1. The importance of space planning
Space planning, in interior design terms, is to direct the functionality of a room. Critical things to think about include furniture placement and the flow of movement. When you walk into a house, try to identify things you cannot change and work around that. Mapping out where everything fits can help you determine how the space will be utilised and how you can maximise it.
2. Colour creates character
When doing a little interior design for a home with larger families, we recommend using neutral tones which appeal to the majority of people. When working on your own personal space, you can be more creative and use colours that appeal to you. Colour in the bedrooms is a great way to bring in pops of personality and help individualise each room while still keeping the consistent golden thread of colour throughout the house.
3. How to use texture
Using texture to bring character into a space is important, as patterned texture creates visual depth and dimension. The light reflects differently off the different patterns and that adds visual interest and saves a neutral pallet.
When you are working with a limited budget you may have one standout feature, that will be your hero in the space. Overcrowding a room with only expensive items runs the risk of you losing a stand out element that demands your attention. Choosing how much texture and colour you use is a matter of feeling but there is also a fine line between all or nothing.
4. Multipurpose living
Post-covid, people are spending more time in their homes, and from an interior design perspective, we have realised the importance of having a comfortable place to live and the value of our most precious asset. We’re living in a day and age where you’re cooking and answering emails at the same time. The eat-in kitchen is a perfect example of a multi-purpose space that’s used often by both young and old. It can serve as a homework area for kids and a place to host dinner for family and friends.
5. Keep it local
One of the secrets to creating a cost effective home, is repurposing furniture bought at second-hand furniture shops, or passed down from a family member. Local artisans can also assist in manufacturing custom pieces and repurposing furniture in a bid to support local suppliers and demonstrate how old pieces can have a rush of new life, if placed in the right space with a cohesive vision.
