10 interior design tweaks that scream personality and style
Whether this is a new home, just built, just moved into, or a home that has been lived in for years, there comes a time when a homeowner wishes it were different somehow.
People are happiest in their homes when those homes reflect their individual tastes and comfort levels. Moving into a new home is wonderful, but sooner or later it is time to make it reflect the owner’s likes and dislikes and to be unique. It is also important to have a little guidance to make sure all the changes and additions are in good taste and do not hurt the home’s value.
Interior design guidance is very helpful
When a person wants to make changes in their home decor, it is important to improve the overall design. But, what if someone has little knowledge or talent for home decorating? What if a person has an idea about what look they want but no idea how to accomplish it? Some homeowners want a personal look for their home but also want it to be in good taste and easy to sell when the time comes.
Contacting a design firm such as studio mcgee home can be a good start. Before a person makes any changes it is important to get an idea of what changes can be made. Looking at design firm homepages, design magazines, and even design shows on TV or the Internet can be helpful. Once the homeowner has an idea about what design elements they like, they can start planning.
One of the first steps is to decide on a realistic budget for the project. Decide which areas of the home will be changed. What level of change is needed? It is different to add a few new accessories or paint a couple of walls than to completely redo a room. Decide what existing decor should stay and what has to go. Decide on a color scheme the whole family likes. What design style is appealing?
Then when the homeowner contacts a design firm, they can tell the designer what they want and how much they can spend. They can answer the questions the designer will ask them for guidance in designing the new space. This is important to avoid miscommunication and disappointment.
10 ideas for homeowners who want to add personality to their home
Homeowners who don’t have the funds to hire a designer or just want to redo their home on their own can be successful.
Start by gathering a folder full of ideas from different design sources as a guide to what design ideas are trending and acceptable. Decide on a realistic budget and pick new decor items and ideas that fit that budget. Here are 10 ideas to help you get started.
1) Mix new and vintage items
Homeowners with a limited budget should consider a mix of new and used or vintage items. Part of the fun of redecorating can be the search for just the right vintage items at local antique stores, second-hand shops, or yard sales. Vintage pieces add personality at a reasonable price and they do not have to be perfect. Vintage pieces in good shape can be repaired as needed or painted.
2) Hang art on the walls
Choose art pieces that mean something and add to the overall decor and color scheme. Art can be original, prints, or something created by family members. Art can be purchased in many places including online, at art shows, at art galleries, from local artists, at second-hand or thrift stores, etc. The art should be in good condition and nicely framed. Art does not have to be forever but can be swapped out as the family wants.
3) Choose a color scheme
Decide on a color scheme and add items that fall within that range of colors. If a family has a home with a lot of neutral colors in walls and flooring, art can add color and interest. Adding a little color to walls can make a big difference. Color choice sets the mood for a room and can make a space feel warmer and more welcoming, or cooler and more relaxing. Consider painting one accent wall in a favorite color.
4) Personalize with accessories
Add accessories that have personal meaning to personalize a room. These can include collections, art, travel souvenirs, family heirlooms, or items created by family members.
5) Make the most of lighting
Don’t forget to add lighting fixtures or update insufficient lighting to brighten up a room. Lighting fixtures can add to the decor with attractive designs. A variety of stylish lighting and other practical homeware options can enhance both function and aesthetics. Consider adding dimmer switches so the level of light can be changed to suit the occasion.
6) Add texture
Add texture and pattern with furniture, rugs, pillows, throws, and other accessories. A mixture of wood, fabric, metal, glass, etc can make a room more interesting. Accessories can be changed out as the whim strikes.
7) Pick the right furniture
Choose furniture that is both attractive and comfortable. The right furniture completes the design of a room that everyone in the family can enjoy. Choose furniture that is needed such as seating, storage, lighting, occasional tables, etc.
Furniture can be a carefully chosen mixture of new and vintage. Furniture can be one way to add color to a neutral room. Furniture should be arranged thoughtfully for comfort, conversation, and traffic flow. Make sure the furniture is the right size for the room.
8) Breathe new life into old pieces
Existing pieces of furniture can be made to look new again with a coat of paint or new hardware. Wooden furniture can be cleaned and the finish repaired with touch-up kits. Sometimes putting an existing piece of furniture in a different spot makes it seem new. Adding a fabric throw or decorative pillows to an existing sofa or chair can add years to its life.
9) Don’t forget the windows
New window treatments can make a big difference in the quality of light coming into a room. Carefully chosen draperies can add color, pattern, and texture to a room.
10) Consider adding a few plants to a room
Plants add the warmth of living things, help clean the air, and add oxygen. Choose plants that are easy to care for and safe for children and pets. People who can not keep plants alive might consider getting a few high-quality imitation plants.
Plan your interiors carefully
The most important part of updating the decor in any room is to plan ahead and proceed carefully. Each piece builds on the previous piece in decor. Everything should be coordinated for a pleasant overall look. If a new piece turns out to be a mistake, it is OK to return it or use it in another room and get something that works better.
