Where do you begin when you have to decorate a room? Whether you are working with an empty room after you just moved into a new house, or possibly a new addition these steps can help narrow down the process and the easiest way to proceed. Below we have outlined five essential steps to consider when decorating any room.
Know Your Measurements
The first step before purchasing anything for the room is to know the size of the room. Create a floor plan on paper or if you are computer savvy draw it out. Construct a clear bird’s eye view of the room with dimensions. Make sure to note where the doors and windows are within the room. While you are measuring also note the width and height of your windows. This can come in handy if you decide to look for window treatments later.
Work from the Floor Up
The next step is to work from the floors up. Is the room tiled, or does it have hardwood? Are you planning on adding a colorful area rug? A pretty rug can make quite a statement. Considering the color and style of the flooring, adding a rug will help you pull together the room. The colors in the rug will help determine a color palette, and the style will of the rug help you when choosing furniture.
If you have a carpeted room, then consider the color and add furniture that coordinates and compliments that color. Another idea is to layer another rug on top of your carpeting to give the room a different look and add more interest.
Choose the Art
When you are set with your flooring then consider the walls, and I do not mean paint color. Paint is the very last element that should be considered. I’ll explain more on that in a bit.
Consider the size of the wall and what you will be hanging. The style and color of the art should add depth and warmth to your overall design. A larger piece of art makes a great impression. Using a combination of art also creates interest in a room. Keep in mind you do not need to add a piece of art to every wall. As matter of fact, empty walls add to the design elements of the room enhancing your décor.
When it comes to choosing a wall color everyone wants to start here first but it is the last element in a good design. Why? There are over 5000 paint colors available. The color of the walls needs to compliment the overall design. Have you ever entered a room and thought something is off? It usually is the color on the walls. Paint color is crucial to pulling all the other elements together in a room. Therefore it is the last thing to choose when you are ready to decorate a room.
Furniture
Remember the very first step is to measure your room, this will guide you as to what will fit in the room. If you bring your measurements to a furniture store or work with a decorator they can assist you with the layout. It is very important not only to consider how the room will be used but also how the traffic will move through the room. There is nothing more bothersome than having to walk around a piece of furniture every time you enter a room. Therefore when you decorate a room consider the size of the pieces and amount of furniture, along with the style and placement.
When it comes to the selection of furniture take your time and find things you really love. Do not go to one store and purchase everything they have on the floor. Be a little more creative and find pieces that show your style
The Final Step in Decorating a Room
Just like when you get dressed, you consider which clothes you want to wear and then add then the accessories like shoes, and jewelry to coordinate. Decorating a room is the same. Once you have the main components in place, it is time to look for the finishing pieces. These are the lamps, window treatments, pillows, accessories, and hardware for cabinets, etc. Finding the perfect accessories will impart personality and style throughout the room.
These basic principles apply to any room you choose to decorate. Whether you are redoing a bathroom, kitchen, living room, or bedroom. Know the size of the room, work from the floor up and finish with your accessories. You will find that everything will look as though a designer helped you!
