There are some people who know their personal design style immediately; for others it is more complicated.
Some people know their design style immediately. They recognize the decorative elements that support their style, love and appreciate the colours and surfaces of a specific look, and have a clear preference for certain lines that illustrate an interior design style.
For others, it is more complicated. Perhaps starting with pieces they already have or have inherited from family members, they have been adding pieces as needed or desired without a comprehensive plan of where they are headed or would like to end up.
Generally, people gravitate towards pieces that move them, and they enjoy, but these pieces are not always ideal at communicating your overall style or work harmoniously into your space.
Here are a few things to consider if you are trying to find your personal style:
Start clipping and keeping photos of spaces that impress you. Start broad and focus on the feel of the room.
Look for similarities. Are there common things you are seeing? Are you drawn to lots of natural wood? Are there lots or mirrors and reflective surfaces? Do you like clean, modern lines or prefer warm sensuous curves? Many of us a somewhat eclectic and have several different looks we are drawn to. Be practical in considering how you live. If you have small children, glass surfaces may not be the best choice for you unless you have lots of cleaning help.
What colours are you drawn to? Do you like big, bold statement colours, or are you more comfortable with soft neutral tones? Consider your room sizes and exposures. You can expand small rooms by using soft light colours. North-facing rooms will always feel darker, and sunny south-facing rooms can often feel washed out if colour is not saturated enough.
Consider your architecture. While we often do not get to select the exterior finishes and styles of our home fully, don't lose sight of them when decorating your home. It can be pretty jarring to step through a traditional doorway, and it opens up into a modern open space.
If you do not feel as though you are entirely sure what your style is or how to put it all together, work with a decorating professional who can help you define and develop your taste. Remember, the designer's role is to harmonize and create a space with your selections in mind and not simply to showcase their own.
Comments