CURTAINS - PAINT & WALLPAPER - ANTIQUE PINE - BEDDING
From cushions to curtains, textiles to test pots, choosing home décor is a complex task. The rules of home décor are open to interpretation but most experts agree that the first step to success is to learn those rules – then you`ll know when to break them.
Let`s take a look at some of the basics of home decorating:
The dos and don`ts of style, layout and design
DO:
• Consider the functions of the room. Rooms with heavy traffic need durable flooring. The function of space, whether it`s for entertaining in, working in or relaxing in, will dictate it`s design.
• Create a focal point for the room. Perhaps your focal point is a fireplace, a view or a plasma television.
• Co-ordinate fabric and flooring. Do this before making any major purchases.
• Add light. Position mirrors and glass tables so that they reflect light into the room.
• Use repetition. One accent in a specific colour isn`t enough to create a theme – establish a colour palette by repeated, but subtle, use of a colour.
• Accessorise carefully. Don`t go overboard, stick to items that enhance the room.
DON`T:
• Paint first. You can pick any paint you want, so make fabric and upholstery your priority.
• Let furniture hug walls. Group furniture to create a feeling of warmth and to allow for closer conversations.
• Overcrowd the room. It can be tempting to show off your collectibles but keep them to a minimum otherwise it creates a feeling of clutter.
• Force things to match. Choose your colours carefully and remove items from the room that don`t fit the scheme.
• Forget to add to the room. Its one thing picking furniture and painting the walls but to add real character to your room you`ll need to add intricate extras such as lamps, candles, artwork or mirrors.
The dos and don`ts of choosing colours
DO:
• Take samples and test pots home. Test them in your room under both natural and artificial light.
• Use lighter colours in small rooms. They create an illusion of space and give a room an airy, breezy feeling.
• Use darker colours for warmth. They`re ideal for that cosy feeling.
DON`T
• Decide on colours on an impulse. You need to be able to live with those colours everyday for the next couple of years so choose wisely.
• Be afraid to experiment. Start off with small rooms, and move to larger rooms when you are more confident.
The dos and don`ts of choosing furniture
DO:
• Work with the size of the room. Pick pieces that fit into a room comfortably without being overbearing.
• Think about purpose and lifestyle. How often will you use the item? Do you have pets/children that will climb on the furniture? Durability and comfort are as important as style.
DON`T
• Compromise on quality. Buy furniture that will last, otherwise it may cost you more in the long run.
• Buy on sight only. Get physical with the furniture in the store - test it out.
How to make a small space look larger
Small can be beautiful if you move furniture out of walkways and strip the clutter from rooms. Use light colours to make the space seem open and airy. Let in any natural light and position mirrors effectively.
How to choose a decorator
Shop around for a decorator and ask friends for recommendations. Make sure the professional you employ can work within your timeframe and your budget. Before starting any redecoration or interior design projects, ensure you have suitable contents insurance to cover you against breakages and accidental damage to furnishings.