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It's easy to get too deeply invested in decorating your home, mainly if you've just acquired a new one. You want to make the space feel comfortable, secure, and, most importantly, visually appealing. Unfortunately, this can spell disaster for non-interiors designers who only rely on trends and tips they Google online. So if you're not bringing in a professional, make sure you're not making these ten interior design mistakes.

1. Not planning

As with any aspect of life, planning ensures your venture or project will go in the right direction. Interior design requires planning because it's expensive if you commit one slight mistake that involves changing furniture items, paint colors, and the whole shebang. 

Regardless of the project size, you must always write down the entire interior design plan. This includes the color palettes, furniture layout, buying furnishings, accessories, and more.

2. Not budgeting 

Not budgeting is the top second interior design mistake, next to not planning. This crucial mistake can make or break your entire project because if you mismanage your budget, you're back on the drawing board. The first is to determine how much money you can comfortably spend. Next is to jot down the list of items and services you need, such as furnishings, accessories, professional fees, paint, etc. You might not be able to purchase everything, so it's recommended to list the items according to priority.

3. Not measuring the area

Some homeowners eyeball the entire area and furniture pieces that go into that area, thinking their estimates are good enough. However, this can be the culprit for a whole overhaul. So instead of eyeballing, measure the space before buying the furnishings. This will allow you to paint a realistic picture of the layout and space that will make way for foot traffic.

4. Incorrect furniture size

The following interior design mistake is correlative to the previous one. When you're not measuring your space, you'll make the biggest mistake of buying the wrong furniture, including the wrong rug sizes. That said, it's also advised to measure the furniture items so you know which area in the room they fit. Sometimes, homeowners may have the right furniture size but the wrong placement. So it's also vital to ensure the item doesn't look awkward or out of place in a particular room area. 

5. No focal point

A focal point is the first thing that attracts the viewers' eyes. It also gives the room character. Without it, the room may look drab, and viewers may lose interest. Ensure you create a focal point in any room. It can be a fireplace, an accent wall, an oversized chair, a bold decor, a floor lamp, an art wall, or a prominent accessory. 

6. Not considering form and function

One of the biggest interior design mistakes is not considering form and function. Prioritizing one over the other won't create a space you'll enjoy for a long time because there will always be that lacking element. Make sure to choose function while giving way to form simultaneously. 

7. Bad lighting

One way to make your room look brighter, livelier, and bigger is to allow natural light in. If some spaces aren't laden with big windows to allow sunlight, installing different types of lighting is vital. 

8. Matching all textures, colors, etc. 

Some homeowners think that everything has to match. But where's the fun in that? Create a space with visual interest, which means mixing and matching colors and textures. Choose a base color and see what colors and hues go with it. Moreover, mix and match textures, such as accent pillows, rugs, patterns, plants, sofa materials, artwork, and more. 

9. Hanging art at the wrong level

One minute factor that can entirely change the look of your room is artwork that is hung at the wrong level. Experts suggest that a piece of art must be hung at eye level. Also, make sure to display it at an unexpected and subtle location. 

10. No greenery

Plants keep your space bright, cozy, and attractive. It gives life and energy to dull spaces. That said, choose some indoor plants that require minimal maintenance. Instead of grabbing fake ones that you put in a beautiful vase, display natural plants to keep the space alive. 

Conclusion

Decorating your home is easy if everything is well-thought-out. Whether it's a minor room redesign or total house decoration, it's essential to plan, budget, and take note of these interior design mistakes. 

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Every coworking space operator benefits from the increasing demand for "pay-as-you-go" workspaces. There are many factors in creating a conducive space, but arguably one of the most important is the furniture. A good selection of modern furniture ensures comfort for guests who visit and work in your establishment. With this in mind, we compiled coworking furniture ideas with specific uses and benefits to the owner and clients.

1. Height Adjustable Desks 

Only some people in a coworking space would want to sit down all day. Consider putting height-adjustable desks in focal areas if you're building or revamping your existing coworking space. Stance is a brand that embraces the health benefits of this type of desk. It creates a user-friendly work environment and promotes a healthy lifestyle simultaneously. 

