HOW TO THINK LIKE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

Great design can be overwhelming and intimidating. Without the knowledge of things like scale, color theory, or space planning, a simple interior design mistake can cost you money! So, how can you avoid these major design headaches? It’s simple. Take the reins and think like the pros. In this blog you will get an insider look into How to Think Like an Interior Designer. When all else fails, it may be time to call in the troops and hire the professionals! (Hint: that’s us!)

MAKE AN ENTRANCE

First impressions are everything! And they can’t be taken back. What is it that your guests see first when entering your home? Is it shoes scattered on the floor or jackets in a pile? A design professional is fully detached from the space and will always tell you to declutter the entryway. So, take a minute and walk through your entrance as if you are them, detaching yourself as much as possible. 

Think about what you want your home to say about you and remember the entryway is the first point of experience for your guests. It should be welcoming, serene, and functional. If this is the only place to store shoes and coats, find a design solution that is aesthetically pleasing like storage ottomans or wicker baskets. Set the tone for the rest of your home by creating a vignette that speaks to your style and your unique personality. This can be as simple as a classic console, a beautiful candle, and your favorite family photo.   

SCALE IS EVERYTHING

Scale is the relative size of a design element in relation to another element. To achieve a balanced interior, you must consider the scale of the pieces you are selecting in comparison with the other objects in the same space. An overstuffed large sofa in a small living room is an example of the wrong scale that we see happen so often. It’s important to consider each selected piece, both independently and as an element of the overall design. Think about how the piece will look in comparison to the other elements in the room and ensure the size will be functional! 

MARBLE SNOB

For many, marble is synonymous with luxury and timeless beauty. When working with a strict budget, designers know the ins and outs of alternative materials that offer the beauty and upscale element of marble at a fraction of the price and the upkeep. Porcelain is one of our favorites! Often glazed, porcelain is water-resistant, stain-resistant, and less likely to fade. It also comes in an incredible variety of slab selections that will rival marble any day. So while on your journey to select the perfect stone, remember that there are a lot of options out there just as sophisticated and luxurious without breaking the bank.

THE MAGIC ELEMENT: LIGHTING

A designer doesn’t just use lighting to light up spaces for daily use. An expert will also use lighting to evoke emotions in a space. Do you want your space to feel dramatic, comfortable, or exciting? Is there a specific vignette you want to highlight and amplify? These are the types of questions designers ask.

When choosing lighting for your home, think beyond the ways to light the space for your daily activities and remember that this important element can be used for so much more. Picture lights over a family gallery wall, the use of dimmers, and strategically placed wall sconces are easy ways to take your lighting to the next level.

THINK BIG PICTURE

What does “think big picture” mean when it comes to interior design? This means designing your space as a whole. As designers, we think big picture right from the start. Before you make any purchases, we recommend selecting all your pieces at once to compare fabrics, finishes, scale, and colors. This is a great way to ensure everything is exactly as you want it before you commit. If this option isn’t possible, then the golden rule is to have pictures and measurements handy. Go in with a game plan to never lose sight of your vision. 

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS

Thinking like an interior designer may seem easy, but it could be challenging when it’s time to tackle big projects. If this is the case, don’t be afraid to enlist the help of a pro! Designers are experts that can help you avoid mistakes that cost you time and money.

We love taking the pressure off our clients, helping them prioritize design goals, and bring their vision to life. What are your design goals and how can we help? We’d love to to hear from you!