There’s so much more to interior design than dictating which drapes, furniture and colours will look best in your home. In fact, before the design process can even begin there are a number of different factors that should be taken into consideration. These are just some of the things I consider very carefully when I first start working with my clients…

1. Lifestyle

I always begin my consultations by asking as many questions as possible about my clients’ lifestyle. Knowing things like how many people are in the household and whether or not there’s a need to cater for influxes or downsizing is vital if I am to do my job well. Understanding how my clients live their life is incredibly important too.

2. Likes and Dislikes

I couldn’t possibly begin designing anything for anyone without getting a feel for their personal likes and dislikes. It’s always helpful when clients can show me a few pictures of designs that appeal to them, but I always advise shutting the book or putting down the phone before the consultation truly gets underway. I want all my clients to embark on their own exciting interior journeys, rather than copying off other people’s.

3. Practicality

There’s no point designing an interior without ensuring it is going to serve a purpose. When it comes to practicality I consider many different aspects. Use and lifespan of products, versatility, and budget are definitely essential, but noise is fast becoming an important consideration; these days many of my clients live in homes with large open plan areas.

4. Space and Lighting

Spaces can be relaxing or feel empty, overfilled or underfilled, warm or cold. It is great design that dictates whether your spaces really work for your home. Good natural light is incredibly important too, although many people forget (or simply don’t realise they need) to take this into consideration. It can be tempting to fiddle around with a floor plan, but I do advise my clients talk to an architect before making any changes that can effect lighting. Further to this, there needs to be a balance between task lighting, general lighting and mood lighting at night time. A lighting plan designed by an expert is essential.

5. Balance and Symmetry

Balance includes height and is impacted by whether a space is formal or informal. If a wall is heavy with furniture it will need balance on the other sides of the room. Sometimes balance can be achieved by carefully arranging furniture, other times balance can be found by utilising a large picture window or a piece of art. An assymetrical look works really well for informal rooms, while placing furniture more symmetrically instantly makes a room look and feel formal.

6. Continuity and Flow

Well designed homes flow seamlessly from one room to another. Though I do like to inject different personalities into different rooms, I am a fan of using repeated colours and patterns. I always consider whether each room feels as though it belongs in the same house. Themed rooms can make a home feel dissonant.

7. Colour, Texture, and Shape

When it comes to the mood and energy of a room, colour tends to be the biggest influence. Contrast colours can really lift a room, while texture adds warmth and interest.

8. Furniture and Dressing of the Room

Before a room is put together, there is almost always an image or idea (whether hazy or detailed) of how the completed job will look. As a designer this comes easily to me, and I am able to picture ahead of time whether or not a look is going to work. It is for this reason that I highly recommend seeking the services of an experienced designer – without one there is no guarantee that your room will turn out the way you had envisioned.

 
Interior Designer, Tauranga

If you need help with the design of your interior, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would love to take all these factors into consideration for you!

  
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Featured image taken from buildingguide.co.nz