the importance of styling
We recently wrapped a few large projects, and part of our final work before revealing the space to our clients is the styling. Styling is the process of bringing in the last layer of the design. The art, accessories, books, blankets, etc that make a space fill complete and cozy. If the process of interior design is like a play, then the styling is the final act. If you consider it that way, you can see how a home would feel incomplete and flat, without that finishing layer. Here are 5 tips on how to style your space like a professional:
1. get a new perspective
Looking at a room through a photograph can give me clarity on what a space needs. Pull out your phone and take a photo of the space and chances are you’ll immediately spot the issue. Some of the most common interior decorating issues include:
a color scheme that’s out of balance: a fool-proof ratio is 60-30-10 where 60% of the room is one color, 30% another color and 10% an accent color. If you use all colors in equal measure, they can compete against each other
a flat materials palette or one that’s too cold: include a mix of warm materials like woven decor or wood to break up harder materials like metal and glass
a lack of contrast… this could be that all the decor is the same size and would benefit from high and low elements, or there isn’t enough color contrast to give the eye somewhere to go
2. keep things moving
Just because the items you’re using aren’t working at the moment, doesn’t mean the solution is to buy different pieces. Shopping your own home is one of my best interior styling tips. By this I mean, move furniture or decor around your home or look at what’s hiding in storage.
3. add layers
Layers add a sense of comfort, warmth and elevate your interiors. They also work to tie objects together to create a more cohesive space. Examples are layering a woven window shade under linen panels, or adding throw pillows in different, but complimentary tones and textures, to a sofa.
4. edit
The key is to a well designed room is to edit and create areas of negative space (it’s the empty wall space around a piece of art, sculpture, or furniture). Our eyes need negative space to be able to rest and refocus. It can also make other design elements pop and create a sense of visual harmony.
5. bring the outdoors in
Incorporating an organic element immediately changes the feel of a space. An indoor plant (or artificial one), flowers or branches, are my go-to choices.
