10 Tips For Decorating A Room - Renovation Series

Decorating a room can be a fun and exciting project, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging, especially if you don't know where to start.

Whether you're moving into a new home, redecorating an existing space, or just looking to refresh the look and feel of a room, there are a few key principles and strategies that can help you create a stylish and functional space that reflects your personal taste and meets your practical needs.

In this article, we'll explore some actionable tips and guidelines for decorating a room, including how to define the room's purpose and choose a style or theme, create a color scheme that complements the purpose and style, choose a focal point and arrange furniture around it, and use lighting to highlight key features and create ambiance.

We'll also discuss some common mistakes to avoid when decorating a room and provide some inspiration and examples to help you get started. By following these principles and putting your own creative spin on them, you can create a beautiful and inviting space that you'll love to spend time in.

In this article:

1. Define the room's purpose and choose a style or theme.
2. Create a color scheme that complements the purpose and style.
3. Choose a focal point and arrange furniture around it.
4. Use lighting to highlight key features and create ambiance.
5. Add texture through rugs, curtains, pillows, and artwork.
6. Incorporate functional storage solutions that also look good.
7. Hang artwork and photos at eye level to create visual interest.
8. Use plants and greenery to add natural beauty and fresh air.
9. Mix and match patterns and textures to add visual depth.
10. Edit your design choices to avoid clutter and maintain a clean, cohesive look.

1. Define the room's purpose and choose a style or theme.

Defining the purpose of a room and choosing a style or theme is a crucial step in creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional space. The purpose of the room will determine the type of furniture, decor, and color scheme that will work best. For example, a living room may be designed for relaxation and socializing, while a home office needs to be functional and conducive to work.

The style or theme of the room can be inspired by personal preferences, cultural influences, or current design trends. Some popular themes include minimalist, rustic, industrial, and bohemian.

Once you have a clear purpose and style in mind, it will be easier to make design decisions and choose decor elements that work well together to create a cohesive and inviting space.

2. Create a color scheme that complements the purpose and style.

Creating a color scheme that complements the purpose and style of the room is essential in achieving a cohesive and inviting design. A well-planned color scheme can help set the mood, create harmony, and highlight the key features of the space. When choosing colors, consider the function of the room and the emotions you want to evoke. For instance, warm colors like red and yellow are great for energizing a space, while cool colors like blue and green can help create a calm and relaxing environment. You may also want to consider the amount of natural light the room receives, as this can affect how colors appear.

Once you have a general color palette in mind, you can start selecting specific shades and hues. A simple way to create a color scheme is to use the 60-30-10 rule. This involves selecting a dominant color that will cover about 60% of the room, a secondary color that will take up 30%, and an accent color that will make up the remaining 10%. The dominant color is typically a neutral shade, such as white, beige, or gray, while the secondary and accent colors can be bolder and more vibrant. Additionally, you may want to incorporate patterned or textured elements to add depth and interest to the space. By carefully selecting colors and textures that work well together, you can create a harmonious and visually pleasing room that reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs.

3. Choose a focal point and arrange furniture around it.

Choosing a focal point and arranging furniture around it is a crucial step in decorating a room. A focal point is a feature or area that draws the eye and sets the tone for the room. Examples of focal points include fireplaces, large windows, artwork, or architectural details. Once you have identified the focal point, you can begin arranging furniture in a way that emphasizes it. For example, if the focal point is a fireplace, you may want to arrange seating around it to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Similarly, if the focal point is a piece of artwork, you can hang it at eye level and arrange furniture in a way that highlights it.

When arranging furniture, it's important to consider the flow of the room and the function of each area. For example, in a living room, you may want to create multiple seating areas for different types of activities, such as watching TV, playing games, or socializing. In a bedroom, the focal point is typically the bed, and furniture should be arranged to create a comfortable and relaxing environment. Additionally, you may want to consider the scale and proportion of furniture pieces, as well as the balance of the room. By carefully arranging furniture around a focal point, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing space that meets your functional needs.

4. Use lighting to highlight key features and create ambiance.

Using lighting to highlight key features and create ambiance is an effective way to enhance the overall design of a room. Lighting can be used to draw attention to specific areas or elements of the space, such as artwork, architectural features, or furniture. For example, you can install accent lighting above a piece of artwork to highlight it and create a dramatic effect. You may also want to use task lighting in areas where you need focused light, such as a reading nook or a home office. Additionally, ambient lighting can be used to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the room. This can be achieved through the use of dimmer switches, table lamps, floor lamps, or pendant lights, depending on the style and purpose of the room.

