As mentioned in my last article, it should be noted that the way we decorate our homes, much as the way we view art, is completely subjective. What is visually appealing to one is not necessarily so to another. Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder. That said, there are still a few general rules of thumb to be taken into consideration. Regardless of your personal tastes, this guide will help you improve the overall look and feel of your home.
Note: This is “Part 2” of a three-part article. For the first article, featuring numbers 1-3, email barbyh125@aol.com and we can send you a copy of the first article. Also, keep an eye out for the next article, highlighting the last 3 common decorating mistakes!
4. Measure Twice
Furniture that is too small can throw off the scale of the room and look insignificant. However, larger pieces can make the room too crowded if you haven’t properly measured your space. It is recommended that you measure the room diameters, as well as ceilings and entrances, to make sure that there is room for a nice flow of traffic. You should be able to freely walk around the space. If you plan on moving into a new home, or are considering ordering new furniture, you will want to be certain it will all fit.
Imagine ordering a new sofa or entertainment unit, only to find it will not fit through a doorway or stairwell. Also, it is very important to consider your ceiling height when choosing furniture. I have witnessed clients who have brought their small-scaled furniture with them and placed it in a home with a very high ceiling. Unfortunately, this appears as if they have doll furniture in an oversized space.
5. Back it Away from the Walls
The goal is to create an intimate space where people can gather, while allowing for flow! Many people have a tendency to automatically place their furniture up against the walls. Seating pieces should be brought in slightly if a room is smaller, and even more if a room is larger.
6. Don’t Listen to Your Neighbor or Mother-in-Law!
Ultimately, the best way to decorate your home should be a reflection of your style, interests, and passions. Don’t let anyone impose their taste and style on you.
For help finding the perfect décor, layout, balance, and colors that match your taste and personality, talk to a professional decorator. They can help your personality shine through your beautiful home interior.
In the meantime, leave well-meaning friends and family out of the picture when it comes to decorating your home. It’s o.k. to say no to their suggestions, as well as to any piece of furniture they may want to unload on you…especially if it’s not to your liking!
7. Try Not to Lose Focus.
Before you design, renew, or refresh, walk around the room and designate one place that you would like to be the central focal point. Maybe it’s the outdoor area, through the slider or bay window, overlooking a lush and lavish back yard. What is the best furniture plan? Where do you use texture? What fabrics and patterns coordinate with your sofa, chairs, and window treatments?
Decorating can be overwhelming, especially with all that is available in the retail market. A good designer will narrow it down to furnishings with the right style and colors that suit you and bring you the home of your dreams. The selection process can be challenging, but a professional designer can help you see the “big picture”, while guiding you through the choice of each element. The end result will be a well-coordinated, functional living space that is beautifully appointed. Your home will be a place you enjoy for many years to come!