Interior Styling: How to Style Your Home Like a Pro

8 Principles of Interior Styling

When decorating any space, it’s important to consider these 8 key principles of interior styling.

1. SHAPE and SIZE

Contrast is key. When placing items together go for diversity in shape and size. For example, if you have a stack of books don’t put something that is square or rectangular on top of them. Or, if you’re using a lot of square shapes and harsh angles add something round or nonsymmetrical to create balance. As far as size, we swear by the rule- small, medium, and large. Make sure the objects you choose to style the surface of any piece of furniture vary in height.

2. COLOR

We happen to LOVE color! First, decide on a color palette. When it comes to color, it’s very important to stick within the color palette you’ve selected or created. This does not mean you can ONLY use those colors. You should however have some sort of consistency so that the overall look flows, and is not confusing to the eye.

3. PATTERN

Mixing patterns is not as hard as you might think. It is okay to mix patterns as much as you’d like so long as the colors work really well together. Be sure to mix in some solids for balance. Click here for tips and tricks on mixing patterns.

4. TEXTURE

Texture has the ability to add a powerful, yet subtle, dimension to any room. Mixing textures is what truly creates visual interest. Furry, plush textiles can be a great way to add texture to a space. Plants and flowers can also do the trick!

5. PLACEMENT

Placement and spacing can make the difference between a space looking collected or cluttered. Repetition, balance, and a bit of negative space are pleasing to the eye. When styling, place items together in mini collections and don’t forget the power of three’s!

6. SHINE

We always like to add a little bit of shine to all of our vignettes. Right now our shine of choice is usually brass or bronze but any metallic, crystal, or even glass can achieve the desired shine effect.

7. BOTANICALS

The best and easiest way to breathe life into any space is with plants and flowers. If you need help deciding on indoor plants that are easy to care for and will look amazing in any room, click here for a list of our top 5 indoor plants with instructions on how to care for them.

8. BOOKS

A stack of books on a coffee table, side table, or even stashed on shelves create an eye-catching design accent. We think they are the perfect addition and a must-have when styling any space! Choose books that, #1 you love to read (that’s obvious) but if your not the bookworm type…a great tip is to check out your local Goodwill or thrift store. The books may look a bit old and ratty at first glance but take off the covers to reveal beautiful, colorful masterpieces that are perfect for styling!

We have an obsession, a bit of an addiction, for great design books. These are a few of our faves at the moment:

“Elements of Style” by Erin Gates the author and editor of the popular design blog Elements of Style,  “In with the Old” by The Peak of Chic blogger Jennifer Boles, “Remodelista” the book by Julie Carlson with the editors of remodelista.com– the go-to, undisputed authority for home design enthusiasts, architects, and designers, and “Things We Love” by Kate Spade.

Interior styling can be tricky but we tried to take a little of the guesswork out of it. Any questions?

For more inspiration follow us on Pinterest.

Additional sources: 1. Chandelier  2. Accessories  3. Yarn Art  4. Area Rug  5. Window Treatments

More to read:
Interior Design Style Guide
5 Tips for a Chic, Pet-Friendly Home
Classic Design Pieces That Never Go Out of Style