So, now that you have your research done of how you want your room to look it is time to start with the fun part of decorating. Following on from part one here are the six next steps to follow to designing the room of your dreams. Happy Decorating !!!
Finishes First
If your aim is a makeover rather than a full remodel, think about how you can build on your chosen space existing flooring, wall colour, and fixtures to update and personalize your space without a full and costly renovation. If you are starting with a blank canvas, start by refinishing the floors, paint the walls and then add tile, wallpaper, or wall panels, or install cabinets before bringing in your furniture and décor accessories.
Choose Anchor Pieces
When designing your living room, focus on your anchor piece, like your sofa, before bringing in soft furnishings like throw pillows. Making your biggest, most expensive purchases first will help ensure that you do not skimp on quality for high-use items. This will also help you to maintain a realistic idea of your budget, as well as visualize how much room you have for additional furniture once the core pieces are in place.
Select Secondary Furniture
Once you have picked out your perfect sofa, start looking at coffee tables to determine what sizes and styles are a good fit. Pair pieces that will add contrast. Complement modern with vintage.
Choose Rugs, Curtains, and Textiles
Once you have a sense of how your room flows, you can choose rugs, curtains, and textiles such as bedding, throws and decorative pillows that will complement your anchor pieces. Remember to pick pieces that will add colour, pattern, texture, and interest.
Let there be Light
Lighting is one of the key elements to a successful room design. Make the most of natural light for daytime, and add in plenty of layered options for the evening. Keep your focus on lighting that is both functional and pretty. Like task lighting to warm ambient table lamps or sconces, to sculptural pendant lighting that function as décor.
Make sure that you light all four corners of your room to avoid creating shadows and to promote a sense of well being after dark.
Accessorize
Now that you have all the essentials in place, take a step back, and have a look around the room to see what is missing. This is the fun part because now you can bring in some flair and your personal touches into your space.
Hang wall décor, wall art, photographs and decorative mirrors. Layer your sofa or bed (if you are doing up the bedroom) with additional decorative pillows and throws. Style shelves and tables with books, candles, decorative objects, plants, and or precious souvenirs. This is your chance to add texture by adding your personal touches. This will bring your room to life and make it feel more personal and full of character.