Glossary
Types of design styles you can refer to while interior designing and decor for your home
Common options for flooring while interior designing and decor for your home
Common options for wall treatments while interior designing and decor for your home
Types of furniture and furnishings while interior designing and decor for your home
Different types of lighting options commonly used while interior designing and decor for your home
Decorative accessories used while interior designing and decor for your home
If you are looking to design the interiors of your home all by yourself, this is the perfect blog for you. We will be talking about everything you need to know when it comes to interior design.
To begin with, always consider the function of the room, your lifestyle, and the mood you want to create in your space and this guide to interior design and decor your home will help you explore different design styles and identify the one that resonates with you.
Decide your budget and vision for interior designing and decor for your home
1. Set a Realistic Budget: Determine how much you can comfortably spend on your interior design project. Include all potential costs such as furniture, decor, labor, and unexpected expenses.
2. Identify Your Style Preferences: Consider the interior design styles that appeal to you, whether it’s modern, rustic, minimalist, or eclectic. This will help guide your choices and ensure a cohesive look.
3. Assess Your Space: Take stock of the rooms you want to redesign and their current condition. Note any structural changes needed, such as painting, flooring, or lighting upgrades.
4. Prioritize Key Areas: Decide which areas of your home need immediate attention and which can be updated gradually. Focus on high-impact areas like the living room or kitchen first.
5. Research and Gather Inspiration: Look for design ideas from magazines, websites, and social media platforms. Create a mood board to visualize how different elements will work together.
6. Consider Functional Needs: Think about the functionality of each space. How do you use each room? Make sure your design choices enhance practicality without compromising style.
7. Set a Timeline: Outline a realistic timeline for your project. Break it down into phases, such as planning, purchasing materials, and executing the design.
8. Plan for DIY and Professional Help: Decide which tasks you can handle yourself and which may require professional assistance. For complex jobs like electrical work or custom furniture, it’s best to hire experts.
9. Track Your Expenses: Keep a detailed record of all your spending to stay within budget. Use apps or spreadsheets to manage costs effectively and make adjustments as needed.
10. Be Flexible: Allow room for adjustments in your budget and plan. Unforeseen issues may arise, so be prepared to adapt and make changes as needed.
Prepare your scaled plan for interior designing and decor for your home
1. Measure Your Space: Accurately measure the dimensions of each room, including walls, windows, and doors. Note any architectural features that might impact your design.
2. Create a Scaled Floor Plan: Use graph paper or design software to draw a scaled version of your floor plan. This will help you visualize furniture placement and spatial arrangements.
3. Plan Furniture Layout: Experiment with different furniture arrangements on your scaled plan to find the most functional and aesthetically pleasing setup.
4. Incorporate Design Elements: Mark where you plan to place key design elements like rugs, artwork, and lighting fixtures. Ensure these elements complement the overall design.
5. Consider Traffic Flow: Ensure that your design allows for smooth traffic flow throughout the space. Avoid placing furniture or obstacles in high-traffic areas.
6. Visualize Color Schemes: Test color palettes and patterns on your scaled plan to see how they work together. Consider how colors will affect the mood and perception of each room.
7. Plan for Storage: Include storage solutions in your plan to keep your space organized and clutter-free. Think about built-in options or stylish storage furniture.
8. Factor in Lighting: Decide on lighting placements and types (ambient, task, accent) based on your plan. Ensure your lighting enhances the functionality and ambiance of each room.
9. Detail Finishes and Materials: Note the finishes and materials you plan to use for walls, floors, and surfaces. Ensure they align with your vision and budget.
10. Review and Revise: Regularly review your scaled plan and make revisions as needed. Adjustments may be necessary as you move forward with your design and encounter new challenges or inspirations.
These steps will help you effectively plan and execute your DIY interior design project, ensuring a stylish and functional home.
Types of design styles you can refer to while interior designing and decor for your home
1. Contemporary: Interior design and decor is characterized by clean lines, and minimalism, and focuses on open spaces with neutral color palettes, sleek furniture, and a sense of simplicity and sophistication.
2. Scandinavian: Interior design and decor emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and natural elements and features light and airy spaces, neutral color schemes, natural materials, and a minimalistic approach to furniture and accessories.
