Determining your design style and bringing it to life is a multi-dimensional experience
How can you uncover your distinct interior design style? Are you inclined towards modern minimalism or captivated by eclectic interiors? Let's delve into the process...
When engaging with new clients, whether it's crafting a room concept or assisting in the selection of a custom sofa, the initial task revolves around understanding their individual style. This undertaking involves pinpointing the overarching decorating styles that resonate with each client, as well as identifying distinctive finishing touches that encapsulate their persona. The process often involves a process of elimination that aids individuals in grasping what truly resonates with them. Sometimes, presenting a variety of style images helps clients comprehend what aligns with their preferences. This iterative feedback loop serves as a stepping stone towards discovering their personalised interior design style.
If you find yourself grappling with the task of determining your interior design style, rest assured that you're not alone! The meticulously curated rooms we often encounter on platforms like Pinterest are frequently the artistic achievements of seasoned interior designers with years of expertise. Crafting a room scheme demands a significant degree of skill and practice, and unless you've been immersed in the design realm, the realm of decorating and the thousands of decisions can swiftly turn bewildering.
The initial stride is to outline your unique interior design style. The encouraging news is that with patience and consistent effort, this is an attainable feat for anyone!
1
TAKE INTO ACCOUNT ALL INHABITANTS
Discovering your design style is pivotal in curating a living space that truly resonates with your sense of comfort and aesthetics. However, the challenge arises when a single home accommodates residents with markedly divergent points of view on style.
To address this, it's wise to avoid compartmentalising specific rooms into rigid style categories, as this approach can lead to a lack of visual harmony. When faced with contrasting design preferences, initiating the process with a shared colour palette is key. From this foundation, the task becomes selecting elements that cater to the design sensibilities of both occupants—regardless of the distinctiveness of their stylistic perspectives.
In the midst of this collaborative amalgamation of styles, we underscore the significance of maintaining an open-minded stance. Rather than perceiving every item in the space as a personal favourite, we recommends focusing on avoiding elements that are unequivocally disliked by either partner; there might be pieces that you hold dear and others that invoke a more neutral sentiment, the introduction of polarising objects or details into the space can leave a negative impact. It's essential to embrace diverse design styles while still being attentive to your individual preferences.
2
DON'T COPY AND PASTE
Initiating your creative journey with visual inspiration is undoubtedly a strong foundation. Nevertheless, it's equally crucial to infuse your personal touch, lest your design loses its distinctive character. Utilise the visual reference as a wellspring of inspiration when integrating textures, a colour scheme, and the overall atmosphere.
Considering your immediate environment is equally essential. What aspects of your inspiration captivate you? Is it the architectural components, such as grandiose ceilings and expansive windows, or the more attainable design elements that can be feasibly incorporated or recreated in your own space? The significance of this awareness; Be attuned to the specific dimensions of the area you're working within and maintain a pragmatic outlook on the aspirations you're striving to accomplish.
3
THINK ABOUT THE BIG PICTURE
While the allure of exquisite paint, stunning textiles, and thought-provoking artwork is undeniable in establishing an ambiance, the journey to authentically encapsulate your design style demands a more profound exploration. We frequently encourage their clients to delve beyond the surface, considering how materials will feel against their skin, the background noise they desire during a tranquil bath, and even the fragrance that envelops the space. We firmly assert that these sensory intricacies wield the power to mould experiences and craft enduring memories, making their integration into your individual design style an indispensable facet.
4
WHAT MAKES YOUR HEART LEAP FOR JOY?
Discover something that truly resonates with you and wholeheartedly embrace it. In the face of style-related hesitations, individuals sometimes gravitate towards neutral and nondescript selections, hoping to avoid any bold commitments. However, this approach frequently yields an environment that feels distant and uninviting. We recognises the apprehensions tied to decision-making and commitment, but we caution against leaning excessively into neutrality, as it can inadvertently strip your space of its distinct character.
Instead, we advocate for a gradual progression. Take small strides, progressively acquiring pieces that evoke a sense of affection and captivation. Infuse your space with elements that catch the eye and gradually introduce splashes of colour and personal flair. Through this methodical amalgamation, a harmonised aesthetic emerges, one that eloquently echoes your unique style inclinations.
5
COLLECT AND LET IT DEVELOP
Discovering your design style can be a gradual process, akin to cultivating your space over the years with thoughtfully acquired items. Just as we mature, our design inclinations have the potential to grow and shift. Don't rush to adorn your space in a single days shopping; let your style organically unfold and breathe life over time. If you're working with an Interior Designer spend a decent amount of time prior to your first meeting exploring what you love rather than embarking on a rushed endeavour to decide on a style in a single evening browsing Pinterest. Collect images, trinkets and textures that evoke a feeling. An Interior Designer will also help you explore and interpret your style, and will spend weeks developing a project rather than just a couple of days. Great design takes time.
