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Designing a home is fun and can be a little overwhelming. Whether it’s a new house or apartment, you want to add your own character to the space. Yet, there are so many current trends and materials to choose from. So, here are some of the best home design tips.
1. Add Your Own Style
Remember it is your house, so make it feel comfortable for you. Some family or friends may have opinions but it’s all about what you want. Also, it’s helpful to get inspiration from design trends. Just remember to put your own spin on it.
For example, layers of texture are a popular trend right now. So, be sure to add materials that showcase your personality. If you’re more outgoing, add fuzzy rugs in brighter shades. Also, use decorations to show off your style and hobbies. Suppose you enjoy the outdoors, hang some nature paintings.
2. Create a Mood Board
Visual cues can make it easier to imagine your dream space. So, browse interior magazines, websites, and Pinterest. Magazines such as Architectural Digest and House Beautiful have some of the best home design tips.
Once you find these images, gather them together. Then glue the pictures to construction paper or a foam board. Use this board as a reference when you go shopping for new decor. It can help you visualize what the materials will look like in the room. Get images of furniture, flooring, wallpaper and fabrics.
3. Think About the Colors and Fabrics You Want to Include
Start by determining what color you want for the walls, furniture and curtains. Consider the color scheme you’re going for. Do you want to decorate with natural tones, like white, for a calming atmosphere?
Maybe you prefer more energetic tones, like deep blues or reds. Pick a different color for the accent items, such as cushions, lampshades and table cloths. Use these hues throughout your design, for a cohesive space. Also, consider mixing fabrics, like florals and geometric patterns, to create contrasts.
4. Test Your Paint Colors First
This is one of the best home design tips that can save you stress. Keep in mind light can change the appearance of colors. So, buy sample paints to try first. Then paint a portion of your lightest and darkest walls. It can help you visualize what the shade will look like in the room.
If you’re going for white walls, this is especially important. Testing the hues also saves you the hassle of repainting if you change your mind halfway through. In addition, test out any wallpaper first. Tape samples to the walls and drape larger ones over furniture. You can also tape them to curtain blinds to see how well the pattern matches.
5. Get Inspiration From Current Items
Often you’re working from your home’s current design unless you just moved in. So, instead of buying new furniture, work with what you have. This also saves you money and is better for the environment. For example, what colors are found within your rug?
You could reupholster your favorite sofa to match it. You can also use colors from other decor pieces, such as curtains or chairs. Buy accent pieces, like cushions, with tones and patterns that complement them. Use a color wheel for more inspiration. For example, pinks and reds go well with greens.
6. Be Mindful of Scale With Furniture
When picking out furnishing, consider the size. Think about the scale of the room. For a larger area, you may want a spacious sofa. Even if you have a smaller space, consider having one larger statement piece. It could be a headboard in the bedroom or a comfortable recliner for the living room. A mix of large and small items can create visual interest.
Measure your room to ensure all the furniture fits properly. Make sure you have this information when you’re shopping. Also, consider the layout. Do you want to have a sofa with matching side tables? Drafting a sketch of how you want the room to look and feel can help you pick the right sized pieces.
7. Add a Signature Scent to Your Space
You want your home to look and smell good. So, consider adding some lovely smells to your home. Your guests will also be impressed walking into a freshly scented area. Try to find a signature smell that can showcase your personality and is unique. Decorate with candles, diffusers and essential oils.
Here are a few fragrances to consider:
- Rose
- Lemongrass
- Coconut
- Eucalyptus
- Jasmine
8. Design From the Ground Up
Decorating your space can feel a little intimidating at first. You may not know where to start. So, start from the ground up. First, determine the type of flooring material you want. Do you want classic hardwood floors or more comfortable carpeting? If you choose more neutral colors then you can add more colorful furnishing. If you start with a vintage rug, draw inspiration from the colors within it.
Planning around your flooring and main furniture pieces creates a more cohesive space. Then you can add accent decorations that complement the room. Also, consider the layout of the space. For larger areas, divide the room into zones. It can include sections for lounging, television viewing, working and playing games.
Best Home Design Tips
One of the fun parts of being a homeowner is decorating your space. It’s the perfect chance to show off your personality and style. So, follow these best home design tips to create a stunning room.