturesque Dandenong Ranges setting. Here, Simone shares her insights on how to create a chic entertainer’s corner.
How to layer pieces for stylish lounging
Texture is everything
For me, texture is the foundation of an inviting space. Mixing different textures creates a tactile environment, drawing people in and making them want to stay. Velvet, linen, leather, and wool - each material brings warmth and richness, and by layering them, you introduce depth and dimension, which keeps the design engaging and dynamic. At Red Crest House, the palette of warm neutrals, browns, and greys was carefully chosen to harmonise with the wood panelling and Korora Stone from Eco Outdoors to create a serene atmosphere.
Blend eras to tell a story
I love to use pieces from different eras to add layers of interest. Vintage pieces offer so much character and soul, while contemporary items bring freshness and functionality. When you layer these together, you create a space that feels authentic and personal. At Red Crest House, our clients wanted a mid-century modern aesthetic, so we guided them towards some pedigree pieces to invest in alongside more functional and family-focused items like the curved contemporary sofa in the sunken lounge.
Light and form
Lighting can make or break the atmosphere of a room. I like to layer different types of lighting to give a room depth - ambient lighting sets the mood, while accent lighting can highlight focal points like art or architectural details. In this space, the feature floor lamps by Jan Wickelgren and Lana Launay act as sculptural elements within the space.
Make it personal
An inviting lounge should reflect your personality, so include items that evoke fond memories, like family heirlooms or art from your travels, to make the space uniquely yours. I find these meaningful details infuse a room with warmth and individuality. In this space, our clients’ collection of records and curios found the perfect home in a vintage shelving unit, seamlessly blending practicality and personality.
Simone Haag Studio specialises in residential interior styling, focusing on furniture, art, and object curation. To discuss your next design project with Simone, visit her website to schedule a consultation.
