02/22/25 09:32 AM
Choosing a Style for your home
Choosing a design style for your home can feel overwhelming, but it's also an exciting opportunity to express your personality and create a space you truly love. Here's a breakdown of how to approach the process:
To get started you will need just a couple to tools:
The notebook is use to record answers to the questions below and findings along the way. It is very important to have it written down for reference as you go through the process and reflect on this information along the journey to finding out your style. Do your best to answer all the questions below and write them down. This is not an instantaneous process. Be patient and take your time, think about your home to give you a more accurate assessment.
After you have gathered all the information below. You will create a Design Concept. A paragraph describing your the functionality of your home and the aesthetics that are unique to you.
1. Understand Yourself:
● Lifestyle:
a. What type of home do you live in? (single family home, townhouse, condo, apartment) This is important to consider the coming and going and the amount of space, is there an outdoor space that flows from the indoor space.
b. How do you live in your home?
c. Do you have kids or pets? What needs do they have in your home? Do the children have a room by themselves or share a space. Do they require a dedicated study space in a public area of the home if the bedroom is not large enough? If you have pets are they large or small animals. Are they indoor or outdoor pets? Where is their feeding area?
d. How often do you entertain often? How many guests do you typically entertain? Do you have any overnight guests? If so, how long is their typical stay? Do you have a dedicated area for their stay or do you use a fold up couch that is in the main living area?
Keep in mind a busy family home will have different needs than a quiet, minimalist space for one or an empty nester. Be specific in identifying these lifestyle "needs" in your home.
● Personality:
a. Are you drawn to bright colors and bold patterns, or do you prefer a more subdued and calming atmosphere?
b. Do you like art? Do you travel and bring home memorabilia?
c. Do you prefer clean tidy spaces or do you like cozy intimate spaces?
Do not forget to consider the personality types of others living in the house as well. Interview them as well and include in your notes
● Priorities:
Having a safe space should always be the first priority in every home.
What do you consider most important to you in your home after safety? Comfort, functionality, aesthetics?
Hint: Personally, I begin with function. "Form follows function" is the design quote designers use all the time. I find that if a space is functional it is easier to maintain. The golden rule here is place for everything and everything in its place.
● Inspiration:
What spaces do you love? Think about homes you've seen in magazines, on TV, or in real life. What elements stand out to you?
This is where the folder will come into use and help in your analysis.
I ask my clients to clip pages from magazines, take pictures and print them. Collect images of spaces you like and keep in the folder for reflection and reference. You will begin to see a pattern emerge in your collection. Toss out the odd ones that are not consistent with the others. This can be an on going project.
Collect Physical samples
Physical samples are so important, it gives you something to touch, and see true color all the details in the material. These sample can be helpful when making choices later on in your design. Right now they will help you determine your style.
Collect materials
Samples at local hardware box stores, fabric stores etc. sometime will offer free sample or samples for a nominal fee. Ask the local big box hardware stores for materials like carpet samples, flooring samples, tile samples etc. Paint samples are typically free and a good samples to have in your folder
Note: not all stores are the same - free at some and other may charge for same thing- ASK before you take.
b. Create online accounts where you can collect images of things you like. Instagram, Pinterest, HOUZZ are good go to online sites. These are free sights online and can be very revealing in what you collect. Pinterest now has a collage board that I find to be useful in gathering multiple images on a single board. You can easily pick out what blends and what does not blend in your collage.
2. Explore Different Styles:
● Research: Familiarize yourself with common design styles like:
This step will require you to do a bit of homework. You should understand the various styles used in today's designs. These styles can change names slightly from time to time.
Make sure you are looking at styles and not "TRENDS" you want to select a style that best suits your personality and needs. Styles and Trends are two very different things.
When determining a style, reflect back to your answers in the questions at the start of this process. Note function. For example a home that is very traditional and formal may not be best suited for a family with small children. This is not always the case but, considering function and who is living in the space and how the space is being used is important when determining your style.
○ Traditional: Classic, elegant, and timeless.
Think rich wood, ornate details, and formal layouts.
○ Modern:
Clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, and focus on functionality.
○ Contemporary:
Evolving and current, incorporating "trends" and innovation.
