Lonika Chande is a London-based interior designer known for her sophisticated, eclectic style that effortlessly combines classic luxury with modern design sensibilities. She brings a distinct flair to every project, mixing rich textures, bold colors, and curated antiques with contemporary furniture. Chande believes in creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful, emphasizing comfort, warmth, and individuality. If you’re looking to design a home that feels both elegant and personal, Lonika’s tips will guide you toward a balanced and stylish space. Here are her dos and don’ts of decorating.
The Dos of Decorating According to Lonika Chande
1. Do Create a Strong Focal Point
One of the fundamental principles in Lonika Chande’s design philosophy is establishing a clear focal point in each room. A focal point gives the space structure and draws the eye, whether it’s a piece of artwork, a statement piece of furniture, or an architectural feature like a fireplace.
- Tip: In a living room, consider making the sofa or a piece of artwork the main focal point. In a dining room, a large chandelier or vintage sideboard can serve as the centerpiece.
2. Do Mix Old and New
Lonika is a big advocate for mixing modern pieces with vintage or antique furniture. This juxtaposition creates visual interest and allows the room to feel more layered and complex, rather than one-dimensional. The key is finding balance between the old and the new.
- Tip: Pair a sleek contemporary sofa with a vintage coffee table, or blend mid-century chairs with a classic chandelier. This combination ensures your space feels timeless and dynamic.
3. Do Play with Color
Color plays a major role in Lonika’s designs, and she encourages the use of rich, deep hues that evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. While neutral tones provide a sophisticated backdrop, pops of color can elevate a space and inject energy.
- Tip: Experiment with bold accent colors—think emerald greens, mustard yellows, or rich blues—through throw pillows, rugs, and art. Even small amounts of vibrant color can make a significant impact.
4. Do Focus on Layering Textures
Textural contrast is key to Lonika Chande’s design style. She believes that a space should feel inviting, and textures are a major factor in creating that sensory experience. By layering a variety of textures, you can add depth and tactile interest to your rooms.
- Tip: Combine silk curtains with a wool rug, or velvet cushions with a linen sofa. Use a mix of soft, rough, and smooth materials to create a rich, balanced feel.
5. Do Personalize the Space
Lonika emphasizes that no space should feel generic. She encourages her clients to infuse their homes with personal touches—whether that’s family heirlooms, travel mementos, or art that speaks to your interests. These elements make the space unique and reflective of the people living in it.
- Tip: Showcase your personal collections or display meaningful artwork that resonates with you. Adding family photos in stylish frames or a set of curated bookshelves can give your home personality.
6. Do Focus on Lighting
Lighting is a critical component in creating the right mood and feel in a room. Chande insists on using a layered approach to lighting, incorporating ambient, task, and accent lighting to balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.
- Tip: Include table lamps, pendant lights, wall sconces, and floor lamps in different parts of the room to create varying levels of light. A combination of warm, dim lighting with a few striking statement pieces can transform the atmosphere.
7. Do Consider the Room’s Flow and Function
Before starting with the design, it’s important to consider the flow and function of the space. Lonika believes that good interior design is not just about beauty—it must also work for the way you live. Whether it’s a dining room that accommodates family meals or a living room that’s cozy and sociable, function comes first.
- Tip: Arrange your furniture in a way that encourages easy movement, allowing for comfortable conversation spaces. Ensure there’s enough storage for everyday use, especially in high-traffic areas like the entryway or living room.
The Don’ts of Decorating According to Lonika Chande
1. Don’t Follow Trends Blindly
While Lonika keeps an eye on trends, she strongly advises against designing based solely on what’s currently popular. Trends are fleeting, and they can often lead to spaces that feel impersonal or dated over time. Instead, focus on designing with a timeless aesthetic and incorporate trends selectively.
- Tip: Rather than committing to trend-heavy furniture or patterns, use statement accessories—such as throw pillows, vases, or lighting fixtures—to nod to trends without overwhelming the space.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Room with Furniture
Lonika cautions against overfilling a room with too much furniture or decor. When rooms feel crowded, they lose their sense of balance and can feel uncomfortable. Less is often more when it comes to creating spacious, airy interiors.
- Tip: Choose essential pieces that serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Allow some breathing space around furniture, and leave plenty of open space in the middle of the room.
3. Don’t Ignore Scale and Proportion
Paying attention to the scale and proportion of furniture is critical to a well-designed space. Lonika warns against using furniture that is too large for a small room or too small for a larger space, as this can create a sense of imbalance and awkwardness.
- Tip: Always measure before buying furniture, and try to achieve balance between larger pieces (like sofas or bookshelves) and smaller ones (like side tables or chairs). Proportions should feel harmonious, not overpowering.
4. Don’t Stick to Just One Material or Texture
Lonika emphasizes that using only one material or texture throughout a room can make the space feel flat and uninteresting. Variety is key—mix different materials, such as wood, metal, glass, and fabric, to create a more dynamic environment.
- Tip: Combine natural wood furniture with metal light fixtures, or mix soft velvet cushions with a leather chair. The contrast of materials adds warmth and visual interest to the space.
5. Don’t Forget About the Details
The small details are often what makes a space truly special. Lonika believes that finishing touches like stylish hardware, decorative trays, sculptural vases, and plush textiles elevate the overall look of a room. Neglecting these finer points can make even the most well-designed room feel incomplete.
- Tip: Add luxurious textiles, such as velvet throws, or metallic accents like gold-framed mirrors. Don’t underestimate the power of decorative accessories—they can often be what makes a room feel polished and cohesive.
6. Don’t Overlook Comfort
Even in the most stylish rooms, comfort should never be sacrificed. Lonika stresses that a space should not just look good—it should be livable. Avoid creating spaces that look too “designed” and unwelcoming. Comfort, after all, is a key element of luxury.
- Tip: Choose comfortable seating with ample cushions and throws. Ensure bed linens are soft and inviting, and create cozy corners where people can relax and unwind.
7. Don’t Limit Yourself to One Style
While Lonika’s designs are elegant and cohesive, she encourages people not to limit themselves to a single style. A mix of styles—classic, modern, eclectic, and traditional—can create a much more dynamic and interesting home. Staying open to different influences ensures the space doesn’t feel too rigid.
- Tip: Blend mid-century modern furniture with traditional accents, or combine art deco accessories with boho textiles. The fusion of different styles creates a more personalized, lived-in feel.
Final Thoughts: Designing with Elegance and Individuality
Lonika Chande’s approach to decorating is all about creating beautiful, timeless spaces that reflect both personal style and practical needs. By mixing old with new, playing with textures, and balancing functionality with aesthetics, you can achieve a space that feels as though it has evolved over time. Her dos and don’ts offer a thoughtful framework for creating a home that is not only stylish but deeply inviting. So, whether you’re designing a single room or an entire home, these principles will help you create a space that’s uniquely yours—sophisticated, comfortable, and filled with personality.