Inviting an interior designer’s creative eye would be recommended for a safer, more comfortable, and functional space. Unfortunately, some homeowners can’t afford the steep professional fees of hiring one. This pushes them to DIY the decoration process. If you’re in the process of designing your home, here are 20 decorating tips you need to know.
1. Combine various light sources
The three most common lighting fixtures are task, ambient, and accent lighting. Ambient lighting provides illumination throughout the entire space and is considered the most general overall lighting. Accent lighting focuses on artwork, furnishings, and other details. Meanwhile, task lighting is used for detailed work. It’s recommended to combine all three types in every space.
2. Separate areas with rugs
Separating areas with rugs is advised in smaller spaces. Choosing various rug sizes is also a smart way to layer the different zones in your space.
3. Create statement pieces in every room
Having statement pieces will create a focal point in every room. These pieces will also lead the eyes first, amplifying the room’s aesthetic appeal. Use wallpapers, plants, big furniture pieces, bright throw pillows, or wall art as focal points.
4. Try out paint samples
Before committing to a particular paint color, you can try out various paint samples to see if it fits your home and furniture.
5. Set the tone at the main door
Experts say a house’s value increases if you choose a bright color for your front door. Choose a buttery yellow or fiery brick red to contrast with the neutral colors.
6. Choose light and neutral colors
Try to avoid jarring transitions, as they can damage the overall appeal of your home. Go for neutral or light colors such as gray, beige, or dirty white. This also allows you great flexibility when pairing with furnishings and furniture.
7. Create a conversational furniture layout
Your living room furniture must be arranged in a way that engages conversations. Make sure your sofas and chairs match and speak to one another. Aim for balance while achieving comfort and intimacy in your space.
8. Consider flow in your layout
Ensure that your interior design and furniture layout are functional. These mustn’t hinder foot traffic in your space. That said, consider flow in your layout to offer a more practical haven where everyone is comfortable and safe.
9. Go for symmetry
One of the most common decorating tips is achieving symmetry in your living room. When designing your couch with throw pillows, make sure that the pillows are symmetrical and balanced.
10. Buy multi-purpose furniture
It’s advisable to buy furniture that offers a double purpose. You can go for a coffee table that serves as storage. Better yet, try an Ottoman that doubles as storage. This technique is beneficial for smaller spaces.
11. Appreciate the white space
If you’re hesitating about what paint color to choose for most of your walls, dressers, and baseboards, go for white. White offers more flexibility, especially when decorating with other bold and bright statement pieces.
12. Place mirrors in every room
Mirrors bounce off natural light and illuminate the entire space, making it bigger and breezier. Make sure to position mirrors across from windows to make the room brighter.
13. Anchor rugs under furniture legs
Your rugs should never float in your space. Anchor furniture legs and make sure they accommodate a seating area.
14. Invite natural light in
Although you diversify the lighting fixtures in your space, it’s also recommended to allow natural light in. Natural light offers mental health benefits and makes the area more aesthetically pleasing.
15. Curate your clutter
The longer you stay in an area, the less you notice the clutter. You can invite a fresh set of eyes who can assess the space or hire experts to curate useful and functional clutter.
16. Paint the ceiling white
If you have a small space and a low ceiling, you can paint it white to make it appeal less claustrophobic. You can also hang curtains as high as the windows to suggest high-ceiling spaces.
17. Try diversifying proportions
Play around with different proportions. For instance, you can combine small and big pieces to keep them versatile. However, ensure that you create synergy in the room.
18. Keep your artwork low
When choosing wall art, keep it low, as this is eye level for most people. You can hang artwork about 60 to 62 inches from the floor.
19. Mix and match textures
Don’t be afraid to play around with different textures, as this establishes the statement pieces and makes them pop even more. You can combine velvet throw pillows, leather furniture, and ceramic vases.
20. Make your entryway interesting
Your entryway is the first thing people see when they enter your home. Make sure you spend time and effort creating an interesting and compelling entryway by keeping it inviting and homey.
About the author
Celeste Zosimo
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