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Interior Designers
Lessons We Can Learn From The 5 Famous Interior Stylists
January 17, 2023
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How do interior design magazines make their images so appealing? Most inspiring interior designs reflect personal style. The genius behind those creative projects is an interior stylist. 

Interior stylists handle styling a room for a photo shoot for an editorial or commercial project. They are experts in ensuring every angle is picturesque. They carefully consider every aspect of the shot, from the furniture to the decor to the flow of space. In short, finishing touches are the expertise of these interior specialists. They can aesthetically arrange a room, like within a home or an office, or style products for a commercial photoshoot, like kitchenware or furniture. Read on as we discuss how interior stylists transform a home or office.

Why Do You Need an Interior Design Stylist? 

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If your office space or home is almost finished, but something needs to be fixed, or you need help promoting your product, an interior stylist can help. A styling professional knows how to make furnishings look pretty, whether for personal or commercial purposes. Instead of searching for thousands of sample designs or layouts online, you should contact an interior stylist near you. 

An interior design stylist can assist you in different situations, including the following:

  • A home or office is near completion and fully or semi-furnished.
  • Time and budget constraints are an issue.
  • It would help if you had recommendations before making changes to your interior design.
  • A business needs product photos that attract the attention of its target market.
  • It would be best if you finalized your ideas before designing your home or office.

Lessons from Top 5 Interior Stylists

There are plenty of interior stylists for magazines, homes, and the web with their exceptional creations. We admire their keen eye and magic touch. Here are five of your favorites from whom we can learn interior decorating and styling tips.  

1. Emily Henderson

Blogger Emily Henderson turned her website into a daily inspiration for interior design enthusiasts. Emily and her team write on various topics like window treatment, renovations, and more.

Contemporary farmhouses with a touch of Scandinavian minimalism are typically seen in rooms styled by the Henderson team. In addition, they blend neutral, precision, and nautical blues well. Because of that, the rooms exude a calm characteristic making it easy to identify a room arranged by Emily Henderson and her team. 

2. Sonia Carlson

Sonia Carlson applies her academic background and experience in interior design and architecture to her creations. Her portfolio includes consulting for high-end corporate projects, new construction, residential and commercial remodels, and boutique hotel and restaurant designs.

Sonia's favorite style is eclectic and modern, with a touch of mid-century Scandinavian. She draws inspiration from her Norwegian and Swedish roots to style spaces that are unique, global, and rich in culture. Sonia enjoys working with clients and prioritizes them. She believes that all designs should be motivated by getting the best results for her clients' sake!

3. Julia Green

Julia Green is the Founder of Greenhouse Interiors. She set out on a life-changing career change more than ten years ago. Today, Julia is among the most famous interior stylists in the world. Her team understands what interests interior design lovers. Likewise, they also offer concept development, styling, art direction, and set design.

Art-filled spaces promote Greenhouse Interiors' support of local artists and innovative design. The team also hosts workshops and talks on radio and TV as expert interior stylists. And recently, they took the chance to integrate interior styling with an online shop. 

4. Sophie Robinson

Sophie Robinson is an interior stylist who is crazy for color and knows how to stand out and banish beige. Scrolling through Sophie's website makes it easy to be drawn into her vibrant and fascinating home right away. Besides, she always showcases the latest designs and artwork by new and upcoming artists and crafters because they keep Sophie's interior styling more exciting. 

5. Joanna Gaines

Joanna Gaines is a co-founder of Magnolia and also a co-star of HGTV's Fixer Upper. This Kansas-born designer finished a degree in Communications but found her true passion in interior design during her internship in New York. From the home decor market stall, Joanna manages a successful interior design business today. Her signature style greatly reflects her appreciation for the traditional, more straightforward ways of living.

Conclusion

Finding an interior stylist who fits your style can take time and effort. Fortunately, getting help can be easier and faster than you think. Interior stylists know you can convert your space from boring to fabulous by pulling together those finishing touches. 

