Design Rules To Live By
STORY ANDREA COLMAN
Ever walk into a room, and everything looks and feels "right?" How do all the decor elements fall into place so effortlessly and in perfect balance? The answer is, it doesn't happen by chance. Speaking from experience, as a designer there is a lot of strategizing that goes into a well-planned, aesthetically pleasing and well-functioning interior - and there's definitely a method to the madness. Here are my four tips and things to focus on, as a starting point for creating your own great space.
1. Function
Everyone has aesthetic goals for the home, but if it doesn't work for you and your lifestyle, then it's not serving its primary purpose. Identify the room's function, before you even think about paint colours, furniture and accessories.
How do you envision yourself using the room? Will it be as an entertaining area, an office and homework area, a family room - or perhaps all three? Once you determine the function of the room, you can then start thinking about what's required to fulfill that purpose, in terms of furniture and ambiance.
TIP: If you call a small space "home," maximize every inch of it with multi-functional furniture and a smart storage system.
When it comes to choosing furniture, function always comes first. If a certain piece doesn’t have a job in the room, it's just clutter. Move it elsewhere in your home, and replace it with something that enhances your use of the room. Direct the main furniture pieces toward the focal point, to lead the eye and usher visitors.
2. Focal Point
In every room, the eye has a natural landing place. It's the first thing that catches your attention when you enter, and oftentimes it relates to the function of the room - such as a beautiful bookcase or antique desk in an office. However, this isn't always the case. Unexpected focal points are a wonderful surprise, such as a bathroom with a huge window (and a private view!) or a kitchen with a fireplace.
If your room doesn't have a natural focal point, you can create one. A vibrant, large-scale painting commands the eye, is low-cost and completely non-committal. This can be a unique piece of furniture, a feature wall, large mirror. Get creative.
3. Budget
While money isn't always the most pleasant topic, it is an essential point of discussion. If you're planning an extensive and costly renovation, maximize your dollars by choosing durable and timeless materials and finishes. Avoid selections that are too trendy, which can quickly date your home when trends come and go - and trust me, they do eventually go. Opt for neutral tiles, faucets and fixtures.
Recognize that you will need to spend money in strategic places. Consider this an investment toward quality pieces that you really love, and intend to keep and use for the long haul. A great sofa in the living room, custom bookcases in the den - these will become focal points in the room, so choose wisely.
4. Finishing Touches
Last but certainly not least are the accessories of the room. These finishing touches tell a story and set a mood. They tie everything together. Plush pillows and blankets, books lining the shelves, and collections on your tabletops bring deeper meaning to your interiors and shed light on your soul. Here are some final tips to finish your space in style:
Hang artwork four to six inches above your sofa or console table, or if alone on the wall, hang it at eye level.
Light fixtures should hang 24 to 32 inches above the dining table, to illuminate the tabletop and diners without blocking views.
Area rugs should be large enough to accommodate the front legs of the sofa and chairs, creating cohesion.
Those magazine cover-worthy rooms interiors seem intimidating and out of reach at first glance, but comfort and style is just four steps away!
Andrea Colman is Principal of Fine Finishes Design Inc. With almost two decades of reno & design experience, her full service firm services clientele throughout the GTA and Ontario. The growing boutique design firm is known for creating stylish, harmonious, livable environments.
Visit www.finefinishes.ca for more information.
