Furnishing your home is a journey, not a destination. Each piece of furniture adds to your home’s harmony; creating an environment that reflects your style and improves the comfort and functionality of every room. However, decorating a home is a thrilling yet daunting task. The excitement of imagining your dream space is often overshadowed by the fear of making the wrong choices.
The pressure of ensuring that each piece complements the aesthetic and fits perfectly into your space can be overwhelming, says Architect and Brand marketing lead at Pepperfry, Archana Kumari. “Everyone loves to decorate their home and buy newer things to refurbish or renew their home. To make the most of this excitement, there are key points that they should follow, and the excitement will surely reflect in their home.” Here are a few key tips recommended by Archana to create a home that truly reflects your heart.
Measure twice, buy once: Accurate measurements and proper placement are important. Use online tools for floor plans, and mark furniture sizes with tape. You can place a temporary chair to test sofa positioning and reach, or mark out the area for your new dining table using tape to ensure it fits comfortably without obstructing pathways.
Discover your style: Identify your style by browsing online and collecting 30-40 references. Look for patterns and blend styles like contemporary and vintage for a unique touch. Create a mood board with images of Scandinavian minimalist designs mixed with rustic elements.
Find the red thread: Create harmony with a unifying element, like shapes or colours. Say, using circular designs in furniture and decor or repeat a colour like turquoise in various accents. Add circular mirrors, round coffee tables, and circular wall art to create a cohesive look.
Choose hero pieces: Select standout pieces for each room and complement them with simpler items. For example, pair a floral armchair with a plain coffee table and a beige sofa. Choose a bold, patterned rug as the focal point in your living room and keep other furnishings neutral.
Colour strategy: Use the 60:30:10 rule: 60 percent base colour, 30 percent complementary colour, and 10 percent accent colour. Test paint samples in daylight and mix sheens for depth. For example, In a room with blue walls (60 percent), add yellow furniture (30 percent), and sprinkle red accents (10 percent for a vibrant look.
Stick to a budget: Sticking to a budget is essential. To ensure you stay on track, it’s helpful to break down your budget by individual furniture pieces. Allocate a good portion of your budget for key pieces, and prioritise essential items like wardrobes and mattresses. Finally, remember to set aside funds for home decor, as these finishing touches can truly complete the space.
Set a timeline: Create a timeline for selecting, ordering, and setting up your home. Take your time to discover art that resonates with you and fits your budget. Start with essentials and add pieces gradually. Explore thrift stores and antique shops for unique finds. Plan to purchase major furniture within the first month and gradually add artwork and accessories over the next three months.
