7 Secret Tips from Interior Designers to Elevate Your Home's Style

As an interior designer, I've had the privilege of transforming countless spaces into stunning, magazine-worthy homes. Over the years, I've picked up a few trade secrets that can make a significant difference in elevate your home's style. In this blog post, I'll share seven of these tips to help you create a beautifully cohesive and stylish living space.

Understand the Power of Color

Color is one of the most powerful tools at an interior designer's disposal. It has the ability to set the mood, create optical illusions, and make a room feel larger or smaller. When choosing a color scheme, consider the function of the room and the atmosphere you want to create.

For example, warm colors like red, orange, and yellow are stimulating and can create an energetic atmosphere in a living room or dining area. On the other hand, cool colors like blue, green, and purple can promote relaxation and are ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms.

My personal tip: Start with a neutral base and introduce accent colors through furniture, artwork, and decor. This approach allows you to easily change the look of your space without a complete overhaul.

Invest in Quality Furniture

Quality furniture can make a significant impact on the overall style of your home. It's worth investing in pieces that are well-crafted, comfortable, and timeless. Trends may come and go, but a classic sofa or dining table can anchor your space for years to come.

When shopping for furniture, focus on the following:

• Materials: Natural materials like wood and leather age beautifully and can add a touch of elegance to your home.
• Construction: Look for solid construction, reinforced joinery, and high-quality hardware.
• Comfort: Don't compromise on comfort, especially for pieces you'll use frequently like sofas and beds.

Layer Lighting for Ambiance

Effective lighting is crucial for creating atmosphere and highlighting design features. Layering your lighting is a technique used by interior designers to achieve a balanced and versatile lighting scheme.

Here's a simple formula to follow:

• General lighting: Overhead fixtures or natural light sources that illuminate the entire space.
• Task lighting: Lamps or sconces that provide focused light for specific activities like reading or cooking.
• Ambient lighting: Table lamps, string lights, or wall fixtures that add a warm glow and create a cozy atmosphere.

By combining these three types of lighting, you can create different moods and adapt to various activities in your home.

Embrace Texture and Pattern

Texture and pattern can add depth and visual interest to your space. Incorporating a mix of materials and patterns will make your home feel more dynamic and inviting.

Consider the following:

• Textiles: Use throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to introduce different textures and patterns.
• Wallpaper: A statement wallpaper can transform a room and add a touch of luxury.
• Artwork: Abstract or patterned artwork can break up solid color walls and add personality to your space.

Display Personal Collections and Artwork

Personal touches make a house a home. Displaying your favorite collections and artwork allows your unique style to shine through and creates a space that feels authentic to you.

Here are some ideas:

• Gallery walls: Create a curated display of artwork, photographs, and memorabilia.
• Shadow boxes: Showcase your collectibles in shadow boxes for a modern and organized look.
• Open shelving: Use open shelves to display books, decorative objects, or cherished family heirlooms.

Optimize Storage and Organization

A well-organized home is not only more visually appealing but also more functional. Maximize your storage space and create a clutter-free environment with these tips:

• Custom cabinetry: Invest in built-in storage solutions that make the most of your space.
• Multi-functional furniture: Choose pieces that double as storage, like ottomans or beds with drawers.
• Declutter regularly: Edit your belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need or love.

Don't Overlook the Details

Attention to detail can take your home's style to the next level. Small touches like hardware, window treatments, and accessories can elevate the overall design.

Consider the following:

• Hardware: Update your cabinets, drawers, and doors with stylish hardware that complements your design scheme.
• Window treatments: Choose window coverings that frame your view and add a touch of elegance.
• Accessories: Incorporate decorative objects, vases, and candles to add the finishing touches to your space.

By implementing these seven secret tips from interior designers, you can elevate your home's style and create a space that reflects your personal taste and lifestyle. Remember, it's all about the details and thoughtfully curating a home that feels uniquely yours.