Buying a house is an incredible achievement, but so is transforming it into the home of your dreams. So, before you move into your new home, there is much to be done. You may choose to work with an interior decorator or go the DIY route. Whatever you decide, here is a 10-step decor checklist to help you transform the property into a classy and elegant residence.
1. Settle the scope and the budget – Decide on the scope of work to be done. Now, settle on your budget and compare quotes from interior décor decorators. If you are working on a shoestring, you may consider taking up some DIY projects or reusing furniture and artwork from your old residence. You may also look for contractors for different services such as modular kitchen installation, paint, light, fixtures, etc.
2. Pick the theme and colours – Your family members may have different ideas about how the home should look. Sit together and create an idea board. Discuss different theme and colour options and find an idea that suits the family. You may also want to personalise the bedroom or kids' room to suit individual preferences.
3. Lighting, fixtures, and design options – Choosing the right lighting and fixtures is essential to decorating your home interiors. It has a significant impact on the way your home looks and feels. From recessed lighting to tube lights, pendant lighting to table lamps - there are numerous options available for you to choose from. Therefore, it is essential to put in a lot of thought and consideration while making this choice.
4. Selecting furniture pieces – The furniture in your home adds to the aesthetics of the interiors and makes every space functional. Picking the right pieces has to feature high on your décor checklist. You may want to choose the living room, bedroom, study, and patio furniture that suits the design of the specific area and also makes it easy to relax, work, eat, sleep, and socialise.
5. Choosing artwork and decor pieces – Now it is time to pick out the wall art and table décor pieces of your choice. If you are an artistic person, you can create stunning paintings, fabric art, and wall paintings that will give your home a personal touch. Alternatively, you may create a wall gallery with framed family pictures.
6. Window dressings – Window dressings play a significant role in transforming the interiors of your home. However, they are often overlooked in interior design. When selecting the type of window dressings to install, it's crucial to consider their function. For instance, Roman blinds are ideal for providing privacy and blocking out light, while sheer curtains are suitable for smaller homes with minimal natural light sources.
7. Plan functional areas – When designing your home, it is important to prioritise functionality over aesthetics in certain areas. For example, the study room, kitchen, and washing areas should be planned out with the flow of work and necessary appliances in mind before focusing on decor. You may want to create a design board to help remind you of the electric sources and lights in these spaces.
8. Sort out the storage – To keep your home looking beautiful and clutter-free, having the right storage units in place is crucial. While cupboards and drawers may be a good start, investing in baskets, storage boxes, or bags is important to help organise and separate your belongings. This will not only help maximise storage space but also make it easier to find and access items when you need them.
9. Finishing touches – Put the finishing touches to your home by adding a few green plants or transforming your deck space into a herb garden. Invest in colourful rugs and cushions for a cosy look. This is the time to set up your library or décor display and add personality to your home.
10. Home maintenance plan – It is important to have a cleaning and maintenance routine in place to keep your home looking clean, fresh, and inviting at all times. While most items on the décor checklist are related to setting up the house, this last point is about ensuring your home remains beautiful for years. By performing regular maintenance, you can ensure that your home stays in great condition.
Conclusion
When collaborating with an interior designer, explicitly communicating your requirements and preferences for your home decor is crucial. Additionally, if you are looking for Vastu decor items to enhance the overall aesthetic of your home, seeking professional assistance might be beneficial.