Did you master your mood board? Honestly it is my very favourite part of the design process, I often get carried away and spend hours refining and editing mine, which is time well spent eliminating options that do not fit your vision, creating boundaries and reducing choices. Limiting your options makes for much easier decisions and brings you a step closer to confidently creating a space you love!
So you have collected your inspiration, decided how you want your room to feel and designed a mood board. Its time to start styling your space but with something in mind; Layering. Understanding how to add layers of interest to your room means learning some more design principles.
The first is Balance, this has to do with symmetry. Symmetrical arrangements are soothing and easy on the eye because line and height are balanced. Keep in mind strict symmetry is very formal. Asymmetry feels less orderly and more restless due to variations in line and height that cause the eye to shift around a room rather than rest. This option is far more casual but can end up looking messy without a little care. Your decision regarding the feel of your room should help you decide this one.
Next is Contrast and not just in regards to colour. Contrast between light and shadow, soft and hard, glossy and matte, textured and smooth. I could go on but I’m sure you get the idea. Pull inspiration from your moodboard and mimic the textures, colours and patterns that you have included. Contrast provides interest and without it your room will look one dimensional and bland.
Lastly we have Focal Point or statement pieces. These are things that have an impact, draw your eye and attract your attention. Every room needs at least one and depending on your preference up to three or four. Focal points have the job of providing a starting point for the observer and guiding the eye deliberately around the room. More about statement pieces here.
All images via Pinterest
Master balance, contrast and statement pieces and your are well on your way to creating your own designer space. Play around, have fun, add, then edit and rearrange. There are lots more design principles, tips and tricks but these will get you started, prevent the overwhelm and put you on the right track to move forward with confidence. Learn more about layering here.
Spending the time and effort on designing your room and creating a vibe before you start decorating means that you will save yourself both money, wasted on costly mistakes, and the heartache caused by confusion, frustration and overwhelm. The whole experience will be exciting and enjoyable and you will have a plan to confidently create a space you love coming home to…..
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