In decorating, like any endeavor, there are lessons to be learned and if carried out will make you better.

Sure there is an aspect of art, your "eye" and flair to decorating, but knowing the basics lessons and using them will make you a better decorator.  There is no doubt in my mind that this is true.

Today I am sharing Ten Lessons that will make you a better decorator instantaneously.  

For more detail on each of these lessons, listen to this podcast episode:

 

Ten Lessons to Make You a Better Decorator

One

Take a photo of your room and analyze it.  The photo will tell you things your eyes don't see.  Try it ~ you'll be amazed at what you miss in person. 

Based on your analysis of the photo make the necessary changes to the room.  Take another photo and see how the room presents itself then.  

A photo of my dining room from this angle suggests to me that 'something' might be needed on that blank wall.  Walking by it all day long, I don't get the same laser focus. 

Two

Consider the purpose, use & functionality of the room/space.  This should be of primary concern. 

If a room/space doesn't suit the purpose, how it is being used or simply doesn't function well, it cannot be a well decorated room.  This is the case no matter how many beautiful thing you fill it with.  Being a great decorator is NOT just about decoration per se.

 

Three

Choose a limited color palette.  Whether you like bold color or subtle neutrals, select three colors to work with and perhaps one additional accent color.  No more than 4 colors total.

Four

Create flow throughout the room/space using color and design elements. 

Carry that accent color and/or design element around your home almost like a connect the dots game.

I use an occasional pop color to create flow, but my main stay to create flow is a decor element - white pitchers & ironstone.  Both flow throughout my main floor.

Five

Add a touch of black to every room. 

Black is grounding and makes everything else better for its presence. This need not be paint or fabric.  Black can make an appearance in metal table legs, hardware, frames etc.

 

Six

Add a healthy, good size plant.  

Seven

Layer textures on the floor and furniture.  Add a mid sized patterned or hide rug over a sisal.

Drape a throw or vintage linen over the back of the sofa. Texture adds depth & interest, especially in a neutral toned room.

Eight

Add a mirror to every room.  Big or small, a mirror will do wonders for any room, especially ones without an abundance of natural light. 

If your space allows for a large sized mirror go for it!  You will not be sorry you did.

 

 

Nine

Create personal vignettes using objects of varying heights & textures. 

Ten

Blend storage with decor. 

Let's face it a lot of storage items are un attractive, so use your lovely pieces to hold the papers & belongings you must keep.  Such as vintage suitcase filled with off season hats & gloves slid under a bench in the hall. 

You get the idea ~ now think of ways you can store your things in decor pieces you already own. 

The ironstone tureen in the center of my hutch hold cookie cutters, the 4 French canisters hold matches, batteries, rubber bands and the small one acts like a tiny "junk drawer".  If it is little & lost, look there!

There you have it 10 Lessons to Make you a Better Decorator !  Hope these help you to create a beautiful home.

Now for your hard work learning these lessons, I have a special give away for you. 

Cactus Lounge Boutique  a fabulous on line clothing shop is offering you a $50 Gift Certificate.  If you listen to my podcast you can hear all about CLB on THIS episode.

Click HERE to enter the give away ~ Good Luck!

Winner chosen by random and will be notified by email on or about April 2, 2019.

** Kelly **