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Home Decor Interior Design Considerations




Are you looking to upgrade your home decor? There are several factors you’ll need to consider when planning your interior spaces to make sure they’re not only beautiful but also fit your personality and meet the functional needs of the area. Here are some things to consider. 


Size and Style

Your home's architectural style and size are two critical factors in your design. For example, your interior design decisions will likely differ if you live in a cozy cottage versus a sprawling contemporary mansion. Modern homes with open spaces and large windows may call for sleek, minimalist furniture, while a traditional home may be better with classic, ornate pieces.


Your home’s square footage also plays a significant role. Larger spaces can accommodate more substantial furniture and bold design elements, whereas bulky pieces can become a hazard in smaller homes and make a room look cluttered. For areas that are tight on space, multifunctional furniture (such as an ottoman that doubles as a storage unit) can help to maximize the available space without compromising style. 


Consider the materials you use to decorate your home, as well. If your aesthetic is more old-world charm, solid wood, woven rugs, and classic art may suit the style. Whereas, if you’ve got a contemporary home, consider natural light, contrasting colors, and contrasting textures will be important.


Regional Surroundings

Don’t be shy about embracing your home's location and the surrounding environment. Whether you live in a mountainous region, by a serene lake, or in a hot or cold climate, inspiration can be found among the natural elements where you live. Mountain homes often feature earthy tones and rustic materials like wood and stone. Lakeside homes might incorporate cool blues and greens to reflect the water's tranquility, while homes in warmer climates benefit from light, airy fabrics and bright, vibrant colors.


Similarly, you’ll want to ensure your home’s furnishings and accessories are functional based on where you live. In colder climates, accent with warm, inviting throw blankets and pillows on soft sofas. In regions where you’re more likely to have a lot of rain, consider adding a nice touch with a waterproof rug and a tasteful umbrella stand in the walkway. Everything meant to be functional can have an element of artistry, and vice versa. Consider ways to seamlessly incorporate thematic and functional pieces into your home decor. 


Lifestyle Plays a Role

Consider how long you plan to stay in the space and whether you get tired of decor quickly. If you love changing things up frequently, opt for pieces that can easily be rearranged or updated with new accessories or textiles. However, if you tend to stick with your choices for the long haul, invest in timeless, high-quality pieces that will endure both in style and durability.


Budgeting is clearly going to play a role in your design decisions. The costs associated with achieving a well-designed space can sometimes be surprising. If you don’t have an interior designer to guide you, create a detailed spreadsheet listing everything required to complete your rooms: upholstered furniture, case goods, art, area rugs, window treatments, and every accessory you'll need to give the space character — pillows, coasters, picture frames, sculptural objects, plants, and more. These small items can add up quickly, so planning your budget meticulously is essential.


Laura Gills’ Tips for Successful Interior Design

  1. Prioritize Spending: Know when to splurge and when to save. Investing in a few standout pieces, such as a unique chair or a high-quality credenza, can significantly elevate your home's style and create a magazine-worthy space. For example, a white sofa is just a white sofa, but if you place a dramatic piece of art above it, the room is transformed. 

  2. Incorporate Historic and Travel-Inspired Elements: Adding historic touches or objects from your travels (or inspired by travel) gives your space personality and prevents it from looking like a generic furniture store vignette. These unique items add depth and interest to your decor and can be a conversation starter.

  3. Curate Thoughtfully: Curating home decor requires an innate sense of design, knowledge of resources, and experience. Some individuals have a natural talent for decorating and will never need professional help. However, if the process feels overwhelming and you want to ensure a polished result, hiring an experienced interior designer can be a worthwhile investment. After all, decorating should be a joyful, stress-free experience.


Creating a beautiful, functional home is an art that involves careful consideration of various factors. By paying attention to architectural style, regional surroundings, your personality, and budget, you can create a space that is aesthetically pleasing and uniquely yours. Whether you go it alone or enlist the help of a professional, remember that the goal is to craft a home that enhances your quality of life — and your enjoyment of it.

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