Sunday, October 4, 2015

Space Designer's Guide: 7 Tips for Refining Your Space


If you're anything like me, you probably have at least one person in your life that struggles with putting their creative ideas into action when it comes to personalizing their spaces.

Although there are people around the world that specialize in interior decorating, this post goes out to all those who seem to doubt their own abilities. Now, if it is more cost and effective for you, and if you're able to afford hiring someone, by all means, go for it! Nonetheless, for the rest of those out there that find enjoyment in refining their own spaces, aren't able to afford hiring an interior decorator, or simply enjoy refining your spaces ever-so often..this post is exactly for you!

When it comes to discovering ways to change your space up a bit, I have found that some reluctantly avoid taking the time to do it because it appears to be something that is un-enjoyable, time consuming, stressful, and somewhat costly. To be honest, doesn't almost every aspect of our responsibilities seem to evoke some of the same kinds of feelings? If this is something that I'm right on...we might as well go ahead and discuss solutions that not only aid in getting the job done quicker, but also yields life-bearing thoughts and feelings.


Whether you are moving into a new home, remodeling or redesigning your current space, making space for a friend/family member that just moved in (life happens), or just searching for ways to reduce the amount of clutter around you, these tips will serve as a brief starting point to your journey.

1. Work With What You Have.

Before spending any money, going to any stores, or starting to get worried about what you might not have, I encourage you to start at your home base. Meaning, just take a look around your home or office, or a friend/family member's to see if there is anything that you can do, by just using what you have already. 

2. Think. Imagine. Feel. Implement.

In this specific order: Think - brainstorm about what ideas you have or what you see for your space. Imagine & Feel - turn your thoughts and ideas into a design and apply them to your actual space; imagine how you want each room in your space to feel (calm, vibrant, family-oriented, chique, etc) and use those feelings to help you imagine what you want your designed space to look and feel like. Implement - put your ideas, thoughts, and feelings into action; this is your time to go and start shopping.

3. Use Technology to your Advantage.

Although there are some that are less-tech savvy than others, try to objectively look at the apps and resources that emerged over time. For example, create an account with Pinterest. It is a very useful tool for expanding your creativity and also allows you to share a few ideas of your own. If all else fails and you have no idea of what to do, START HERE FIRST!

4. Take Your Time.

This statement is known to mostly all, but we can all forget it at times when we are trying to get something accomplished. Nonetheless, don't feel rushed in this process. Often times, when things are forced, they don't flow as easily as they would have, if the right amount of time had been allotted originally. Remember to pace yourself and if you need to, take a break every once in a while (Homes are not designed and built overnight..it all takes time, and so should your incredible interior designs for your operating spaces).

5. Think Long-Term.

Although in our society, our interests in what is hot and current change quickly, this is one of the areas in our lives that shouldn't. Now, I am all about being spontaneous and changing things up on a whim, but do so with a bit of thought. Typically, redesigning your space has many costs associated with it (time and money), so it's best to find products that have the potential to be around for awhile.

6. Shake Things Up A Bit.

Don't be afraid to add in an accent piece/color every now and then. I urge you to think as freely as possible when engaging in brainstorming activities. There are so many elements that make up each of our individual characteristics, so this means that there are also several things that appeal to us. Don't be afraid to embrace something that you usually wouldn't have. Paint your walls a different color, add a pattern, purchase a painting, or add a piece of furniture that will make a room POP. If you're reluctant to doing something, first ask yourself: Why Not? If you can't come up with a good reason not to, add it to your design plan!


7. Capitalize On Your Space.

One of the most important things on this list - make the most of your space. Are you one those people that hangs onto things for a lifetime? I mean everything?! Well, I will not put a damper on something that brings you enjoyment, but maybe you could possibly consider getting an additional storage space to house those items that you don't want to get rid of. Here's the most important thing: If you have things around you that you barely ever use, try to get it out of your operating space! Everyone does not have the hugest house in the world, but who would know it?! Individuals perceive things based off of what they see, which means that you could have a house that is only 650 sq ft. However, the way that things are constructed on the inside paints the picture of how big the space really is. After all, whose walking around with a measuring tape? Make the most of the space that you have.

For additional information on ways to Refine Your Space, access The Tea for Two

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