How to Identify Your Personal Interior Design Style?

Create a Design Aesthetic that Is Uniquely Yours!

Home design, decor, and styling have grown to be quite popular over the past ten years and are now both flourishing industries and popular hobbies for many people. To develop a look you're happy with, you don't need to be trained in design styles; just recognize your own. So what kind of design do you prefer?

To figure out what you truly enjoy and to develop your particular style, there are many different ways to "experiment" with design aspects. There are countless stores in Vancouver that provide furniture and home decor, so there is certainly something for everyone. The greatest way to get started is to simply look around, whether you're window shopping or browsing the web. What stands out to you or catches your attention? Save pictures of spaces you would like to live in from publications or websites like Houzz. Make a note of the aspect of the image that you find appealing, whether it be the tile pattern or wall color, a striking architectural detail, or a light fixture. When you have a collection of pictures, you'll start to see a pattern. This is probably your design "style" coming through.

It’s great if you’re able to convey your design aesthetic once you've identified it, if not, your designer can look at your choices and help you. Does it fit within one of the established design categories, such as traditional, modern, or contemporary? Or will you have to come up with a name on your own that describes it, like "bohemian glam" or "breezy beach house"? Whatever you decide to call it, defining your style will make it easier for you to identify the correct sources of inspiration and to stay on course when sifting through the countless possibilities. There will be things you have to work around and priorities you need to set, whether you have the blank slate of a new home or are working within the constraints of a remodel. Make a list of the things you "enjoy" and want to highlight in your current area as well as the things you "wish you could replace" as you take a look around. Replace the major items on your wish list, such as furniture or kitchen cabinets, if you have the money to do so. This will have the biggest and most noticeable effect. Having important components firmly established in your choice will also act as an anchor point of reference as you start to use your newly defined style.

When selecting colors, be careful because design style can be difficult to determine. Choosing colors for your entire house might be difficult since a coherent design ensures that there are no harsh or abrupt interruptions in the sight line and that the colors flow harmoniously together. It is helpful to consider the largest application once more while making initial color decisions. Whether it's a large piece of furniture that has to fit or the most often used area in the house. To set the mood and make choosing colors for the rest of your area easier, choose a major color scheme and work outward from there. Know what you want to emphasize so that you can use color to either accentuate or conceal other features. Bold features, whether on the walls or in the finishes, should be paired with complimentary neutrals. As long as it is done correctly and in a way that complements the intricacies or unique elements intrinsic to that style, almost any color can be used in design. If your style is more subdued and your favorite color is strong, you don't have to give it up—you just need to find the proper spot for.

What arises when more than one style needs to be used? In a family house, there are frequently multiple people whose preferences must be taken into account. Compromise in design style might be difficult, but it doesn't have to be a struggle. Finding ways to combine several designs to make the house a reflection of the family that lives there can be enjoyable. Consider a heritage home (seen above), which often has wider baseboards, lovely moldings, old-world fireplaces, and large windows. It is possible to create a place with a modern vibe while yet maintaining harmony with the original traditional architecture by keeping those features basic, fresh, and clean while adding a splash of color.

Hiring a designer will really help you get started and remain on track with your new home style if you struggle with establishing a design that flows, where to start, or how to harmonize styles. Also, take your time choosing furniture because it may take some time to discover the ideal chair, lamp, or wall color. A home should be a true reflection of the people who live there, and that is never accomplished in a single shopping trip; rather, it is a collection of priceless items, which will stand out to you once you've established your style and set the stage.

Advanced Builders & Contractors works with many well vetted designers who specialize in a variety of styles. Contact us for a referral, or to begin establishing your team for your new custom home or remodel!