Featured image credit: Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels

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10 DIY Interior Design Ideas To Inspire You
January 17, 2023
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Only some people can afford to hire a professional interior designer to create a well-coordinated design. Besides, many property owners want to be the ones who decide and apply their style. Let's look at how to design and decorate your rooms into a space you once thought only experts could create. These DIY interior design ideas will help you pull off the look you've ever wanted without the hefty designer's fee. 

1. Roll Out a Rug to Add Texture

Photo by İbrahim Doğan on Pexels

Choosing the right rug will add texture and tactility to the floor, transforming the room's vibe. For instance, green area rugs draw inspiration from the colors of nature and look great in tropical, vintage, and Persian rug styles. The mid-century modern sage green rug in the kitchen provides a fresh pop of color while balancing out the warmer pink tones, offering a modern update on a retro palette.  

2. Add Big Statement Furniture Pieces

Photo by  Curtis Adams on Pexels

This DIY interior design idea is simple to adopt. Put a large sofa and one or two smaller chairs with attractive colors. This is just an example, but it allows you to mix furniture styles and sizes to make your space more balanced - not too bulky or crowded. 

Even if you are styling a small apartment, several decorating ideas exist. You can have at least one large statement piece, like a large armoire or cabinet. A combination of big and little is key to a successful interior design. 

3. Use Stylish Wicker Baskets

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Use woven baskets in your home or office decorating project if you want a more rustic approach. Baskets are great decorative items for additional storage. You can buy seagrass basket from home furnishing shops like a Pottery Barn. But instead of storage, it was used to hold a decorative indoor plant. 

4. Make it your Own 

Photo by  Curtis Adams on Pexels

Since it's your own space, interior design has no rights or wrongs. Everyone can design their own rooms. Considering the latest trends is worthwhile but always put your preference to make it extraordinary. The dining area in our example features mismatched chairs, making it more personalized and unique. 

5. Consider Colors and Fabrics 

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Experiment with the colors you want to use for the walls or wallpapers, furniture, curtains, and blinds. Professional interior design companies often recommend that three colors are better than two. The third color could highlight cushions, bed quilts, lampshades, or accessories like a tablecloth or a painting. 

6. Transform Old to New

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Interior design is more manageable If you have a blank canvas. But for DIY interior design, we must work with existing furniture, rugs, or other accessories. Look closely at the old furniture and think about how to give it a new life. Take inspiration from a vintage cabinet repurposed into a stunning bathroom vanity. You can find the complete tutorial on this project by reading this blog

7. Measure the Furniture

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Decide on the furniture you want in your room. Think about the dimensions. In an ample space, you need a big sofa and footstool. On the other hand, you need a bedside table in a small to average-sized. It is best to remember that even a small room should have one statement piece. More importantly, balancing large and small pieces creates an appealing space.

8. Go For Bold Paint Ideas 

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The key to modern interior design is to embrace the paint color that works for you. There are no definite rules for painting walls, headboards, and door frames. Plus, ceilings are not always painted in brilliant white. Well-known interior designers are against it. Using the right color can make the room look larger, too.

9. Fill a Room with a Signature Scent 

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Draw inspiration for hotel-style decorating tips and give your home a signature fragrance. It is an incredible technique that can transform your home atmosphere. Apply this DIY interior design idea using scented candles, diffusers, essential oils, or herbs. For example, lavender plants give your home a signature scent and promote positive energy. 

10. Add Finishing Touches

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Rugs, lampshades, paintings, cushions, and plants are some of the accessories that can make a huge difference. Take inspiration from this geometric-patterned floor lamp. This modern lamp has two shelves that can store books, frames, etc. Create an updated industrial vibe in your room by adding finishing touches like this. 

Conclusion

Now that you know how to adopt DIY interior design, it's time to implement these ideas. Along with a few more inputs from interior design tips for beginners, you can confidently do interior design on your own. Whether you prefer minimalistic, vintage, rustic, or more, you can apply these ideas to add interesting touches to any room and make it uniquely yours.

