I've recently embarked on redesigining my apartment and it has been both a fulfilling and arduous process. Although I have yet to fully complete the entire project, I wanted to share some helpful tips along the way to inspire and encourage others that may be contemplating redecorating or are currently in the process of doing so.
Visualize.
First things first! You must have a vision for how you want your place to look, feel and be perceived before you start. You can browse through home design magazines, search for looks online or mirror a look/feel that you've seen in a friend's home or on TV. Whichever way you go, make sure that the picture that you are trying to portray fits your personality and is functional for your lifestyle.
Color.
I believe a great starting point is to go for the colors/paint that will set your intended mood for each room of your home. The functionality of each room will help you determine the colors you want to set forth. For instance, if its your bedroom, you might want colors that will make you feel relaxed. Painting your bedroom bright yellow may not fair well when its time to go to sleep so keep in mind what colors bring about what moods.
Selecting the perftect color for your room can help jumpstart ideas for furniture, accessories and accents. Let the color be the driving force along with the style you would like to encompass the room.
Style.
They say style is everything so be sure to select a design style that fits your personality. Are you a modern chick or a vintage guy? Do you like classic art or cultural offerings? The style of your room/house should flow throughout so if you have your mind set on having a Japanese style bedroom, you might not want to feature classic/victorian style furniture and pieces in the living room. Every room doesn't have to be the same, but the themes in each room should complement each other, just as the colors you choose for each room should as well.
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| French style furniture |
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| Victorian Style Bedroom Set |
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| Modern Style Bedroom |
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| Modern Living Room |
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| Barbie Dream Home Style |
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| Asian Style Bedroom |
Once you've decided on your colors and style/theme, next you have to choose the furniture pieces and accents that will bring this vision to fruition. There are all sorts of DIY (Do it yourself) projects that can be accomplished with the help of Home Depot or Lowes, as well as, self help guides on how to turn old and outdated pieces into something fresh, new and all your own. If you are a handy DIY type of person, this should be reflected throughout your home and will give you a great sense of pride once it is completed.
Also remember, your perfect home will not be completed overnight. It will take time and focus to find the right pieces for each room. Most importantly, don't settle!!! Choosing pieces out of convenience and not because they match your dream/vision of your new home is not the way to go. If you have a certain piece in mind and can't find it in stores, don't give up. Search online on furniture stores, craigslist and at Goodwills/furniure depots. Allow yourself the time to find the right pieces and don't rush the process. Eventually everything will all come together.
Its All in the Details.
Making your home all your own can be one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do. No piece, item or artifact is too small or insignificant to go unnoticed in the overall theme. The trick to creating a beautiul style/decor in your home is focusing on the details. There is no need to match everything to your wall color, but again, there must be continuity. Accents like throws, pillows, picture frames, art, centerpieces, paintings, drapes, etc. are what brings the character into your space. Contrasting colors that blend well, but also POP is what you want to focus on. Be daring and brave and shun colors that are dull and boring. Instead, let the color do the talking for you to create a look and feel all your own. Your color pallettes should speak to your personality and style. Let the color and details speak for you.
Ballin' on a Budget.
Redesigning/Decorating your home can be intimidating style wise and financially as well. Don't let the price tags get you down or discouraged. There are plenty of affordable furniture outlets that can give you the look and feel you want and not break the bank. Besides, what's the point of sitting in a beautifully designed space and you're eating Top Ramen for a year. Again, this is an issue of patience. There is no rush to purchase all of your items at once. Create a budget each month on what you have to spend on items and follow your plan. It will take sacrifice, but the end result is all worth it.
Follow Your Heart.
In your excitement to celebrate your current progress, you might invite some family and friends over to take a look at the place. Of course we want our guests to love our new space, but you shouldnt feel deterred if everyone isn't as geeked about your choices as you are. Always remember, this is your space. You will be the one living in the space so negative feedback should be taken with a grain of salt, unless of course, the feedback is coming from an interior design professional who's work you admire and trust. This is your place, your vision and your hardwork...make it your own!!!!
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Are you currently redecorating your home and found these tips helpful?
Do you have any design tips for the BornTooBlog readers?
Is there a design disaster story you would like to share?
Has this post influenced you to redecorate your home?
