As we all long to make our homes both beautiful and functional, we sometimes make decor mistakes that we will later regret. Unhappy choices nearly always stem from poor planning, rash decisions, self-doubt or even some bad advice. Here are ten tips on how to take sound and sensible steps to create the home you want.
Identify Style
While you may find yourself looking for a style to follow via online photos, magazines and the like, don't forget to inject your own personality into the home. As much as you want things to be coherent in design flow, make the home yours instead of being like everyone else’s. Consult an interior designer if you need some professional direction.
Select Artwork
Art is one area that is and should remain very personal. Don’t just buy art because it may match your couch. You should pick things that speak to you and trigger your positive emotions.
Take A Wide View
When considering a striking wallpaper with a complex pattern, it’s very important to ensure it complements your space. Browse design websites or platforms like Pinterest and Houzz for images of rooms featuring the wallpaper you’re considering. Examine how the pattern's lines and colors interact with furniture and decor. Notice how the pattern repeats and its overall visual impact. See how the wallpaper looks in different lighting conditions and at various times of day.
Select The Right Paint
Definitely don’t be hasty with a paint color. Pick your top options and do test patches on the actual walls that you want to paint. Real paint test patches are the only way to go when you want to see how the finished product looks given wall texture and the room’s lighting.
Quality
While an expensive piece of furniture won’t make a room beautiful, a poorly made cheap piece will likely show its true colors sooner than later. A good rule of thumb is to buy the best you can comfortably afford.
Blend Style Lines
Even if you are a fan of one particular style, don’t be afraid to mix different ones together like the old with the new. You want things to flow, but you also don’t want your home to look like it is too overly styled in one theme.
Sizing
Always, always do your measuring and use the same “measure twice, cut once” advice here when getting furniture. Make sure couches aren’t too big for living rooms, dining chairs with arms fit under tables and are height appropriate. Everything should fit well and not obstruct pathways.
Have a Regard For DIY
Be realistic about your capabilities and don’t take on projects that are above your ability where you either may do them and have it look wrong or may be too overwhelming that you never even begin!
Lighting
Lighting is important and can make or break a room. You want enough of it to illuminate the room and you want it to look right. Don’t detract from a fabulous pendant light or chandelier with an awkward hanging height. It’s easy to get it wrong over a dining table: Allow a minimum of 32 inches between the light base and the tabletop, or it will visually intrude between diners. A general rule is about 5 feet between the light base and the floor.
Planning For The Future
Now that you have pieced your home together make sure you have it preserved for the future. One way is to make sure you retain files of any paperwork or receipts to ensure you are covered and ready to claim warranty information should anything happen.
