How to Make a Small Space Feel Bigger with Interior Design

Choosing the right wall color for your home is a critical decision that affects the ambiance, mood, and overall aesthetic of the space. With so many shades and tones to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or just updating a single room, understanding the dos and don’ts of wall color selection will ensure you make choices that enhance your space.

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The Dos

1. Do Consider the Room’s Purpose

When choosing a wall color, it’s essential to consider the function of the room. Different colors can evoke different emotions and moods, which can impact how you feel in a space.

• Living rooms and lounges: Opt for warm, inviting tones like beige, soft yellows, or calming blues. These shades create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
• Bedrooms: Soft pastels, muted tones, or serene blues and greens can promote relaxation and restful sleep.
• Kitchens: Warm tones like off-whites, light greens, or muted reds can stimulate appetite and promote a lively environment.

Understanding the room's purpose will help you select a color that not only looks good but also supports the desired mood and functionality.

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2. Do Test Paint Samples First

Before committing to a single color for an entire room, always test small sections of the wall with paint samples. The lighting in your room can drastically alter how a color looks, and the natural light throughout the day can change its appearance.

• Consider light: North-facing rooms tend to be cooler, so warm tones like beige, tan, or soft yellows work well. South-facing rooms benefit from cooler shades like soft blues or muted grays.
• Try multiple shades: Even within the same color family, different shades can dramatically impact the space. Always test several swatches on different walls before making your final decision.

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3. Do Complement Your Existing Furniture and Decor

Wall color should complement the rest of the interior design, not clash with your existing furniture, flooring, or decor. If your furniture has bold patterns or colors, it’s better to go with neutral or subtle wall colors that allow your decor to stand out.

• Neutral colors: Light gray, taupe, and whites serve as versatile backdrops, making your furniture and decor the focal points of the room.
• Accent walls: If you’re working with a more vibrant color scheme, you can use an accent wall to add depth and contrast without overwhelming the room.

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4. Do Use Color to Create Contrast

If you want to highlight specific areas or features in your home, use color to create contrast. Lighter shades can make a room feel bigger and airier, while darker colors create a more intimate and cozy vibe.

• Ceilings: For a more spacious feel, paint the ceiling a lighter color, like white or soft pastels, to reflect light and make the room appear taller.
• Trim and Doors: A contrasting color for trim and doors can help define the architectural features of the room.

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The Don’ts

1. Don’t Overlook Lighting

Lighting plays a significant role in how colors appear in a room. A color that looks great in one room may look entirely different when exposed to different lighting conditions.

• Artificial lighting: Warm lighting can make colors appear richer and softer, while cool lighting can make them seem more vibrant or stark.
• Natural light: Be mindful of how natural light enters the room and the time of day it’s most prominent. It’s advisable to observe how your selected paint color looks in various lighting before finalizing.

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2. Don’t Rely Solely on Trends

While it's tempting to follow the latest color trends, it's important to choose colors that reflect your personality and work with the overall style of your home. Popular colors like Pantone’s “Color of the Year” may not be suitable for every space, and they may lose their appeal over time.

• Timeless over trendy: Opt for colors that stand the test of time. Neutral tones, such as grays, whites, and muted pastels, can complement a variety of design styles and won’t look outdated in a few years.
• Personal preference: Your home should reflect your tastes. Don’t choose a color because it’s trendy if it doesn’t align with your personal style or the mood you want to create.

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3. Don’t Be Afraid of Dark Colors

While dark colors may seem intimidating, they can add sophistication and drama to a room when used correctly. However, it's essential to balance dark tones with lighter furnishings or accents to prevent the room from feeling closed in.

• Create balance: Dark shades like navy blue, charcoal gray, or deep plum can make a bold statement, but pairing them with lighter furniture, artwork, or accents can prevent the space from feeling too heavy.

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4. Don’t Forget to Consider the Flow

When selecting wall colors for different rooms in an open floor plan, it's important to maintain a sense of flow and cohesion. Rooms that are connected should have complementary colors or seamless transitions to avoid jarring contrasts.

