The internet has revolutionized home decorating. With websites like Pinterest and Instagram, inspiration and design ideas are just a few clicks away. But what happens when your Pinterest boards get out of hand? You think you have an idea of what you want your space to look like, but all this gathered inspiration has you feeling overwhelmed. Well don’t stress! I have 5 tips that can help you design your own space, in your own style, and make it look like you hired a professional.

Understand Color Psychology   Do you like calm, mellow spaces? Go with greens and blues. Do you want a kitchen that will increase your appetite and make cooking fun? Yellow or orange are the perfect accent colors. Want to create a luxurious, romantic feel in the bedroom? A rich plum purple is the best color to go with. Color psychology is a great tool in helping you achieve the “feel” you want for each space in your home. For more information on understanding colors, check out my post on picking paint, which covers color psychology and coordinating colors.

Picking Patterns   Patterns tend to intimidate people, but it’s all about selecting the right patterns for the right style. Geometrics create a modern look, delicate florals are synonymous with traditional interiors, and arrows and feathers will give you that boho chic vibe. Play with combining similar patterns in different colors to add more visual interest to the space.

The tip I share with clients is my “Rule of One”. I use this system for combining several different patterns in one space. Start with your favorite pattern in your favorite color (mine is the quatrefoil in jade green). The next pattern you select should relate back to the first in one way – color, style (florals, geometrics, etc), or size (ex: both could be oversized prints). To coordinate with my jade green quatrefoil, I could choose a light gray chevron stripe (both are geometric). My third pattern is the jade green with white polka dots, connecting it to the first pattern through the color. Continue adding patterns by connecting one common element. Keep it to 3 – 5 different patterns, enough to add visual interest without it feeling overwhelming.

Accessorize Thoughtfully   Your home should tell your guests who you are. It’s a chance to share your family’s story through decorations. One of the most important tips I can give my clients is to accessorize thoughtfully. Yes, we all want that amazing magnolia wreath that’s been all over Instagram lately, but not every single decoration has to be from a catalog. The majority should be items that have special meaning to you.

My little storage cabinet outside of my bedroom is packed with meaning, and as a result, it’s one of my favorite spots in my home. The blue mason jar that I keep filled with fresh flowers is from a close family member’s wedding shower. The driftwood art is from a birthday getaway to Cape Cod. Even the cabinet has meaning: it belonged to my boyfriend’s mother. Now that she lives in another state, we get to have a small piece of her here with us. And the mirror above the cabinet is a Michael’s find – because not every piece has to have sentimental meaning!

Less Really is More   Taking the “accessorize thoughtfully” tip one step further, when styling shelves, fireplace mantels, or bookcases, less is more. You don’t have to fill every last space with “stuff”. An empty spot makes just as much impact, if it is done intentionally.

For example, my bookcase is filled with a random assortment of items, not just books. One particular item – a memory jar from a trip to Florida – is a very special piece and I want it to be “showcased”. It sits by itself, with only a few other books on the other end of the shelf. This empty space in between is intentional – it give focus to the main attraction.

Just like it can feel overwhelming when your closet is jam packed with clothes, visual clutter on your shelves can stress your mind. Leave some empty spaces for a designer look.

Be Confidant   Above all, remember to be confidant in yourself. Don’t worry what others will think. Don’t worry what a “real designer” would say. Trust your instinct and you’ll be able to create a home you love that reflects you and your family.

Still not sure about tackling your home on your own? Send me a message and we can set up a time to chat one-on-one!