Featured image credit: Huseyn Kamaladdin on Pexels

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10 Accent Interior Design Ideas to Inspire You
January 16, 2023
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Interior design can be a difficult and time-consuming endeavor, more so if you are starting from scratch. It can be challenging to decide on a style and color scheme and to find the right furniture and accents to bring your vision to life. That's why we've created this list of 10 accent interior design ideas to help inspire you as you create the perfect space. From bold colors and patterns to unique furniture pieces, these accent ideas will help you create an area that is truly your own.

But first, what are accent interior designs?

Accent interior designs are elements that add interest or emphasis to a room. These elements can include items such as colorful throw pillows, bold artwork, or decorative rugs. The goal of accent pieces is to add personality and character to a space and make it feel more welcoming and cohesive. Some other common accent design ideas include:

  • Adding plants or flowers to a room brings in a natural element and gives it a welcome pop of color.
  • Using patterned wallpaper or a feature wall to create a bold visual statement.
  • Incorporating metallic accents, such as brass or gold fixtures, to add a touch of glamour.
  • Using colorful or patterned window treatments to add a playful touch to a room.
  • Adding texture using various materials, such as wood, stone, or fabric, gives a space depth and interest.

10 Accent Interior Design Ideas

And as promised, below are ten accent interior design ideas to help you create a space that you will truly love:

1. Throw Pillows

Photo by Merve Bayar on Pexels

A great way to add a pop of color to your interior design is to use throw pillows. Whether you go bold with bright colors and patterns or subtle with neutral tones, throw pillows are an easy and affordable way to make a room feel fresh and inviting. Use them to tie together different design elements or add extra comfort to a seating area. 

2. Wallpaper

Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels

 One of the most versatile accent interior design ideas to consider is wallpaper. From traditional floral patterns to bold geometric shapes, wallpaper can create a focal point or add subtle texture to a room. It can also add a touch of whimsy or a hint of nostalgia. Use it to cover an entire wall or just a portion, such as the back of a cabinet or the ceiling of a room. Wallpaper can help to add personality to a space, making it a great accent interior design idea to explore.

3. Wall Hangings

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 If you're looking for an easy way to add interest and texture to any room in your home, wall hangings are your best bet. From tapestries and woven pieces to beaded and macrame options, there are plenty of beautiful accent pieces to choose from. Hang them up on a wall or over furniture to inject a pop of color and personality into any space. For a more contemporary look, try hanging up a gallery wall of photos, art, and other items that can be arranged in different ways.

4. Lighting 

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The proper lighting can set the tone for any room and create a mood. There are many different lighting types, such as ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting. It can highlight a particular area, draw the eye to a specific piece of furniture, or even create a more intimate atmosphere. Accent lighting is a great way to add personality to your interior design and build an inviting atmosphere in any space.

5. Rugs 

Photo by Sina Saadatmand on Unsplash

Another great accent interior design item is the rug. Not only does it add warmth and texture to a room, but it can also be used to brighten up a space. You can use bold colors and patterns to add a pop of color and contrast to an area or a more subtle rug to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. You can also layer rugs to create depth and interest in any room. 

6. Mirrors 

Photo by Elena Kloppenburg on Unsplash

Add beautiful accents to any room using mirrors. They reflect who you are and can make a room look larger and brighter. Mirrors can create an illusion of space and draw attention to a certain area of the room. They also work great as a focal point for a room, with their reflective surface providing an exciting contrast to the surrounding area. They can be hung on the wall, placed on the floor, or even mounted on the ceiling. 

7. Fabrics 

Photo by Minh Pham on Unsplash

Fabric is an integral part of accent interior design. It brings a room to life and adds a touch of personality to your space. Whether you opt for bold and bright prints, subtle and classic solids, or a combination of both, fabrics can create a unique look. Consider using patterned curtains, upholstered furniture, textured rugs, and accent pillows to create a fun and inviting atmosphere. Not only will this make your home more inviting, but it will also add visual interest. 