• Color continuity: Choose a palette that harmonizes across rooms. For example, a neutral base like soft white or beige can create continuity, while subtle variations in accent shades can introduce depth and character without feeling disjointed.
• Flow between spaces: Use colors that create a natural transition from one room to another. For instance, you might choose one dominant shade for the hallway, living room, and dining room and then introduce contrasting accent walls for a unique touch.

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Conclusion

Selecting the right wall color is a vital part of creating a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing environment. By considering the purpose of each room, testing paint samples, and balancing your color choices with the overall design of your home, you can achieve a space that reflects your personal style while enhancing the functionality of the space.

Remember to avoid relying solely on trends, and don’t shy away from dark tones or bold contrasts. With thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of how color interacts with your space, you can choose the perfect hue to transform any room.

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This article is part of DreamR’s ongoing series on transformative design and living spaces.

Home renovations can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're updating a single room or embarking on a full house transformation, planning your renovation is key to ensuring a successful outcome. A well-thought-out plan helps you stay on track, manage costs, and avoid unnecessary stress. This step-by-step guide will take you through the entire process of planning a home renovation from start to finish.

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1. Define Your Goals and Vision

Before diving into your renovation project, it’s essential to define your goals. Are you looking to improve the functionality of your space, increase its aesthetic appeal, or enhance its value? Understanding the purpose behind your renovation will help guide your decisions throughout the process.

• Functional Goals: Do you need more space? Consider expanding or reconfiguring rooms.
• Aesthetic Goals: Are you aiming for a more modern, traditional, or eclectic look? Determine the style and design you prefer.
• Investment Goals: Is your goal to increase your home’s resale value? Focus on renovations that will enhance the appeal of the property.

Once you have a clear vision of your goals, create a mood board or inspiration folder that includes images, colors, and designs you like. This visual aid will help you stay focused as you move through the project.

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2. Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most crucial steps in planning a home renovation is setting a realistic budget. Costs can quickly add up, and it’s easy to underestimate the expenses involved. When setting your budget, consider the following:

• Construction Costs: This includes labor, materials, and any structural changes.
• Design Fees: Hiring an interior designer or architect might be necessary, depending on the complexity of your renovation.
• Permit Fees: Some renovations may require permits, so factor in these costs.
• Contingency Fund: Set aside 10-15% of your total budget for unexpected expenses or surprises.

Be realistic about what you can afford and prioritize key renovations if necessary. A good rule of thumb is to keep your renovation budget under 20% of your home’s current value.

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3. Hire the Right Professionals

Finding the right team is crucial for a successful renovation. Depending on the scope of your project, you may need different professionals, such as:

• Interior Designers: They can help bring your vision to life, ensuring that the design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
• Contractors: These professionals handle the construction work, whether it's building new walls, renovating a kitchen, or upgrading plumbing.
• Specialized Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC specialists might be necessary for specific tasks like wiring, installing new plumbing systems, or updating heating and cooling systems.

When hiring professionals, be sure to check references, ask for quotes, and confirm their credentials. Trustworthy contractors will communicate openly and provide realistic timelines and cost estimates.

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4. Obtain Necessary Permits

In some cases, your renovation will require building permits, especially if you’re altering the structure of your home, adding plumbing or electrical systems, or making significant changes to the property’s footprint. Without the proper permits, your renovation could be halted or fined.

Your contractor or architect should be familiar with local building codes and zoning regulations. Work with them to secure the necessary permits before starting work. This ensures your renovation is compliant with local laws and codes.

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5. Create a Timeline

A timeline is essential for ensuring your renovation stays on track. Discuss realistic timeframes with your contractor, factoring in project complexity, weather, and availability of materials. Here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:

• Planning and Design Phase: 2-4 weeks (depending on the project complexity).
• Demolition and Construction: 4-12 weeks (depending on the scope).
• Finishing and Detailing: 2-4 weeks (includes painting, flooring, etc.).

