A home is a reflection of its owner. But how often do we truly think about how to mold our spaces to not only reflect us but work specifically for us? Your surroundings truly have the power to impact how you move through your day, from mental and physical health to overall well-being. Function and aesthetics are equally as important, and both can reflect ideals, values, and personal style. These helpful hints can be pivotal in personalizing your space to suit the user, you!
Identify Which Style(s) Attract You
Interior design styles run far and wide, and there is a space for everyone. It can seem daunting to think about the various aesthetics out there. But take a look around at social media, publications (Urban Living!), and any environments you may visit. Take note of which interiors speak to you, then compare and see what the spaces have in common. Consider your taste in fashion. Often our clothes say more about us than we realize. If your closet is filled with simple yet tasteful pieces in neutral tones, chances are you lean towards a minimalist style that encompasses clean lines, a neutral color palette, and uncluttered spaces.
Photo Credit: @nicolehollissf
Let Colors Speak
Once you have gotten a better understanding of your personal interior style, now it is time to develop a color palette. Taking the colors that feel most befitting to you, then applying them to our interiors. Color theory is an important factor here. Certain colors, like red and yellow, tend to be energizing colors; while blue and green tend to be colors that evoke calmness. You can also incorporate things you love, abstractly. For example, if you feel most connected to a forest then bringing in shades of green as well as some natural brown tones might work best for you.
Photo Credit: @adamhunter
Collect, Then Display
Most of us, though not everyone, like to collect objects. There are many types of objects to collect, from art to decorative vases and unique trinkets. Whether you have an already built collection or reading this will ignite something inside of you to go out and begin your collection displaying said items in your home will automatically allow the space to feel more personal and a truer reflection of yourself.
Photo Credit: @curiousyellowdesign
Add Your Touch to Furniture or Decor
Furniture comes from the store in a standard cookie-cutter way. Pieces like that are designed to be universally appealing. Ask yourself, how can I make this more me? This can be reupholstering a chair or something as simple as DIY-ing some accents on a dresser. Bring in some of your favorite colors, patterns, and textures to make your personality shine.
Photo Credit: @zoefeldmandesign
Function that Follows Lifestyle
Beyond aesthetics, the spaces that make up your home should be functional in a way that suits your lifestyle. If you tend to read a lot, then be sure to include a cozy corner with an overstuffed armchair, fluffy pillows, and a cozy blanket. Maybe a bookcase or two need to be included in one of your main living areas. Spaces should be functional for you, the user of the space.
Photo Credit: @architecturaldigest
Lived-In Layers
Textures play an important role in the design of a room. It adds visual interest, and it looks like a lot of effort and careful consideration went into the choices made. However, it goes beyond good looks. Layering textures gives the appearance that a space is well lived in. Think, hardwood floors, wool rug, linen sofa, shag, and velvet pillows, with a faux fur throw blanket. That is without even mentioning window treatments, other furniture, or accents. Contrasting materials is also important. A painted wall can be balanced by some thick curtains flanking windows, or a wooden bed can have a multitude of fluffy duvets and pillows atop it.
Photo Credit: @1stDibs
Turn Hobbies and Interests Into Accents
Your passions are unique to you and implementing them as decor can make a space more interesting to not only you but to anyone who may come through it. Most of us do not think of our hobbies as possible interior decor, but interests and hobbies are actually great contenders when it comes to decor options. I myself am drawn to cooking, and placing a focus on my kitchen decor is important. Remember, kitchens need accents too. Perhaps you have always been a fan of photography; well what if your hallway was lined with whichever type of photography piques your interest?
Photo Credit: @LMdesignstudio
Take Lighting Personally
No two people like the same type of lighting. While some enjoy a plethora of light, others refuse to turn on overhead lights and instead opt for accent lighting. Ask yourself, what appeals to you most? There is also the conversation of the color of said lighting. Ranging from ultra-warm (more yellow) to ultra-cool (more white), everyone’s preferred lighting color lies somewhere on the scale. Each room may need different lighting, for in the kitchen you definitely want more lighting than in your bedroom. But as I said, take it personally. It’s your house after all.
Photo Credit: @ashleytstark
Display Pride for Judaism
Turn the pieces that are symbolic in Judaism into works of art, literally or figuratively. Today, there is a whole world of artists who are devoted to the process of bringing Judaism alive and integrated into people’s homes. Mezuzas, for instance, are pieces that can be found throughout a home, but the ones you currently have may not fit your aesthetic that well. Or, opt for an art piece that allows you to feel more connected to Judaism.
Photo Credit: @nechamafineart
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born and raised in New York, Shana Beck is an interior designer and writer with a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. Her work focuses on blending design principles with insightful commentary, offering a fresh perspective on trends and innovations in the field. With a passion for writing and a deep understanding of aesthetics, she aims to make complex ideas accessible and engaging, bringing a fun and cool approach to professional content. You can reach her at 845.825.1537 or shanabeck7@yahoo.com
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