When selecting lighting for a room, it's important to consider the color temperature and intensity of the light. Warm-toned lights can create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, while cool-toned lights can make a room feel more energetic and stimulating. You may also want to consider the type of light fixtures you use, such as sconces, chandeliers, or track lighting, as this can affect the overall aesthetic of the room. By carefully selecting lighting that complements the style and purpose of the room, you can create a welcoming and visually appealing space that meets your functional and aesthetic needs.

5. Add texture through rugs, curtains, pillows, and artwork.

Adding texture to a room is an important element of interior design. It can make a space feel more inviting, cozy, and visually appealing. There are many ways to incorporate texture into a room, including through the use of rugs, curtains, pillows, and artwork.

One of the easiest ways to add texture to a room is through the use of rugs. Area rugs can add warmth, depth, and interest to a room. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as wool, cotton, jute, or synthetic fibers, each with their own unique texture. Adding a shaggy or patterned rug to a room can create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, while a flat-weave or natural fiber rug can create a more relaxed and natural feel.

Curtains can also be used to add texture to a room. Heavy, textured curtains can make a room feel more intimate and cozy, while sheer or lightweight curtains can create a more airy and open feel. Additionally, using curtains with bold patterns or interesting textures, such as velvet or linen, can add depth and interest to a room.

Pillows are another great way to add texture to a room. Whether you use them on a sofa, chair, or bed, decorative pillows in different sizes, shapes, and textures can create a layered and visually appealing look. Adding pillows made from materials such as faux fur, velvet, or linen can add texture and depth to a room.

Finally, artwork can be used to add texture to a room. Textured artwork, such as oil paintings, mixed media pieces, or sculptures, can create a focal point in a room and add visual interest. Hanging a tapestry or woven wall hanging can also add texture and create a cozy, bohemian vibe.

Incorporating texture through rugs, curtains, pillows, and artwork is an effective way to create a visually appealing and inviting space. By mixing and matching different textures and materials, you can create a layered and cohesive design that reflects your personal taste and style.

6. Incorporate functional storage solutions that also look good.

Incorporating functional storage solutions that also look good is key to creating a well-designed and organized room. Here are some tips on how to do it:

1. Choose furniture with built-in storage: Consider investing in furniture pieces that double as storage solutions, such as a coffee table with built-in drawers or a bed with under-bed storage. This way, you can keep your belongings organized and out of sight while also maximizing your space.

2. Use decorative storage baskets: Baskets and woven bins can be both functional and stylish. Use them to store extra blankets, magazines, or toys while also adding texture and interest to a room. Place them on bookshelves, in open cubbies, or on the floor next to seating areas.

3. Create a stylish entryway storage solution: Adding a coat rack, bench, or storage cabinet to your entryway can keep your shoes, jackets, and bags organized and out of sight. Look for pieces with hooks, shelves, and drawers that can help you stay organized while also adding to your decor.

4. Add floating shelves or a bookcase: Floating shelves or a bookcase can add both storage and style to a room. Use them to display decorative items or store books and knick-knacks.

5. Invest in stylish storage boxes: Stylish storage boxes or containers can be a great solution for storing items that you don't use regularly, such as seasonal clothing or holiday decorations. Choose boxes in different sizes and colors to fit your decor and keep them neatly stacked in a closet or under a bed.

By incorporating functional storage solutions that also look good, you can create a clutter-free and visually appealing space that meets your practical needs. Consider your storage needs when selecting furniture, and look for decorative baskets, shelves, and boxes that can keep your belongings organized while also adding to your decor.

7. Hang artwork and photos at eye level to create visual interest.

When it comes to hanging artwork and photos in a room, the placement is crucial in creating visual interest and balance. Hanging artwork and photos at eye level is one of the most important things to keep in mind when decorating a room. This is because eye level is where people tend to look naturally, and so artwork and photos placed at this level are more likely to be noticed and appreciated.

Hanging artwork and photos too high or too low can make a room feel unbalanced and awkward. If artwork is hung too high, it can make a room feel taller than it actually is, while artwork hung too low can make the ceiling feel lower. By hanging artwork and photos at eye level, you can create a sense of harmony and balance in the room, and draw the eye towards the focal point.

The height of eye level can vary depending on the height of the viewer, but a general rule of thumb is to hang artwork and photos so that the center of the piece is at about 57 inches from the floor. This will put the artwork at the average eye level height for most people. However, if you have particularly high or low ceilings, you may need to adjust the height accordingly.

By hanging artwork and photos at eye level, you can create a visually appealing and balanced space that draws the eye towards the focal point. Take care to measure and hang your artwork properly, and consider grouping multiple pieces together to create a cohesive and dynamic display.

