10 of the best interior design secrets that everyone should know

Betti Hunter – homify Betti Hunter – homify
VALE DO LOBO, Staging Factory Staging Factory Bedroom
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Psst. We need to tell you a secret. Your home isn't quite as good as it could be yet – but we can help.

Interior designers have managed to keep these top industry tips hush-hush for a long time – after all, this knowledge is the source of all their power. However, we think that homeowners across the world deserve to be let into the loop, because these world-shaking design revelations just might revolutionise the way your home looks… forever.

Sit back, relax, read, and learn – you're about to have your mind blown…

1. Be aware of what is in vogue

If you want your home to look like it's fresh from the pages of homify, you need to keep on top of the trends. Don't be a surface style-skimmer, though – sure, Scandinavian design is a perennial favourite, but did you know that Scandi-boho is a trend? What about Scandi-retro? Dig a little deeper, explore those sub-trends, and take your home to the next level.

2. Consider the size of your home – REALLY consider it!

Can your living room really accommodate that behemoth sofa? Don't get lured into the trap of copying everything you see on Pinterest – some things just won't work in your home, either because your rooms are too small, or too big. Take thorough measurements, analyse the shape and size of your room, and go from there.

3. Make a plan

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Never, EVER throw yourself headlong into a design project without making a thorough plan. That way disaster lies. Take your time, think things through, and consider each and every element of the space. 

Take those room measurements and base your furniture and layout choices on them. Make a list of what you need, what you want, and the steps you need to take to achieve this. A poorly planned design scheme invariably results in a room that falls far short of your expectations. Put the work in now and reap the rewards later.

4. Put comfort first

That designer sofa you've been lusting after might look beautiful, but it will rapidly lose its shine once you realise that it's rock hard. Choose furniture that is comfortable AND stylish, like this sofa, and try before you buy.

5. Play around with layers

Cosy layers add an extra dimension of warmth and style to any space. Load up on rugs, cushions, and plus textiles for a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe that is so on-trend right now.

6. Add wood for a homely vibe

Rough, chunky wood adds a rustic touch to even the most modern bathrooms, creating an atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day…

7. Add a statement piece

Don't be bland – be bold! Choose one piece of furniture or artwork that makes a statement and stands out from everything in your room. Just make sure that everything else in the room comes together cohesively.

8. Practice smart shopping

Don't go crazy and buy the first thing you see just because you saw something similar on a chic interior design blog last week. Make a list of the things you are looking for, stick to a budget, and make an online wishlist beforehand – this will show you where to go for certain items, and discourage you from buying things you don't need.

9. Go for cosy, not cluttered

Sometimes, simple is best. You can create a cosy atmosphere without having to resort to endless trinkets and baubles – raw wood, knitted textiles and soft lighting is all you need.

10. Personalise your space!

The most important thing to remember is that your home should reflect who you are as a person. You can create the most technically fashionable home in the world, but it will feel lacklustre and dull if that personal touch is missing. Don't imitate – innovate. Create a space that means something to you – that way, it will never go out of style.

If you liked this article, check out: The top 10 eclectic winter living rooms for Malaysian climates

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