Whether you’re renovating your home, fitting out a retail store or adding some finishing touches to a space, there are certain design elements to keep in mind. And even though the goals for each space may be different, the principles remain the same. There’s a lot to think about, and if you’re not a seasoned interior designer, you may not know where to start. Each decision, no matter how big or small, can really transform a room or area, so it pays to create a plan based on some solid foundations.
If you’re feeling a little stuck in your decorating or renovation process, this guide will help you get started. We explore how to assess your space, consider your style and give you tips for picking out the perfect elements for your space, whatever that space may be.
Understand Your Space and Needs
Before considering the perfect elements for your space, take a step back and understand your goals for the space. After all, there’s a reason why you’re looking to give it an update. Knowing the goal can help you stay on track when picking out pieces. You can even make a checklist of things each element needs to do before you make a decision.
When considering your space, work out what you want to achieve for the space or what’s making you want to change the area. It may feel too big, small, unwelcoming, outdated or even just not like you. Is it time to update your floors with something more modern? Do your walls need a fresh coat of paint? Consider how you feel in the space and what you’d like to feel when you’re in there.
Define Your Style
Clearly defining your style can help you really know exactly what you’re looking for before it goes into your space. Making a mood board can help you figure out what your personal or brand style is. Look at images of design and pieces you like to work out whether you lean towards modern, rustic, industrial or even a mix of interiors. From your mood board, you can create a color palette and style guide for the space, helping make finding the perfect elements even easier.
If you feel like your style is disconnected, go back to the purpose of the space and why you’re finding elements for that room, store or other area. You can then research moody offices, cheery retail spaces, industrial-looking kitchens or whatever style takes your fancy to help give you ideas.
Balance Style and Functionality
Have you ever sat on a beautiful couch just for it to be lumpy or uncomfortable? You’d likely avoid sitting on it again. The same can be said with picking elements for your space.
While what the elements look like, whether that’s a feature wall, luxury vinyl plank flooring or furniture, is important, they should be functional too. If you’re only picking out one or two new features or elements, consider how they will work with what you already have. You’ll also want to make sure that your choices work for you. Whether that’s durable flooring to withstand high traffic areas or furniture that has a dual purpose like a sofa bed or storage ottoman, try to find the right mix of style and functionality.
Select the Right Color Palette
Color can completely change the mood of a space. It can help make a space feel bigger, cozier, brighter or moodier. Think about what colors you’re drawn to and also the type of emotion they evoke.
For example, warmer colors like reds and yellows can help add energy and liveliness to your space. Greens and blues, on the other hand, can help create a warm yet soothing space.
When choosing colors, try and align them with your scheme for the whole space. If you have multiple colours in mind, consider how they work together, as this can make a space look disjointed and chaotic. You could try picking a main neutral colour, like cream, white or beige, and then add one or two feature colours.
Accessorize with Personality
Sometimes you won’t be able to make big changes, like painting walls. But small changes don’t have to mean a small impact. When you add powerful elements that show off your personality or your brand vibe, it can help set the tone for the entire space.
Even if you can’t make big changes or are adding the finishing touches, rugs, artwork and décor can make a big difference. This is when you can add pops of your favourite colour or elements that suit your style. Whether it’s a series of framed photos, a collection of treasured books or even some of your favorite artwork, there are plenty of ways to inject some personality into your space.
Consider Any Additional Needs
Every space is different and will have different needs, whether that’s rooms in your home, different areas of an office, retail space, or more. You should follow these steps and tips for each new space, even if you’ll be using the same palette and style throughout. Each element should align with the goal for that exact room.
Think about the different needs of a bathroom or kitchen (whether residential or commercial) versus a workspace, bedroom or living room. Each room has its own goal as to why you’re in it. When you go back to the basics and tick all the boxes, you’ll have an easier, more fun time picking out each element to create your dream space.
Published By: Aize Perez
