Simple Interior Design Principles

In our last article we spoke briefly about using simple interior design principles to make your room look designed rather than decorated. So in this article we take a look a some of these interior design principles.

Did you know that certain colours such as red, orange and yellow are described as "warm" colours? They tend to advance towards you and make a room appear smaller. Other colours such as blue, green and grey are described as "cold" colours and either retreat or stay still. If the right shade is used, it can make a room appear larger.

Similarly, large patterns, like certain colours, will appear to advance so should be avoided if you are trying to achieve a feeling of space. Smaller, less imposing patterns work better in smaller rooms.

If you want to create a modern kitchen, the materials and storage you choose will be very different from those needed to create a country look with it’s wooden surfaces and open shelving.

A matt paint finish is non-reflective and will therefore hide blemishes, whereas a gloss finish highlights any surface irregularities.

Disguise ugly features such as radiators and pipes by painting them the same colour as the wall. Emphasis architectural features by painting them white, or a different tone from the rest of the room.

Low ceilings will appear higher when painted a lighter colour than the walls. "Bring down" a tall ceiling by painting it a dark colour, continue this down to the picture rail.

If You're Planning A Project

In addition to the questions listed in Understanding Interior Design, ask yourself the following questions

1. What kind of mood do I want to create? E.g. warm & cosy, light & airy
2. What amount of natural light does it get? Does this change at different times during the day?

Your answers to these fundamental questions will then influence your choice of:

• Colour scheme e.g. harmonious, contrasting, tonal
• Lighting (position of fittings as well as style of fittings)
• Materials used for the walls, ceiling and flooring

In addition : Furniture

• Soft furnishings e.g. blinds, curtains, cushions, rugs
• Finishing touches e.g. pictures, plants, wall hangings, pottery

We will next tackle Mood Boards, and discuss how they help you design your DIY interior design project.