Shopping is a very important part of home décor and interior design. Shopping decisions can make or break a space. jump right to the topic
Shopping, when done right not only creates a beautiful, functional and cohesive space but also helps to remain within the budget and in this post, I’m going to cover some of the important decisions to make before shopping.
So here are six of my top tips that I always keep in mind while shopping for both my clients and myself.
1.Making a budget
Making a budget is the first thing that I do to make sure to avoid any “not so good” experience afterwards and most importantly, stick to it.
While making the budget it should not only be about the bigger pieces but considering the smaller décor pieces as well, otherwise those little details would look more of an afterthought.
2. Where to splurge and where not
There are certain things where I like to splurge and certain items that do not.
Let me explain a little; for example, in a bedroom I always love to splurge on the bed, mattress and sleeping pillows (we all love a good night’s sleep isn’t it). So keeping a little bigger part of the budget there ensures comfort and peace of mind in the long run whereas the decorative pillows, throws and other knickknacks (those that we change seasonally) doesn’t have to that expensive.
So, splurge on those items that are functional and you’re willing to keep for a longer period of time and vice-versa.
3.Avoid buying everything from the same store
One of the important things that I try to do always is not buying everything from the same store or more importantly buying those furniture sets to avoid the matchy-matchy look. Buying from different stores (but sticking to your style, that would be my next point) creates a beautiful, interesting and cohesive space.
And if you’re really tempted to buy the bedroom set next time, try not to keep everything from that set in the same room, instead say keep the dresser in the guest or kids room.
4.Know your style and stick to it
When you know your style, shopping and creating a beautiful home becomes much easier. It doesn’t matter what the style is, traditional, modern or an eclectic mix of styles. Once you’ve a clear vision in your mind create a mood board in Pinterest or just save some inspo pictures and that will help a lot in making your shopping choices.
And once you make it, try to stick to it; just because a certain green armchair looks great in someone else’s room, doesn’t guarantee it will look great everywhere.
5.Plan the layout
Planning the perfect layout ensures better use of the space, better traffic flow and makes the space look visually interesting too. One other thing it does is deciding which item / furniture pieces goes where. For example, how big the sofa should be or is there space for a side table and so on.
Talking of layout, and important part is measuring and that is my next point.
6.Measure and measure
While shopping, measuring tape is my best friend.
Measure the space, measure the item and also the distance between wall and furniture or between furniture pieces; so yes a lot of measurements. If measurements are not correct it will result in a out of scale space.
When measuring, it is important to measure the packaging as well to make sure it fits through the doors, otherwise it can be a bit of problem.
SO HAPPY SHOPPING !!