3. Industrial: Interior design and decor it often incorporates raw and unfinished materials such as exposed bricks, concrete, and metal while featuring an open floor plan, high ceilings, utilitarian furniture, and a blend of vintage and modern elements.
4. Mid-Century Modern: Interior design and decor is a blend of organic shapes, sleek lines, and a focus on functionality and features bold colors, geometric patterns, and furniture with tapered legs and clean designs.
5. Traditional: Interior design and decor it features ornate details, rich colors, and luxurious materials and embodies a formal and elegant atmosphere with furniture and accessories that have intricate designs and decorative elements.
6. Bohemian: Interior design and decor it incorporates a mix of patterns, textures, and colors from various cultures and eras while featuring a relaxed and free-spirited vibe, with mismatched furniture, floor cushions, and an abundance of plants and artwork.
7. Coastal: Interior design and decor it aims to create a relaxed and breezy atmosphere. It features light and airy spaces, a soft color palette of whites, blues, and sandy neutrals, natural materials like rattan and jute, and nautical accents like seashells and rope.
8. Art Deco: Interior design and decor it is glamorous and luxurious and features bold geometric shapes, symmetrical patterns, metallic accents, and rich materials like velvet and marble creating a sense of opulence and sophistication.
After choosing a style that appropriately fits your interior space, it’s time to choose a color scheme to tie up the rest of the space together. Choose a color palette that reflects your style and desired atmosphere in interior design and decor. Consider the room's purpose and the emotions associated with different colors. Experiment with color combinations and consider the effects of natural and artificial lighting on the chosen colors. There are several types of color schemes used in interior design to create different visual effects and moods.
Color schemes you should know about before choosing one while interior designing and decor for your home
1. Monochromatic: A monochromatic color scheme uses different shades, tints, and tones of a single color. It creates a harmonious and calming effect by utilizing variations within one color family.
2. Analogous: An analogous color scheme comprises colors that are adjoining to each other on the color wheel. For example, combining blue, green, and teal. It creates a cohesive and soothing effect with subtle variations.
3. Complementary: Complementary colors are crosswise each other on the color wheel. For instance, red and green or blue and orange. This scheme creates high contrast and can be dynamic and vibrant.
4. Split Complementary: A split complementary color scheme uses a base color and two colors adjacent to its complementary color. For example, combining blue with yellow-orange and yellow-green. It offers a balance between contrast and harmony.
5. Triadic: A triadic color scheme comprises three colors that are squarely placed around the color wheel. For instance, combining red, yellow, and blue. It creates a vibrant and energetic effect while maintaining balance.
6. Tetradic (Double Complementary): A tetradic color scheme involves using two complementary pairs of colors. This scheme can be challenging to balance but offers a wide range of color combinations and possibilities.
7. Neutral: A neutral color scheme typically uses shades of black, white, gray, beige, or brown. Neutrals create a versatile and timeless look, allowing other elements in the room to stand out.
8. Accented Neutral: Accented neutral color schemes combine neutral colors with one or two vibrant or saturated colors as accents. The neutrals serve as a backdrop, while the accents add visual interest and pops of color.
Remember that the success of a color scheme depends on various factors such as personal preference, the purpose of the space, lighting conditions, and the overall desired mood while interior designing and decor for your home. Experimenting with different color schemes can help you find the perfect combination for your interior design project in interior designing and decor for your home.
There are many ways to integrate a color scheme into your interior space. Floors and walls contribute largely while planning a color scheme to tie the whole space together. Flooring and wall treatments are crucial elements in interior design that can greatly impact the look and feel of a space. Select flooring materials that align with your design goals, durability requirements, and budget.
Common options for flooring while interior designing and decor for your home
Hardwood: Hardwood flooring offers a timeless and classic look in interior designing and decor for your home. It comes in various types of wood, such as oak, maple, or walnut, each with its unique characteristics. Hardwood adds warmth and natural beauty to a room but requires regular maintenance to preserve its appearance.
Laminate: Laminate flooring is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood interior designing and decor for your home in interior designing and decor for your home. It is composed of synthetic layers that mimic the look of wood, stone, or tile. Laminate is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas.
Tile: Tile flooring is versatile and comes in a wide range of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone in interior designing and decor for your home. It is durable, water-resistant, and suitable for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Tile offers various design possibilities with different patterns, sizes, and textures.
