When you’re looking for the best home decorating ideas, there’s certainly no shortage of options.
With such a dizzying array of home decor trends out there, it’s temptingly easy to gobble up the latest fads, rather than investing in meaningful improvements that actually make your life more convenient and your space more beautiful.
One way to simplify the process is to let form follow function. In addition to enhancing your lifestyle and updating the look of your home, a function-driven approach to interior design inspiration also looks good to you and your wallet:
- Save money. Putting function first helps you select elements for their long-term value, instead of wasting money on impulse purchases that clutter up the house and drain your bank account.
- Boost your home value. Today’s buyers are looking for a highly functional home that makes their own hectic routines a little easier.
So what’s the recipe for home decorating that fits how you live? All it takes is 3 simple ingredients!
#1: Start with a typical day.
Before you start scrolling through images on all those fabulous design websites, step away from the screen for a moment and focus on your own lifestyle.
- What is a typical work day like? What are your working hours? Do you do any work at home?
- What areas in your home do you use in the morning? Late in the day?
- How do you spend your weekends?
- Do you do any entertaining? Do people stay overnight or just for the evening? How many guests do you need to accommodate?
- How often do you cook meals at home?
#2: Stir in your functional needs.
Starting with your own daily routine helps to determine the function of each area of your home. Think about what each space will be used for and who will be using it.
- Do you need a place to host social gatherings? Areas for children to play with their friends?
- Do you need an office space or other quiet area free from distractions?
- Is your current kitchen decor a help or a hindrance when it comes to preparing meals? Are you able to get food on the table quickly and efficiently?
These functional needs will determine your choice and arrangement of design elements:
- Think like Goldilocks when choosing furniture — not too big, not too small but just the right size. Your furniture arrangement should complement electrical outlets, switches, vents, windows and doors. Keep walkways open to facilitate ease of movement throughout the house.
- Lighting also plays a big role in room decor. In some rooms you’ll need direct lighting for tasks like cooking, reading or sewing, while other spaces may call for indirect illumination to facilitate conversation or watching your favorite movies.
#3: Top it off with aesthetic flavor.
Do you prefer a rustic atmosphere reminiscent of life on the farm, or a contemporary vibe that leans into the future?
Should your home decor create an elegant, formal ambience that impresses your guests? Or a casual setting that invites relaxing conversation?
What colors, patterns and materials will bring your vision to life?
When you have a firm grasp of the functional role of interior design, it’s easier to incorporate elements that also reflect your personality and improve the look of your home.
In addition to these 3 ingredients for good home design, it helps to seek interior decorating tips from an experienced professional who understands how folks like you live here in Columbia, Missouri and surrounding areas.
Are you looking for home decorating ideas that match the way you live? Contact Lifestyles Furniture today for a free design consultation. Our design experts will help you find just the right furniture to add function and style to your decor!
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