2. Bench Desk 

People can use their laptops or set up computers already in place. Power blocks are installed along the central beam of the desks. Meanwhile, surface-mounted power and data units provide laptop and phone charging power. There are several colors and sizes available. You have to choose the best ones that fit your coworking space. 

3. Ergonomic Chairs 

Break the monotony in your coworking space by adding ergonomic chairs. Each chair must be comfortable and suitable for people with specific ergonomic requirements. A high-back office chair is typically the right choice for people who sit for long periods and aren't mobile while seated. 

4. Acoustic Booths

Coworking spaces are busy and noisy. In this situation, people may need an area to find privacy, peace, and quiet. Acoustic Booths are the ideal solution. Cypher and Stream acoustic booths have been trendy during the last couple of years.

5. Folding, Moveable Desks, and Tables

Although the investment may be higher, it is more practical because you'll use them for a long time. The Talent Folding Desks are the ideal solution to meet all the needs of a busy workspace, and when not in use, they can be stored neatly away, creating space for other activities. 

6. Break out furniture

Every coworking space will feature a fun break-out zone to chill or work away from the noise. It will undoubtedly be a colorful area, or it could be a more muted, subtle tone if appealing to a corporate demographic. Set up a DIY break-out room, adding a couple of brightly-color hammocks as shown in our example.

7. Large Acoustic Pods

A room within a room is always a welcome addition to any bare-looking coworking space. Acoustic pods are great for creating a dedicated meeting space that is acoustically protected from outside noise and distractions. Additionally, acoustic pods can be kitted out with several optional extras, including air circulation, power, and TV mounts, perfect for Zoom calls to remote team workers.

8. Bleacher-Type Seating Area 

Coworking offices are great for building connections. While some guests prefer to get their heads down and work with headphones, plenty actively looks to network. Not only are bleacher seats an excellent "feature" for a coworking space, but they are also ideal for meeting new people. This is also a great way to apply the team-centric atmosphere in a regular office setting, which many people might miss when switching to freelance. That's an effective selling point!

9. Coffee Shop-Inspired Furniture

Part of a freelancer's dream is to work in a coffee shop with a Mac and a cup of coffee. As such, coffee shops are arguably competitors, so it is a good idea get inspiration from this interior design trend. As an owner, you can set up modern coffee tables, bar stools, and charging ports for guests' convenience. 

10. Phone and Zoom Pods

While sharing an open workspace with others has benefits, guests must have private spaces, too. With freelancers becoming more reliant on video conferencing technology, private areas are important. One way to implement this is to install individual booths known as Zoom Booths. These booths are typically equipped with laptop stands, and integrated screens, making online meetings easy and convenient.

11. Coworking Furniture with Biophilic Touch

Biophilia can add aesthetic value to space and connect people with nature. Moreover, it can help adopt a pro-sustainability image of your coworking space, likely appealing to a young, eco-conscious demographic.

Work with different ways to add greenery in your coworking space. You can drape your workstation with foliage or add planters that double up as storage units. Besides, creating a mini indoor garden is one of the modern office decors today.

12. Meeting Tables for Small Teams

Coworking offices aren't just frequented by freelancers working on a pay-as-you-go basis. Instead, some small teams work for months in coworking spaces, often when moving between offices.

To attract small teams such as this, it's a good idea to introduce meeting tables where they can collaborate. For practicality, you could create a private space with soundproof doors, a presentation screen, and a digital booking system to ensure guests can access the room when needed. In addition, you could integrate high-standing tables and stools for an ad-hoc collaboration space.

13. Portable Partition Walls

The portable environment dividers or CALM Partition Walls allow us to work at our table more intimately and tranquility without losing contact with the other side of the partition wall. It is about being able to concentrate easily when work requires it but being able to check with a workmate when necessary. This is possible thanks to the partition wall height at 126 cm. This way, when we are seated, we have the sensation of being in a cozier space, and when we stand up, we can quietly talk with the colleague on the other side of the partition wall.

14. Standing Lamps 

One of the many benefits of this type of lighting is its versatility. These lighting products can easily be moved should you decide you don't like where it is placed or want to move your living room around for a change. A floor lamp can become a masterpiece in any room, creating a focal point in a darkened corner or highlighting another feature you want to show off.

