Whatever your decorating style, you want to ensure that your home looks well put together. Achieving that cohesive look comes down to having a theme - whether it be a set color scheme, or a certain set of ideas throughout. Creating a cohesive space comes down to having a solid plan, setting priorities, and taking the time to find things that you really love - and work with your space. See our 7 tips for making a decorating theme work.
Image: shutterstock.com
1. Get Inspired
This is the fun part! You can find home decor inspiration in many places - but it’s easiest to work with if you can pull it all together. Check out your wardrobe, start a Pinterest board, and take photos of things that you love. Once you sit down and look at everything you’ve chosen, a few common themes should start to reveal themselves. Keep those colors, patterns, textures, or ideas top of mind as you start decorating your home.
Image: shutterstock.com
2. Make a Plan
If you don’t have any major changes planned, fear not! You can still update the theme of your home. Just be sure to include existing items in your plans. Instead of ignoring that ugly couch, see if you can make it work with your new theme by covering it with a patterned throw or picking up some new pillows. Acknowledging what works and what could be improved will only make you happier with the final result.
Image: shutterstock.com
3. Prioritize Tasks and Purchases
If you do have a budget to update some furniture and accessories, start planning which items you’re going to buy. Before you start choosing colors for a room, you want to have your main elements accounted for - that’s bedding in the bedroom, a dining table in the dining room, or a sofa in the living room. Those pieces will help to set the tone for your other decorating decisions, and therefore ensure that you’re creating a cohesive space.
Image: shutterstock.com
4. Build on your Color Scheme
With those big design elements out of the way, you’re ready to choose your color scheme. (Yes, neutral counts!) While you certainly don’t have to paint every room the same color, it is important to choose colors that work well together to create a flow through your home. The colors you choose will serve as your guide as you start selecting accessories and other accents to create your home’s cohesive look.
Image: shutterstock.com
5. Mix New Trends with Old Classics
Whatever your decorating style, you want your home to reflect at least some of the current trends without sacrificing those classic pieces that you really love. Swapping out accessories, pillows, and throws can be an easy way to incorporate new elements into a space without overpowering what’s already there. Plus, since they tend to be inexpensive than larger furniture pieces, they’re easy to change as needed.
Image: shutterstock.com
6. Put it Together
As you work through creating a cohesive look for your home, you’ll no doubt need to see how certain pieces work together in your space. Think about how each new item you buy enhances the overall look of your home, or repurpose old items to better reflect your new theme. Don’t be afraid to change things up or move items around - even between rooms - until you’re able to find an arrangement that you love. Keep track of receipts and tags so you can make returns and exchanges easily if needed.
Image: shutterstock.com
7. Understand it’s an Ongoing Process
It’s going to take months, maybe even a year or two, to get your decor exactly how you want it. That’s ok. In fact, it’s probably a good thing. It means that you’re taking your time to find pieces that you really love and look great in your home. Over time, you’ll create a space that reflects your own unique personality, interests, and experiences as you collect accessories and furniture pieces in your travels.
Image: shutterstock.com
