Brooks & Collier recently participated in the 2024 Huntsville Inspiration Home and it was amazing.  So, we thought we would share some of our best design tips with you as you consider updates to your home.  Whether it’s a living room, bedroom, outdoor space or your entire home, this guide will help you create a room that’s comfortable, cohesive, and reflects your personal style. And if you find you still need guidance, advice or just a partner in crime, you will find a team available to assist you at 813 Meridian St. in Huntsville.

1. Set a Budget

Before you start picking out furniture and paint colors, it’s crucial to establish a budget for your project.

• Create a detailed spreadsheet with line items for each element of your project, from big-ticket furniture to small decorative accents.
• Prioritize your expenses into three categories: “must-haves,” “nice-to-haves,” and “not a priority.”
• Add a buffer of 10-20% for potential cost overruns. This is especially important for renovation projects where unexpected issues might arise.

2. Create a Mood Board

A mood board helps you visualize your design ideas and ensures a cohesive look.

• Start by creating a Pinterest board. Pin rooms, color schemes, furniture, and accessories that appeal to you.
• Don’t limit yourself at this stage – pin anything that catches your eye.
• Once you have about 50 pins, step back and analyze your board. What colors, styles, or themes keep recurring?
• Create a second, more focused mood board based on the common elements you’ve identified.
• Include items similar to pieces you already own to see how they fit with your new ideas.

3. Choose a “Springboard” Object

Select an item that will serve as the inspiration for your entire room’s design.

• This could be a piece of artwork, a rug, or even a thrift store find you love.
• Use this object to inform your color scheme or overall style direction.
• Remember, you don’t have to strictly adhere to colors or styles from this object – it’s a starting point, not a rulebook.

4. Select Foundation Furniture

Choose key pieces that will anchor your room design.

• Opt for versatile, neutral pieces for big-ticket items like sofas. This allows for flexibility if your style preferences change over time.
• If you have children or pets, consider durable materials that can withstand wear and tear.

5. Scale Up

In general, fewer, larger pieces create a more impactful and less cluttered look than many small items.

• Choose statement pieces for key areas, like large plants or artwork.
• Use trays or platters to group smaller objects, creating a more cohesive look.
• For wall art, consider creating a gallery wall to give small pieces more visual impact.
• Remember, this principle applies more to accessories than to furniture – always ensure your furniture is appropriately sized for your space.

6. Mix Sources and Styles

Avoid a “catalog” look by incorporating pieces from different sources and styles.

• Don’t rely too heavily on any single brand or style.
• Look for unifying features like color, texture, or form to tie different styles together.
• Consider adding a touch of black or another dark color to ground your design. This can add depth and sophistication to your space.
• Even if you favor a particular style (like modern farmhouse), incorporate elements from complementary styles for a more layered, interesting look.

7.  Inject Personal Style

This is where you can really let your personality shine through.

• Express yourself through accessories, accent furniture, and decor items.
• Mix old with new, high-end with budget-friendly finds, and rustic with sleek pieces.
• Incorporate natural and found objects for a unique, personal touch.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment – these smaller items are easier and less expensive to change if your tastes evolve.

Remember, designing a space takes time and effort, but the result is a home that truly reflects your personality and style. Don’t rush the process – enjoy the journey of creating a space you’ll love coming back to every day. And most importantly, trust your instincts. If something feels right to you, go for it!