You might be someone who loves a few designs but does not really know what the appropriate interior style is. If you are having difficulty bringing them all together and can’t seem to find the right flow, then these tips can help in narrowing down your choices.

Sometimes you can easily fall in love with various interior design trends, however, if you do not know how to turn them into reality, then you might need to narrow down your options. Perhaps you are just starting to build your new house, or you decide that it is time to add a few pieces to your home. The following tips can help you in getting started.

Do Some Research

The internet, particularly Pinterest, can help you in searching for the interior design style that you might want. As you browse some pictures of the rooms, save the ones that catch your eye and those that you want to live with. Collect some fabric swatches and various paint colors. After having some images and samples of things you want to put together, you can start to create some patterns.

Get Some Inspiration

Display homes can be very inspiring. Display homes follow a theme and use it throughout the home. Consider it as a one-stop-shop when searching for inspiration for your styling. If you prefer a beachy style, then the theme can be seen all over the display home, from the kitchen through the bedroom and outdoor living. It helps you visually see the theme. Afterward, you can choose to add some personal touches. Browse some project builder’s websites since they usually feature room tours of their famous display homes.

 

Identify The Style

 

Although you might think that you have already gathered a couple of styles, you could still find some interior design themes as you go along. This includes French Country, Classic, Mid Century, Minimalism, Boho, Scandi, Contemporary, Industrial, Modern, etc. You can then use these words when searching for inspiration.

Living With Your Style

Open-concept kitchen and living area with a seamless design by Elle Design Co in Wichita, Kansas

Ask yourself, can you live with this style? Perhaps you are in between a couple of styles, but that is fine! Most people are always in between styles. You could try combining a few styles together. You can buy what you like and what you can afford. However, you can also buy something that fits your family. Be sure to consider practicality and how you are going to use these items on your home.

What Is Interior Design?

Interior design incorporates space planning and architecture, as well as creating appealing designs for home and office interiors. In order to become a professional interior designer, you should have formal training and focused schooling.

What Are the Basic Design Principles?

When you start making your designs, there are some important interior design basics that you should remember:

Style

Choosing an interior design style from the start will help you in keeping your space more focused and connected. There are a lot of decorating styles that you can choose from such as farmhouse, Scandinavian, mid-century modern, Tuscan, or shabby chic.

Each one of these comes with its own color options, specific design elements, floor plans, wall art styles, and window treatments. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these various styles as well as the latest design trends that are currently popular right now. This can help you in getting a taste of the style and decorating ideas that you want.

Focal Point

A focal point is a must in every room. It is something that looks beautiful or interesting. For instance, a fireplace, a piece of art, or a lovely couch. This can attract the attention of the viewers. But be sure that you do not go overboard here. In case you have a lot of focal points in your living space, then you will feel unfocused and overpowered.

Balance

In order to have some balance in every room, be sure to spread the visual appearance of your furniture and accents. Consider the position, texture, and scale. If you put more consideration in subtle diversity in a particular space, then you will be creating a room that feels more balanced and complete.

Essential Steps to Follow When Choosing an Interior Designer

Selecting an interior designer who will do the remodeling of your home can be a difficult task. Obviously, everything must be done perfectly. After all, you will be living in this house for a long time, so it is important that there should be no mistakes. With that being said, it will be up to you to look for the right contractor to do the job. The following steps can help in accomplishing this task.

Serene and minimalist master bedroom by Elle Design Co in Wichita, Kansas

Know Your Style

It is important that you know what your style is before you even start interviewing interior designers. Take time to visit some websites so you can get more details. It is essential that you are aware of your personal style so you can choose the right contractor to do the job. Some designers have their particular signature style. However, good designers are willing to adapt to your own requirements and preferences.

Check Out Some Portfolios

Assuming that you already know what, you are searching for and you have recognized some designers who can do your style, then try to get to know them better. The best way to do this is to check out their portfolios. Take a look at the projects that they have accomplished and try to imagine that you are living in those areas.

Know Your Budget

Before you start remodeling, be sure that you have already set up a budget. Some designers might charge you hourly, while others would charge you with a fixed fee for their services. This is also another important factor that you have to consider when deciding between several candidates. Additionally, it can help you in narrowing down your choices.

Have A Meeting with Designers

After narrowing down your choices, you will be left with just a few names. During this time, you should set a time to meet them face to face. Although there are some designers who do not charge for these meetings, it would be a good idea to ask them about it beforehand.

Ask Some Questions

Elegant and refined dining room design by Elle Design Co in Wichita, Kansas

During your meeting with the designer, you can ask them some questions with regards to their work. For instance, what are the qualifications, experience, and services that the designer provides? Can they provide you with the names of their previous clients so you can contact them for referrals? Most importantly, don’t forget to inquire about the duration and the costs of the project. Think of all the important questions that you would want to ask the designer. Consider the specifics and be sure to jot them down on a piece of paper so you won’t have to forget about anything.

Always Keep an Open Mind

Sometimes it is hard to find a designer that agrees to everything that you want. Even if both of your styles are somewhat the same, there might be some details wherein you will have some conflicts. When this happens, you should keep an open mind.

Avoid dismissing the suggestions of the designer before even giving the idea a chance. However, be sure that the designer is not forcing you to follow their recommendations just because it is much easier and more comfortable that way.

Try To Compare Notes

Once you have already met with all the designers on your list, it’s time to make a comparison of your notes. Compare the estimated costs that they have given you and make a list of the benefits and the drawbacks. Always remember that it is not always a good idea to choose the cheaper one.

Sign A Contract

After choosing the designer that you want to work with, then it’s time to call them and let them know about your decision. Before paying anything and starting the work, be sure that you sign a contract. This contract should show the timeline, specific responsibilities, budgetary limits, and any other important matters.

Create A Plan

The next thing to do is to plan where to start. If there are many rooms that will be redesigned then you should be practical about it. What are the essential materials that must be purchased during the first stage?

Work with the designer in making these choices. Determine what are the pieces that you want to keep. Perhaps you have an old table or chair that you want to incorporate into the design. Consider also any other important details.

Adjust Your Schedule

Be ready to make some adjustments to your schedule and lifestyle, depending on your current work schedule as well as the plan that you have worked on with your designer. There might be some instances wherein your presence is needed in some portions of the projects.

If you need some help with your interior design, then Ellen Design Co, LLC can help you. We can design your interior to make it functional and reflect your personal style. For more details, you may contact us at 316-641-6321 or send us an email at .