8. Greenery 

Photo by Andrea Davis on Pexels

Plants have been gaining popularity in interior design, and for good reason. They add a fresh and vibrant touch to any space and are an easy way to add texture and color. Not only do plants bring life to a room, but they're also incredibly versatile. You can put them in hanging baskets, shelves, or wall planters. If you're looking for a way to spruce up your space and bring the outdoors in, consider incorporating some greenery into your home. 

9. Accessories 

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Think about adding wall hangings, artwork, throw pillows, and rugs to your room to create a fashionable look. If you want to make a statement, try a statement piece like a bright armchair or a large painting. You can also add color to your room with throw blankets or an area rug in a bright color or pattern. Accessories like lamps, vases, and planters can add depth and interest to your space. With some thoughtful accents, your room can be transformed into a more modern and stylish space.

10. Artwork

Photo by Jonny Caspari on Unsplash

Another great way to incorporate color and texture into your interior design is through artwork. Start by finding some in colors that match the room's overall color scheme. If you have a neutral color scheme, consider brightening it up with a pop of color in the artwork. You can also create a focal point in the room with larger art pieces or hang several smaller pieces together for an attractive gallery wall. 

Final Thoughts

Interior design is an art form that has evolved, and it doesn't take much to give your home a unique and beautiful look. Whether you want to add a few accent pieces or completely transform your interior space, these ten interior design ideas will give you the inspiration you need to create a stunning space that reflects your style and taste. From bold colors and modern furniture to custom wall art and statement pieces, these ideas will help you create a space that will be admired for years.

Featured Image: Photo by Samantha Gades on Unsplash

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Top 10 Virtual Room Designer Apps to Try in 2023
January 16, 2023
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Technology continues to evolve and revolutionize how we design and decorate our homes. From virtual reality (VR) to augmented reality (AR), the possibilities are endless. With the help of these ten best virtual room designer apps, you can explore an infinite variety of designs and decorating ideas without ever having to leave your home.

1. Roomstyler 3D Home Planner

Screenshot from Roomstyler 3D Home Planner

This virtual room designer app lets you create a 3D room with a variety of options for furniture and d�cor. Roomstyler 3D Home Planner is user-friendly and has an easy-to-use interface. You can easily change the size and shape of the room, add furniture and d�cor, and move them around. 

You can also adjust the lighting in the room and get a virtual preview of what it would look like in real life. Contact Roomstyler for more details on its custom pricing for the software.

2. SmartDraw

Screenshot from SmartDraw

Another notable online virtual room designer app, SmartDraw, lets you easily create floor plans and 3D models. It is a user-friendly app that allows you to add furniture, flooring, and other accessories to a digital room layout. You can even add 3D models of furniture and appliances to your room. The app also includes a library of sample room designs to help you get started. You can also share your design with friends and family for feedback.

SmartDraw is great for those who want to create detailed and sophisticated designs while still being able to make adjustments with ease.

3. Homestyler

Screenshot from Homestyler

Homestyler is perfect for anyone looking to redesign their space without leaving the comfort of their own home. It allows users to experiment with different design concepts, visualize their ideas in 3D, and customize their space with thousands of furniture, lighting, and accessories. It also includes various design tools, such as inspiration boards, color palettes, and tutorials to help bring your vision to life. 

Its simple drag-and-drop design interface and ready-made templates make it the perfect choice for anyone looking to give their space a makeover.

4. Armstrong DesignVisualizer

Screenshot from Armstrong DesignVisualizer

Create unique interior designs with Armstrong DesignVisualizer, even without technical skills. This app allows you to virtually decorate your room with thousands of colors, patterns, and textures from the Armstrong Flooring collection. You can also add furniture and accessories from the app's library to make it your own. 

The app also provides 3D visualization to see what your room would look like with certain design elements. It also allows you to save and print your design for future reference. 

5. Planner 5D

Screenshot from Planner 5D

An easy-to-use virtual room designer app, Planner 5D can help you create designs for your home. It offers a range of 3D visualization tools and options to customize your room designs. You can use the app to create a detailed floor plan of your room, view different furniture and appliances from different angles, and even add decorations and accessories. 

