Interior design rules from the experts

Interior design is something that lots of people think they can do. But a lot of people get it wrong. If you don’t want to splash out on a professional interior designer, you need to know the rules before you jump in and start ordering light fittings and paint. So here are the interior design rules that the experts would rather you didn’t know.

Mix Textures

You can have too much of a good thing, especially when it comes to interior design. If you’re crazy about exposed brick, you need to complement it with some brass fittings and varnished wood. This is called mixing textures. Always mix textures and materials when you are designing a room. It will give the room depth and stop it from feeling empty. For example, choose a Morrocan Tadelakt plaster - from London-based Decor Tadelakt - to complement an exposed oak floor.

Layer Lighting

Lots of people focus on one type of lighting. But great interior design is all about layered lighting. You need to mix overhead lighting with accent lighting and natural light. This will stop the room from having heavy shadows or feeling one-dimensional. You should also be careful about statement lights. One brightly coloured light fitting can work well, but you need to focus the attention. Don’t overegg it.

Start With a Simple Base

If you’re new to interior design, it’s super important to start with a simple base. Whether that’s white walls, exposed brick, or a tiled floor. You start simple and build up. Don’t try to contrast too many colours at once. White is the easiest colour to work with because it allows your accessories to pop. If you are working with a material like exposed brick, you can paint over it to neutralise the colour of the room.

Take Risks With Accessories

Accessories are what make the room stand out. For example, a piece of artwork can be the focal point of the room. Then, you can add other accessories that complement the colour. If you want your home to stand out, you need to take risks with accessories. Don’t take risks with the big things - like flooring, lighting, and walls. This will lead to disaster. Instead, add a unique feel with a large vase or a quirky bowl.

Always Measure Your Space

Great interior design takes planning. It might look simple, but it’s super easy to get wrong. One of the most important steps is to measure out the space beforehand. This allows you to draw up a scaled-down drawing of the room and add accessories. This will give you an idea of how much space the room will have when you’re finished.

Don't Forgo Function

You can make a room look beautiful. But, if it’s uncomfortable and doesn’t serve a purpose, no one will want to spend time there. That’s why you should focus on function when you are designing a room. Ensure that walkways are clear, furniture is comfortable, and there is space for the things you use on a day-to-day basis. For example, if you watch television in a room, this shouldn’t be an afterthought. It should be incorporated into the designing process.

Aim for Symmetry

Symmetry is important in design. Sometimes, you can break away from symmetrical lines, but you have to be careful. A well-laid-out space will have plenty of symmetry and a hierarchy of elements.

Choose Pieces You Love

The best interior design is personal. Sure, you might want your home to look like it’s in a magazine. But if your home isn’t full of stuff you love, is it really yours? You should focus on integrating your favourite possessions into the design. And, when you’re looking for new furniture and accessories, make sure you really love it. This will give you a sense of joy every time you walk through the door.

Be Bold With Paint

It’s tempting to paint all of the walls in your home white or cream. This can work really well, especially if you have boldly coloured accessories and furniture. However, you can really change the feel of a space with bold paint colours. For example, painting one wall a different colour from the rest is a great way to make it stand out.

Defy the Rules

Lastly, don’t forget that rules are made to be broken. It’s okay to go outside the rules of interior design and use your intuition. Who knows? You might create something that changes the way people see interior design. Just make sure you keep it simple and use your eye. After all, you are the best judge of your own space.