We all have interior design ideas and our own styles, and we can reflect them in our choices. Do we like to hunt for antiques, shop at local stores or mix and match styles? We also have to think about who will be in this room, how much the room will be used and for what purpose we will use this room. Are you looking for practical, comfortable or elegance? These are things you will need to decide before starting any design project. Interior designers cost money and need your input on what to design for your rooms but always remember that you have the final say in all decorating.
This first thing to consider is who will be using this room. If this room is for children then you probably will want to go for practicality and comfort. You wouldn’t want to use breakables or antiques. How much room do you have to work with and how you want it to look. If it is a bedroom for a child or young adult you will want to ask them for input since they will be using this room more than any other person and if they don’t like it or are uncomfortable in the room it can create problems. This does not mean you give them a free hand in decorating but guide them and let them guide you. If the room is for entertaining then you will want to decorate in a more formal manner. Take into consideration the windows, floors, walls and lighting. Do you want to make a statement or let the room flow?
The next thing to consider is how much the room will be used. Many rooms will be used on a daily basis and some used for entertaining or business purposes. A formal dining room will not be used as often and a family dining room. A family room will be used more than a living room so the selection of furnishings and décor will be different for each room. Comfort and durability will need to be considered. With a comfortable room you can design a relaxed and cozy atmosphere and with a formal room you would want an elegant and welcoming atmosphere. The art work and accessories for each room should also reflect this.
You will also have to consider the purpose of the room. The purpose will determine what you will want to place in the room. You will want to utilize the space you have to best possible advantage and still create the effect you are looking for. A small room can be made to look larger with the right combination of décor and a large room can be made to look small and cozy. A small kitchen can look larger with bright walls and the right lighting, but you can create the space by adding cabinets or islands. A breakfast bar with tall stools can add more counter and cabinet space and eliminate the need for a large table in the kitchen.
Your interior design ideas are important. They are an expression of yourself and the styles that you like. You will have to consider many things when making your choices for designing the rooms in your home. We need to think about who will be using this room, how it will be used and for what purpose we intend this room to be used.

Juli Johnson ©DEH Interiors