15. Cabinets and Lockers

To summarize our list, we encourage you to permanently install modular cabinets in your coworking space. Coworking space is quite different from office spaces. So, you must install furniture encouraging your guests to be organized and work efficiently.

So, there we have it, pieces of coworking furniture that will attract more freelancers and guests. Give us a call here at Spencil if you're planning to decorate a coworking space. We would love to work with you!

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Many businesses have reverted to face-to-face office interactions. That said, returning to the office may seem disorienting, especially if you're used to working at home and have a well-designed set-up. You could either replicate that or give your office space a new look. Whether you're decorating your own nook, a workspace at home, or the whole office, here are tips on how to decorate an office!

1. Incorporate Nature with Plants and Flowers

Adding plants to your workspace isn't just trendy, having plants in the office reduces stress. Plus, it cleans the air. However, it also serves an aesthetic purpose. It can be welcoming to anyone who comes into the office. When decorating, you can hang them up or put them in pots. Make sure to put the plants near the windows. Sure, some don't require sunlight, but for convenience, you can place them near the windows, especially when it's time for them to get sunlight.

2. Light Up Your Office with Lamps

Natural lighting is best because of its benefits, such as increased creativity and enhanced moods. Although many experts recommend natural lighting, lamps are also a great decorative but functional piece in the office. Plus, lamps can brighten your office, especially if you're still working as the sun goes down. And you can even add character to your office with colorful lamps.

3. Bring Color to Your Office with a Color Palette

You don't want drab or dull office space. Adding even a few splashes of color can make a difference in improving one's mood. That said, you have to choose a color palette that your office should use. If you use a color palette, the colors will look harmonious. You can choose your business colors or go for a totally different color scheme from your brand. And if you're unsure which colors go well together, there are color palette generators online.

4. Organize with Storage and Shelves

This works best for home offices. But you can also still organize your actual office or desk with storage boxes, drawers, or shelves. Avoid a cluttered space, as it can impact your overall mood negatively.

Desks may have drawers where you can add items, but organizers or shelves can store other paperwork and paraphernalia you may not need every single time. If you have a large desk, you can slip it under the desk. But if not, you can place it beside your desk. In addition, if you have shelves, you can add other decor, such as vases, frames, or awards.

5. Make it Comfy with Furniture

This is ideal if you want to make over your whole office space or home office. A workspace doesn't have to be functional all the time. You can add comfy chairs for guests to sit on or an ottoman, which can also double as storage.

As for your office chair, find an ergonomic chair to make you comfortable all day long. Plus, you can also add a throw pillow on your couch.

If you work at an office that follows a certain color scheme, it would be best to go along with the palette in your office. That said, if you're not fond of the color palette, you can't go wrong with neutrals.

6. Give it Life with Art or Wall Decor

If you can't paint your workstation, one way to give it life is through art. Wall art, in particular, can make your space alive. You don't need art from world-famous painters. You can have a calming or abstract painting to stare at to rest your eyes after gluing them to the screen for hours. Or, that wall art can show the art style you love.

But, if wall art isn't your thing, you can have other wall decor like rugs or plants. Another wall decor you can consider is inspirational quotes.

7. Personalize

This tip on how to decorate an office works if the office doesn't have any color scheme at all. It means you can spruce up your cubicle, desk, or nook. You can keep it simple by decorating it with pictures of your loved ones. Perhaps, you can reuse household items as storage containers, such as old mugs, to use as pen holders. Or, you can also show off your tumbler and journals. Adding a personal touch to your space gives a sense of ownership, and you are even more motivated to work.

8. Put Rugs

Rugs have a functional purpose, such as absorbing sound and keeping you warm. But as a decorative piece, you can make your office even more brighter with a rug. It would work best if you have a neutral-colored office and want to give it a splash of color. A rug would make an excellent choice, especially paired with other pieces like wall decor or furniture.

9. Hang a Whiteboard

Although you can consider this wall decor, a whiteboard can also become great decor for creatives with many ideas. If you have a whiteboard, you don't have to worry about wasting paper too! Plus, it's not only functional when conducting meetings, but it also lets you draw or write something every day to make you smile or motivated to work.

