MY TOP 5 DESIGN TIPS
Here are my TOP 5 design tips for the do-it-yourselfers and the design enthusiast.
1. DECLUTTER YOUR DESIGN
Take away all the art work, small tables, and please throw out those old pillows. You cannot truly see a space nor the opportunities for furniture placement, if it’s cluttered. Take a hard look at the sofa or bedroom furniture you have. Was it truly an investment? Has it lasted 15 years? Did you get your money out it? Is it time for a refresh? Whether you answered yes or no to these, realize that if your furniture no longer serves you or your lifestyle, it’s time to upgrade.
2. DESIGN FROM YOUR CLOSET
Take a look at what you wear on a daily basis. Is it mostly black or are you the eccentric friend that always shows up in neon colors? Use hints from how you dress to provide a color scheme for your home. I’ve met so many fun eccentric people, who think they need a straight laced traditional space, when that could not be further from who they actually are. And if you are that person that wears mostly black, like me, you can still incorporate doses color into your space in a monochromatic way to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming to you.
3. USE PINTEREST
Whenever I meet clients for the first time, I ask them to send over their Pinterest pages, to give me an idea of what they love. It’s honestly the easiest way for me to pick up on their design style, since most people stay consistent with what they love. I also pride myself in the ability to pick up on anyone’s style. I think it’s mostly due to the fact that my undergraduate degree was in Experimental Psychology. I spent a great deal of time learning about the behaviors of people and their preferences. (I have an eclectic educational background myself) You know this, if you’ve been following along for a while.
4. DO YOUR PRODUCT RESEARCH
While it may be tempting to shop online for shorter lead time and a quick fix. Research your products to make sure they are actually going to serve you. Look at the dimensions of the piece. Don’t just buy something because it’s on sale. When you purchase temporary furniture, it’s still a waste. Take your time and invest in the right pieces of furniture that will last for years to come.
5. HAVE A PLAN
Create a budget, and be realistic since it is 2022. Everything has changed. The price of cars, gas, groceries, and of course furniture. Expect to pay more. You may not be able to tackle your whole house in a month, but you could focus on one room at a time. Measure your space. Make a list of what’s staying and what needs you have. Think about function too. Do you need more storage? Where can you create it?
