In “5 Things I Don’t Do In My Home as a Pro Interior Designer”, Julie Khuu, a seasoned professional in the industry, shares her insights on the design choices she avoids in her own home. With over 18 years of experience, Julie believes in the transformative power of interior design and emphasizes the importance of personal significance when decorating walls with artwork. She also advises against designing solely around trends, instead incorporating elements of trends into her own unique style. Julie’s approach to furniture shopping involves investing in quality pieces, whether they are old, new, second-hand, or refurbished. Furthermore, she embraces imperfections and tells a story through the wear and tear of her home, encouraging individuals to trust their own design choices and preferences. The article provides links to shop for fall decor and accessories to enhance your home’s ambiance.
In the captivating introduction, Julie invites viewers to join her on a special episode as she explores the five design choices she steers clear of in her own home. She acknowledges that her audience consists of viewers at various stages of their design journey, from first-time decorators to individuals in the midst of a renovation. Julie refers to a personal experience with making tough decisions, highlighting the importance of seeking expert advice, which may be one of the reasons why viewers tune in to her channel. She promises to share her own insights and preferences, addressing aspects such as wall decor, furniture shopping, and the balance between functionality and style. Julie creates a relatable atmosphere by mentioning her mid-century ranch style home and the limited amount of wall space she has, which leads her to carefully curating artwork with personal significance. Throughout the video, Julie demonstrates her commitment to evolving tastes and finding unique ways to incorporate trends into her own timeless style.
Choosing Artwork for Blank Walls
When it comes to decorating your home, one of the most important aspects is choosing artwork for your blank walls. The artwork you choose can have a significant impact on the overall ambiance and style of your space. It’s essential to consider personal significance, incorporate different styles, and create a gallery wall that showcases your unique taste.
Emphasizing Personal Significance
When selecting artwork for your walls, it’s crucial to prioritize personal significance. The pieces you choose should have a special meaning or connection to you. Whether it’s a sentimental photograph, a painting by a favorite artist, or a family heirloom, the artwork should reflect your personality and evoke emotions.
By emphasizing personal significance, your home becomes a reflection of your life and experiences. Each piece on your walls will tell a story and create a sense of authenticity. Don’t feel the need to fill every blank space with artwork; instead, select pieces that truly resonate with you.
Incorporating Different Styles
To add depth and visual interest to your space, consider incorporating different styles of artwork. Mixing and matching various styles can create a curated and eclectic look that reflects your unique taste. Don’t be afraid to blend traditional, contemporary, abstract, or vintage pieces.
The key is to find a balance between the different styles and ensure they complement one another. Consider the overall color palette, subject matter, and composition when selecting artwork. This approach allows you to showcase a diverse range of artistic expression and create a visually stimulating environment.
Creating a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is a fantastic way to display multiple pieces of artwork on a single wall. It allows you to showcase a collection of photographs, paintings, prints, and other artwork in a visually striking way. Creating a gallery wall requires careful planning and arrangement to ensure cohesion and harmony.
Start by selecting a theme or color scheme for your gallery wall. This will help create a cohesive look. Then, experiment with different layouts and arrangements before committing to hanging the pieces. Consider using frames of the same color or material to create a cohesive and uniform appearance.
A gallery wall is not only aesthetically pleasing but also allows you to showcase a variety of art pieces that hold personal significance. It’s an opportunity to curate a unique and personalized display that showcases your artistic taste and style.
Decorating with Trends
Incorporating elements of current trends into your home’s décor can be a fun and exciting way to refresh your space. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between staying true to your personal style and avoiding overly trendy pieces. When decorating with trends, consider incorporating them in a way that complements your existing aesthetic and reflects your unique taste.
Incorporating Elements of Trends
To incorporate elements of trends into your home, focus on smaller decorative items that can be easily swapped out or updated as trends change. This could include throw pillows, rugs, artwork, or decorative accents. By incorporating these elements, you can give your space a fresh and current look without committing to a complete overhaul.
Consider choosing trendy items that align with your personal style and preferences. For example, if you love bohemian-inspired décor, incorporate trendy macramé wall hangings or rattan furniture. By selecting trend elements that resonate with your taste, you can create a cohesive and harmonious look that still feels uniquely yours.
Staying True to Personal Style
While it’s exciting to incorporate trends into your home, it’s important to stay true to your personal style. Trends come and go, but your style should be timeless and reflective of your personality. Consider the colors, textures, and patterns that you are naturally drawn to and incorporate them into your space.
When selecting furniture, choose pieces that align with your preferred style and aesthetic. This could be classic and traditional, modern and minimalist, or eclectic and bohemian. By staying true to your personal style, your home will feel authentic and genuinely representative of who you are.
