Leafing through magazines, or browsing the net, you see umpteen images of home décor. While you would like nothing better than to do up your home, confusion can set in. What style should you use? And what about the interior design cost? Can you do it yourself?
Well, your home is your castle. It is the only place where you can feel totally comfortable and secure. As such, an aesthetically appealing interior is desirable. Interior design costs may not be in your budget. But, there is a silver lining. You can design your home like a pro! These 7 interior designer secrets will help you along!
1. Choose your style
The first question any interior designer will address is; what kind of decor are you looking for? Do you want an ethnic look? Or is a modern contemporary look more your style? You can approach the formal look for elegance or a playful, inviting look with a lot of vibrant colours.
Choosing a style can be difficult, as there is something appealing in each style you see. To make things simpler, think back on all the places you have been to, where a certain wall finish or cabinet design appealed to you. Make notes, so it’s easy to come to a decision.
2. Dressing up your walls
Paint is the most popular medium to dress up your walls. Besides being cost-effective, you can use the colours to streamline the different areas of your home. Painting one room at a time can be risky, as the effect lacks connectivity. Dramatic colours can work, but it's best to apply a sample patch on your walls before you begin, as the colours can differ drastically from what you see on the shade card.
Confine bold and stark colours to the focal point, generally the area behind your TV cabinet or the bed; or it can get overwhelming.
3. Plan out your space
Yes, you love the sofa in the showroom. But is it going to cause cramping in your small area? Any interior designer worth his salt will tell you, before you make your purchases, plan out the space. You can use chalk to mark out the placement of the furniture. That way you will know what to buy and where to put it.
Bulky sofas in a small room will crowd the space, making it look smaller. Remember proportions are the key!
4. Layering and textures
Once your flooring is done, it doesn’t end there. A trick used by many interior designers is, adding textures and layers to give dimension to the room. An area rug is ideal for the sitting space. Small throw rugs can add pizzazz to the flooring, elevating your design quotient.
5. Mood lighting
The perfect lighting can change a mundane decor into an interesting interior. Getting it right takes a little talent. However, interior design cost can be forbidding, or you may want to wing it yourself. Pendant lights work well in corners or over the dining area. An eclectic light fitting can easily become a conversation piece. Gentle spots with dimmer are ideal for the ceiling. For the warm traditional look, a lampshade on a side table is perfect!
Also Read: 6 Things to Keep in Mind While Designing a Modern Bedroom
6. A medley of prints and patterns
Rather than confining yourself to one colour or pattern, you can go for a mix of patterns and colours for an intriguing effect. Small and busy patterns are ideal for cushions. As are geometric patterns in a complementary palette. The throw rugs can mirror the colours of the cushions, to complete the picture.
7. Plants galore!
There is nothing more beautiful than lush plants to add that oomph to your decor. Aesthetic planters will make a perfect home for your plants.
Once you get the hang of it, it is not difficult to design your own space. But there is no hurry! Get the feel of your style and design and work your way through the project cautiously, for better results.
