Some people have a natural eye for design. Still, we understand if you're one of those people who won't do anything without first consulting a Pinterest board or Google before making any substantial changes.
In an ideal world, though, you have access to an interior designer who could help you with anything from determining where and how to hang new wall arts to designing a small-space plan.
But if that's not possible right now (for whatever reasons, we've got the next best thing: the best tips and tricks from some of the world's most outstanding interior designers.
7 Best Interior Decorating Advice from Design Experts
Continue scrolling to see the top decorating tips from the interior design experts and learn all you want to know about interior designing:
1. Done is better than perfect
Try not to obsess over every detail of your interior design if you're just moving into a new home or need a refresh. There are hundreds of decisions to be taken; none of them must be made hastily.
“As a designer, I am exposed to so many beautiful items and want to surprise my clients with something new or exotic,” says Liz Walton, owner and principal designer of Liz Walton Home.
“However, we must determine the most efficient use of our time in light of the project's requirements.”
On those lines, it is highly recommended that you strive to finish the bones of the project first. Then, gradually add highlights and further decor at your leisure.
There is no such thing as perfection when it comes to interior decorating. If you're a fan of home decor, you must know there's always something new to discover, and that will never end.
The idea is to take time to acknowledge the work you've done and gradually expand the design horizon. You’ll see only the best will happen this way.
2. Luxury is space
Space is a valuable commodity of luxury design, says Erriette Lenas of Erriette Lenas Design.
“Cramming ornamental elements through every available place is the most common design mistake that results in a cluttered and uncomfortable appearance,” he says.
Therefore, try leaving some empty spots in your interiors to add extra decor later or make room for small indulgences along the way. A pre-conceived notion that–fully-utilised (crowded) space in the interior is perfection–leads to clunkiness.
3. Don't get caught up in the latest colour trends
It might sound counterintuitive, but Sue Jones, Co-Founder and Creative Director of OKA, advises sticking to your favourite colours and styles rather than adopting the latest trends right away.
Jones recalls, “Jasper Conran (designer) constantly told me that the best colour is your favourite colour and encouraged me to establish my style.”
The latest and coolest colour trends may sway you, but this should not govern how you decorate the foundation of your home.
That means your interior colours—which play a critical role in making your own—must have your favourite shade devoid of any sudden influence like trends. There is always a risk of a rising trend falling out of preference quickly.
Pro tip:
If you genuinely want to incorporate a contemporary colour you’ve recently fallen in love with, use cushions and accessories in that colour instead of huge furniture pieces or paint jobs. Thank us later.
4. Don't overspend on decor
People always believe that buying expensive items and decorating their corners with pricey artworks would add a sense of richness and complexity to their home.
However, that’s not always true. Instead, it’s about developing your home to meet your individual aesthetic preferences. It’s more about being you and enjoying the process of designing your home rather than buying into expensive templates.
Beth Diana Smith, the owner and principal designer of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design & HomeGoods' Style Expert, advises her clients to spend their money on furniture and be creative with decor pieces.
“I try to encourage my clients to spend more on core pieces like furniture, where quality is most important, useful pieces that improve their day-to-day experience, and art that they will cherish for years,” Smith says.
5. Keep it simple—some walls can do without a picture…
Of course, each personality is unique, but Joe Falco, President and Chief Creative Officer of XCEL Brands, believes that when it comes to decorating your space, you shouldn't feel obligated to hang artwork on every wall or use bright colours everywhere.
“At home and business, I believe that less is more.”
It's not about minimalism; it's about finding the correct balance and harmony by combining complementary colours, texture, and space. Flaco explains, “I look for items, books, art, and furniture that bring me joy and comfort.”
Pro tip:
To avoid your walls and room becoming overly congested, stick to a specific colour palette or theme.
6. It's a must to measure
“Continuously measure and re-measure,” says Metal + Petal co-founder and principal designer Jade Joyner.
It's a good idea to start with the dimensions of your space. If you're working with a small living room, for example, a loveseat will help you achieve a more balanced flow than an L-shaped sofa (which might take up too much space).
When it comes to picking wall art and rugs, make sure to measure your furniture first to ensure everything is the right size.
7. Don’t cut back on wallpapers
Are you looking for a way to add a premium touch to your home's interior? Wallpapers are an excellent way to add colours to a room. In addition, it is conceivable and more cost-effective to recreate a place entirely with wallpaper rather than knocking out walls or modifying the internal construction. All wallpapers provide depth to a room, and depending on the design, they can also add warmth.
Suzanne Ascher, the co-founder of Waterleaf Interiors, adds, “I've learned that you never, ever wallpaper just one wall. It's not a good idea. If you're going to [use] wallpaper, take it to the next level. You'll enjoy it.”
Pro tip:
If you're renting an apartment and can't use permanent wallpaper, consider removable wallpaper—it's simple to put up and take down when you're willing to move.
8. Add cosy corners
The majority of the objects and furniture pieces at our home are at 90-degree angles. Don’t you agree? It is either square or rectangular coffee tables, picture frames, sofas or pillows.
Baylee Floyd, a Decorist elite designer, says, “A great design lesson I learned was about softening the corners.”
On her lines, try adding some round side tables or pillows to your space, and you'll be surprised to see how much depth it offers to soften those edges!
Pro tip:
Mix different patterns in your room for even more depth and dimension: Use rattan décor or plants to adorn a sleek metal-and-glass coffee table or couple a faux leather couch with woven throw cushions.
At Hipcouch—Mumbai’s premier interior decoration firm, we hope that this post has helped you get one step closer to the luxury home of your dreams.
For all other queries related to interiors, you can schedule a design appointment with us. We will assist you in building your dream home.