Vinyl: Vinyl flooring is known for its durability, affordability, and low maintenance in interior designing and decor for your home. It comes in sheet, tile, or plank form and can replicate the look of hardwood, tile, or stone. Vinyl is a versatile choice for any room because it is available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Carpet: Carpet provides warmth, comfort, and sound insulation in interior designing and decor for your home. It comes in different pile heights, textures, and colors, allowing for various design options. Carpets are suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and areas where comfort and noise reduction are desired.
Explore all wall treatment options like paint, wallpaper, or textured finishes. Determine if any architectural features like accent walls or paneling are desired to make your space feel more integrated.
Common options for wall treatments while interior designing and decor for your home
Paint: Painting walls is a popular and versatile option. It offers a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing you to create any desired mood or style. Paint is relatively affordable and can be easily changed or updated as per your preferences.
Wallpaper: Wallpaper adds texture, pattern, and visual interest to walls. It comes in various designs, from subtle textures to bold prints. Wallpaper is available in different materials, such as vinyl, grass cloth, or fabric, with options for easy removal and reapplication.
Textured Finishes: Textured wall treatments, such as stucco, Venetian plaster, or textured paint, create depth and visual appeal. They can be used to add a rustic, contemporary, or artistic touch to a space.
Wood Paneling: Wood paneling can be used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It comes in different styles, such as shiplap, beadboard, or tongue and groove, and can be left natural or painted to match the desired aesthetic.
Tiles: Tiles are not only suitable for floors but can also be used as wall treatments. They are commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens for their water resistance. Tiles offer a wide range of design options, including mosaic patterns, subway tiles, or larger format tiles.
Wall Cladding: Wall cladding involves covering walls with materials such as stone, brick, or reclaimed wood. It adds texture, character, and a natural element to the space. Wall cladding can be applied to an entire wall or used as an accent feature.
After picking out the desired color scheme, and finalizing what you are going to do for your walls and flooring, it's fundamental that the furniture and furnishings complement your space. Furniture and furnishings encompass a wide range of items used to decorate and furnish living spaces.
Types of furniture and furnishings while interior designing and decor for your home
Sofas and Couches: These are large seating pieces designed for comfort in living rooms or family rooms.
Chairs: Chairs come in various styles and designs, including armchairs, recliners, accent chairs, and dining chairs.
Tables: There are different types of tables, such as dining tables, coffee tables, side tables, and console tables.
Beds: Beds are essential for bedrooms, and they come in various sizes, including twin, full, queen, and king. Styles include platform beds, sleigh beds, canopy beds, and more. Check out our blog.
Mattresses: Mattresses are designed for comfortable sleep and come in different types, such as memory foam, innerspring, latex, and hybrid.
Desks: Desks provide a workspace for writing, studying, or working. They can be computer desks, writing desks, executive desks, or standing desks.
Bookcases: Bookcases or bookshelves are used to store books, display decorative items, or organize belongings. They can be freestanding or wall-mounted.
Cabinets: Cabinets offer storage and come in various forms, such as kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, wardrobe cabinets, and display cabinets.
Entertainment Units: These units hold TVs, media players, and, gaming consoles, and provide storage space for related items.
Dressers and Chests: These are storage units typically used in bedrooms to store clothing and personal items. They often include drawers. Check out our blog.
Ottomans and Poufs: These are versatile pieces of furniture that can serve as footrests, extra seating, or even storage.
Benches: Benches are seating options that can be used in entryways, dining areas, or outdoor spaces.
Shelving Units: These are open storage units that can be used to display or organize items in various rooms.
Now that the crucial parts of your space are out of the way, let’s concentrate on lighting. Lighting plays an important role in interior design, setting the mood, highlighting architectural features, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of a space. Plan the lighting scheme to create ambiance and functionality.
You can always incorporate a combination of lighting and consider natural light sources as well. Combining different types of lighting creates layers and depth, allowing for flexibility and customization in achieving the desired ambiance and functionality in your interior design. Check out our blog.
Different types of lighting options commonly used while interior designing and decor for your home
Ambient Lighting: Also known as general lighting, ambient lighting provides overall illumination to a room. It ensures a comfortable level of brightness and allows for basic tasks and movement. Examples include ceiling-mounted fixtures, recessed lighting, and chandeliers.