10. Don't Forget Your Trash Can

Even though a trash can is the last thing you'll think of with decor, you can still beautify your space with one. That said, you can find unique or colorful trash cans to spruce up the place. You can follow the color scheme in your office (or not) or make it even more quirky with a pattern.

Key Takeaways

Decorating an office can seem like a challenging task, but it's not that difficult to do. You must follow some interior design rules that will ensure harmony, balance, and organization. However, if you have the freedom to personalize your desk at work or cubicle, by all means, decorate away! You don't have to be too extravagant about it; even simple items can make your workspace brighter or better.

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A new year usually warrants new beginnings and, for businesses, new surroundings. So, for the coming 2023, why not give your coffee shop an upgrade? Here are the ten best coffee shop furniture ideas you can try for the coming year.

1. Go Retro

Using a beautiful combination of browns and blacks this retro-style cafe oozes nostalgic appeal. Using different types of textures adds contrast to the coffee shop. The smooth iron frames gives it an industrial look that adds space and interest to the design.

This coffee shop uses a plush leather couch paired with a sleek coffee table. The combination gives the space a cozy and comfortable charm.

2. Elegance and Class

This coffee shop furniture idea makes it fit for any restaurant, most especially a cafe. The vertical lines on the walls pair well with the round tables and curved chairs. It has a few accents in the form of hanging lights and wall art.

3. Glamorize!

While many coffee shop interiors we see have monochromatic designs, usually in brown and other neutral shades. The example below shows precisely why you need to add splashes of bright and bold colors. It gives a unique atmosphere to your cafe while adding glamor and style

The upholstered chairs provide the look and feel of comfort without compromising beauty. The design also has shabby chic written all over, from the walls to the seating combination.

4. Texturize

Inspired by a tropical ambience, this coffee shop furniture idea uses various textures that are visually appealing. The big windows let natural light in, while the ornamental plants give the space a relaxing and natural feel.

The tables and chairs are mostly made from natural materials, going well with the glam look of the classic candle chandeliers.

5. Contemporary

This coffee shop furniture idea is unique and totally conducive to drinking a cuppa joe. The clean lines used as grids connect the shop's various design components to create a harmonious look. The white background emphasizes the black board and classic pendant lights.

The wood finish on the bleacher-style seats adds warmth and touches of color to the design. Overall, the design has a contemporary, futuristic, lively ambiance perfect for a cafe, bar, or restaurant.

6. Industrial Style

Drawing inspiration from warehouses and factories, this industrial cafe furniture has bare walls and ceilings. Despite this, it still exudes a warmth ideal for a shop selling hot beverages.

Notice how the design uses different chairs but still has that industrial yet comfy appeal. The tables have a simplistic design, adding to the industrial look of the cafe.

7. Rustic Feels

Getting its inspiration from nature, rustic design is used in many restaurants, hotels, and coffee shops worldwide. It is a popular choice as it gives a cozy yet energizing feel which is the main characteristic we look for in coffee. In the design below, a beautiful blend of furniture materials is used: wood, metal, stone, and bricks.‍

The stripped-down wall adds color, while the light shades of wood give a clean and smooth feel.

8. Art Deco Style

Elegance and refinery are always welcome attributes in a coffee shop, and art deco is the style you need if you want them. In the example below, symmetrical geometric shapes abound. The dark colors of the chairs provide a lot of contrast to the walls painted with light colors.

Art deco style is all about contrasting colors and the use of brass and chrome that gives it character.

9. Scandinavian Influence

The Nordic influence is popular thanks to its clean lines, light colors, and airy ambiance. It is characterized by open and clean spaces throughout. The Scandinavian style gives a refreshing vibe that's truly ideal for places of relaxation, such as a coffee shop. 

In this design example, the walls are bare, with no touch of paint whatsoever, giving it a down-to-earth appeal. The bikes placed underneath the giant menu board give it a laid-back feel.

10. Relaxed Monochrome

Using cool blue green as its primary color, this contemporary and relaxed coffee shop desig offers a contemporary feel. The simple stool frames, coupled with the smooth lines of the bar and tables, give the cafe a distinct and elegant look. The dark colors provide a relaxing vibe ideal for bars and restaurants with a laid-back attitude.

