9 of the Best Tips and Tricks That Interior Designers LoveEugene Chrinian

9 of the Best Tips and Tricks That Interior Designers LoveWhen looking to delve into the world of interior design, there is no better place to start than with the experts. Whether you seek their advice online or in person, you can learn a great deal from them. In fact, many of them know and follow a wide array of tricks that you can also use to transform any space in your home.

Here are nine of the best interior designer-recommended decorating tips:

1. Learn how to layerIf you want your rooms to have a bit more interest than usual, then you need to master the art of layering. A technique praised by many interior designers, layering can help you fill out empty spaces or create intimacy in a large room. Start by stacking a few canvases against a wall and add more layers with lamps, plants, or books. You can choose to partially hide certain objects behind others for a more intriguing layered look. Whatever method you choose, it is important to experiment and be creative when using this technique.

2. Play with the look of your bookshelvesWhen arranging your bookshelves, it is important that you follow the 60-40 rule to achieve the right balance. As such, the majority of your books should be placed vertically, with the remainder set on their sides. This will help generate a look that is both harmonious and casual. You can further emphasize this aesthetic by playing around with the height of your books. For example, you should make sure that horizontally placed books do not exceed the height of the upright books. A few simple yet decorative pieces, such as clocks or plants, will finish off your bookshelf without offsetting the balance.

3. Follow the color percentage ruleNo matter the color palette you select, interior designers suggest that you follow a simple formula to create the right composition. The most common color scheme involves using your dominant color across 60 percent of the room, with 30 percent in a second color, and only 10 percent in your accent hue. You can mix up these colors in several ways, including on the walls, through furniture, or in small decorative pieces.

4. Measure before committing to furnitureThe last thing you want to do is overwhelm a room with furnishings, so many interior designers emphasize the importance of measuring before buying. Bigger is not always better, especially when it comes to smaller rooms. From tables and sofas to chandeliers and fixtures, you should compare the size of potential purchases to that of your space to ensure that you maintain the right scale. For example, the rule of thumb in selecting a dining table is to opt for one that is around 36 inches in length. This modest size will easily fit into a small area but still offers ample room for seating.

5. Create a harmonious spaceInterior designers also recommend that you explore the idea of creating a cohesive and harmonious living space. You can accomplish this look in numerous ways, the most important of which is the right balance of elements. A “heavy” room is one that features striking colors and large furnishings in one area while the rest is largely empty. Instead, you should try spreading elements evenly throughout the room and creating symmetry with matching furniture. Overall, a harmonious room includes elements that flow seamlessly into one another, carrying the eye from piece to piece with ease.

6. Show your personality with patternsPerhaps the best way in which you can inject your own personality into a room is through pattern. Also one of the easiest design fixes, the use of textures can help you tell your individual story. This trick can help you pick beautiful designs even if you don’t have an eye for interior design. While it is always important to maintain balance when using patterns, you shouldn’t be afraid of tapping into your own personality and using them in excess if that is your preference.

7. Be eccentric with your dining roomYour dining room presents the perfect opportunity for you to be unexpected and whimsical in your design choices. Most homeowners create cohesion in their dining areas by purchasing a matching set of chairs, but you can also play mix-and-match with seating. For example, a combination of armchairs, wooden chairs, and benches will break up the monotony of a hyper-similar dining room and add an intriguing edge. You can also apply this trick to your dinnerware. Instead of purchasing a set of dishes, try including individual pieces to add a bit of flair to the table.

8. Hang artwork carefullyOne of the most common (and noticeable) mistakes that homeowners make is failing to hang art in the correct way. In addition to selecting pieces that complement the size of a room, it is crucial that you mount artworks at the right height. A properly placed canvas will sit three to eight inches higher than the line of your furniture. Too little space in between objects will crowd the eye, while too much space will create an unseemly blank spot on the wall.

9. Make a happy homeOf course, the best tip that an interior designer can give is to create a happy home. Make each room feel “right” to you by creating spaces that evoke the emotions and atmosphere that you want. Whether your personal style is eclectic or peaceful, you can tailor the design of your home to reflect that and create a space in which you will enjoy spending time.