The notepad: Saba Pervez Dada

Saba Pervez Dada, interior designer and director at Address concept store jots down items that can spice up any space in your home

Odd-shaped décor pieces



Nature is full of spectacular colours and textures and its effect in interior design can be direct or subliminal which combine contrasting qualities. An odd-shaped organic object such as the coral gives a space integrity and intrigue. Its designs are rooted in grids and symmetry, which can balance out a space and work in conjunction with its surroundings.

Quirky cushions



A cushion introduces a splash of colour or pattern into a room. Apart from serving its functional purpose, it can also be used to add an additional layer of texture. I often use a collage of quirky cushions on a neutral sofa to introduce a colour palette and match it to either the rug or artwork. Cushions are subtle yet powerful in interior designing. I particularly love this Missoni cushion.

Statement rug



While some prefer a rug that can easily blend in, some start a project with a statement piece such as a dominating rug, which decides other interiors such as furniture, lighting, and textures. I love using a statement rug, which dictates the whole room. I used this particular piece from Afghan Carpet with subtle pieces such as a raw coffee table and taupe sofas. I matched the cushion’s colour with the rug to create harmony.

Buddha head



Global influences have often been found in urban homes to celebrate cultural diversity. Buddha is a calming, inspiring and soulful symbol. It serves as a focal interior point in niches or on it’s own over coffee table books to give a dramatic affect.

Black and white artwork



Artwork that a space user loves should be the star in a room, where everything else can be designed around it. A collection of art looks fabulous when linked together by scale, style and subject matter. Black and white artwork introduces a graphic element into a space and rarely fights with its surroundings. It can be used in monochrome interiors to create mystery as well as a lit up, colourful room to tone it down.

Coffee table books



Think of each table as a blank page on which you can create visual drama. One way to achieve this is by placing coffee table books on the table. It is also a way of adding a layer onto a flat surface. The eye enjoys stimulation and coffee table books set the mood. It can be used to accessorise in collaboration with tiny objects or with one statement object like a vase or an urn.

Accent tables



The purpose of interior design is to serve, excite and surprise. I love using accent tables in a project when I want to create excitement. They work beautifully in a neutral environment or in a monochrome palette. The subtler the surroundings, the more an accent product stands out. However, it is important to use it in balance.