5 decorating tips you need to know before you start
Are you thinking about redecorating? If so, preparation is key. Here are 5 decorating tips you need to know before you start.
Decorating tip number 1: Get inspired!
I used to spend a fortune on magazines, but luckily Pinterest was born and there my addiction began. I am a self-confessed Pinterest junkie and this, along with a cozy seat and my favourite drink is where I begin any decorating project. If you find it easier looking through ready-made boards, I have categorised mine into rooms and moods, just click here.
Start by collecting and organising your favourite interior images and begin to identify the collective feel of the interiors that inspire you. Breakdown the decorating ideas and colours that have been chosen and see how they collaborate to create the overall style.
Decorating tip number 2: Consider painting the ceiling and walls the same colour
The appearance of a colour can vary greatly depending on the other colours next to it. For example, there are so many neutral colours that perform beautifully as white or off-white, but when painted next to a brilliant-white ceiling, can appear dull and even lose their charm entirely. Try painting the walls and ceiling the same colour for extra continuity.
This tip works really well when using a paler shade but if you are feeling really brave try it with a feature colour too.
Decorating tip number 3: Be mindful when decorating with grey
There are some pitfalls to be aware of when choosing the right shade of grey. It is very easy to accidentally end up with pale blue or lilac walls by mistake. Try to choose a paint brand that offers a description of the colour. For instance, many 'industrial greys' can look great in large, urban or contemporary spaces but feel really cold and harsh in a more relaxed and traditional environment.
Decorating tip number 4: Be gentle with your bold colour companions
Unless you are going for a brave result, darker colours can look quite stark against bright whites. Although it is tempting to bring some light to the space, try to use a more neutral white to harmonise the space more carefully, making sure that the undertones don’t clash with the feature colour. Here a pale grey-white has been used to harmonise the vibrant coral.
Decorating tip number 5: Think about colour blocking to accentuate or camouflage
There are a few tricks of the trade when applying your paint, in particular, where you actually put it. Creating as few colour contrasts as possible is key, unless you are intending on creating a feature. Think of paint as a means of accentuating or camouflaging instead of just applying colour. For instance, if you are painting your doors and they are quite narrow, include the architraves so they appear wider. If you have a small room and are painting your floors, include the skirting to make the area appear bigger. If you have a loft bedroom with angles all over the place and want to create a feature wall – drawer a straight line with masking tape and include some of the ceiling and side walls to create neater feature.
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