The Interior Design Handbook

1. Cultivate a Home That Resonates with Your Essence

Designing your own interior is not just a matter of showing aspects of your character; it’s also a way of adapting your decor to the kind of individual you are.

Personalized space. Your home should be a reflection of your personality, needs, and aspirations, not just a showcase for trends or a display of status. Start by analyzing your lifestyle, habits, and preferences to create a space that supports your well-being. Consider how you want to feel in your home, not just how you want it to look.

Self-reflection is key. Before diving into aesthetics, take time to understand your physical and psychological needs. What activities do you enjoy? What colors and textures make you feel comfortable and energized? What memories do you cherish? Use these insights to guide your design choices. For example, if you are sensitive to noise, prioritize soundproofing and quiet appliances.

Embrace imperfection. Don't strive for a sterile, magazine-perfect home. Instead, embrace the beauty of imperfection and create a space that feels authentic and lived-in. Incorporate personal touches, such as family photos, travel souvenirs, and handmade items, to tell your story and make your home uniquely yours.

2. Master the Mathematics of Harmonious Design

While there aren’t any universal recipes or keys to successful interior design and style, the more we learn about historical methods of creating harmonious compositions and proportions, the more we will have to go on when developing our own taste and thinking.

Underlying principles. Design isn't just about aesthetics; it's also about understanding the mathematical principles that create visual harmony. Concepts like the Golden Ratio and the Rule of Thirds can provide a framework for creating balanced and pleasing compositions. These tools help translate "gut feeling" into concrete design decisions.

Golden Ratio and Rule of Thirds. The Golden Ratio (1.618) and its simplified version, the Rule of Thirds, offer guidelines for proportion and composition. Use these principles to arrange furniture, hang artwork, and create still lifes. For example, position key elements at the intersections of a grid divided into thirds, rather than centering them.

Visual triangles. Employ the concept of visual triangles by arranging objects in such a way that their outlines form a triangle. This technique adds dynamism and visual interest to your space. Remember that these mathematical concepts are tools, not rigid rules. Use them as a starting point and adjust them to suit your personal taste and the unique characteristics of your home.

3. Unify Your Space with Intentional Design Tools

For me, unity in interior design is when all the elements come together to create a beautiful sense of connectedness.

Connectedness is key. Creating a cohesive and harmonious home requires more than just choosing individual pieces of furniture; it involves establishing a sense of connectedness between different rooms and elements. This can be achieved through various design tools, such as sight lines, a "red thread," and an understanding of the history of your home.

Sight lines and red thread. Consider the sight lines between rooms and how they influence the overall experience. Use a "red thread," such as a recurring color, material, or theme, to tie different spaces together. This creates a sense of continuity and visual flow. For example, repeat a specific shade of blue in different rooms through artwork, textiles, and accessories.

History and style. Respect the history and architectural style of your home. While you don't have to slavishly adhere to a particular period, understanding the original design intent can provide valuable inspiration and guidance. Blend different styles thoughtfully, allowing one to dominate while the other provides contrast and interest.

4. Harness the Power of Color to Evoke Emotion

Color is probably the most relative thing we have to deal with when designing interiors.

Color is subjective. Color is a powerful tool for shaping the mood and atmosphere of your home, but it's also highly subjective. Understand the basics of color theory, including color wheels, palettes, and schemes, to make informed choices. Remember that the same color can appear different depending on lighting, surrounding colors, and personal associations.

Color schemes and formulas. Experiment with different color schemes, such as analogous, complementary, and triadic, to create various effects. The 60/30/10 + S formula provides a useful framework for balancing colors in a room: 60% dominant color, 30% secondary color, 10% accent color, and a touch of black for definition.

White and gray. If you're new to color, start with a neutral base of white or gray and gradually introduce colors through accessories and textiles. Consider the compass direction of your rooms and how it affects the perception of color. North-facing rooms tend to feel cooler, while south-facing rooms are warmer.

5. Illuminate Your Home with Purposeful Lighting

The purpose of interior lighting is not exactly complicated—anyone who has sat through a blackout knows how quickly a room can change from being functional and cozy to chaotic and unpleasant.

Layered lighting. Lighting is essential for both functionality and ambiance. Plan for a layered lighting scheme that includes general, task, accent, and decorative lighting. This will allow you to adjust the mood and highlight specific features of your space.

The 5-7 rule. Aim for at least five to seven light sources in each room. This ensures adequate illumination and prevents harsh shadows. Consider the height, direction, and color temperature of your lights to create the desired effect.

Glare-free lighting. Prioritize glare-free lighting to prevent eye strain and discomfort. Use lampshades, diffusers, and indirect lighting techniques to soften the light and create a more inviting atmosphere. Consider the compass direction of your windows and how it affects the natural light in your home.

6. Elevate Your Space with Artful Design Techniques

Much interior design work and styling is about creating balance, but in the case of decorations, the rule of thumb suggests that the opposite holds true and odd numbers are more interesting.

Finishing touches. The final touches can make all the difference in transforming a house into a home. Consider adding elements that spark interest, create coziness, lift the eye, and showcase your personality. A well-placed still life, a gallery wall, or a unique piece of art can elevate your space.

Still life styling. Group objects in artful arrangements to create visual interest and tell a story. Use a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors to create a dynamic composition. Remember the rule of odd numbers and the importance of creating a focal point.

Picture hanging. Create a gallery wall by arranging artwork in a cohesive and visually appealing way. Consider the size, shape, and color of the frames, as well as the spacing between the pictures. Use the 145 cm principle as a guideline for hanging artwork at eye level.

7. Invest Wisely in Enduring Pieces

The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.

Long-term value. When furnishing your home, prioritize quality and durability over fleeting trends. Invest in pieces that will stand the test of time and develop a patina of age. Consider the cost per use (CPU) of an item over its likely lifespan.

Classic design. Opt for classic designs that transcend trends and remain stylish for years to come. These pieces often have a higher initial cost but offer greater long-term value. Look for furniture made from solid wood, natural materials, and sustainable sources.

Secondhand treasures. Explore flea markets, antique stores, and online marketplaces for unique and affordable pieces. Vintage items often have a story to tell and can add character to your home. Learn to identify quality craftsmanship and potential for restoration.

8. Understand Key Measurements for Functional Elegance

What I’m trying to do here is to summarize and simplify some of the basic principles that designers, architects, and photographers often refer to and make use of in their work.

Ergonomics matter. Creating a functional and comfortable home requires an understanding of key measurements and proportions. Consider the ergonomics of each room to ensure that furniture is appropriately sized and positioned for ease of use.

Hallways and bathrooms. In hallways, ensure adequate space for movement and storage. In bathrooms, consider the height of towel racks, toilet paper holders, and shower curtain rods. These small details can make a big difference in the overall functionality of the space.

Kitchens and dining rooms. In kitchens, prioritize the work triangle between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. In dining rooms, ensure adequate space for chairs to be pulled out from the table. These measurements will help you create a space that is both beautiful and practical.

Last updated: March 11, 2025