When it comes to home design, we all want to create a space that’s not only beautiful but also reflects our personality and style. However, designing a home can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a clear vision and plan. Luckily, there’s a wealth of inspiration available online from some of the top designers in the industry. In this article, we’ve gathered some incredible home design ideas from these experts to help you create a home that you’ll love coming back to every day.
1. Embrace Natural Light
One of the most important factors to consider when designing a home is lighting. Natural light is not only essential for our well-being but also enhances the beauty of a space. David Karp, a Los Angeles-based architect and designer, says that “nothing affects a room more than sunlight,” and he couldn’t be more right.
One way to embrace natural light is by choosing large windows or glass doors that will allow sunlight to flood the space. However, if you live in a small apartment or a house that doesn’t have many windows, there are still ways to maximize natural light. Interior designer Emily Henderson suggests using mirrors strategically to reflect light into a room. Another way to bring in more natural light is by choosing light-colored walls, which will help to bounce light around the room.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic effect, you can also consider adding a skylight. A skylight is a perfect addition to a space that lacks natural light and will instantly brighten up the room. Additionally, skylights can provide an amazing view of the sky and stars at night.
2. Mix Materials and Textures
To create a home that feels dynamic and layered, it’s important to mix up different materials and textures. Designer Amber Lewis says that “texture is the secret ingredient that makes a space feel inviting and luxurious.” Adding textured items like a shaggy rug, woven basket, or a leather chair will bring a tactile element to your room.
Varying materials also add visual interest to a space. Mixing up metals like brass and copper in your light fixtures and decor can add warmth and depth. Unique and unexpected combinations, like concrete and wood, can also elevate the design of a space.
Don’t be afraid to mix old and new pieces, either. Using vintage or antique items can add character and history to a room, while modern pieces keep things fresh and exciting. This mix-and-match approach will help create a space that feels both personal and unique.
3. Use Statement Pieces
Another way to add character and personality to your home is by using statement pieces. These are items that grab attention and create a focal point in a room. Interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel suggests using items like bold wallpaper, a colorful area rug, or an eye-catching pendant light.
Artwork is also a perfect way to create a statement piece. A large-scale painting or sculpture can add a sense of drama to a space and serve as a conversation starter. Additionally, you can create a gallery wall using a collection of smaller pieces to create an eye-catching display.
When using statement pieces, it’s important to use them strategically. Too many statement pieces in a space can overwhelm and distract from the overall design. Use them sparingly to create a well-curated and balanced look.
4. Add Greenery
Adding plants to your home is an easy way to bring life and energy into a space. Plants not only look beautiful but also have numerous health benefits. They help purify the air, reduce stress, and improve our mood.
Interior designer Nate Berkus suggests using plants of different heights and varieties to add visual interest to a space. Hanging plants or wall-mounted planters are also great options for those with limited floor space.
If you don’t have a green thumb, don’t worry. There are plenty of low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for, like snake plants or aloe vera. Additionally, faux plants have come a long way in recent years and can look just as beautiful as real ones without the upkeep.
5. Mix and Match Patterns
Using patterns is a fun and easy way to add personality and visual interest to your home. However, using too many patterns or not mixing them correctly can quickly become overwhelming.
Designer Emily Henderson suggests using one large-scale pattern, like a floral or geometric print, in a prominent way in a space and then mixing it with other smaller patterns like stripes or polka dots. Additionally, using a neutral palette for your larger furniture pieces and then introducing pops of color and pattern through accessories like pillows or curtains can create a balanced and cohesive look.
If mixing patterns feels intimidating, start small. Try using one patterned item in a space and then build from there. Remember, the key is to mix and match patterns in a way that looks intentional and not overwhelming.
6. Incorporate Vintage Finds
Adding vintage or antique pieces to your home helps to create a sense of history and character. Additionally, these items are often more unique and original than modern pieces that are mass-produced.
Designer Christina Kim suggests incorporating vintage textiles like a kilim rug or kantha quilt into a space. These pieces add warmth and texture and often have a beautiful story behind them. Vintage artwork, furniture, and accessories are also great options for those looking to add a sense of timelessness to their home.
When shopping for vintage pieces, it’s important to keep an open mind and have a flexible design plan. You never know what you might find, and being open to unexpected items can lead to some amazing discoveries.
7. Create a Cohesive Color Palette
Using color in a space can be overwhelming, but creating a cohesive color palette can help bring everything together. Designer Lauren Liess suggests starting with a neutral base, like white or beige, and then adding pops of color throughout the space through accessories or artwork.
Another way to create a cohesive color scheme is by choosing one or two accent colors and using them throughout the space. This will help tie everything together and create a visual flow.
When choosing colors, it’s also important to consider how they will look in different lighting throughout the day. A color that looks beautiful in natural light may look completely different under artificial light. It’s always a good idea to test paint samples in different lighting conditions before committing to a color.
8. Layer Rugs
Layering rugs is a trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Layering rugs is an easy way to add texture, color, and interest to a space. It’s also a great way to define different areas within an open floor plan.
When layering rugs, it’s important to choose different textures and sizes to create a balanced look. For example, pairing a shaggy rug with a jute or sisal rug can create a layered effect that’s both cozy and stylish. Additionally, consider using rugs with different patterns or colors to add visual interest to the space.
Layering rugs can also help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Adding a soft rug on top of a hard surface like hardwood or tile can add softness and comfort to the space.
9. Use Wallpaper
Wallpaper is a versatile design element that can be used in different ways to create a unique and impactful look. Interior designer Emily Henderson suggests using wallpaper on a statement wall to create a bold and dramatic effect.
Additionally, wallpaper can be used on ceilings and even inside cabinets to add unexpected pops of color and pattern. When choosing wallpaper, consider the overall design of the room and choose a pattern or color that complements the existing elements.
If you’re hesitant about using wallpaper, start small by using it in a powder room or closet. This will allow you to experiment with different patterns and colors without committing to a large space.
10. Personalize Your Space
At the end of the day, your home should reflect your personality and style. Don’t be afraid to incorporate elements that are meaningful to you, like family photos, artwork created by your children, or souvenirs from your travels. These personal touches will make your home feel unique and authentic.
Designer Emily Henderson suggests using jewel tones, like emerald green or navy blue, to create a space that feels both personal and sophisticated. Additionally, consider creating a focal point in a room that reflects your interests and hobbies, like a bookshelf filled with your favorite titles or a wall filled with vintage maps.
Conclusion
Designing a home can be a fun and rewarding experience with the right inspiration and guidance. Utilizing expert home design ideas from top designers can help to create a space that’s not only functional but also beautiful and unique. Remember to embrace natural light, mix materials and textures, use statement pieces, add greenery, mix and match patterns, incorporate vintage finds, create a cohesive color palette, layer rugs, use wallpaper, and personalize your space. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a home that you’ll love coming back to every day.
Thanks for reading, and see you again in another interesting article!