○ Mid-Century Modern:
Iconic style from the 1950s and 60s, with organic shapes and retro influences.
○ Industrial:
Raw and edgy, inspired by lofts and factories, with exposed brick and metal often has visual texture.
○ Scandinavian:
Light, bright, and airy, with natural materials and minimalist décor.
Newer style that can also often paired with Japanese design which is called Scandinese or Japandi which is a fusion between Scandinavian and Japanese
Low furniture, cream hues, natural materials. Natural textures stand out in this style.
○ Bohemian:
Eclectic and free-spirited, with a mix of patterns, textures, and global influences.
○ Farmhouse:
Cozy and rustic, with a focus on natural materials and vintage charm.
3. Analyze Your Inspiration:
● Identify Themes: Look for recurring elements in the images you've saved.
Do you see a pattern in the colors, furniture styles, or textures?
● Mix and Match: Don't feel limited to just one style.
You can blend elements from different styles to create a unique look that reflects your taste.
4. Consider Your Home's Architecture:
● Complement the Style: Your home's existing architecture can influence your design choices.
A Victorian house might lend itself well to a traditional style, while a modern condo might be better suited to a contemporary look. Know the vernacular of where you live. The homes in Mid West have different elements and materials than homes in the Southwest. Look to those elements and materials for inspiration as well.
5. Start Small:
● One Room at a Time: You don't have to tackle your entire home at once. Start with one room and use it as a testing ground for your ideas.
● Easy Updates: Begin with small changes like new throw pillows, artwork, or rugs to get a feel for your chosen style.
6. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment:
● Personal Touch: Your home should be a reflection of you. Don't be afraid to add personal touches and unique pieces that you love.
● Evolving Taste: Your style may evolve over time, and that's okay! Design is a journey, not a destination.
7. Seek Professional Help:
● Interior Designer: If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure, consider working with an interior designer who can help you bring your vision to life.
By following these steps, you can confidently choose a design style that you'll love for years to come.
Choosing a design style for your home can feel overwhelming, but it's also an exciting opportunity to express your personality and create a space you truly love. Here's a breakdown of how to approach the process:
To get started you will need just a couple to tools:
- Good Notebook and Pen (I like and recommend an erasable type for this project)
- File folder, double pocket folder, or envelope - any of these will work. I like envelopes to make sure small items do not fall out.
The notebook is use to record answers to the questions below and findings along the way. It is very important to have it written down for reference as you go through the process and reflect on this information along the journey to finding out your style. Do your best to answer all the questions below and write them down. This is not an instantaneous process. Be patient and take your time, think about your home to give you a more accurate assessment.
After you have gathered all the information below. You will create a Design Concept. A paragraph describing your the functionality of your home and the aesthetics that are unique to you.
1. Understand Yourself:
● Lifestyle:
a. What type of home do you live in? (single family home, townhouse, condo, apartment) This is important to consider the coming and going and the amount of space, is there an outdoor space that flows from the indoor space.
b. How do you live in your home?
c. Do you have kids or pets? What needs do they have in your home? Do the children have a room by themselves or share a space. Do they require a dedicated study space in a public area of the home if the bedroom is not large enough? If you have pets are they large or small animals. Are they indoor or outdoor pets? Where is their feeding area?
d. How often do you entertain often? How many guests do you typically entertain? Do you have any overnight guests? If so, how long is their typical stay? Do you have a dedicated area for their stay or do you use a fold up couch that is in the main living area?
Keep in mind a busy family home will have different needs than a quiet, minimalist space for one or an empty nester. Be specific in identifying these lifestyle "needs" in your home.
● Personality:
a. Are you drawn to bright colors and bold patterns, or do you prefer a more subdued and calming atmosphere?
b. Do you like art? Do you travel and bring home memorabilia?
c. Do you prefer clean tidy spaces or do you like cozy intimate spaces?
Do not forget to consider the personality types of others living in the house as well. Interview them as well and include in your notes
● Priorities:
Having a safe space should always be the first priority in every home.
What do you consider most important to you in your home after safety? Comfort, functionality, aesthetics?
