Books, the internet, television, radio… with all the interior design advice that’s available, you would be forgiven for convinced that you will need a degree in design in order to create a pleasing interior for the home. But nothing could be further from the truth. Interior design is more about inspiration, creativity and fun. Actually, interior design is one of the only areas of home-building where you can really let your wildest fantasies take shape.
Your house is a reflection of yourself: we all change as we age, so it’s natural that your concept of interior design will change, too. One of the beauties of interior design is that it’s a moveable feast: a bold, striking interior with radical design features might appeal 好師傅爛尾 for your requirements when you are in your twenties, but you could feel differently about design when you’re in your thirties or forties. Your life circumstances could have changed – you might have married, as an example, or you might have children – and this will certainly have an effect along the way in which you choose to create your home’s interior.
The first faltering step is understanding your interior. Whether you intend to re-design a space, a floor or even a whole house, it’s important to know what the room will soon be employed for, and who will soon be using it. A lounge or bedroom may be ruined by the wrong design style, so make your design project easier by deciding up-front how you wish to use your interior.
The next step is to consider who will soon be using the space. What kind of person are they? Your interior design should take their age, character and occupation into consideration. A bright, vibrant design might not be ideal for a studious or serious person, for example. And a muted interior will suppress an innovative spirit or free thinker. Allow it to be a principle to create your interior across the inhabitants.
Together with your design foundation set up, it’s time and energy to start choosing your colour palette. Aim to add 2 – 4 colours or shades: it will soon be far flattering to your interior than the usual single colour. And don’t hesitate to contrast: bright reds and blues look stunning against a modern white interior, as an example, whereas tranquil greens and turquoises will add warmth to a conventional, beamed interior. Be bold: try painting a ‘feature wall’ within a colour, and contrast that with interesting accessories… it’s an interior design trick that may really bring a space to life.