8. Use plants and greenery to add natural beauty and fresh air.

Plants and greenery are a wonderful addition to any room, adding a natural element that can instantly create a calming and inviting atmosphere. In addition to their aesthetic benefits, plants can also improve indoor air quality by reducing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. Here's why and how to incorporate plants when decorating a room:

When selecting plants for your space, consider the amount of natural light, humidity levels, and the space available. Some low maintenance plants that do well in most environments include spider plants, pothos, and snake plants. If you have a particularly sunny space, you might consider succulents or cacti, which are hardy and don't require much watering. Other options that require indirect light and humidity include ferns, peace lilies, and Chinese evergreens.

The number of plants you add to a room will depend on the size of the space, your personal taste, and the amount of natural light available. A few larger statement plants can make a bold impact, while a collection of smaller plants can add visual interest and texture. Alternatively, you might opt for a large plant in one area of the room and a few smaller ones in another area to create balance.

Incorporating plants and greenery into your room can be a simple and effective way to add natural beauty and fresh air to your space. Consider the lighting and humidity levels, and select plants that are well-suited for your environment. Adding even just a few plants can make a noticeable difference in the ambiance of your room.

9. Mix and match patterns and textures to add visual depth.

Mixing and matching patterns and textures can add a dynamic visual depth and interest to a room. The key to successfully incorporating patterns and textures is to keep the overall color scheme and style cohesive. Here are some tips for mixing and matching patterns and textures when decorating a room:

Start by selecting a color palette that ties together all the patterns and textures you plan to incorporate. This will help create a sense of cohesiveness and prevent the patterns from clashing. It's also important to balance the scale of the patterns you choose, making sure they vary in size to create visual interest.

When selecting patterns, try to vary them in style, such as a geometric print paired with a floral or striped pattern. Additionally, consider incorporating different textures through rugs, curtains, and throw pillows. This can add a tactile element to the room, creating depth and visual interest.

It's also important to consider the space you're working with. For example, a smaller space may benefit from more muted patterns, while a larger space may be able to handle bolder and more vibrant patterns. Ultimately, mixing and matching patterns and textures can add visual depth and interest to a room, creating a unique and dynamic space.

10. Edit your design choices to avoid clutter and maintain a clean, cohesive look.

Decorating a room can be a fun and exciting process, but it's important to keep in mind the importance of editing your design choices. Overcrowding a room with too many decor pieces or furniture can create a cluttered and overwhelming space. By carefully editing your design choices, you can maintain a clean, cohesive look in your home. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

1. Consider the purpose of the room: The first step in editing your design choices is to consider the purpose of the room. Different rooms have different functions, and the decor pieces and furniture should reflect this. For example, a living room should have comfortable seating options and a coffee table, while a bedroom should have a bed and dressers. Be mindful of the purpose of the room and choose decor and furniture that serves that purpose.

2. Eliminate unnecessary items: Take a look at the decor pieces and furniture you've selected and ask yourself if each item is necessary. If something doesn't serve a purpose or doesn't fit the overall design aesthetic, consider removing it. Remember, less is often more when it comes to decor.

3. Use storage solutions: If you find that you have too many items but don't want to get rid of them, consider using storage solutions. Ottomans, benches, and even baskets can be used to store extra items and keep them out of sight. This will help maintain a clean and clutter-free look in your home.

4. Stick to a color scheme: Using a consistent color scheme throughout the room can help maintain a cohesive look. Choose a few complementary colors and stick to them when selecting decor pieces and furniture. This will create a sense of harmony in the space.

5. Avoid overcrowding: It's important to give each item in the room space to breathe. Overcrowding can create a cluttered and overwhelming look. Leave some negative space around each piece of furniture and decor, and avoid placing too many items in one area.

6. Edit regularly: Finally, it's important to edit your design choices regularly. As you add new decor pieces or furniture, consider removing something else to maintain a clean and clutter-free space. Regularly editing your design choices will help you maintain a cohesive and stylish look in your home.

In conclusion, editing your design choices is an important step in creating a clean, cohesive look in your home. By considering the purpose of the room, eliminating unnecessary items, using storage solutions, sticking to a color scheme, avoiding overcrowding, and editing regularly, you can maintain a stylish and clutter-free space. Remember, less is often more when it comes to decor, so be mindful of each item you choose to include in your home.

Enjoy your efforts!

Decorating a room can be a fun and rewarding process, but it's important to approach it with a plan in mind. By defining the purpose of the room, choosing a style or theme, creating a color scheme, selecting a focal point, arranging furniture, and incorporating lighting and natural elements, you can create a space that is both functional and visually appealing. However, it's equally important to edit your design choices and avoid common mistakes that can create a cluttered and overwhelming space. By following these tips and being mindful of your design choices, you can create a clean, cohesive, and stylish room that you'll love spending time in.