Task Lighting: Task lighting focuses on providing directed light for specific activities or tasks. It illuminates work areas, such as desks, kitchen countertops, or reading nooks. Task lighting options include table lamps, under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, and adjustable desk lamps.
Accent Lighting: Accent lighting is used to highlight specific features or objects within a space, creating visual interest and focal points. It can be used to showcase artwork, architectural details, or decorative elements. Examples include track lighting, wall sconces, picture lights, and recessed adjustable spotlights.
Natural Lighting: Natural lighting utilizes daylight as the primary light source. It creates a sense of openness, enhances colors, and promotes a connection with the outdoors. Maximize natural lighting through large windows, skylights, glass doors, and colored window treatments.
Decorative Lighting: Decorative lighting serves as both functional and aesthetic elements in a room. It adds personality and style to the space. Examples include chandeliers, pendant lights with decorative shades, artistic table lamps, and unique floor lamps.
Cove Lighting: Cove lighting involves concealed fixtures that provide a soft, indirect light by illuminating the upper walls or ceilings. It creates a warm and inviting ambiance and can be used to accentuate architectural details or create a soft glow in a room.
Under-cabinet Lighting: Under-cabinet lighting is commonly used in kitchens and other work areas. It provides focused illumination for tasks such as food preparation and cooking. It can be installed as strip lights, puck lights, or LED tape lights.
Wall Washers: Wall washers are fixtures that cast a smooth and even wash of light along a wall, highlighting the texture and surface details. They can be used to create a visually striking effect and contribute to the overall ambiance of a space.
Step Lighting: Step lighting illuminates staircases or steps, enhancing safety and aesthetics. It can be achieved through recessed fixtures or LED strip lights mounted along the edge of each step.
Pendant Lighting: Pendant lights are suspended from the ceiling, typically with a chain, rod, or cord. They come in various styles, sizes, and materials and can be used to provide both ambient and task lighting, depending on the placement and design.
In interior design, decorative accessories play a crucial role in adding personality, style, and finishing touches to a space. It is what makes the space complete. Check out our blogs about different lights and lighting solutions.
Decorative accessories used while interior designing and decor for your home
Vases and Bowls: These can be filled with flowers, greenery, or decorative objects to add color and texture to a room.
Picture Frames and Wall Arts: Frames are used to display photographs, artwork, or prints, adding a personal touch to the space. Paintings, posters, and wall hangings can enhance the visual appeal of a room and reflect the personality and taste of the owner.
Mirrors: Mirrors not only serve a functional purpose but also create an illusion of space, reflect light, and add a decorative element to the room.
Sculptures and Figurines: These three-dimensional objects can be placed on shelves, tabletops, or mantels to create visual interest and focal points.
Decorative Pillows and Throws: These textile accessories add color, pattern, and texture to sofas, chairs, and beds, enhancing comfort and style.
Candles and Candleholders: Candles create a cozy ambiance and can be displayed in decorative holders or lanterns.
Decorative Trays and Bowls: These can organize and display smaller items like keys, jewelry, or potpourri.
Wall Clocks: Clocks serve a functional purpose but can also be a stylish decorative accessory, available in various designs and sizes.
Decorative Wall Shelves: These shelves provide a platform to display small decorative objects, plants, or books, adding depth and visual interest to walls.
Indoor Plants and Planters: Plants bring life and freshness to a space and can be displayed in decorative pots, planters, or hanging baskets.
Decorative Wall Decals and Stickers: These are adhesive decorations that can be easily applied to walls, adding patterns, quotes, or artistic elements to the room.
Decorative Lamps and Lampshades: Unique or artistic lamps and stylish lampshades can add visual interest and a warm glow to a space.
Decorative Rugs and Floor Coverings: Area rugs, runners, and floor mats can enhance the style and comfort of a room while adding texture and color.
Decorative Wall Panels and Moldings: These architectural elements can be added to walls to create visual interest and elegance.
Decorative Window Treatments: Curtains, drapes, valances, and blinds not only offer privacy and light control but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the space.
These are just a few examples of decorative accessories used in interior design. The options are vast, and it's important to select accessories that align with your style and complement the overall design of the room without cramming the space up too much. Always remember to step back, and edit for your space to look elegant and chic.
This was our interior design DIY guide, for more specifics, visit our other blogs or get in touch with us.
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