Your home is more than just a place to live—it’s a reflection of who you are. Transforming your space can be both exciting yet daunting, but with insights from interior design experts, you can achieve a stunning makeover. With the right design hacks, you can create a space that’s both functional and stunning. But don’t just take our word for it, here are seven tips that are inspired by the wisdom of world-renowned interior designers and artists.
Balance Bold Patterns with Neutral Tones
Image by Bjorn Wallander
“Real comfort, visual and physical, is vital to every room.” – Mark Hampton, American interior designer
Take this dining room as an example, a bold floral wallpaper for your dining room balanced with neutral furniture, like a beige or black dining table and chairs. Add subtle accents, like a soft gray rug or simple white curtains, to let the pattern shine without making the room feel too busy. The result? A stylish, eye-catching space that feels lively yet sophisticated!
Balancing bold designs with calming elements to ensure your space feels inviting and comfortable. Incorporating bold patterns can bring energy to a room, but too much can feel chaotic.
Create Dynamic Spaces That Tell a Story
“A room should never allow the eye to settle in one place. It should smile at you and create fantasy.” – Juan Montoya, Colombian-born architect and interior designer
Imagine a living room that sparks curiosity— a plush velvet sofa, a woven jute rug, and sleek metal accents create layers of texture, while a cozy reading nook invites exploration. A gallery wall with framed art and mirrors adds depth, and warm lighting from pendant lights and table lamps brings the space to life. Every corner feels intentional, drawing you in to discover more.
This philosophy reminds us to design spaces that stimulate curiosity and imagination. Your home should feel alive, with spaces that encourage movement and exploration. Use layers of textures, colors, and lighting to create depth.
Invest in Perfect Lighting
“Design is defined by light and shade, and appropriate lighting is enormously important.” – Albert Hadley, American interior designer and decorator
Imagine a kitchen with large windows that let in plenty of natural light during the day, making meal prep bright and cheerful. In the evening, under-cabinet task lighting illuminates the countertops for cooking, while warm pendant lights over the island create a cozy, inviting ambiance for family gatherings. This layered approach ensures the space is both functional and visually appealing at any time of day.
Good lighting not only enhances aesthetics but also improves functionality. Lighting can make or break a room’s atmosphere. Layer natural light with ambient and task lighting to set the perfect mood. More tips on how lighting can enhance your space here.
Mix High and Low Elements
“Mix high and low, but always mix.” – Kelly Wearstler, American interior and product designer
Picture a living room where a sleek, high-end velvet sofa is paired with a vintage wooden coffee table found at a flea market. A statement designer lamp sits beside budget-friendly, textured throw pillows, creating a space that feels effortlessly stylish and personal. By mixing luxury with thrifted or affordable pieces, the room feels curated, not cookie-cutter.
Wearstler’s approach encourages creativity by blending different styles and price points for a unique look. Combine luxury pieces with affordable finds to create a space that feels curated rather than staged. This mix adds personality and charm.
Personalize Your Space
Image from Erin Kunkel
“Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love.” – Nate Berkus, American interior designer and author
Imagine a bookshelf filled with travel souvenirs, family photos in mismatched frames, and a vintage record player passed down from your grandparents. Pair these with your favorite artwork or a handmade ceramic vase from a local artist. These personal touches make your space feel uniquely yours, turning a house into a home.
Spaces should feel authentic and personal as your home should reflect your personality. Incorporate items that hold sentimental value or represent your tastes.
Use Color Thoughtfully
“Color is a power which directly influences the soul.” – Wassily Kandinsky, Russian painter and art theorist
Imagine a deep navy accent wall behind your bed, instantly adding drama and sophistication to your bedroom, while the rest of the space stays light and airy. Or, try soft sage green in your home office to promote a calm, focused atmosphere. A simple paint change can completely shift the vibe of a room without overwhelming it.
Experiment with bold accent walls or subtle pastel tones to create the desired ambiance. Color has the power to transform a room’s mood. Use it strategically to evoke emotions or highlight key areas of your home.
Keep It Functional
“For a house to be successful, the objects in it must communicate with one another, respond and balance one another.” – Andrée Putman, French interior and product designer
Think of an open-concept kitchen with a large island—it’s not just stylish, but also serves as a prep area, dining spot, and social hub. Or a living room with hidden storage ottomans that keep clutter out of sight while providing extra seating. When design meets practicality, your home looks good and works even better.
A beautiful home is nothing without functionality. Design with purpose by considering how each room will be used daily. Prioritize layouts that enhance flow and make life easier while still looking great.
Interior design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that improve how we live, work, and relax. By following these expert-approved hacks (and taking inspiration from some of the greatest minds in design), you’ll be well on your way to crafting a home that looks amazing and works perfectly for your lifestyle.