Learn the basics ofhome decorating, including design principles, decorating styles, and answers to decorating challenges.
Elements of Decor
Your first step should be to select a style for your home interior.
It can be as simple as choosingshabby chicinstead of formal ortraditionalinstead ofcontemporary.
KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images
Balance is another principledistributing the visual weight in a room.
Within each room there should be a focal point.
In a living room, it could be the fireplace or a piece of art.
FollowTheFlow / Getty Images
It sets itself apart by scale, color, or texture.
Contrast and variety add visual interest to a room.
Color
Choosing a color palette is an essential part of interior design.
The Spruce / Michelle Becker
Consider the right colors for a small room as well ascolors and patterns for a large room.
Patterns
Mixing patterns in home decoris one of the more advanced parts of interior design.
Patterns do not have to match, but they need to complement and coordinate with each other.
KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images
This is done by considering color, size, and scale.
Tips to Get Started With Your Decor
A major pitfall that traps untrained decorators is editing.
A few tips in this area can make or break yourroom’s design choices.
One room element that can usually use an editorial eye is how pillows are placed.
However, some people have a tendency to overdo it with pillows.
Choices of artwork can be important for a room, but equally consider how you display it.
A rule of thumb is to set wall hangings at eye-level.
Similarly, the height you set the chandelier matters.
A common mistake people make is hanging a chandelier too high or close to the ceiling.
Drop it low enough that it brings light into the room and is noticed.
Furnishings are a big investment and account for a large part of the budget of room decor.
If you are on a tight budget, there aresome items you should splurgeon.
The two most important pieces of furniturelikely the items that will get the most useare your sofa and bed.
Spend more on those pieces.
Save on area rugs, accent tables, and wall art.
