Our Stories
Layering Luxury Accents in the Home with Stephanie Stamatis
Stephanie Stamatis, also known by the moniker Stephanie Somebody, is an art and photographic director inspired by a love of nostalgia.
Working across editorial, commercial and publishing in food and still life, her practice celebrates the beauty of contrast and the charm of everyday things.
Stephanie recently welcomed us into her home to share her favourite pieces from our latest collection, and how she layers luxury accents in living spaces.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
My favourite part of the work I do is working with and coming into contact with so many incredible people across many different disciplines, at home in Australia and abroad. I cannot do my job alone—well, I could, but I would probably get very frustrated and lonely—so collaborating is always very rewarding.
I also just really love making photos.
When it comes to your home, how would you describe your personal style?
My home is eclectic and layered. It's a little bit modernist, a little bit folk. It’s full of pieces that I have collected locally and abroad making me somewhat of a sentimental bowerbird. I’m particularly drawn to pieces that look handmade or are a little quirky. You’ll see Michelangelo’s David souvenirs and fake food next to 200-year-old Japanese antiques with plastic Circus stools. I love the juxtaposition.
What are some ways to bring darker, moodier colours into the home?
A good way to introduce moodier accents into your home is through soft furnishings. Cushions and throws are the first step in creating a moodier palette. Bringing in darker timber accent furniture and tinted glass in decorative items such as vases and bowls will solidify the scheme.
In the bedroom, bedding is a great place to play and experiment. Layer mid-tone sheets with deep-toned duvet covers and accent cushions to create visual interest.
How do you layer different textures?
Texture adds dimension and warmth to a room. Larger items like a beautiful wool rug or a linen sofa will be able to act as a base for whatever style you choose to curate. From there, you can choose your own adventure—for example, linen, rice paper and travertine will feel light and breezy. Boucle, burl timber and silver gives a sense of French modernism. The textures should work harmoniously but also contrast each other and tell a story.
What about pairing statement finishes and textures—is there anything to keep in mind?
Simply playing with design principles in a space will create a statement. You can achieve this by contrasting scales, form, colour, pattern or texture. For example, a stainless steel kitchen looks so beautiful with brass accents. Adding a vintage quilt to your bed layering creates visual interest and complexity in a room. A cream linen sofa looks amazing with a bold colour velvet or corduroy cushion, or both. What you need to keep in mind is keeping the balance in the room by playing your accent off other elements already in the space.