The app also provides an easy-to-use interface to adjust the size, color, and texture of any object in the room. You can even save and share your designs with friends on social media. With Planner 5D, you can create a beautiful and functional space in no time.

6. HomeByMe

Screenshot from HomeByMe

One of the leading virtual room designer apps available to homeowners, HomeByMe offers numerous features and functions that make it easy to visualize and design a room. The app allows users to create a 3D model of a room, add furniture and accessories, and customize the design with colors, textures, and materials. 

You can also view different layouts for each room and make changes according to your preference. The app allows users to share their designs with friends and family and collaborate on projects. HomeByMe is user-friendly and offers an easy-to-use interface. 

7. DecorMatters

Screenshot from DecorMatters

An innovative virtual room designer app, DecorMatters, can help you create a room design in 3D. You can select from various 3D furniture categories and virtual home accessories to make a room that meets your specifications. Choose from a range of flooring and wall coverings and see how the room design looks in real time. 

You can also mix and match furniture pieces and home accessories to create a unique look. With DecorMatters, you can save and share your room design with others. This is an excellent app for anyone who wants to design a room without having to actually go and purchase furniture. 

8. Sweet Home 3D

Screenshot from Sweet Home 3D

Another great virtual room designer software you need to check out is Sweet Home 3D. It allows you to add various objects, such as furniture and appliances, to create a 3D visualization of your dream room. The app also includes a library of 3D objects to choose from and an interior design feature that helps you plan your room's layout. 

In addition, it lets you add textures to the walls and floors and customize lighting and shadows. This app is available on both mobile and desktop, making it a great choice for designers on the go. 

9. The Home Renovator

Screenshot from The Home Renovator

Start your home decorating project with The Home Renovator app. It is easy to use and provides a 3D view of the room, giving you a realistic look before making any changes. It also offers a variety of options for furniture and other elements to customize the space. 

With this app, you can get creative with your choices, as the app has a wide selection of textures and materials. Furthermore, the app lets you share your projects with friends and family for feedback and advice. 

10. MagicPlan

Screenshot from MagicPlan

A virtual room designer app that allows users to quickly create professional-looking floor plans by taking measurements of a physical space. MagicPlan is easy to use and comes with various features, including a 3D visualization, an extensive library of objects, and an option to export and share plans. 

It's an ideal choice for those looking for a way to quickly and easily create a room layout without learning complicated design software. MagicPlan can also be used to create a design for an entire house, from the exterior to the interior, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and amateurs.

Final Thoughts

The future of virtual room design is here, and it's closer than ever. With the top 10 virtual room designer apps for 2023, you can now design your rooms from the comfort of your own home with ease. Whether you're looking for something simple or a more complex design, these apps can help you get the perfect look for your space.

Featured Image Source: This_is_ Engineering from Pixabay

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7 Types of Modern Office Design
January 13, 2023
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We've come a long way with office design. Cubicles are being phased out and companies are reimagining how design can facilitate productivity at work. We now understand that office design can hinder our wellbeing or enhance it. Whether you're flying solo in a small office or working with a team in a larger space, there are plenty of ways to make improvements. If your workspace could use a revamp, these modern office design concepts will inspire you to make some changes.

1. Industrial Design

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Industrial is a common style of modern office design, especially in coworking spaces. Exposed brick, wood, concrete, and other building materials are a hallmark of this style. Most industrial designs have open floor plans and a 'chic factory' feel to them. There is typically less decor and more space, but the decor that is chosen is usually tidy, deliberately-placed, and sophisticated.

This type of design is largely dictated by architecture and less so decor. While you may not have an industrial space, you can still borrow elements from this design style if it suits your taste. For example, choosing modern and minimalist chairs. Straight black lines are a staple in industrial design, so choosing black furniture, light fixtures, or window and door trim will give your space an industrial feel. 

