Designing your space is about more than arranging furniture or picking paint colors...it's an opportunity to create an environment that reflects your personality, supports your lifestyle, and inspires daily joy. A well-thought-out plan ensures comfort and flow.

Whether you're redecorating your home or starting from scratch, these practical interior design tips will help create a stylish, comfortable, and functional space, that you'll love!

Alicia Ortiz, Owner of Azure Design Studio LLC

Always start with a plan...

Your home is more than just a place to live...it's a relaxing and stylish haven, where you can recharge. Elevating your space doesn't require a full renovation or a big budget; with intentional choices and thoughtful design, you can create an inspiring and comfortable environment. 

Before making any decisions, take time to plan out your space. Consider the room's purpose, how you want it to feel, and your style preferences. Consider how you use each space. Do you need a cozy living room for relaxing, a home office for productivity, or a kitchen for entertaining. Sketch out a layout to visualize how furniture and decor will fit and flow together. If you're unsure, begin by choosing one focal element - such as a rug, a sofa, or an art piece, and build your design around it. 

Identify your style...

Your design style reflects your personality and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the sleek lines of modern minimalism, the cozy charm of farmhouse decor, or the serenity of Japandi fusion, knowing your style sets the foundation for a cohesive design.

Look for inspiration in magazines, design blogs, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram. Your style will influence the furniture, accessories, and overall feel of your home. Create a mood board with your favorite elements...color schemes, furniture styles, or decor items that reflect your desired look.

Set a Budget...

Define your budget before shopping or making changes. Account for furniture, lighting, decor, and renovation costs. Decide which areas or pieces are worth investing in. For example, you might splurge on a comfortable sofa but save on decorative accessories. Assess whether you'll handle some design aspects yourself or hire a designer or contractor.

Select Furniture and Key Pieces...

Invest in major items like the sofa, bed, or dining table first, as they will anchor the room's style and layout. Combine different furniture styles, shapes, or materials to create interest, but make sure they work harmoniously together. Prioritize comfortable and functional furniture, especially for high-traffic areas like the living room or bedroom. Make sure the size of your furniture matches the room's proportions. For example, a large sectional may look great in an open living room but would overwhelm a small one.

Choose the Right Color Palette...

Choosing the right color scheme is essential for setting the mood of your space. Neutral tones like whites, grays, and beiges create a calming atmosphere, while bold colors can add energy and personality. The 60 - 30- 10 rule can help, 60% for the dominant color, 30% for a secondary color, and 10% for your accent color, spread it out around the room in pillows and accessories. Ensure a cohesive flow of colors throughout your home for a more harmonious feel.

Add Texture and Patterns... 

Adding texture is key to creating depth and interest in a room. Combine different materials like wood, metal, velvet or linen to add depth and interest. Don't be afraid to mix patterns, however, keep your color scheme cohesive. For example, pair patterned curtains or rug with solid-colored pillows and throws.

Focus on Lighting...

Lighting is key to creating ambiance. Combine different types of lighting for a well-rounded space. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create layers of light throughout the space. Natural light is always ideal, so take advantage of windows by using sheer or light-filtering curtains. Don't block windows with bulky furniture. For rooms with less natural light, invest in a combination of overhead fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps to achieve a well-lit and inviting space. Choose bold light fixtures, like chandeliers or pendants, to serve as focal points in your design.

Personalize with Decor...

Your space should tell your story. Choose art that resonates with you, and don't be afraid to create a gallery wall or hang statement pieces. Accessorize with pillows, throws, books, vases, and plants to add personality to the space. Make sure not to overcrowd it... less is often more. These personal touches can transform a room from a generic design to a space that feels like home.

Edit, Edit, Edit...

After arranging your space, take a step back to assess it. Does it feel cohesive? Is there a good flow? Does the space reflect your thoughts and needs? Remove any clutter or items that feel out of place. Keeping your design clean and simple helps to maintain balance and harmony. A room packed with too many elements can feel chaotic, so leave space for your design to breathe.

Final Thoughts...

The key to a successful design is balance... between colors, textures, and scale. By following these steps, you'll have a solid foundation for designing a space that reflects your personal style while being functional and inviting.

Happy Designing!

Have More Questions?

Reach out to us for expert guidance and personalized design consultations. Whether you're planning a redesign or staging a property, we're here to help!