Possessions laden with personal significance are more likely to seamlessly transition with you as you journey through different phases of development, so ensure to incorporate these in your space giving them pride of place. In contrast, fleeting and trendy elements can swiftly fall out of vogue. Therefore, we advises steering clear of the allure of transient furniture and styles that are heavily driven by passing trends. Instead, place emphasis on enduring pieces that align with your evolving story of growth, fostering a cohesive and enduring aesthetic.
6
TAKE A PEEK IN YOUR WARDROBE
When you find yourself facing the challenge of uncertainty in defining your interior design preferences, a seemingly unconventional source can offer insightful revelations – your wardrobe. By delving into your closet, you might uncover subtle yet telling hints that shed light on your unique style inclinations.
Take a moment to reflect on the textures that you gravitate towards in your clothing choices. Is there a particular tactile sensation that resonates with you? Consider the comfort you seek when choosing fabrics to adorn your body – softness, warmth, or perhaps a touch of luxury. These preferences extend beyond fashion; they often extend to your surroundings as well.
Furthermore, observe if there's a recurring colour palette that dominates your wardrobe. The colours you are naturally drawn to in your clothing choices could mirror the hues that evoke a sense of ease and connection within you. These shades might hold the potential to foster a harmonious atmosphere within your living space.
It's also valuable to ponder whether you prioritise comfort over style when assembling your outfits. This balance between functionality and aesthetics not only shapes your clothing choices but can also influence your preferences in interior design. A space that aligns with your comfort-driven approach could manifest in cozy seating arrangements, plush textiles, and an overall inviting ambience.
Surprisingly, your wardrobe provides an intriguing reflection of your personality and preferences. Exploring these facets can offer valuable insights into the kind of living space that truly resonates with you. It's the intersection of textures, colours, comfort, and style that ultimately culminates in an environment that feels authentic, welcoming, and reflective of your unique identity.
7
FORM VERSUS FUNCTIONALITY
Craft your design around your current lifestyle rather than an idealiSed version, and you'll avoid numerous complications.
If you tend to be a bit disorganiSed, adopting a minimalist interior design might feel confining. Similarly, a room with an industrial aesthetic featuring exposed bricks and sharp angles might not align well with the dynamics of a household with young children.
By attuning to your individuality and tailoring your space to accommodate your everyday requirements, you'll infuse your home with genuine character. This approach ensures that your living environment resonates with your personality and suits your practical needs, resulting in a harmonious and authentic space.
8
HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL?
It's a common tendency to become captivated by the exquisitely designed rooms showcased on platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. However, it's worth taking a moment to contemplate the experience of permanently inhabiting one of these visually appealing spaces.
Are you inclined to embrace the distinctive aesthetics of mid-century modern, or do you find yourself drawn to the eclectic style that resonates with your magpie-like personality?
Among the various components that contribute to your personal interior design style, the ambiance a room emanates stands out as one of the most pivotal.
Reflect upon the homes of your friends or the hotel rooms that left a lasting impression during your stays. What distinct qualities made those spaces exceptional? Even your preferred corner for a cozy pub lunch can offer insights into the emotional atmosphere you aspire to evoke within your home's design.
For those with a passion for gardening, an interior design style that seamlessly integrates natural elements can effortlessly bring the outdoors within your living space.
It's important to acknowledge that different interior design styles carry distinct merits, and it's crucial to weigh these merits against the practicalities of your lifestyle.
If you find yourself grappling with the process, consider penning down a list of three to five words that encapsulate the emotions you seek to experience upon entering your home. This exercise can serve as a guiding compass, steering you towards a refined understanding of your interior design aspirations.
9
COLLABORATE WITH A PROFESSIONAL DESIGNER
When the complexity of choices becomes overwhelming, enlisting an expert can provide the much-needed clarity.
The finest interior designers won't superimpose their personal style onto your living space. Instead, they'll guide you in uncovering a style that resonates with your sense of comfort and belonging.
It's crucial to recognise that no designer can dictate your personal style. Only you possess that insight. However, their expertise lies in streamlining the process, helping you attain a clearer vision of your desires.
Teaming up with interior designers offers not just a time and cost-efficient solution, but also equips you with invaluable skills that prove beneficial in future design endeavour's.
10
TAKE A LOOK AT OUR CURATED BOARDS
Pinterest is a fabulous source of inspiration. However the problem is that if you click on a grey living room the algorithm will show you endless grey living rooms, so ensure to use the search bar to bring up fresh imagery. However we've curated a plethora of boards on different interior design styles so take a look and see which one you're drawn to the most.
At Magpye Creative Interiors we create unique space for unique clients. To enquire about working with us to create your dream interior please get in touch.
Katie
Katie Longshaw-Pye
Creative Director | Magpye Creative Interiors
Ribble Valley