A home is the ultimate style statement that speaks volumes about its inhabitants. Therefore, having a clear understanding of the décor style and taste is very important to create the right home atmosphere. It expresses your personality and individualistic style and helps in the selection of furniture and colours, ensuring that your home is in synergy and creates a pleasant and inviting vibe.
There is a constant debate amongst décor stylists about ‘Less is more’ and ‘More is more’ and the two extremes – Minimalism and Maximalism. While Maximalism is based on the aesthetic of excessive, minimalism is based on utility. Minimalism keeps things simple and clean while maximalism uses bold colours, patterns and textures and statement furniture pieces. It involves layering different prints and patterns to create a haphazard yet unified look. However, minimalistic décor is about a monochromatic colour palette, clean lines and decluttered spaces. There is no right or wrong in either style. People may choose minimalism due to economic constraints while maximalists may not necessarily be hoarders.
Home décor is all about personal comfort and convenience. People like to change their surroundings. Changing the home décor may be an exciting task; however, it is certainly not an easy one.
Factors to consider before starting home decoration
Budget
Fit your style to your budget. Set out the amount you are willing to spare. Accordingly, select your style. It is a myth that minimalism would cost less and maximalism would be expensive. The cost would be determined by the choice of furniture and artefacts.
Location and Architecture
The house location influences the design theme. The weather, climate and local culture impact the look and feel of your house. The geographical elements around your house, too, have a role to play. The architecture of your home is the basic skeleton to start work. The total area and the types of flooring and walls would dictate your design.
Personal Preference
Your personal preference has the biggest impact on your design style. It reflects your taste, creativity and personality. Research the aesthetics that appeal to you before embarking on the journey of styling your space.
See also: Minimalist interior design: What is it and how to incorporate it in your home?
How to accomplish a minimalist design?
Space, lighting and objects play important roles in a minimalist style. This style is synonymous with restraint and demands bare minimum furnishings.
The main benefit of a minimalistic interior design is an airier and more open feel. One of the easiest ways to achieve this look is the use of a limited colour palette and basic furniture. Larger white spaces help set the tone of a minimalist décor. The furniture must comprise clean lines and natural materials. This style focuses on statement pieces of furniture, décor and artwork. Clutter-free white walls and empty floors exude calm and serenity.
Patterns and prints are used sparingly and as accent pieces. Patterns must be small and of similar tones, while prints must be used for highlighting. Lighting is a driving factor of a simplistic home. Get as much natural light as possible. Avoid heavy drapes. Better still, leave your windows bare if privacy is not a concern. Use sheer curtain materials, allowing the sunlight to highlight your decorative elements. Another easy and pocket-friendly way to accessorize a minimal home is with plants. Without adding to the clutter, plants accentuate the beauty of the existing furniture and décor.
How to accomplish a maximalist design?
For a maximalist look, dare to mix and match different styles. It’s all in the use of bold and multiple colours. Starting with basic colours to a mix of dark colours, such as black and navy blue, the maximalist style incorporates vivid hues, huge patterns and luxurious pieces for a lavish look. This design uses more than a single pattern or print in one space. Floral, stripes and other patterns are contrasted to enhance the overall look. A dedicated art wall is another key feature of this design style. Books, excessive cushions, rugs and throws combine the glamour and comfort of this style. Maximalist space can be further adorned with vintage furniture and accents. Curtains and heavy drapes in bold colours and patterns create an attractive form in maximalist décor.
(The author is Founder & CEO, Page 2813)
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