The cool tones of the walls are complemented by the warmth off the shelf frames, countertop, and ambient lighting.

Conclusion

Furniture is a great way to beautify any space, whether a restaurant, home, or cafe. These examples of coffee shop furniture ideas are an excellent inspiration for a redesign for the new year.

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Spending time in your own space can be even more relaxing when you know you're not harming Mother Nature. In this article, we'll discuss sustainable interior design as well as examples of how you can make your space eco-friendly.

What is sustainable interior design?

Sustainable interior design pertains to an approach to designing interior spaces that consider the environmental impact of the materials, products, and systems used in the space. This type of interior design aims to create spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also socially conscious and environment-friendly.

This design approach involves using materials made from renewable or recycled materials. In the same vein, it may also include using energy-efficient systems and employing strategies to optimize natural light and ventilation.

What are examples of sustainable design?

Here are some examples of sustainable interior design and how you can apply them in your space.

1. Use Sustainable Materials

Using sustainable materials is a critical part of sustainable interior design. Sustainable materials are renewable, non-toxic, and have a low environmental impact throughout their lifecycle, from extraction to disposal. By incorporating sustainable materials into interior design, it's possible to reduce the environmental impact of buildings and create healthier spaces.

One example of sustainable material is bamboo. Bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource often used for flooring, furniture, and decor. It has a lower environmental impact than traditional hardwoods, as it requires less water and pesticides to grow and can be harvested more sustainably. Aside from bamboo, you can also use reclaimed wood, cork flooring, and renewable materials produced with less water and energy.

2. Energy-Efficient Lighting

Lighting accounts for a significant portion of a building's energy consumption, and by choosing energy-efficient lighting, it's possible to reduce energy use and lower the environmental impact of a space.

Two of the most popular energy-efficient lighting options are LED lighting and compact fluorescent lamps. These use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Daylighting is another crucial aspect of energy-efficient lighting. It can be achieved by using windows, skylights, and other methods to allow natural light to enter a space. By maximizing natural light, it's possible to reduce the need for artificial lighting.

3. Choose Eco-Friendly Furniture

Furniture production can significantly impact the environment, from the materials used to create furniture to the production and transportation process. That said, choosing eco-friendly furniture makes it possible to reduce a space's environmental impact. At the same time, many eco-friendly options offer color versatility, making them a good fit for almost any interior design color scheme.  

4. Go for Organic Fabrics 

Organic fabrics are made from materials that are grown without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. They are often produced using sustainable practices that minimize the environmental impact of textile production.

Some organic fabrics you can use for your upholstery, curtains, and other interior elements include cotton, wool, and hemp.

5. Incorporate Indoor Plants

Indoor plants have many benefits, including purifying the air, adding color and texture to a space, and promoting well-being. They can also contribute to sustainability by reducing the need for energy-intensive air purifiers and by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the air.

There are many different types of indoor plants to choose from, and it's essential to select plants that are well-suited to the specific lighting and temperature conditions of the space. Low-light plants such as snake plants and peace lilies are an excellent choice for spaces with limited natural light, while succulents and cacti are well-suited to hot, dry environments.

6. Use Low-VOC Paint

Volatile organic compounds, also known as VOC, are chemicals found in many traditional paints and can negatively affect indoor air quality and human health. On the other hand, low-VOC paints have reduced levels of these harmful chemicals, making them a more sustainable choice for interior design.

One of the primary benefits of using low-VOC paint is that it improves indoor air quality. VOCs can cause various health issues, including respiratory problems, headaches, and nausea. Using low-VOC paint can reduce the impact of these chemicals on human health and create a healthier indoor environment.

7. Recycle and Upcycle

Recycling pertains to the process of transforming waste materials into new products, often through a manufacturing process. Interior design can involve using recycled materials such as glass, metal, or plastic in furniture or decor. For example, recycled glass can create unique lighting fixtures, while recycled metal can be used in decorative wall art or furniture.

On the other hand, upcycling involves repurposing existing materials to create something new and useful. This can be done by transforming an old piece of furniture or decor item into a new and unique piece. For example, an old ladder can be transformed into a bookshelf, or a vintage suitcase can be turned into a unique coffee table.

8. Choose Energy Star Appliances

Energy Star is a program run by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that sets energy efficiency standards for various household appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers.