Be prepared for delays, and remember that flexibility is key. Unexpected challenges such as supply chain issues or weather delays can push back your timeline.

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6. Plan for Temporary Living Arrangements

If your renovation affects major parts of your home (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom), you may need to make alternative living arrangements. If your renovation takes several months, renting an apartment or staying with family might be necessary.

Plan ahead for these accommodations and factor the costs into your renovation budget. If possible, try to keep the work zone contained to avoid disruption to your daily life.

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7. Select Materials and Finishes

Choosing the right materials and finishes is one of the most fun and rewarding parts of the renovation process. The materials you choose will directly impact the final look and durability of your space. Some key materials to consider:

• Flooring: Hardwood, tile, or vinyl? Consider both durability and style.
• Countertops: Marble, quartz, or granite for kitchens and bathrooms?
• Paint: Selecting the right color is crucial for setting the tone of the space.

Remember to balance aesthetics with functionality. Choose materials that suit your lifestyle—if you have children or pets, opt for durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.

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8. Monitor Progress and Stay Involved

As your renovation progresses, stay involved and communicate regularly with your contractor and design team. Regular site visits allow you to see how things are going, catch any potential issues early, and make sure everything is being done to your satisfaction.

It’s important to stay flexible and be prepared to make small adjustments as necessary, but avoid making last-minute changes to the design or materials unless absolutely needed.

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9. Final Walkthrough and Quality Check

Once the renovation is complete, do a final walkthrough with your contractor to ensure everything is finished to your satisfaction. Check that all work is completed, including touch-ups, installations, and any final details. Pay attention to the quality of the materials and finishes, and ensure everything functions properly.

It’s also helpful to ask your contractor about the maintenance of new materials or systems, so you can care for your space long after the renovation is finished.

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Conclusion

Planning a home renovation involves careful consideration, budgeting, and coordination with professionals. By defining your goals, setting a realistic budget, and assembling the right team, you can ensure your renovation project is a success. Follow these steps to create a beautiful, functional space that reflects your personal style and enhances your home for years to come.

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This article is part of DreamR’s ongoing series on transformative design and living spaces.

Selecting the right furniture is one of the most crucial elements of interior design. Whether you’re designing a new space from scratch or renovating a room, the furniture you choose plays a central role in determining the overall feel of the space. Choosing furniture that complements your interior design style will not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but also ensure functionality and comfort. Here’s a guide to help you select the right furniture for your home, tailored to your unique design style.

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Understanding Your Interior Design Style

Before you begin shopping for furniture, it's essential to understand the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your home. Your interior design style will guide the selection of materials, colors, and shapes of the furniture you choose.

1. Minimalist Design

Minimalism focuses on clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. Furniture in a minimalist space is often low-profile, with simple silhouettes and neutral colors. Opt for pieces that have sleek designs without excessive decoration. Think of low-profile sofas with neutral-colored upholstery, slim-legged tables, and modular furniture that can easily be adapted to different needs.

• Key Features: Neutral tones, functional, and unadorned designs.
• Furniture Tips: Choose streamlined pieces with clean lines and functional elements that don’t overpower the space.

2. Scandinavian Design

Inspired by the Nordic regions, Scandinavian design is all about light, airy spaces with natural materials. Furniture in this style combines simplicity with comfort. Wood, especially light-colored woods like oak or beech, is often used for furniture. To bring the Scandinavian look to life, choose light-colored furniture that embraces natural textures and organic forms.

• Key Features: Light woods, neutral tones, and natural textures.
• Furniture Tips: Go for simple, functional furniture with an emphasis on comfort and natural finishes.

3. Industrial Design

Industrial design is inspired by warehouses and factories, with exposed brick walls, metal accents, and rough wood surfaces. The furniture often has a rugged, utilitarian feel, using materials like reclaimed wood, metal, and leather. When choosing furniture for an industrial-style home, focus on pieces that combine form with function—think robust, sturdy furniture with an unfinished, raw quality.

