It is no secret that when your space feels good, you feel good. Having a comfortable space to live, relax and even work, is the first step towards wellness and balance in life.
Unfortunately, most people think of home decor and styling as an intimidating maze of colour, shape, texture, placement and a little bit of magic and mystery. This does not have to be the case! With a little knowledge of the basics and an understanding of your own personal style, you can create a comfortable space that can even change with the seasons. Join me for some simple and straightforward talk on how to Style your Space - The Basics.
First off, I am Jenn, I am a mother and a wife and I have a full-time job. I am not a design professional. I have developed a keen eye for design and style over many years of trial and error. I have stayed up all night to move around furniture and accent pieces until I have the space just right. I have discovered some of the secrets to creating a perfect space for my style and I can share these tips and tricks with you so that you can apply them to your own space.
- The very first tip that I would give, and maybe the most important one, is this...LESS IS ALWAYS MORE. The very first step towards creating a peaceful and calming environment is to declutter as much as possible…and then declutter some more! All of the elements that you choose to put into your space will stand out and make more of a statement if there are less pieces and less general clutter. For the best results in any space, it is best to begin to create your space from a blank canvas.
- The second tip that I could give if you are just starting your journey toward styling your space would be to choose a theme. Keep it loose and general or choose something very specific. Either way, choosing a theme, will allow you the ability to focus.
My favourite style is a modern stripped down style that is supported with some new pieces, but mostly pieces that I have found in antique shops, second hand shops or just thrifting. Adding classic finds like books, silver, pottery, prints, etc., creates a very nice contrast to newer pieces. There are so many treasures out there if you know what you are looking for.
Here are some other examples
Modern interior design includes a variety of styles that emphasize simplicity, functionality, and aesthetics. Here are some of the most popular modern interior design styles:
Minimalist
- Clean lines, neutral colors, and uncluttered spaces
- Functional furniture with simple, geometric shapes
- Focus on natural light and open spaces
Scandinavian
- Light color palettes (white, gray, beige)
- Natural materials like wood and linen
- Cozy, functional furniture with a mix of modern and traditional elements
Industrial
- Exposed brick, concrete, and metal elements
- Open floor plans with high ceilings
- Dark, earthy tones with vintage or repurposed furniture
Mid-Century Modern
- Organic shapes, sleek lines, and vibrant colors
- Use of wood, metal, and glass
- Iconic furniture pieces like Eames chairs and tapered-leg sofas
Contemporary
- Evolving design trends with a focus on innovation
- Neutral color schemes with bold accent colors
- Sleek, curved furniture and high-quality materials
Bohemian (Boho-Chic)
- Eclectic mix of textures, patterns, and colors
- Use of natural materials like rattan, jute, and macramé
- A relaxed, artistic vibe with vintage and global influences
Modern Farmhouse
- Cozy yet sophisticated look with rustic elements
- Neutral colors with wood and metal accents
- Open layouts with large, welcoming furniture pieces
Once you have created a clean, blank canvas and chosen a theme, we can now look at some tips and tricks to create a full, clean inspiring look as you Style Your Space.
- One of my all time favourite tips is called "Layering." Using more than one complimenting piece, on top of or in front of other similar pieces will create interest and depth. Add a smaller, framed print in front of a larger mirror placed on a table or mantle and leaned against the wall. In a decorative serving tray, add a nice healthy plant in a beautiful pot along with a candle and some wooden beads to create layering and interest. Items do not have to be of the same subject, but this can be a great way to display collections. Layering fabrics of different weight and texture works very well.
- Our next tip is on "Groupings." This refers to creating simple groups of design elements of varying heights and textures.
Varying height, width, materials and texture can create very impactful statements on tables, ledges or mantles. The trick here is to restrain yourself from over adding. Keep it simple. Also, it is much more pleasing to have elements in groups of odd numbers, typically 3 or 5.
- My next tip would be on "Vignettes." Think of a vignette as a snapshot of a time period, an event, or even a setting with a distinct theme. For a classic country estate theme think of a mudroom with a chore coat hanging on a hook with a riding crop next to it and a pair of riding boots tucked under the bench. On an accent table, try a tea setting as you might find in a Paris cafe with a tea service, pastry tray and a couple of old books. Use your imagination and let your interests and imagination run free.
- Using design elements to create a perception of defined space is another, very useful trick. We do not all have rambling mansions with specific rooms for each activity. Sometimes you have to make each space work for multiple uses. A great way to give the perception of individual spaces is through the use of anchoring elements. To give a subtle division to a room or to define a space within that room, we can use furniture. Low cabinets, sofas or even a bench can create a defined divider between spaces. Once you have the divider in place, another great way to define a space is with carpets or area rugs. Floor coverings can anchor the space and provide a focal point to define that space.
- My final thoughts would be on colour and personalization. Simply put, take a chance on some colours that can provide a punch to your space. One or two pieces is all that it takes to provide impact. Too much and you will dominate the design that you have chosen as your theme. Less is more.
- The final touch to any space is to make it your own. Whether using family photos, keepsakes, heirlooms or other special items that mean something to YOU. After all, it is YOUR space, make it reflect you. Living in a space that fits your personality adds a huge amount of comfort and warmth.
There you go. Some basics to help you to start your journey towards Styling your Space. Experiment once you have the foundation down and see where your imagination can take you.
More features to come in this series. Stay tuned as we work together to simplify Styling your Space.
Bye for now......
Jenn