How to Start Your Home Design Journey: Tips for a Beautiful, Functional Space
If you're not quite ready to hire an interior designer but want to start transforming your space on your own, don’t worry—you’re not alone! I’ve got you covered with a few steps to guide you in the right direction.
1. Define Your Budget
Before diving into any design project, one of the first things you need to do is define your budget—especially for finishing touches like furniture, décor, and accessories. Knowing your budget will keep you grounded, helping you make choices that fit both your aesthetic and financial goals. To help you out, I’ve created a complimentary budget resource so you can confidently plan your next steps.
2. Start with a Floor Plan
A thoughtful floor plan is essential for setting a strong foundation. I always recommend measuring your space and identifying the key pieces you must keep—such as that beloved dining table or sofa you just can’t part with. Once you’ve done that, measure the entire space so you can visualize how any new pieces will fit in.
Key Rules for Creating Your Floor Plan:
Rule #1: Understand the Purpose of Each Room – Before you start moving furniture around, ask yourself how each room will function. A living room should be set up to foster conversation, while your kitchen needs to have a smart layout that makes cooking efficient (think about the work triangle between the sink, stove, and fridge).
Rule #2: Prioritize Flow and Movement – Ensure there’s at least 3 feet of clearance around furniture for easy movement. This rule is especially important for high-traffic areas like hallways, entryways, and spaces connecting the kitchen to the dining room. The goal is a layout that feels open and natural, not cramped.
Rule #3: Consider Scale and Proportion – Don’t overcrowd a room with too much furniture or leave it feeling too sparse. Make sure your pieces fit comfortably and make the most of the space available. For example, a living room should have enough room to fit both the sofa and coffee table with at least 18 inches between them.
Rule #4: Maximize Natural Light – Light can completely change the feel of a room! Place key seating areas near windows to take full advantage of the natural light. A bright, sun-filled living room can be incredibly inviting, and a well-placed kitchen window above your sink will help make the space feel airy and open.
More Specific Layout Tips:
Kitchen Layout: For a functional layout, focus on the work triangle—sink, stove, and fridge should be placed in a way that minimizes unnecessary steps.
Bedroom Placement: Make the bed the focal point of the room, ensuring there’s enough space around it for easy movement. If it’s a master suite, consider placing it away from high-traffic areas for privacy.
3. Create a Mood Board
Once your floor plan is in place, it’s time to get creative! A mood board is a great way to pull everything together visually. You can start by gathering images that reflect your style and the look you're going for. Seeing it all in one place will help you understand how different elements will come together. But before you dive too deep into Pinterest and design inspiration, remember—you can’t ignore the fixed finishes in your space. These elements are already in place, and they will influence the direction of your design.
My favorite free resource to create your mood board online is Canva. Theres nothing wrong with cutting and pasting from magazines too!
Key Fixed Finishes to Consider:
Wall Color – If your walls are already painted, take note of the color and how it complements your chosen furniture and decor. If you plan to repaint, make sure the new color works with your design concept.
Flooring – Hardwood, tile, or carpet—whatever your floor finish is, it should be factored into your mood board. The colors and textures of the floors will play a key role in tying everything together.
Cabinetry & Countertops – In the kitchen and bathrooms, existing cabinets and countertops are a major part of the design foundation. Consider how they’ll work with your new furnishings and colors.
Your mood board should include:
Color Palette – Choose colors that speak to your style, whether it’s soft neutrals, bold pops of color, or warm tones.
Textures & Materials – Consider textures like velvet, linen, and wood, and how they’ll complement your existing finishes.
Furniture Inspiration – Add images of furniture that works with your floor plan and fits the vibe you want for each room.
Creating a mood board is a great exercise in refining your vision, but make sure you work around those fixed elements that are already set in stone. Once everything comes together, you'll have a clearer picture of how each room will feel.
4. Need Help? Design Day Might Be Perfect for You!
If you’re feeling unsure or want a little more direction, I highly recommend checking out Design Day. This service is perfect for homeowners who need expert design advice but don’t want to commit to a full-service project. With Design Day, I’ll help you create a clear, actionable design plan for your space, tailored specifically to your needs.
The Design Day Fee is $2,250, and I recommend a furniture budget of $10,000+ for this service. Think of it as your own personalized design consultation—without the pressure or time commitment of a full-service project.
Ready to Dive In?
Starting your design project on your own can be exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming at times. It’s all about taking the first steps—setting a budget, creating your floor plan, and gathering inspiration—but at the end of the day, hiring an expert can save you time and effort, ensuring the design comes together seamlessly.
So, if you’re ready for more support, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From developing a design plan that fits your budget to creating a space you’ll love, Design Day might just be the perfect solution for you.
Let’s make your home exactly what you’ve been dreaming of! Contact us.
