After you’ve moved into your new place, done all the unpacking, and purchased the furniture, you might be left with this nagging feeling that there’s something missing. You want to make your home feel more like yours, but you don’t know where to start or what looks good or which design styles are popular right now or… well, you get the picture. And let’s face it – a proper home modification isn’t cheap! So how can you get more bang for your buck when designing your living space?
1) Know Your Style
What’s your style? Do you want an eclectic look or something more formal? This can be a matter of opinion, but taking into account what you love and what you feel comfortable with will help guide your decisions. Before making any serious investment in decor, it helps to know exactly what you like and where that line is drawn. Otherwise, it’s easy to fall into common pitfalls like getting caught up in trends instead of sticking with a timeless style. Knowing yourself and understanding your needs will allow you to make informed decisions that reflect who you are as an individual. Remember: If someone doesn’t immediately like your home when they walk through your door, then maybe it’s time for some spring cleaning!
2) Buy the Bigger Stuff First
If you’re starting with a blank slate, consider purchasing major fixtures and furniture first. Why? These pieces are not only expensive but also large—meaning they are difficult (and cumbersome) to move around once you bring them home. You can then add smaller items that require less work (e.g., artwork, throw pillows). It is easier to place these items in your home, rather than moving them once you’ve already brought in everything else.
3) Invest in Quality Not Quantity
Every piece you put in your home has a unique story that’s a reflection of your own history and character. When selecting pieces for your home, ask yourself whether you’ll love it ten years from now—not whether or not it looks cool. If you wouldn’t buy it for $10 at a flea market, don’t even think about putting it in your $1 million mansion. Adding personal meaning to all of your purchases is essential if you want to create a space where you feel at ease and relaxed. You should be happy with everything around you!
4) Follow Trends, but Don’t Let Them Limit You
Keeping up with interior design trends is a good way to give your home a fresh, updated look. However, following them too closely can also limit you in terms of what style you can use. The best thing you can do is stay informed about current styles but remember that your home should have a personal touch that’s all yours.
5) Use Online Inspiration
One of my favorite ways to get new ideas for home decor is by browsing Pinterest or Instagram for inspo. It’s easy to get sucked into trends, but I like how those platforms allow you to see all different styles and eras represented in one place. Plus, some of my favorite bloggers are people who have mastered their own unique aesthetic, and I’m always excited to see what they come up with next!
Author Bio
MARWOOD CONSTRUCTION is a high-end residential & commercial construction expert providing specialized general contracting services to clients in Houston, Texas. This licensed general contractor offers design-to-build services solutions for the most challenging new build and renovation needs. To learn more about this author, visit marwoodconstruction.com.
