Typically, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to interior design. However, everyone could use a few tips and tricks to guide them to the home of their dreams.

Below, we discuss some interior design best practices to keep in mind when embarking on a residential fit out.

Focus on space planning first

Space planning is an important yet often overlooked aspect of the interior design process. For your home to look and feel good, you need to take the to properly map out the space before making any cosmetic changes.

Without proper planning, a room can end up awkward at best or disastrous at worst. So, be sure to have a well-thought-out space plan that takes all elements into account and works around the furniture sizes and space allowances to a create a home that is equal parts comfortable, functional and beautiful.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of how vital space planning is, be sure to read our blog “The Importance of Space Planning in Interior Design for Your Home”.

Create a vision that’s also functional

Once you have a space plan in place and your designer has a good idea of how the space should function, you can then begin to craft a concept that meets your desired aesthetic and atmosphere, as well as complies with the requirements of the space.

Remember, interior design is much more than picking out a paint colour or the perfect couch – it’s about creating a vision that aligns with your personal taste and style, and manages to transcend time and short-lived trends.

Spend the extra money on quality materials

It can be tempting to cut costs by using cheaper materials and labour. Unfortunately, by choosing the more cost-effective route, you can end up with poor-quality materials.

Quality is key in interior design, where natural materials reign supreme. However, spending a lot of money on something doesn’t always mean you’re purchasing a quality item. Rather, evaluate whether something is worth buying by checking if it’s made of an enduring material and is built to last. You may be surprised and get some great finds at affordable prices.

Juxtapose contrasting elements

Many times, we fall into the thinking that all interior design elements in a space needs to match or offer the same visual value by being the exact same colour, pattern or shape. By combining different materials, shapes, patterns and textures, the differences between them can enhance their innate properties – thereby allowing the eye to appreciate it so much more.

Be intentional about the details

We tend to forget the sizeable roles small details, like the scale of a lampshade or the stile width of a cabinet door, play in the overall interior design of a room. These supporting details are more important than you might think in holding up the overall vision. Ensure that each and every product you purchase meets the goals set out for the space.

Stay true to yourself

When drawing inspiration from magazines, websites or Pinterest for your interior design ideas, be sure not to get too carried away by replicating someone else’s personal style. Your home should be an authentic reflection of you and those who reside in it. Therefore, your interior design project should be tailored and personalised to your specific tastes.

Cultivate balance

Instead of deliberately creating focal points within a space, rather evaluate a room’s overall composition for balance. Start with the room’s architectural features, like windows and doors, to find a balance, and add in different pieces until equilibrium is found.

Edit, edit and edit some more

Together with your designer, you’ll find yourself adding and taking away elements to achieve a functional yet aesthetic interior design that is in line with your vision. This includes bringing in “breathing room” and incorporating negative into the overall design to present the strongest composition possible. Put simply, don’t be afraid to get rid of things.

Next steps

Now that you have a good idea of what to keep in mind when it comes to the interior design portion of your residential fit out, you’ll need someone to help you craft and execute your project. We’ve helped you get this far and we don’t plan to stop now.

Contractors.Direct offers a curated database of thoroughly-vetted, quality contractors who can bring your vision to life, on time and on budget. Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to connect you with the right people for the job.