Avoiding Overly Trendy Pieces
While it’s tempting to fill your home with the latest and trendiest pieces, it’s essential to avoid going overboard. Embrace trends in moderation and avoid investing in items that may quickly become outdated. Instead, focus on incorporating timeless elements that can withstand the test of time.
Consider balance and harmony when selecting trendy pieces. Pair them with more classic and neutral elements to create a balanced and cohesive look. By avoiding overly trendy pieces, your home’s décor will have a more enduring and timeless appeal.
Furniture Shopping
Investing in quality furniture is essential for creating a comfortable and stylish home. Whether you prefer old, new, second-hand, or refurbished pieces, there are several factors to consider when shopping for furniture. These include both functionality and aesthetics, as well as mixing old and new items for a unique and eclectic look.
Investing in Quality
Investing in high-quality furniture is crucial for long-term enjoyment and durability. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, it’s important to remember that quality furniture will last longer and maintain its appearance and functionality over time.
When shopping for furniture, pay attention to the materials used, construction methods, and overall craftsmanship. Look for pieces made from solid wood or high-quality materials that can withstand daily use. While quality furniture may come with a higher price tag, it will ultimately be a worthwhile investment.
Mixing Old and New
Mixing old and new furniture is a great way to add character and personality to your home. Combining vintage or antique pieces with modern and contemporary items creates a unique and eclectic look. It allows you to tell a story through your furniture and create a space that feels curated and collected over time.
When mixing old and new furniture, consider the overall style and aesthetic you want to achieve. Look for pieces that complement each other visually, either through similar colors, materials, or design elements. By mixing styles, you can create a visually interesting and dynamic space that reflects your individual taste.
Considering Second-Hand or Refurbished Pieces
Second-hand or refurbished furniture can be an excellent option for those on a budget or looking for unique pieces. Thrift stores, estate sales, and online marketplaces often offer a wide range of pre-owned furniture in varying styles and conditions. With a little creativity and some DIY skills, these pieces can be transformed into stunning additions to your home.
When considering second-hand or refurbished furniture, inspect the items closely for any damage or wear. Assess whether repairs or restoration are feasible and within your skillset. Additionally, consider the cost of refurbishment or repair, as well as the overall value and quality of the piece before making a purchase.
By considering second-hand or refurbished furniture, you not only save money but also contribute to sustainability by giving these pieces a second life.
Embracing Imperfections
Incorporating imperfections into your home’s design can add character, charm, and a sense of lived-in authenticity. Whether it’s through embracing wear and tear, incorporating vintage or antique items, or creating a lived-in feel, imperfections can transform your space into a unique and inviting home.
Telling a Story Through Wear and Tear
Wear and tear are inevitable in any home, but instead of trying to hide or fix every imperfection, embrace them as a part of your home’s story. Scratches, dents, and scuffs on furniture or flooring can tell tales of laughter, gatherings, and everyday life.
Consider leaving some imperfections untouched, especially on furniture items with sentimental value. These imperfections create a sense of history and authenticity, making your home feel warm and welcoming.
Adding Character with Vintage or Antique Items
Incorporating vintage or antique items into your home can instantly add character and personality. These items often come with their own unique histories and stories, making them conversation starters and focal points in your space.
Vintage furniture, art, or accessories can be found at antique stores, flea markets, or estate sales. Consider pieces that complement your existing décor or serve as statement pieces. The combination of old and new creates a harmonious blend that showcases your style while adding a touch of nostalgia.
Creating a Lived-In Feel
Creating a lived-in feel is all about making your home feel comfortable and inviting. It’s about creating spaces that you and your loved ones truly enjoy being in. This can be achieved through cozy textures, layered décor, and personalized touches.
Consider incorporating elements such as plush rugs, soft throw blankets, and comfortable seating areas. Display items that hold sentimental value or evoke positive memories. By surrounding yourself with objects and materials that bring joy, you create an atmosphere that truly feels like home.
By embracing imperfections, incorporating vintage items, and creating a lived-in feel, your home becomes a reflection of your personality and experiences. It becomes a space that tells a story and invites others to enjoy its warmth and charm.
Trusting Your Own Design Choices
Trusting your own design choices is vital when creating a home that reflects your personality and style. While listening to advice and seeking inspiration from others is valuable, ultimately, your home should be a reflection of your unique taste and preferences.
Listening to Your Gut
When making design decisions, it’s essential to listen to your gut instincts. Trust your intuition and go with what feels right for you. Everyone has different tastes and preferences, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Consider how different design elements make you feel and whether they align with your vision for your home. If something speaks to you and elicits a positive emotional response, it’s likely the right choice for you. Ultimately, your home should make you happy and reflect your individuality.
Ignoring Judgment from Others
While seeking advice and input from friends, family, or design professionals can be helpful, it’s important not to let the judgment or opinions of others dictate your design choices. Remember that your home is a reflection of your personality and taste, and only you know what truly resonates with you.
