When it comes to making a house feel like a home, there is so much more than just what meets the eye. Putting everything together to make your space look functional, stylish and cosy is not an easy task…trust me I get that! So I’ve put together a little beginner’s guide for you, with the hope that it will help you in making the right decor choices.

Whenever I start a new design project I find it is sooo much easier to ask myself some questions. It helps me brainstorm ideas and makes me realise everything I do not want…which then makes it easier to know what I do want!

So here are some important questions to ask yourself…

1. How do I maximise on space?

This is really important, because it is not just about making the room look bigger, but also about how the room will FUNCTION? Creating a functional space is the primary goal, so you need to ask yourself do you need a desk in there to work? Or do you need a big rug so your children have a soft and safe space to play? Once you identify the key functionality of the room then you can move and position the pieces in the right way to create the illusion of a bigger space! In fact, last week’s blog was all about design hacks on making your small room look bigger! I shared a video on how to accomplish all of this right here!

2. How do I make it my own?

Personality is key.. so don’t be afraid to put your own stamp on it! You can add a bit of “you” throughout the whole house… perhaps with some of your favourite art work, or some unexpected bold pops of colour or print against some simple backdrops. Maybe an oversized bright cushion on a neutral sofa, or a geometric rug to act as a room’s showstopper! It is YOUR home, so make it YOURS!

3. How do I choose the right paint?

The colour you see on the pot of paint can look very different when you apply it to your wall – it all depends on the lighting. I would suggest getting sample paint pots and paint A2 paper sizes and stick them onto your darkest and lightest walls to see how the natural light affects the shade. This will give you a true reflection of the colour! And if you’re wondering how do you even pick the right colour in the first place, then that’s what brings me to my next point..

4. How do I choose a colour scheme?

Colour has a huge impact on the mood and atmosphere of the room – so ask yourself how do you want this room to FEEL? This will really influence the choice of colour. Bright vibrant colours such as yellow and pink will really lift up the mood making you feel happy and joyful.. These colours could be a great choice if you work from home, they will definitely make you smile! Or you can pick pale blues, greens and whites to create a sense of calm and relaxation. Just close your eyes and picture yourself sitting in the room.. what colours do you see? Go with that feeling…

OH…and for some extra colour confidence and inspiration come and join me inside my FREE COLOUR WORKSHOP where I give you lots of exciting tips for decorating your happy and feel-good home!

Decorating your home is a personal experience, so there is no right or wrong way to do it.. but hopefully the above questions will guide you with your decor choices, making your home truly YOURS…

To a colourful life,

Ju xx