Interior designers pay close attention to every detail of a space, from the furniture and décor to the lighting and accessories. Every element is carefully chosen and placed with intention to create a cohesive and polished look. You might be thinking you need an unlimited budget or the help of an professional interior designer or decorator to get that high-end look in your home. While some things will require a bigger budge, and perhaps some professional help, there are other ways to get a stylish space, just by following some simple tips and tricks of the trade.
Think big
Sometimes all it takes is one large, show-stopping piece to add drama and designer style to a room. Not only does a large piece draw the eye, but it also anchors the room and creates an air of sophistication. Adding something like an oversized armoire, chair, or accessory, such as a really large piece of art, should do the trick.
Create a flow
Flow isn’t just something easy to achieve with an open floor plan. Believe it or not, creating flow from room to room, in an entire house, is easier than you might think. All you really need to do is find a color you love and use it in each room. It doesn’t matter if it’s used in a big way or a small way simply having that color scattered throughout will lead the eye and create a sense of flow.
Cohesive Design
A well-designed home will have a cohesive and well-thought-out design scheme throughout the entire space. The colors, textures, patterns, and materials will all work together harmoniously to create a cohesive look and feel.
Dress your windows to impress
When it comes to windows in your home, it’s important that they don’t get ignored. Think of your windows, and the treatments you add to them, as the focal point in your space— and then go all in. There is an array of options available both online and in stores— neutral to bold, solid to patterned, and even some with detailed trim— making it easier than ever to find something perfect for your space. Just be sure to measure your windows accurately so you’re sure to get them in a length that’s appropriate. A good rule of thumb is to hang your curtains as far up on the wall as they will go or at least 20 inches above your window. Our blog post, Layered Window Treatments for a Designer Look, is full of tips that can help get you started.
Mix styles
In this case, we’re referring to mixing high and low styles, rather than actual design styles. This means that not everything has to, or should, have a high price tag attached to it. Placing higher-cost items sparingly through the house will make those lower-priced items appear high-end even if they really aren’t.
Embrace color and pattern
What better way to make a statement than with color or an eye-catching pattern? Does this mean you have to use color and pattern to get a designer look? No, of course not. But if you’re game, it sure can pay off. Color has such a great influence over us and patterns are simply a wonderful way to express our personality. So why not show some of that inside your home? Want a bold and sophisticated dining room? Grab the paint and go for it! Feeling moved by a gorgeous pattern? Incorporate it somehow through the use of wallpaper, an area rug, or throw pillows. And don’t be afraid to mix patterns! As long as they share a common color, you can be free to pair up what you like.
Focus on texture
Texture creates interest and adds a whole other dimension to your home’s decor. If your home has natural elements, show them off! A natural element, for example, would be something such as an exposed wall made of stone, brick or wood. It could even be a distinct type of flooring that came with the house. It may need a little facelift, but something unique like this tells a lot about the history of the home and is worth keeping part of the design.
Swap out dingy and dated lighting
Lighting does so much more than illuminate dark spaces. In all honesty, if you’re going for a high-end look, your lighting should be a conversation starter. Think about what aesthetic you’re going for and then pick lighting that will bring it to fruition. Will your room be feminine? If so, pick opulent or sculptural chandeliers. If you favor modern or vintage styles, unique pendants can add a lot of interest. There are endless options for lighting these days, so it should be incredibly easy to find something that suits your taste perfectly.
Add interesting, unique accents and finishes
Interesting and unique pieces aren’t usually those that are mass-produced for generic stores. Ethnic pieces are always conversation starters, whether you or someone else did the traveling. Books are also nice decorating touches. Instead of keeping them tucked up on a shelf add them to tabletops or window sills for texture and color. Hit up flea markets or antique stores for great bargains on other unique pieces to complete the room. When it comes to finishes lean toward something organic. Bamboo flooring or sisal rugs are good examples.
Ready to add designer touches to your home? Let us help! Stop by one of our showrooms or browse online to see our wide array of designer discount fabrics and beautiful home accents. With such a wide selection, you’re sure to find something to suit your personality and style.
