When it comes to interior design, the right furniture can make or break your space. While there’s a lot about design that is up to personal preference, there are some rules that are easy to follow that make simplify choosing the right furniture for your space.
Style
When it comes to choosing the right furniture for your space, it’s important to first consider the interior design style you are going for. From American craftsman, modern farmhouse, vintage bohemian, and more, there are plenty of styles to choose from to make your home uniquely yours. Choosing furniture that mimics the architectural style of your home is an effective way to create a sense of unity.
Size
Size is important when it comes to choosing furniture for two reasons. First, your furniture needs to fit your family’s functional needs and lifestyle. While a small love seat can create an intimate atmosphere, an oversized couch will often work better for families with children who want to cuddle up for movie nights. Second, the furniture should be proportional to the room it is in. Small rooms with low ceilings require different furniture choices than large, open spaces. One key thing to remember is that bright and/or contrasting colors will make furniture items appear larger than they are once placed in a room.
Color
Color is one of the biggest influences on whether or not a piece of furniture will work in a certain space. Neutrals are often a safe choice regardless of style and size; however, introducing a contrasting color creates a standout look that often ties the whole room together. Color can also be used to create a certain mood in a room using color psychology. Cool tones like blues and greens are thought to be calming, while warm colors like red and orange are thought to introduce high-energy.
Material
The material furniture is made of makes a dramatic difference when it comes to choosing the right piece. A Lucite table might be perfect in an eclectic home, but it will look sorely out of place in a more Victorian-style dwelling. Likewise, a classic oak dresser will feel heavy and dated in a modern, minimalistic home. Another thing to consider when choosing the right furniture is that there should be variety. While coordinating pieces is encouraged, having all leather, all wood, or all metal furniture throughout an entire room can feel heavy and overbearing.
Cost
Another thing to consider is the cost of furniture. It’s a good idea to invest in quality pieces that will last a long time for larger, more frequently used items. Smaller, more accessory-like furniture pieces such as ottomans, end tables, and shelving can often be found at lower price points, allowing homeowners to switch up their style with the seasons.
Looking for some inspiration for your interior design? Want to see how top local professionals are designing beautiful spaces? Check out our Inspiration Gallery, and keep an eye out for future episodes of My Southern Home.
