Kelly Lo's home brings Californian sunshine to Repulse Bay

20161107 Tatler Homes Kelly Lo-What The Fox-0624 copy.jpg

Photography by Jonathan Maloney and Inga Beckmann

Founder and creative director of her eponymous design firm, Kelly Lo, was inspired by the colours of an ocean sunset when designing her own two-storey beachfront home. Inspired by her Californian roots, the home Lo shares with her husband is bright, welcoming and full of colour. Here, she shares her tips on how the simplest of touches can make the biggest difference in enhancing your space. 


Unique Art

20161107 Tatler Homes Kelly Lo-What The Fox-0402.jpg

Look for unique pieces that you enjoy and reflect your personality or theme. 

Art is a great way to add colour to a space, but it doesn't have to be in 2D frames. For example, the Lo's living room features an array of colourful blown glass bubbles by US artist Tim McFadden as well as a whimsical elephant sculpture to add an element of fun. 


A Bold Area Rug

20161107 Tatler Homes Kelly Lo-What The Fox-0418.jpg

Choose a bold colour or pattern to command attention and make the area stand out.

A bold rug can set the mood for any space. For Lo she was inspired by the ocean: "The contrast between the silks and the wool of our carpets reference the textures and reflective qualities of rolling waves or water."


Metallic Hardware and Accents

20161107 Tatler Homes Kelly Lo-What The Fox-0688.jpg

Details such as cabinet pulls or accent borders are strong on glamour. 

It's all in the details—metallic touches can add glamour and singularity to an otherwise ordinary piece of furniture. Here, Lo matched the golden tones of the geode handles to the beige and taupe hues of the room for a timeless feel. 

See also: 5 Online Design Shops For Your Home Decorating Needs


Photo Frames

20161107 Tatler Homes Kelly Lo-What The Fox-0212.jpg

A good frame with a fond memory does wonders in creating a cosy and homey atmosphere. 

 "These tokens are what help transition a house into a real home," says Lo. Transforming these memories into tangible photographs makes them even more special—as well deeply personalises your space. 


Cushions

20161107 Tatler Homes Kelly Lo-What The Fox-0704.jpg

Cushions are a great way to bring colour into your home as well as easily changeable for a quick new look.

If you're worried about committing to colour, give yourself the freedom of flexibility with cushions. Lo's living room sofa is lined with elephant-themed ones, including some by Thailand's Jim Thompson, a collection she's been working on for the past few years. 

See also: 14 Decadent Design Items To Brighten Up Your Home


Photography by Jonathan Maloney and Inga Beckmann
Styling by Emma Lauren

Read the full story in the Winter 2016 issue of Hong Kong Tatler homes. Subscribe or sign up to our email newsletter to get top tatler_stories in your inbox.