By choosing Energy Star appliances, it's possible to reduce energy consumption in the home significantly. These appliances are designed to use less energy than traditional models, often by incorporating features such as advanced insulation, energy-efficient motors, and improved control systems.

9. Prioritize Water Conservation

Water is a precious resource, and by reducing water consumption in the home, it's possible to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.

There are many ways to prioritize water conservation in interior design. One of the most effective is to install low-flow fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens. Low-flow fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, are designed to use less water than traditional fixtures without sacrificing performance or functionality. Installing low-flow fixtures makes it possible to reduce water consumption in the home.

Another way to prioritize water conservation is to choose appliances designed to use less water, such as washing machines and dishwashers. These appliances often incorporate features such as water-efficient cycles and sensors that can help reduce water consumption.

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The nail salon industry is on the rise, which means stiffer competition. To get ahead of the game, you need to reinvent. Here are ten nail spa furniture ideas you can try in 2023 to boost your business.

1. Blue Contrast

These blue nails spa seats take center stage as they all stand out amidst a white background. It gives a clean and cozy atmosphere ideal for this type of business. The smaller white seats have that streamlined design making them a great complement to the overall design.

The black pedicure bowls give the nail salon design a Zen atmosphere. The simple and sleek design and the minimalist plants exude sophistication and class. The lamps, throw pillow, and wood blocks beside the seats add color beautifully.

2. Cute and Cloudy

If you want a cute look, consider high-backed chairs in colors like light pink and gray with matching stools. Make sure that the materials are soft and velvety to get a welcoming appeal. These go well with white walls and accents.

3. Floral and Trendy

Using a soft velvet material for your furniture will give it a touch of luxury. You can pair the color scheme with ornate shapes like seashells, blending perfectly with the floral and trendy style. For a warm color scheme, match floral pink hues with beige and white wall paint.

4. Plush Luxury

Gray and wood hues have a relaxing effect, making them an excellent choice for nail spa furniture. In the example below, there is an abundance of vertical and horizontal lines on the chairs, cushions, and platform. This gives it a Zen atmosphere that is calming and energizing.

5. Crisp and Clear

The simplicity of the furniture design makes this nail salon a sight for sore eyes. Its crisp and clear lines create a soothing atmosphere. The simple black and white color palette, meanwhile, emphasizes the bright hues of nail colors customers can choose from.

6. Wooden Glamor

Wooden furniture is a go-to option for nail salons. From the floor to the tables and chairs, wood is the element that makes a salon design charming and appealing. Make sure to add various textures o the cushion, towels, and footstools. 

7. Bespoke Beauty

One approach you can take is to choose a main element that will make your nail spa interiors distinct. For instance, bespoke chairs can add a unique touch to a space, making the salon memorable and stylish.

8. Comfort Blends with Style

Beautifully blending comfort with style is the furniture for this nail spa. The seats are stylish but plush, making them look ultra comfy. The addition of matching frames on the wall make the overall look cohesive and sophisticated.

9. The Ornate

While having their nails done, why not indulge your customers in the lavish and the ornate? Consider furniture ideas for nail spas that offer splendor and extravagance. Think fluffy seats, extra cushions, and soft accents.

10. Eclectic

A mixture of styles and colors is a fun and lively way to cater to your customers' nail salon needs. For instance, the mixture of bright teal and pastel hues give this salon an eclectic feel while maintaining a relaxing vibe.

Conclusion

Whether you're just starting out with your nail spa or looking to redesign, these nail spa furniture ideas can help you find your theme. Find inspiration in them, mix and match them, or add your own to create a unique design that stands out.

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Scandinavian interior design is known for its minimalist and elegant style. It combines functionality, simplicity, and beauty to create a warm and inviting living space. The design style originated in the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden and has gained popularity around the world. Read on to explore some of the best Scandinavian interior design elements you can incorporate into your home to achieve a minimalist and elegant look.

Uncluttered Spaces

Uncluttered interiors are a key element of Scandinavian interior design, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. The aim is to create a sense of spaciousness and calm by using a few well-chosen, high-quality items instead of many unnecessary objects.