2. Mid-Century Design

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This design style can be funky and colorful or toned-down and professional. It's all about incorporating vintage pieces, or modern pieces that are reminiscent of the mid-century. Generally considered to be the 1930s to the 1960s, mid-century was a time when offices and living spaces were relatively simple Some hallmarks of mid-century design include both straight and curved furniture, minimal ornamentation, and natural materials. Warm wood tones were also a staple of this era.

To give your space a mid-century feel, look for quality wood furniture and unique vintage shapes in your lighting. Art can include geometric patterns, earth tones, or bold colors.

3. Bohemian Design 

Image Credit: Ksenya Chernaya from Pexels

In some ways, bohemian design is about breaking rules. There's no need to hold back on colors, complex patterns, and ornamentation. Bohemian design often goes heavy on plants and decor. Designers can go with either dark and dramatic colors or light and earthy tones to accomplish this style. 

To design your office space with bohemian flair, experiment with patterns and layering. Contrary to popular belief, bohemian design isn't a free-for-all explosion of unrelated design elements. While there's lots of boho office decor out there, it's more about curating a collection of artistic pieces that create a sense of fullness in the space.

4. Traditional Design

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Can a modern office design be traditional? Absolutely. For those who aren't looking to reinvent the wheel, a traditional office layout is perfect. The key to executing a traditional design is to have no surprises. Keeping things simple and tasteful is key. Decor might include books, simple lamps, and landscape art. For a more mature look, consider a chandelier or an ornate rug. Colors should be neutral and calming; nothing that shocks the eye or appears out of place. To add some layers, consider floral, plaid, or striped elements to complete this modern office design look.

5. Urban Jungle Design

Image Credit: Marc Mueller from Pexels

Urban jungle design is about blending the indoors and outdoors. Office spaces with this style may have elements of both industrial and bohemian design- think bamboo wood, clean black lines, and patterned planters scattered throughout the space. Living or artificial green walls are also popular here.

This particular office design facilitates both seclusion and spaciousness. The slatted wall dividers provide some privacy for meetings without making participants feel boxed into a windowless space. This modern office design attempts to strike a balance between personal and collaborative space. It does just that with a wide hallway leading out to a dining area and a sequestered seating area for individuals on the right.

6. Minimalist Design

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In the quest to acquire less stuff and move away from consumerism, minimalism has exploded in popularity. Minimalist office designs have a unique upside: They're not distracting. Workers in minimalist spaces may have an easier time focusing because there's no clutter to distract the eye.

While it's not required, white is often a hallmark feature of minimalist design. Rather than layering colors or patterns, white on white is perfectly acceptable in a minimalist space. Decor is either non-existent or sparse. To execute a minimalist office design, be very choosy with what you allow into the space. Think about functionality and spaciousness, and let decor be simple and out of the way.

7. Scandinavian Design

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Scandinavian design is eclectic and may contain elements of the other styles we've discussed. 

Like bohemian design, Scandinavian design often plays with light wood, off-whites, and patterned pillows. Like minimalist and traditional design, Scandinavian design typically keeps things conservative and simple. It meshes well with industrial design, and the term "scandi-industrial" was even coined to show how the two can seamlessly blend. 

To accomplish a Scandinavian office design, experiment with grays, blues, blacks, whites, or tans. Simple sculptures and natural textiles like wool, linen, and burlap fit this style. Think industrial but with a lot more "hygge." 

Modern Office Design for Your Space

Hopefully one or more of these styles stand out to you. Consider your natural lighting and any furniture already in your space to determine what would complement it best. 

Regardless of the shape or size of the office, you can borrow design elements from any of these classic styles. There tends to be some overlap between these trends, so don't be afraid to mix and match a bit. At the end of the day, the right office design is whatever makes you feel comfortable and productive.

Featured Image Credit: LYCS Architecture from Unsplash

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Avoid These 10 Interior Design Mistakes Everyone Has Been Doing
January 9, 2023
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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

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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

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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

Photo by Pexels from Pixabay

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. 

