No-Fail Decorating Tips

What is your favorite interior design style?

Do you aim to create a certain type of “feeling” when putting together an interior design look?

What are those subtle decorating touches that can dictate how a person feels on entering? There are some very distinctive elements that can change the feel of interior space. Here are just a few of them:

‘COZY’
The use of vibrant colors - deep blue, sea green, deep red — when used as a background color, as in wall color, creates a coccoon-like effect. These colors contrast with the light, airy feel of a palette consisting of light colors, such as off-white, pale yellow, or translucent shades of blue. When using a lighter color palette, using bands of a darker color, as when painting the door framework in a charcoal color, keeps the look grounded. A flickering fireplace, walls lined with book-filled shelves, overstuffed chairs and an ample supply of ambient lighting — a cozy room invites visitors to stay and visit for awhile.

‘JOYOUS’

Light-colored walls with a punch of lively colors, especially the primaries, like reds, greens and yellows create a fresh, upbeat look that gives space a playful, joyful feeling. Whimsical accents like florals and light-hearted geometrics that seem to float in space contribute to the carefree atmosphere. Vertical elements, for example, floral arrangements that ‘reach for the ceiling’, contribute to the light-hearted look of a ‘Joyous’ mood in your interior design.

“SERENE”

Soft, monochromatic neutral color schemes that mimic the colors that are seen in nature - the color of water, sand, clouds - create a peaceful-looking palette. Texture contrast may take the form of brushed metal accessories, pebble-like or woven surfaces that invite touching. Interior design accents and furnishings are simple, with clean lines, with horizontal elements that lie close to the floor for a ‘Zen-like’ effect.  Accessories are simple and minimal. This is definitely a clutter-free environment.

Whatever your interior design style, you’ll find a mood that suits your personality best. Start by sitting quietly in the room for a little while, and take inspiration from the layout, the orientation of the room, and of course, create an atmosphere that is in keeping with your own unique personality. Create an atmosphere that you will love coming home to at the end of a busy day, focus on the details needed to create that specific look and then go ahead, and pull that look together, the look that creates a sense of home.