To achieve uncluttered interiors, Scandinavian designers often utilize multi-functional furniture pieces and maximize storage through built-in cabinetry, open shelves, and storage baskets. Neutral color palettes are also a common feature, which provide a blank canvas for decorative items and help create a relaxing atmosphere. Prioritizing function and simplicity, uncluttered interiors create a space that is both elegant and practical.

Soft and Light Colors

Using light and soft, muted colors is a defining feature of Scandinavian interior design. This design element creates a calm and soothing atmosphere in the home by incorporating a neutral color palette that includes shades of white, beige, and gray. This color scheme is meant to evoke the feeling of natural light, scarce in the Scandinavian region's long, dark winters.

Scandinavian designers also use natural light sources by incorporating large windows and sheer window treatments that allow light to filter through. Additionally, they often choose light-colored woods, such as ash or birch, for flooring and furniture, which helps to reflect and amplify natural light. This Scandinavian interior design element is what you need to create a serene and welcoming environment that feels open and airy.

Hygge

With a focus on comfort and relaxation, hygge-inspired spaces are meant to provide a sanctuary from the stresses of daily life and promote a sense of well-being. Hygge is a Danish concept that has been incorporated into Scandinavian interior design. It is a feeling of coziness, comfort, and contentment often associated with spending time with loved ones. 

In interior design, hygge is characterized by the use of soft, textured fabrics, such as wool and faux fur, and warm lighting, such as candles or string lights. It can also be achieved by creating a space that encourages relaxation and slowing down. This can be achieved through the use of comfortable seating, such as a plush sofa or armchair, and by incorporating natural elements, such as plants or wood accents. 

Clean and Crisp Lines

A defining feature of Scandinavian interior design is using clean and crisp lines. It is characterized by a minimalist approach that emphasizes functionality and simplicity. The aim is to create an uncluttered and visually appealing space using straight, clean lines in furniture, architectural details, and decorative elements.

Using clean and crisp lines in Scandinavian interior design can also create a sense of order and balance in a space. Emphasizing the beauty of simplicity and understated elegance, the design element provides a timeless aesthetic that can withstand changing trends. This element is often achieved through geometric shapes, such as rectangular or circular forms, in furniture and lighting fixtures and using linear patterns in textiles and accessories.

Wood Accents

A common element in Scandinavian interior design, wood accents reflect the region's deep connection to nature. This design element brings warmth and texture to a space, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Scandinavian designers often choose light-colored woods, such as birch or pine, for furniture and flooring, which helps to develop a sense of openness and spaciousness.

In addition to furniture and flooring, wood accents can be incorporated into decorative elements, such as wall art or accessories. This design element can also be achieved by combining natural elements, such as wood logs or branches, into the decor. This Scandinavian interior design element creates a space that feels connected to nature and provides a sense of comfort and tranquility.

Natural Lights

Reflecting the long, dark winters of the region, natural lights are a crucial Scandinavian interior design element. This aims to maximize the amount of natural light that enters a space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Large windows are often used to allow natural light to filter through, and sheer window treatments are used to diffuse the light and provide privacy while still allowing natural light to enter.

In addition to using natural light sources, Scandinavian interior design also emphasizes artificial lighting. Lighting fixtures are chosen for their ability to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a focus on soft, warm-toned lighting rather than harsh, fluorescent lighting.

High Contrast

To create a bold and dramatic effect, you may want to add high contrast to your spaces. This Scandinavian interior design element uses contrasting colors like black and white or light and dark shades to create a strong visual impact. High contrast can be achieved through textiles like black and white patterned rugs or pillows or contrasting materials like dark wood floors and white walls.

Light fixtures allow you to achieve high contrast in your Scandinavian interior design. Black or dark fixtures against a white or light-colored wall create a visually striking effect while providing a valuable lighting source. The high contrast design element creates a space that feels dynamic and visually interesting while maintaining the simplicity and elegance characteristic of Scandinavian design.

Final Thoughts

Scandinavian interior design elements are rooted in simplicity, functionality, and a deep connection to nature. The design style prioritizes creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere while maintaining an elegant and minimalist look. By incorporating elements such as uncluttered interiors, light and muted colors, wood accents, natural light, and high contrast, Scandinavian interior design creates a warm, inviting, and visually attractive space.

