by Mina Fies
Some of us have a natural creative side and a flair for styles; others are not so lucky. For those who may be struggling, here are some simple design tips that will help you create a beautiful space with confidence.
Tip #1: Selecting your furniture
Shopping for furniture does not have to be an overwhelming experience. Start off by doing your homework before heading to the stores. Look though design magazines for styles that you like and take them with you to show the salesperson. Establish a budget and stick to it. Make sure you are comfortable with the amount of money you plan to invest. Sticking to the budget will prevent you from experiencing ‘buyer’s remorse’ later. Once you have your style and budget set, make sure to shop several stores before making a purchase. This will allow you to feel more confident with your final choice.
Tip #2: When in doubt, go neutral
Although many designers love color, it is not for everyone. If you are having a hard time committing to a bold color, don’t. Neutral colors will always be in style and can create a very chic and elegant look. You can choose from many neutral colors – taupe, ivory, grey, soft yellows, light browns, and tans are all great choices. This rule of thumb can be applied to furniture, fabrics, and paint.
Tip #3: Add accents
You can make your space feel unique and interesting with accents. If you choose to go with neutral colors for furniture or walls, add color with your accents. Pick fun and colorful pillows and a throw to add to the sofa. Color can also be added with an inexpensive area rug. Make your space feel in-style by adding a few trendy accessories. You can pick up a cool accessory to add to the cocktail or end table at any popular home goods store. Make sure to find a bargain, so you won’t feel bad replacing them as trends change. When you’re placing accessories, try to create balance. Odd numbers look best together, and symmetry is most pleasing to the eye.
Tip #4: Vary the lighting
Lighting can seriously affect the mood and appearance of any space. It is important to have layers to your lighting design. Ambient, task, and accent lighting are a few important types. Ambient light is the general lighting in the space. This may include recessed cans or a ceiling-mounted fixture. Task lighting is used anywhere you will be doing something particular. For example: placing a floor lamp next to a chair you like to read in, or hanging pendants over a kitchen island where you cut veggies. Accent lighting might be a spot light highlighting artwork, or it could be more decorative, like a chandelier or a unique table lamp. Finally, make sure to take advantage of natural light. Use window treatments that allow you to control and adjust the amount of natural light in the space. Try to include at least two types of lighting in any space.
Tip #5: Trust the experts
Don’t ask your mother, brother, neighbor, and friends about what you should do – all those extra opinions will only cloud your mind. When you are designing your space, ask the experts. Salespeople and design consultants are happy to help you make a final choice. They are knowledgeable about the latest and greatest items and products on the market. When you are shopping, be sure to ask for their expert opinion if you are unsure of what to do. You might even ask them to point out their favorite items. They are there to help, so take advantage. Don’t think of it as them trying to sell you something, instead understand that they will help you find what you want easily and quickly.
Follow these five design tips to design with confidence! Most of all, have fun creating your new space. It should be an enjoyable, not stressful, experience. Relax!
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© Mina Fies is the Founder and CEO of Synergy Design & Construction, Inc. To learn more about Mina or request your FREE Kitchen Remodeling Roadmap™ using our contact us page, please visit www.renovatehappy.com
This article may be reprinted when the copyright and author bio are included.
