Let’s face one big truth: we all get pretty excited before home makeovers, but once the project starts, we feel overwhelmed. The problem is most DIY home improvement projects are not backed up with the proper preparation. Sometimes, to prepare, you don’t need to buy more stuff but rather do more research.
In this furnishing guide provided by painters and decorators working with Fantastic Services, you will learn how to mix and match furniture as if you were a professional decorator yourself.
Research Different Decorating Styles
When it comes to integrating a specific style into your interior design, it’s essential not to underestimate the complexity of the project, as any handyman will tell you. Interior design is a multidimensional field that combines artistic creativity with scientific principles, it’s no wonder that professional painters and decorators spend years honing their craft. Therefore, if you aspire to achieve professional-like results, it’s recommended to approach the process with a similar mindset.
To embark on your interior design journey, it’s crucial to begin by researching and understanding the fundamentals of your favourite style. Even if you haven’t settled on a particular style yet, it is highly recommended to explore a range of options before making a decision. This thorough exploration allows you to broaden your perspective and discover styles that may align perfectly with the unique characteristics of each room.
By delving into the world of interior design, you might stumble upon a style that brings out the best in your kitchen or other spaces within your home. Taking the time to research different decorating styles will help you uncover hidden gems and find the best match for your personal taste.
Remember, interior design is a continuous learning process, and even professionals constantly seek inspiration and keep up with evolving trends. Embracing an open-minded approach to research will empower you to make informed decisions and unleash your inner designer. So, dive into the realm of decorating styles, explore their nuances, and let your creative journey unfold.
Start with a Single Focus Object
When starting your furnishing journey, a useful tip every painter and decorator will give you is to begin with a single focal point that will serve as the Centre piece of the room. By directing attention towards this accent, you can establish a clear design direction and build the rest of the space around it. Let’s explore this concept further using the example of transforming a kitchen into a vintage-styled, authentic culinary haven.
Imagine you’re a passionate Italian cook, and you want to infuse your kitchen with a vintage charm. One standout feature is a retro-designed yet modern furnace that catches the eye. This becomes your focal point. Now, take a step back and assess the space. You’ll notice that minimalist chairs or industrial cabinets don’t quite align with the desired vintage aesthetic.
Use a Limited Colour Palette
To achieve a harmonious and visually appealing furnishing scheme, it’s wise to embrace a limited colour palette. Remember, simplicity can be the key to creating an elegant and cohesive space. Even professional interior specialists adhere to the golden rule: a room should ideally incorporate up to three complementary shades.
If you’re not an expert in colour coordination, juggling too many hues can be overwhelming. Instead, focus on selecting two main shades that work well together. This streamlined approach will make it easier for you to mix and match furniture pieces seamlessly.
For instance, imagine you’re furnishing a living room. Opt for two dominant colours that complement each other harmoniously, such as a soothing blue and a warm beige. These colours can form the foundation of your colour palette, appearing in larger furniture pieces like sofas, chairs, or rugs.
To add depth and interest to the space, introduce a third colour as accents and decorations. This could be through throw pillows, artwork, vases, or curtains. This accent colour serves as a delightful pop that brings vibrancy and personality to the overall composition.
Use Repetition while arranging
Repetition is a fundamental principle in interior design that can transform your space into a harmonious and visually pleasing environment. By purposefully incorporating repetition, you can effortlessly achieve a sense of cohesion and balance in your furniture arrangement. Professional decorators emphasise the significance of repeating certain elements such as shade, size, colour, or material to create a cohesive and visually appealing composition.
When arranging your furniture, consider repeating certain design elements throughout the space. For example, if you have a set of chairs with a particular pattern or upholstery, incorporating that same pattern or upholstery in other areas of the room can create a cohesive and unified look. Similarly, repeating a specific colour or material in different furniture pieces can tie the elements together and create a harmonious flow.
Consider the Scale of the Furniture Pieces
Thinking in a more geometrical way will help you achieve a visually pleasing and well-balanced composition similar to that a professional decorator will give you. It’s important to maintain a sense of harmony and cohesion by carefully considering the size and placement of each furniture item.
For instance, don’t shy away from combining furniture pieces of different scales within the same space. You can opt for a long sofa in the living room and pair it with sleek and tiny cabinets to create an intentional contrast and accentuate a particular design element. This deliberate variation in scale adds visual interest and creates a dynamic interplay between different furniture pieces.
Use Wood Stain for Mismatched Pieces
Achieving balance in your space can be easily accomplished by incorporating wooden accents or applying wood stains to mismatched furniture pieces. This simple yet effective hack helps fill in gaps and seamlessly blend different elements together. When certain areas lack suitable furniture or decor the addition of wooden elements can naturally transform the space and create a harmonious flow.
When choosing a wood stain, opting for a mid-brown hue is an excellent choice. Dark shades may create a dramatic effect that overwhelms the overall composition, while lighter shades might not provide enough contrast. The subtle warmth of a mild-brown wood stain strikes the perfect balance, adding depth and richness to the space without overpowering other design elements.
Choose Complementary Textures
When it comes to mixing and matching furniture, don’t overlook the importance of considering textures. In addition to shapes, sizes, and colours, incorporating complementary textures can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. Each texture carries its own unique qualities and can evoke different emotions and moods within a room.
For a sense of peace and tranquility, consider incorporating textures such as linen and organic cotton. These natural and breathable materials add a touch of serenity to your space, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. The softness and lightweight nature of these textures can counterbalance any edginess in the overall interior design.
Get Help from Professional Decorators
If you’re facing challenges and uncertainties while attempting to complete your furnishing DIY process, don’t fret! There’s a solution that can save you time and stress and ensure exceptional results: hiring professional decorators. While DIY projects can be rewarding, enlisting the expertise of experienced handymen can offer a multitude of advantages that will elevate your furnishing journey to new heights.