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Featured image credit: Glen Michaelsen on Unsplash

Whether you're a real estate agent selling a property or a homeowner building your first house, a floor plan is essential for an excellent interior design layout. A floor plan shows a bird's eye view of the space's layout. People rely on floor plans for fully-functional home or office design, from fixed installations like cabinets, lighting, and bathroom fixtures to stairs, walls, and doors. But what is a floor plan? What are the benefits of creating one? And what are some top apps and software? Everything will be covered in this quick guide.

What is a floor plan? 

A floor plan is a drawing that shows the layout and relationships of spaces, rooms, furnishings, and fixtures. These drawings are typically viewed from above to let people visualize the foot traffic in their areas. 

An interior design layout enables people to check if the space, furnishings, and fixtures are functional for their intended purpose. It also lets people see if the current layout is aesthetically pleasing. 

This is exceptionally beneficial for people who are building or renovating a home. It allows them to asses the needed furnishings and fixtures before buying said materials and building. Floor plans are created with free or paid 2D, 3D, or even 5D apps and software that are easy to use!

Benefits of Floor Plans

Architects and anyone in the construction niche use floor plans to envisage the interior design layout. Aside from this, here are the many benefits of creating floor plans:

• Shows accurate dimensions and measurements of the space, so people buy the right-sized furnishings 
• Serves as a valuable guide for people who want to take over the space (Example: buyers in the real estate industry)
• Reduces errors in building and placement during building execution 
• Allows you to experiment with various interior design layouts for a visually appealing and functional space
• Helps homeowners determine the most utilitarian furniture placement
• Enables you to see circulation, relationships, and barriers between fixed installations, furnishings, accessories, etc. 
• Encourages clear communication and easy collaboration between people in the construction and interior design industries

5 Best Apps for Creating an Interior Design Layout

An interior design layout or floor plan can be made in 2D, 3D, or 5D. And you can choose from many floor plan apps with pricing that suits your budget. 2D refers to a flat design, void of depth and perspective, while 3D shows height and perspective. You may also choose apps that let you build in 4D or 5D, which offer more realistic layout models. 

Here are a few you can start with:

1. RoomSketcher

With RoomSketcher, you can easily import a blueprint or create a floor plan from scratch. If you find this troublesome, you can work with RoomSketcher's professionals, who make everything for you. You may print to scale and download interior design layouts in any format. Plus, you can even convert 2D to 3D with only one click!

2. Foyr Neo

Over 50,000 amateur and professional designers worldwide rely on Foyr Neo. This software offers top-notch AI-assisted features like color wizard, automatic shopping lists, and more. This platform requires zero learning curve, which means anyone can use this tool to create floor plans. You only have to upload a floor plan from scratch and drag and drop from over 60,000 3D models to add the elements. Lastly, you can render in 4K in less than 10 minutes.

3. Home Design 3D

One of the leading players in the interior design niche, Home Design 3D received commendations from The Guardian, Le Figaro, The New York Times, Buzzfeed, and other top digital magazines worldwide. It offers an intuitive and user-friendly application that is accessible to everyone. Access over 2,500 customizable furniture pieces, materials, and accessories to make your projects easy and fun!

4. Planner 5D

The Planner 5D software is a user-friendly 2D/3D interior design layout tool. It helps you visualize your space in HD, showing in-depth details and realistic images. You can access over 5,000 items in their catalog to fill your floor plan. Plus, the platform offers an affordable rate if you wish to work with one of their professional designers. And this also comes with unlimited revisions!

5. Magic Plan

Magic Plan is an easy-to-use floor plan tool that lets you generate field reports, share floor plans, and create estimates. It makes for a seamless collaboration with your team by understanding what's happening on-site. Its reporting feature lets you add 360-degree images, photos, markups, custom forms, and more. 

Wrap Up

Viewing your interior design layout is recommended to prevent errors and any back and forth when the building commences. Since some floor plan apps are free, it doesn't hurt to try one before regretting buying furniture that doesn't fit in your space. However, if you need assistance creating floor plans, working with Spencil professionals is your best bet. Visit our website now and speak with an expert.

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Featured Image: Photo by Pexels from Pixabay