When you want to create your own expertly curated space at home, you need to pay careful attention to the small details. Few of us realise just how much work goes into the immaculate homes that are featured in magazines – there is so much more than perfectly arranging the pillows or throws. An interior designer Cheshire knows how to expertly style the furniture, accessories and frame the shot so that the room looks its best constantly.
You don’t need to worry about hitting these incredibly high, and somewhat impractical standards in your own home – but it doesn’t hurt to adopt a few tricks of the design trade that the designers themselves swear by. Here are some of the tricks that the professionals absolutely love to implement; they can instantly elevate your space. During lockdown, we have all been spending more time in homes than ever before, so what better time to give your home some (much needed) tlc?
Declutter
Firstly, declutter. Having too much ‘stuff’ dotted around the place actually cheapens the overall look of your home. Use this extra time at home to give it a proper spring clean, clear out any old, unnecessary or simply unwanted items. Get yourself and your home organised, and pay particular attention to the areas that alway get overcrowded.
Clearing your physical space can also help with clearing your mental space too; decluttering has been proven to be beneficial in boosting your health and general well-being. Need a place to start? Coffee tables, shelving units, sideboards and office desks are fantastic areas to target first.
Embrace Nature
Those tired shop vases with pre-arranged florals aren’t doing it for designers any more. Spending some time in nature has been proven to significantly restore mental energy, reduce stress and even improve concentration. Lots of us are embracing and enjoying our daily exercise in the great outdoors – why not use this time to forage for your own flowers and bring those positive vibes into your home. Using an interesting or somewhat unconventional item as a vase can also be a big winner – try an old jar or even a wine bottle.
Restyle Shelving or Bookcases
For those who love to read, a house isn’t a home unless it’s filled to the rafters with books. Perfectly stacked and sorted shelves can look so appealing, whilst being completely functional and incredibly practical. Avoid creating a cluttered mess and start from basics – strip the shelves back to bare and start with a lovely blank canvas. Thinking about the visuals, varying the heights, colours and materials is a good place to begin. Stacking your shelves is an artform in itself, pay attention to the balance and know when to stop!
The Right Lighting
The lighting arrangement going on inside your home should be both comforting and calming; try to rely on natural lighting when and where you can. Using mirrors placed strategically and carefully picked out colour schemes to accentuate the natural light coming in. Where you need to use artificial lighting, avoid fluorescent as it is harsh and very unflattering – try to replace harsh bulbs with softer, warm white bulbs which cast a flattering glow and create an inviting environment. Warm white hues give the illusion of longer days and extended sunlight.
Don’t forget about our good friend ambient lighting either; layer a couple of light sources at various levels across the room – use some beautiful floor lamps if wall-lights aren’t present.
Celebrate Unique Objects
Objects matter, they help to bring form, identity and texture into the space. Try to focus on pieces that have some sentimental value or pieces that you find truly beautiful and eye-catching. One simple object can have the power to embody an entire experience, perfectly reflect your personality and bring some authenticity to a space. This can include the incorporation of sculptures, ceramics, ‘coffee table’ books or even candles.