• Key Features: Raw, unfinished elements, metal, and wood.
• Furniture Tips: Look for large, robust pieces that embrace an urban and utilitarian aesthetic, such as metal-framed chairs or leather sofas.

4. Bohemian Design

Bohemian design is all about creating a relaxed, eclectic atmosphere full of vibrant colors, patterns, and textures. Boho furniture often incorporates vintage and global influences, with a mix of plush textiles, wooden furniture, and colorful accents. When selecting furniture for a bohemian-style home, don't be afraid to mix different textures, materials, and colors.

• Key Features: Eclectic, colorful, vintage, and layered textures.
• Furniture Tips: Embrace mismatched pieces and a variety of textiles, such as rattan chairs, Moroccan rugs, and vintage armchairs.

5. Mid-Century Modern Design

Mid-century modern design, popularized in the mid-20th century, is known for its clean lines, organic shapes, and functionality. The furniture from this period is typically made of wood and features simple, geometric shapes with an emphasis on form and function. To achieve this style, look for pieces like tapered leg furniture, clean-lined sofas, and angular tables.

• Key Features: Geometric shapes, functional, and elegant.
• Furniture Tips: Choose pieces with natural wood, clean lines, and simple shapes. Don’t shy away from incorporating retro accessories for added charm.

6. Traditional Design

Traditional design is characterized by rich colors, elegant furniture, and a focus on symmetry. The furniture in a traditional-style room tends to be more ornate and classical, with details such as carved wood and plush upholstery. When designing a traditional home, opt for furniture that has an air of timeless sophistication, such as wingback chairs, antique-style dressers, and large wooden tables.

• Key Features: Rich colors, ornate detailing, and classic materials.
• Furniture Tips: Choose pieces with intricate detailing, classic silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics.

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Furniture Selection Tips

1. Prioritize Comfort and Functionality

While aesthetics are important, comfort and functionality should be your priority when selecting furniture. Consider how you’ll use each space and choose furniture that serves both practical and visual purposes. For instance, if you entertain frequently, choose a sofa that can comfortably seat multiple people without looking bulky. Similarly, a dining table should be sturdy and provide enough space for family meals.

2. Scale and Proportion

The scale of your furniture should be in proportion to the size of your space. Avoid overcrowding a room with oversized furniture or cramming too many pieces into a small room. Large, bulky pieces may overwhelm a compact living room, while small-scale furniture may look lost in a spacious area. Always measure your space before buying and ensure the furniture fits comfortably without disrupting the room's flow.

3. Focus on Quality Materials

The material of the furniture can greatly influence the style and durability of your home. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal often lend an organic feel to the space. Upholstery choices like leather, velvet, or linen can add texture and richness to the furniture. Choose high-quality materials that not only look good but also stand the test of time.

4. Harmonize with the Color Palette

Furniture selection should align with the room's color palette. If your room is filled with neutral tones, you can add pops of color through furniture pieces, like a bold-colored armchair or a patterned sofa. Conversely, if your room already features vibrant wall colors or artwork, opt for furniture in neutral shades to balance the space.

5. Versatility and Adaptability

Furniture should be versatile enough to adapt to changing needs. Opt for pieces that can easily be rearranged or repurposed. For example, modular sofas, foldable tables, or multi-functional furniture like ottomans with storage are great options for a flexible, adaptable space.

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Conclusion

Selecting the right furniture for your interior design style is a delicate balance between aesthetics, function, and comfort. Whether you’re leaning towards minimalist, boho, industrial, or mid-century modern, the key is to choose pieces that resonate with your personal style while enhancing the functionality of your space. By understanding your design style and applying these furniture selection tips, you can create a harmonious, beautiful home that reflects your unique personality and meets your everyday needs.

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This article is part of DreamR’s ongoing series on transformative design and living spaces.