Have you ever walked into a beautifully designed home and wondered, “How does it look so effortlessly perfect?” While each designer has their unique flair, there are a few tricks we use at Sarah St. Amand Interior Design to create a polished, cohesive look. The great news is that these secrets aren’t hard to implement, and you can use them to elevate your own space. Let’s dive into five insider tips that make any home feel stylish and put-together.
1. The Power of Odd Numbers: Arrange Decor in Threes or Fives
One of the simplest tricks in the design book is to use odd numbers when arranging decor. Whether it’s candles on a console table, picture frames on a shelf, or vases on a coffee table, odd-number groupings feel more natural and visually pleasing. Our brains find asymmetry intriguing, which is why odd-number arrangements (usually threes or fives) draw the eye without feeling overly balanced or stiff.
Tip: Start with a focal point and arrange smaller items around it. For instance, place a medium-sized vase in the center, with a smaller candle and decorative object on either side for a stylish trio that feels effortless yet intentional.
2. The Rule of Thirds: Create Visual Balance in Your Spaces
The rule of thirds is a common design guideline that helps you place items within a room or even within a single vignette (like a shelf or a tabletop) to maximize visual interest. Divide a space or surface into three equal sections (either vertically or horizontally), and try to position focal points or accent pieces along those lines rather than dead center. This approach creates a sense of movement, making a room feel balanced without looking too precise.
Tip: For a well-styled sofa, place two-thirds of the pillows on one side and the remaining third on the other. Or, if you’re hanging artwork, keep it slightly off-center from the furniture beneath it to keep the layout feeling fresh and relaxed.
3. Use Layered Textures to Add Depth and Warmth
A space can feel flat without texture, which is why designers use layering to create depth and warmth. Think of layering different materials, like a woven rug paired with a velvet throw or linen curtains against a textured wall. These textures add dimension to the room and prevent it from feeling one-dimensional. The key is to mix textures thoughtfully, balancing softer, tactile elements with smoother, structured finishes to create a feeling of harmony.
Tip: Try adding layers to a living room by combining different textiles like throw blankets, pillows in various fabrics, and a mix of leather or wood accents. Even a small amount of layering can give the space a sophisticated, put-together feel.
4. Stick to a Cohesive Colour Palette
A consistent colour palette is one of the easiest ways to make a space feel cohesive. Designers often work within a range of three to five colours (a primary colour, a secondary colour, and one or two accents) and carry these throughout a room or an entire home. This continuity creates a sense of flow and sophistication, as each space feels like part of a larger whole.
Tip: Choose a neutral base colour for larger pieces like sofas and rugs, then add depth with secondary colours in your curtains, cushions, and accent pieces. Finally, use a few pops of a bold accent colour in accessories or artwork to add interest without overwhelming the room.
5. Thoughtful Lighting: Layered Light Sources to Set the Mood
Lighting isn’t just about function; it’s a design element that creates ambiance and brings a room to life. Designers achieve this by layering three types of lighting: ambient (general lighting like ceiling fixtures), task (focused lighting for reading or workspaces), and accent (decorative lighting like lamps or wall sconces). This combination ensures that each corner is illuminated, preventing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Tip: Avoid relying on overhead lighting alone. Add floor lamps or table lamps to create softer pools of light in the evening, and use dimmers if possible to control brightness levels based on the time of day or activity.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Now that you have some insider tips, you’re equipped to create a home that looks as polished as a designer’s. Each of these steps works beautifully on its own, but together, they can turn any space into a cohesive, inviting environment that feels effortlessly stylish. So, whether you’re redecorating a single room or refreshing your entire home, these little secrets can help make a big impact. If you need a little help or a lot get in touch with the SSID Team.
Wishing you joy in crafting your beautiful home,
Sarah
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