 Decorating
- Tips to 'Doing-It- Yourself' Interior Decorating
By Elizabeth Nandee of Basic Black
Designs
Many
people have this misconception that a designer will come into your home and get rid of
everything and start from scratch. Even though that thought may be pleasurable, it is not
always reality. Using what you already have is a great way to change the style of your
room, perhaps for the seasons, for themes, or to recreate a trend. That’s what
slipcovers, throw cushions and accessories were made for!
When deciding to decorate your space, and hiring a designer isn’t
in the budget, it’s often asked what can be done to create a well decorated space.
There are a few questions to consider before starting your project:
•Do you rent or own your home?
•How many people make use of this space?
•Are pets or children an issue?
•Is there sufficient lighting?
•Is this a multi-functional space?
•What do you like/dislike about this room?
•Is there enough storage?
•What is your budget?
•Does the décor fit the purpose of the space?
The list can go on, but to satisfy your needs and those in your
household, these questions should be well thought out to make the space functional and
aesthetically pleasing. This is where it may get confusing, what is the best way to design
with both function and aesthetics in mind? For the best results you should learn to apply
both into your design.
I’ve come across a few common mistakes when decorating, which
contribute to an uncomfortable atmosphere. Consider the following when planning your new
atmosphere:
•Chose an appropriate furniture placement that has a
suitable conversational setting.
•Locate the focal point and work with it.
•Apply general, task and accent lighting.
•Hang wall hangings at the correct levels.
•Place accessories correctly.
•Correctly locating these ideas into your space will relieve the
clumsiness of the room.
Another aspect that can change the atmosphere around a room is
appearance. As I mentioned before, a quick and easy transition for your space can be
applied by simply adding slipcovers, throw cushions, different artwork or prints, changing
window coverings, changing lampshades, etc. There are many simple and inexpensive things
that can be changed or added to enhance a room’s appearance. You don’t have to
always stick to rules when decorating a room, but remember that whatever you do should
make sense!
The easiest way to change a room’s style is to paint and
decal everything! Vases, candles, and any accessories that do not fit into the new décor
can be given a new appearance by stencilling, adding stickers or trims. Just have fun with
it; this is an awesome project for kid’s rooms or spare rooms. However, keep in mind,
great ideas applied incorrectly can cause an uncomfortable space. Here are some common
mistakes that you should avoid:
•Large windowsills that are either too cluttered or
have not enough accessories placed on them.
•Fridge magnets all over the fridge; it presents a messy look.
•Framing and matting pictures incorrectly.
•Matching furniture all in one room. If you can, break it up
into rooms, especially if you have an open concept. It will
draw unity within the room(s).
•Using wallpaper over every inch of wall in your house.
Break it up a bit. If you absolutely need that wallpaper, try adding larger scaled
artwork.
•Watch your area rugs. Keep them in scale with the room or the
object that will be on top. If it is worth quite a lot and you can’t stand the
thought of it being on the floor, hang it up!
Finding a different use for existing items is one of my favourite
things about decorating; it is really fun what you can come up with! Don’t be afraid
to experiment with your space. There are principals and elements that should be followed,
but you can still have fun, and create an inspired atmosphere to live in.
Elizabeth Nandee of Basic Black Designs invites you
to send in your decorating questions & join her decorating tips e-newsletter. Email
her at liz@basicblackdesigns.com www.basicblackdesigns.com |
