Ways to Create a “Designed” Home
Creating a home that feels effortlessly stylish yet lived-in is a delicate art. The trick lies in finding balance—between polished and practical, curated and comfortable. Let me share some ways of achieving that ‘designed’ look without straying into overly staged or sterile territory.
1. Start with a Vision, Not a Theme
A vision creates cohesion without locking you into rigid boundaries, unlike themes that can feel one-note or overly contrived.
Define Your Aesthetic: Use a moodboard to identify textures, colours, and key pieces that resonate with you.
Mix Styles Intentionally: Blend modern and vintage or industrial and bohemian to create depth and interest.
Personal Touches: Anchor your vision in personal elements, such as family heirlooms or art pieces, to add character.
2. Layer for Depth and Warmth
A home that feels inviting often has subtle layers—visual, tactile, and atmospheric.
Textiles: Layer rugs, cushions, and throws in varying textures and patterns to create dimension.
Furniture: Mix materials like wood, metal, and glass to avoid monotony.
Lighting: Use a combination of overhead, task, and ambient lighting to add mood and depth to your space.
3. Curate Without Cluttering
Less is more, but it’s about intentionality, not minimalism.
Curate Collections: Display items with sentimental or visual value, such as books, vases, or sculptures, while avoiding excess.
Group Accessories: Style objects in odd numbers or by theme to create cohesive focal points.
Edit Regularly: Rotate decor seasonally or when a space starts to feel too busy.
4. Work with Negative Space
A room needs breathing room to feel welcoming and functional.
Furniture Placement: Avoid overcrowding by floating furniture or creating open pathways.
Decor Balance: Pair bold elements with empty walls or clean-lined furniture for visual contrast.
Minimalist Accents: Use single statement pieces to make a stronger impact rather than cluttering every surface.
5. Infuse Personality with Unique Touches
A truly designed home reflects its inhabitants.
Custom Details: Introduce bespoke elements like custom upholstery or personalised gallery walls.
Meaningful Objects: Incorporate pieces that tell your story—travel mementoes, DIY projects, or items passed down through generations.
Unexpected Elements: Add an element of surprise, such as a quirky accessory, bold paint colour, or unconventional art placement.
The perfect balance between ‘designed’ and ‘lived-in’ lies in thoughtful layering, curating with intent, and adding personal touches. With these principles, you can create a home that feels authentic, beautiful, and entirely yours.
Give it a try, why not start with your living room today!
