When you are deciding on the interiors of your home, it can be difficult to know where to start, including what colours to choose and where to place that feature electric fire. We don’t all have an interior designer at our disposal, so here are a few interior design secrets that will help to fool proof your interior decoration efforts:
Start with inspiration
Before you get stuck right into tackling the task, spend some time searching for inspiration. Flick through magazines, head to your local DIY store and collect paint colour samples, fabric samples and anything else that you feel inspires you. This research stage is a vital element in redecorating so that you can be sure that you don't regret any choices you make in the near future. Another great source of inspiration is Pinterest, take a look at our infographic to find out how to best utilise this platform for inspiration!
Don’t get stuck with a theme
It is easy to get swept away in a specific theme and feel that every element of your room or home will have to fit in with that theme. This is not the case, in fact, it is better to go with a colour scheme rather than a theme. Pick out 2 or 3 colours that blend well, and have this instead of a theme. If you like the nautical or beach style, you can still incorporate this through the colours and soft furnishings rather than more literal paintings of waves, starfish and beach huts. Simple is better, and will make it easier the next time you decide to redecorate (although we hope that that won’t be for a long time!)
What is the concept of the room?
Working out the concept of the room will help you to create a space around its main function. A bedroom, for example, should be calming with soft colours and little distractions, where as the living room wants to be warm and inviting, with soft lighting and a flickering electric fire to create the heart of the home. What will you be doing most in this room, and how will you want to feel when you’re in there? Asking yourself these questions should narrow down colour schemes and accessories.
Less is more
The well-known phrase ‘less is more’ certainly applies here. Try not to over complicate your décor, for furniture, opt for multi-functional pieces that will maximise space, and utilise the wall space rather than flat surface space for decoration. All of these items will make the room look and fill bigger and less cluttered for a better aesthetic. Try to have interest at every level, from the floor to the ceiling to draw your eye around the room.
Mirrors make a room look bigger
Although you don’t want to go over the top with mirrors, they are a great asset in making a room look bigger, lighter and warmer. A large, statement mirror in the centre of a room could be a feature piece or place them above low pieces of furniture such as sofas to expand the size of the room in an illusion. Think about what the mirror will reflect, as hanging it opposite your prized possessions could add a great extra dimension. However, if it is facing the toilet door, it may not have quite the same effect.
Use textures to create interest within the room
Where you opt for a textured fabric for the sofa cushions, or bold wallpaper, adding texture to a room can really bring it to life. This is particularly helpful if you are opting for a muted colour scheme as it will bring the colours to life and create a great aesthetic to the room.
Take your time
Don’t rush the redecorating process as this can lead to issues in the future. Take your time, and if you can afford to, get a professional in to paint the walls. Try to enjoy the process and get your family or loved ones involved in the designing stages so that you can create a space that you all love!