Straight from the Designer | All the Tips!
We've had all sorts of craziness here in the past few weeks. The main thing is a major hurricane but that caused power outages, roof damage, mass chaos in the stores, food shortages, water damage and just a general upheaval of life as we know it. We are finally getting back to normal although it's taken weeks. Since things have been a little backwards, upside-down, crazy lately, we're keeping tonight simple. Just some good ole' design tips to get your creative juices flowing and maybe motivate you to spruce up your home for Fall. It IS October 1st, after all. So we hope you'll enjoy some of these helpful hints!
Some great advice that we've received is that, no matter how you design your home, you should always be sure it has these three important things--function, comfort, and a true reflection of your personal style. Unless you live in a model home, it can't just look pretty. It has to work. So consider how you use your space before you take steps to design it.
Function can be achieved a number of ways but one of the big ways is by using pieces that serve multiple purposes. This is key for small spaces too. Benches with storage, small moveable pieces like ottomans and chairs that can be used in one area but easily moved to another, hooks & shelves. All of these things are elements that will keep your home functional and livable but also tidy. And if you pick pieces that are pretty, you'll be able to kill two birds with one stone.
Plants are always a yes. It doesn't matter what size space you live in, whether it's large or small...if it has a lot of natural light or very little, you've got to incorporate plants in your design. Even if they're fake! Greenery adds so much warmth and life to a room that it's vital. It doesn't have to be a lot, either...just a small little something to give the room that finishing touch.
Be sure that your home has a space for you! So many people are concerned about creating a design that others will enjoy--they entertain a lot or have guests visit often...etc, etc. That's all important to take into consideration, but this home is YOURS. You should have a place that you love in it too. So be sure to carve out that little personal space that you enjoy spending time in.
Finally, mix textures and materials. Layering of fabrics can add so much depth to space! Sometimes it really doesn't matter if the space is designed perfectly...if it's comfortable and interesting, it's inviting and people will love it. Texture and a variety of materials will be your best friend as you try to accomplish this!