While feedback can be valuable and provide alternative perspectives, it’s important to stay true to your own vision. Don’t be afraid to take risks, be bold, and embrace your unique sense of style. Your home is your sanctuary, and it should be an environment that brings you joy and comfort.
Creating a Home That Reflects Your Personality
Ultimately, the most important aspect of interior design is creating a home that reflects your personality. Each design decision, from furniture and artwork to color schemes and lighting, should be a reflection of who you are and what you love.
Consider your hobbies, interests, and passions when selecting décor items and designing your space. Incorporate elements that bring you joy and make you feel connected to your home. By infusing your personality into your design choices, you create a space that is uniquely yours and that brings you happiness and fulfillment.
By trusting your own design choices, ignoring judgment from others, and creating a home that reflects your personality, you create a space that truly feels like your own.
Importance of Functionality
While style is essential in interior design, it’s crucial to prioritize functionality and practicality. Creating a space that is both visually appealing and functional ensures that your home meets your everyday needs and supports your lifestyle.
Balancing Style and Practicality
Finding the right balance between style and practicality is key to creating a functional home. While it’s important to prioritize aesthetics, it’s equally important to consider how each design element will be used and how it will impact your daily life.
When selecting furniture, for example, consider its comfort, durability, and suitability for your lifestyle. If you have young children or pets, opt for furniture that is easy to clean and can withstand wear and tear. The same applies to choosing materials for flooring, countertops, and other surfaces.
Ensure that storage solutions are incorporated into your design to keep your space organized and clutter-free. Consider the layout of each room and how it will facilitate the flow of everyday activities. By finding the right balance between style and practicality, you create a home that is both beautiful and functional.
Choosing Furniture with Dual Purposes
Maximizing the functionality of your space can be achieved by choosing furniture with dual purposes. Multifunctional furniture is particularly useful in smaller homes or rooms where space is limited. It allows you to maximize the use of each piece and minimize the need for additional items.
Consider furniture that can serve multiple functions, such as a sofa bed or ottoman with hidden storage. These pieces allow you to accommodate overnight guests or store items while still maintaining a stylish and cohesive look.
When selecting furniture, think about its versatility and adaptability to different situations and scenarios. By choosing furniture with dual purposes, you optimize the functionality of your space and create a more practical and efficient home.
Creating Organized Spaces
An organized space contributes to a sense of calm and clarity. It allows you to easily find and access items, eliminates visual clutter, and promotes a more efficient and productive environment.
Consider incorporating storage solutions throughout your home to keep belongings organized and out of sight. Utilize shelves, cabinets, baskets, and other organizational tools to create designated spaces for different items. This will help maintain a clean and organized appearance and simplify your everyday life.
When organizing your space, take time to assess your needs and develop systems that work for you. Everyone’s organizational needs are different, so it’s important to find solutions that align with your lifestyle and preferences. By creating organized spaces, you enhance the functionality and efficiency of your home.
Color Scheme Selection
Choosing the right color scheme for your home is an essential aspect of interior design. The colors you choose can greatly impact the overall atmosphere and mood of each room. Consider selecting colors that reflect your personality, exploring different combinations, and creating a coherent and harmonious palette.
Choosing Colors That Reflect Your Personality
Color preferences are highly personal and can vary widely from person to person. When selecting colors for your home, consider those that resonate with you and evoke positive emotions. Think about the feelings you want to experience in each room and how different colors can contribute to that.
Consider your personal connection to colors and the emotions they evoke. For example, cool blues and greens may create a sense of calm and tranquility, while warm oranges and reds can evoke energy and excitement.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with unconventional color choices. Your home should be a reflection of your unique taste and style, and color is one aspect where you can truly express yourself.
Exploring Different Color Combinations
Creating a visually engaging and cohesive color scheme involves exploring different color combinations. Instead of relying on a single color, consider pairing complementary or analogous colors to create contrast and harmony.
Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel and create a vibrant and energetic look when used together. Analogous colors, on the other hand, are next to each other on the color wheel and create a more harmonious and subtle effect when combined.
Experiment with different color combinations and consider how they work with the overall aesthetic of your space. Pay attention to the natural lighting in each room and how it may impact the appearance of different colors. By exploring different color combinations, you can create a visually captivating and harmonious palette.
Creating a Coherent and Harmonious Palette
To ensure coherence and harmony in your space, strive to create a color palette that flows seamlessly from one room to another. Consider how different colors interact with each other and how they contribute to the overall atmosphere and mood.
Start with a base color or neutral tone that serves as a foundation for your palette. Then, add accent colors or bolder hues to create visual interest and focal points. Consider the proportions of each color and how they will be distributed throughout your space.
To maintain a coherent palette, choose colors that complement each other and evoke a harmonious feel. This will create a visually appealing and unified look throughout your home.
