FIVE BASIC DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR HOME DECORATING AND STAGING

When decorating any room, there are 5 important guidelines to help you create an impressive and timeless masterpiece: Function , Focal Point , Scale , Balance and Harmony.

The golden rule in design is: "form follows function." Firstly, you need to define the purpose of the space: work, relax, play, dine, sleep,or socialize, then select pieces and decor elements that facilitate that function.Rooms are unsettling if there are too many simultaneous functions, for example, a computer and papers on the dining room table or an ironing board in the bedroom send confusing messages. Similarly, pleasing rooms generally have one key focal point: a view, a fireplace, a special painting, etc. The scale of the contents should always reflect the spatial context.

Massive furniture overwhelms a small space and tiny, dainty knick knacks look lost in a large room. Visual balance is important to the impact of a room, so try to keep furniture of equal size on both sides of the room.

Also, a symmetrical arrangement of objects is the safest choice for classic design.The most elegant and memorable homes express harmony and consistency. Monochromatic colour schemes and continuity of style create an inviting and soothing effect.

If you would like to learn more about design, home-staging and real estate, contact me at ltribblin@sympatico.ca