If you’ve found yourself in a new home this year, congratulations! That’s a huge accomplishment and I’m sure you’re already thinking about how to make the house feel like your home. Approaching interior design when moving into a new-to-you house, though, is different than how you would approach the renovation of a house you know inside and out, so here are some tips on how to go about it.
Proceed Slowly
Before you grab the nearest stick of dynamite and a paint swatch, take a step back and really get to know your new surroundings. Assess the architectural features – what do you like and not like? Check out the layout, the quirks, and anything that you absolutely want to stay true to. A room-by-room evaluation is crucial in identifying what each space will be used for. Consider your lifestyle, both now and as you grow into your home. Maybe you don’t know just yet, and that’s okay! That’s what we’re here for.
Set a Budget
Designing your dream home should be exciting, not stressful, and that’s exactly why you need to set a budget that aligns with your financial situation. It doesn’t need to be perfectly allocated just yet, but having a “no more than” number can help keep your project on track. Identify your top design priorities and the aspects of your home that are most important. Maybe it’s essential for you to completely renovate the kitchen, but the living room could work with a simple refresh. Set aside an additional chunk of funds for unexpected emergencies that come up – and they will – especially if there is renovation work involved.
While it’s essential to stick to your budget, it’s also important to be flexible. You may find things along the way, such as decor or design choices, that weren’t in your original plan but would significantly enhance your space. Be prepared to adjust your budget slightly as your project continues forward. That’s what the emergency funds are for!
Define Your Style
Once you figure out what you’re working with, it’s time to define your style for the project. Ask yourself these questions:
- What is my personal style, and what mood do I want to create in this space?
- Am I drawn to modern minimalism, cozy rustic, mid-century modern, or something else?
- Is this a new style for me, or do I have furniture and decor that can work with this style?
Start collecting online photos and gathering interiors you like, including color palettes, furniture styles, and any other visual elements that you feel inspired by. This is also the stage where you want to define what materials you’re looking for in your flooring, countertops, and fixtures. An interior designer that is local to your area can be a huge help at this time.
Plan Your Furniture and Layout
When it comes to colors, furniture, and design elements, think timeless. Of course, you want it to feel current, but don’t go too trendy or you risk feeling like your home is outdated in two years. Also, start to think about the layout of your home and how your furniture will fit into your space. This not only plays a role in the aesthetic but also in how the room functions and flows. Properly planned furniture and layouts help ensure your home is functional when all is said and done.
Involve Your Interior Designer
I know I say “for the love” a lot, but for the love……get an interior designer involved as soon as possible. You can try to accomplish every stage of the design yourself, but whyyyyy? Having an interior designer by your side during the process will streamline your project, cut unnecessary expenses, and alleviate a lot of stress. With years of experience, an interior designer will have suggestions that will elevate the entire look and set your project up for success right from the beginning!
An interior designer can be involved even before you get those keys, so if you’re in the market for a new home soon, check out our services page to see how we can work together. As you close on the house and prepare for the big move, remember that days full of good memories in a home you love are ahead!
Cheers,
Heather