Hint: Personally, I begin with function. "Form follows function" is the design quote designers use all the time. I find that if a space is functional it is easier to maintain. The golden rule here is place for everything and everything in its place.
● Inspiration:
What spaces do you love? Think about homes you've seen in magazines, on TV, or in real life. What elements stand out to you?
This is where the folder will come into use and help in your analysis.
I ask my clients to clip pages from magazines, take pictures and print them. Collect images of spaces you like and keep in the folder for reflection and reference. You will begin to see a pattern emerge in your collection. Toss out the odd ones that are not consistent with the others. This can be an on going project.
Collect Physical samples
Physical samples are so important, it gives you something to touch, and see true color all the details in the material. These sample can be helpful when making choices later on in your design. Right now they will help you determine your style.
Collect materials
Samples at local hardware box stores, fabric stores etc. sometime will offer free sample or samples for a nominal fee. Ask the local big box hardware stores for materials like carpet samples, flooring samples, tile samples etc. Paint samples are typically free and a good samples to have in your folder
Note: not all stores are the same - free at some and other may charge for same thing- ASK before you take.
- Visuals: Use online platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and Houzz to gather images of rooms that appeal to you
- Online images:
b. Create online accounts where you can collect images of things you like. Instagram, Pinterest, HOUZZ are good go to online sites. These are free sights online and can be very revealing in what you collect. Pinterest now has a collage board that I find to be useful in gathering multiple images on a single board. You can easily pick out what blends and what does not blend in your collage.
2. Explore Different Styles:
● Research: Familiarize yourself with common design styles like:
This step will require you to do a bit of homework. You should understand the various styles used in today's designs. These styles can change names slightly from time to time.
Make sure you are looking at styles and not "TRENDS" you want to select a style that best suits your personality and needs. Styles and Trends are two very different things.
When determining a style, reflect back to your answers in the questions at the start of this process. Note function. For example a home that is very traditional and formal may not be best suited for a family with small children. This is not always the case but, considering function and who is living in the space and how the space is being used is important when determining your style.
○ Traditional: Classic, elegant, and timeless.
Think rich wood, ornate details, and formal layouts.
○ Modern:
Clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, and focus on functionality.
○ Contemporary:
Evolving and current, incorporating "trends" and innovation.
○ Mid-Century Modern:
Iconic style from the 1950s and 60s, with organic shapes and retro influences.
○ Industrial:
Raw and edgy, inspired by lofts and factories, with exposed brick and metal often has visual texture.
○ Scandinavian:
Light, bright, and airy, with natural materials and minimalist décor.
Newer style that can also often paired with Japanese design which is called Scandinese or Japandi which is a fusion between Scandinavian and Japanese
Low furniture, cream hues, natural materials. Natural textures stand out in this style.
○ Bohemian:
Eclectic and free-spirited, with a mix of patterns, textures, and global influences.
○ Farmhouse:
Cozy and rustic, with a focus on natural materials and vintage charm.
3. Analyze Your Inspiration:
● Identify Themes: Look for recurring elements in the images you've saved.
Do you see a pattern in the colors, furniture styles, or textures?
● Mix and Match: Don't feel limited to just one style.
You can blend elements from different styles to create a unique look that reflects your taste.
4. Consider Your Home's Architecture:
● Complement the Style: Your home's existing architecture can influence your design choices.
A Victorian house might lend itself well to a traditional style, while a modern condo might be better suited to a contemporary look. Know the vernacular of where you live. The homes in Mid West have different elements and materials than homes in the Southwest. Look to those elements and materials for inspiration as well.
5. Start Small:
● One Room at a Time: You don't have to tackle your entire home at once. Start with one room and use it as a testing ground for your ideas.
● Easy Updates: Begin with small changes like new throw pillows, artwork, or rugs to get a feel for your chosen style.
6. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment:
● Personal Touch: Your home should be a reflection of you. Don't be afraid to add personal touches and unique pieces that you love.
● Evolving Taste: Your style may evolve over time, and that's okay! Design is a journey, not a destination.
7. Seek Professional Help:
● Interior Designer: If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure, consider working with an interior designer who can help you bring your vision to life.
By following these steps, you can confidently choose a design style that you'll love for years to come.