The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design

If you’re thinking about reworking your interior design, you have the ultimate blessing and curse- there are A LOT of ideas and information out there, just behind that search bar! It’s easy to get caught up in all of the Pinterest-y trends that pop up every time you venture online or get sucked into the vortex of DIY. Here’s how to manage your redesign and create a space that works for you- without the internet eating you alive!

Do: Sit Down and Plan it Out

If you’re thinking that you want to redesign your space, first things first: set a budget. Are you planning on using pieces you already have in a new way? Or do you have a piece of furniture that has to be replaced and you’re taking the opportunity to change it up? Or is it just time for an upgrade? Whatever the situation, plan how much you’re willing to spend.

Once you have your budget, look at all of your existing furniture and decorations. Decide if you can use what you already have and just update it with a coat of paint or if you want new pieces.

Do: Choose a Style

There are so many options out there for home design that it’s incredibly easy to lose focus on what you want your home or room to look like. So before you actually go purchasing anything, it’s time to do some research. Check out these popular design styles to see what you’re drawn to and what style you want to have in your home. Need inspiration? Check out what design is most popular in your area here!

• Modern- Generally emphasizes clean, crisp lines and minimal clutter.
• Minimalist- Think modern but even simpler. This style is all about functionality and no clutter.
• Industrial- This style tends to focus on unfinished, raw edges and a few statement pieces.
• Mid-Century Modern- This style combines retro design with the more contemporary minimalism. It tends to incorporate natural colors and comfort along with a lack of clutter.
• Traditional- The traditional design is focused on the luxe look. Think rich color palettes and lots of accessories.
• Rustic- Country charm at its finest, this style brings the outdoors inside with earthy tones and raw, unfinished elements.
• Bohemian- This is a more whimsical style that emphasizes a little quirkiness and fun colors and textures.

Don’t: Feel Like You Can’t Mix and Match

Interior design is fluid! Just because you select a style doesn’t mean that suddenly the style of your home has to fit within that definition. If you went for minimalist style but found a few accent pieces that you can’t live without, incorporate them!

If you thought you would love a traditional design but realized you can’t deal with all of the extra accents, tone it down into the bohemian style! The point of choosing a style isn’t to limit yourself- it’s to focus your project in a way that allows you to create a great space that looks good and feels natural.

Don’t: Feel like You Have to Break the Bank

Interior design on a budget is completely possible! While you might not be able to get new furniture, Pinterest and Youtube are a mine of information on how to give your current pieces a makeover! Painting a room can transform it, and stores like Homegoods and T.J. Maxx have a wealth of home decor options that aren’t going to strain your wallet. Check out DIY options for painting furniture or creating new pieces, or use what you’ve already got and display it differently.

Whatever your budget or style, there are options for interior design that will work for you. Don’t get overwhelmed by all of the information out there- use it to decide what will give your space the best look possible! Get inspired, nail down a plan, and then get going!