Interior Design

To make a good interior space:

• Use at least three sources of light.
  • This way, there isn't one hard, harsh light from overhead. Use lamps! ¹
  • Smart lights also let you change the brightness and color temperature of the light at will. ²
• Use at least three layers.
  • This gives layers of interest for your eyes to follow. ¹
  • Use rugs to visually ground any furniture placed on top of it. ²
• Use a variety of height levels.
  • This gives something for the eye to see at different vertical heights. ¹
• Use a variety of materials.
  • Consider what materials are present in the room already when picking a new item. Remember to add wood and plants! ¹
  • Make sure there is a balance between hard and soft surfaces, for aesthetics and also for better acoustics. ²
• Use at least three colors.
  • Pick a main, secondary, and accent color. ¹

Tips

• You don't need to use spaces or items in the default way. Embrace the layout and find how they can best be used. Treat constraints as something to celebrate and make intentional. ³
• Focus on the property's features and find out how to use them instead of dismissing them as mistakes. ³
• Use painter's tape to mark down the dimensions of an item of furniture to get an idea of how it would feel to occupy that space, before you buy that furniture item. This helps you decide what you want and where you want to put it. ²
• Draw up a budget and spread it evenly across your living area instead of focusing on one specific item. ²
• In an open plan layout, you have to consider more ways to intentionally partition the space. ²
• Use cellular blinds, Venetian blinds, or daylight blinds to maximize the amount of natural daylight and views in a home while providing some shade and privacy. ²
• Don't always use bookshelves! Use things like sideboards and cabinets to hide clutter. ²
• Light colored fabrics bounce light well but soil easily. Instead, pick fabrics which can cleaned easily and age gracefully with wear. ²
• Prioritize versatility and usability over features and comfort. This is because versatility allows you to adapt a furniture item for use in multiple contexts and saves you space. ²

Terms

• Command Position - The position in a room that gives you psychological control by bringing in all doors and windows into your line of sight. ³