Featured Image: Photo by Binyamin Mellish from Pexels

Interior Designers
8 Interior Design Rules as Told By the Experts
December 20, 2022
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Decorating your home could be a big pain in the neck. With so many design rules, you'd probably want to hire an expert and get it over with. Of course, this might not be a budget-friendly option for some. So if you're designing your home DIY style, here are 10 interior design rules you must follow. 

1. Consider form and function

Considering both form and function and not one over the other is crucial in interior design. If you have a piece of furniture that looks good but is useless, it doesn't serve your space. It's the same thing if you buy a piece of functional furniture that doesn't go well with your home's theme. 

Don't be envious of that beautiful executive desk that might go well with your living room sofa. If you're not working from home anyway, why buy it? Better yet, don't buy that lingerie chest that will look good with your king bed if you have a place for your lingerie already. Before purchasing furniture pieces, weigh if it serves both form and function.

2. Choose a color scheme

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Choosing a base color is the first step in identifying the perfect color scheme. You may refer to the year's trending color or color psychology to guide you in selecting one. Once you've chosen a base color, refer to a color wheel to determine the colors and hues that go with your base color. A color wheel shows how colors naturally blend, combine, and contrast and is a go-to interior designer's tool.

3. Include different lighting types

Invest in lighting, as it sets the mood in any room. Remember that dark colors may emanate a more hostile and gloomy atmosphere. On the other hand, brighter colors evoke a happy and positive vibe.

Lighting in a room should look pretty. Mix up different types of lighting and use energy-efficient ones. The four most common types of lighting are ambient, task, accent, and decorative. 

4. Mix textures to create layers

Creating layers in every room makes the space homier and welcoming. If you feel something is lacking in your room, the lack of layers might not be hitting the mark. Mix different textures, such as colors, fabric, patterns, surface treatments, lighting, pictures, and more. 

For instance, mix wood with metal or natural fabrics with rattan. Or you may throw in some plants with your rug or accent cushions. 

5. Include a statement piece

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A focal point means it grabs a viewer's attention immediately. It's the most evident piece of decoration or accessory in a room. And every space must have a focal point, including statement pieces that steal the limelight. Any hero or statement piece must be able to impact a room. 

It can be an oversized work of art, a patterned rug, a brick wall, a giant floor lamp, or a contemporary, bold sofa. These stage-stealing pieces give any room a good, cohesive look. 

6. Seek symmetry

A haphazard room isn't very appealing at all. A space that doesn't provide balance or a hierarchy of design elements will feel too overwhelming. It resembles clutter and may have a negative impact on your mood. Experts suggest always seeking symmetry, even in the most maximalist rooms. 

Symmetry is a technique interior designers use to achieve a space that looks dainty and smart. It often starts with the focal point and creates rhythm throughout. Moreover, it makes the room look relaxing and calm. 

7. Add mirrors

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This is one of the oldest but most helpful interior design rules. Adding mirrors does so much more for your space than you can imagine. First, it expands the room by bouncing light from different angles. Secondly, mirrors can also highlight the statement pieces in your room. Plus, a mirror distributes the space, which creates depth and energy. 

Adding mirrors is also a helpful decorating tip for small spaces. Since it reflects views and lighting, which makes the space brighter, making the room seem more spacious.

8. Dress your windows

Make your curtains kiss the floor, making your room seem taller. Avoid dressing your windows and hang curtains at half-mast. Moreover, the length of the curtains isn't the only factor to consider. You also have to take note of the width, which means choosing a curtain rod that extends past the window casing up to several inches. This doesn't only make your space look bigger, but it also invites natural light. 

Conclusion

Before you embark on decorating your space with these interior design rules, make sure you consider the golden ratio. This valuable technique involves measuring the room and using the 2:3 rule. It involves dividing the space into two sections, and the larger one should be where your big furniture pieces go, like the sofa. Once the bigger furniture pieces are arranged, you can work down to the smaller ones.

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15 Coworking Furniture Ideas For Collaborative Workspaces
December 20, 2022
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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 

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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 

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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 

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 

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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

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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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