Lighting and Ambiance
The lighting in your home plays a crucial role in creating the right ambiance and setting the mood in each room. By using various types of lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and highlighting key design features, you can transform your space into a cozy and inviting sanctuary.
Using Various Types of Lighting
The use of different types of lighting can greatly enhance the ambiance and functionality of each room. Consider incorporating a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a layered and versatile lighting scheme.
Ambient lighting provides overall illumination and sets the general mood in a room. This can be achieved through ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, or recessed lighting. Task lighting, on the other hand, focuses on specific activities and provides adequate illumination for tasks such as reading, cooking, or working.
Accent lighting is used to highlight specific architectural features, artwork, or decorative elements. This can be achieved by using spotlights, track lighting, or picture lights. By incorporating these different types of lighting, you can create a dynamic and adaptable lighting scheme that meets your specific needs.
Creating a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
A warm and inviting atmosphere can be achieved through the strategic use of lighting. Consider choosing warmer light bulbs with a yellow or amber tint to create a cozy and intimate feel. Soft and diffused lighting can also contribute to a relaxing and warm ambiance.
Utilize dimmer switches to control the intensity of the lighting in different areas of your home. This allows you to adjust the atmosphere based on your mood or the specific activity taking place. The ability to create different lighting scenes adds versatility and comfort to your space.
Additionally, consider incorporating candles or soft lighting fixtures to create a soothing and comforting environment. By focusing on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, you can transform your home into a sanctuary that promotes relaxation and well-being.
Highlighting Key Design Features
Strategic lighting placement can draw attention to key design features in your home. Consider using spotlights or uplighting to showcase architectural details such as exposed beams, artwork, or statement pieces of furniture.
By highlighting these design features, you create visual focal points and add depth and interest to your space. It allows you to showcase elements that are unique and distinct, reflecting your personal style and taste.
Pay attention to the placement of lighting fixtures and experiment with different angles to achieve the desired effect. By highlighting key design features, you create a visually captivating and dynamic environment.
Utilizing Space
Making the most of your available space is essential for creating a functional and visually appealing home. By maximizing storage solutions, arranging furniture for optimal flow, and creating multifunctional areas, you can optimize your space and create a home that meets your needs.
Maximizing Storage Solutions
Storage is often a challenge in many homes, but with careful planning and thoughtful design, you can maximize your available storage space. Consider incorporating built-in shelving, cabinets, or closets to keep belongings organized and out of sight.
Utilize furniture pieces that have hidden storage compartments, such as ottomans with removable tops or beds with built-in drawers. These solutions allow you to make the most of your space without sacrificing style or aesthetics.
Additionally, consider vertical storage solutions, such as wall-mounted shelves or hanging organizers, to free up valuable floor space. By maximizing storage solutions, you create a clutter-free environment that contributes to a sense of calm and organization.
Arranging Furniture for Optimal Flow
The arrangement of furniture plays a significant role in the overall flow and functionality of a room. Consider the natural traffic patterns and how people will move through the space when arranging furniture.
Create clear pathways and ensure that furniture arrangements do not obstruct the flow of movement. Leave enough space between furniture pieces for comfortable navigation and accessibility.
Consider the focal point of each room and arrange furniture around it to create a visually balanced and inviting atmosphere. Whether it’s a fireplace, television, or a stunning view, the focal point should dictate the placement of furniture.
By arranging furniture for optimal flow, you create a space that is inviting, functional, and conducive to everyday activities.
Creating Multifunctional Areas
In smaller homes or rooms with limited space, creating multifunctional areas is essential. This allows you to make the most of each space by serving multiple purposes. Consider how each room can be utilized for different activities or functions.
For example, a guest bedroom can also function as a home office by incorporating a desk and storage solutions. A living room can have a designated area for children’s play or study. By combining functions, you can maximize the use of each room and eliminate the need for separate spaces.
Consider using furniture that can serve multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed or a coffee table with storage compartments. This allows you to transform the space based on your specific needs and adapt to different situations.
By creating multifunctional areas, you optimize your space and create a home that is both versatile and adaptable.
Conclusion
Interior design is a powerful tool that can transform your space and enhance your life. By emphasizing personal significance, incorporating different styles, and creating a gallery wall, you can make your home reflect your unique taste and personality.
When decorating with trends, focus on incorporating elements that resonate with your personal style and preferences. Don’t be afraid to trust your own design choices and create a home that brings you joy and comfort.
Consider the importance of functionality in your design decisions. Balancing style and practicality, choosing furniture with dual purposes, and creating organized spaces contribute to a functional and efficient home.
Color scheme selection, lighting, and utilization of space also play essential roles in creating a home that meets your needs and reflects your personality. By considering these factors, you can create a space that is visually appealing, functional, and uniquely yours.
The power of interior design is undeniable. By following these tips and embracing your personal style, you can transform your space and create a home that brings you joy, comfort, and fulfillment.
