Creating a beautifully styled space is indeed an art form. Whether you’re a seasoned professional who styles properties for a living, or a homeowner looking to refresh your own space, these styling tips and tricks will help you curate an interior scheme that feels both cohesive and inviting.
1. Hang Art at Eye Level
When hanging art, aim to position the centre of the piece at eye level, which is approximately 145-150 cm from the floor. If you’re hanging multiple pieces together, treat them as one cohesive unit and leaving 5 to 10 cm of space between each frame.
2. Scale Your Rugs
Ensure your rug is large enough for the space. Using a rug that is too small can throw off proportions and make the space feel unbalanced. In living areas, the rug should serve as an anchor and be big enough so that at least the front legs of your furniture are positioned on the rug. In dining rooms, all table and chair legs should be able to comfortably fit on the rug, even when pulled out. If you’re placing a rug under the bed, it should cover a significant portion of the floor area around the bed. Ideally, the rug should extend approximately 60cm beyond each side of the bed, as well as the foot of the bed.
3. Style in Threes
When styling flat surfaces like coffee tables or shelves, group items in odd numbers, particularly threes. This creates visual interest and balance. More interestingly, the human brain naturally finds patterns and groupings of three more engaging and aesthetically pleasing compared to even numbers. Vary the heights and textures of the items for added depth.
4. Use Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors can make a room appear larger and brighter. Place them opposite windows to reflect natural light and create the illusion of more space. They also work well in narrow hallways or smaller rooms to open up the area.
6. Layer Your Lighting
Effective lighting involves a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Combine ceiling lights, floor lamps and table lamps to create a well-lit, inviting space. Opt for warm over cool lighting to make the space feel more welcoming.
7. Incorporate Texture
Mixing different textures adds depth and interest to a room. Combine materials like wood, metal, glass, and fabrics to create a rich, layered look. Think about using textured throws, rugs, and cushions to soften the space.
8. Pay Attention to Proportions
Choose furniture and decor that fit the scale of your room. Oversized furniture can overwhelm a small space, while too many small pieces can make a large room feel cluttered. Balance is key.
9. Utilise Negative Space
Don’t feel the need to fill every corner and wall. Negative space, or the empty areas around your furnishings and decor, is crucial for creating a balanced and harmonious room. It gives the eye a place to rest and highlights your key pieces.
10. Choose a Cohesive Color Scheme
A cohesive colour scheme ties a room together. Stick to a palette of 3 to 5 colours, including a mix of neutrals and accent shades. Use these colours consistently throughout your decor to create harmony and flow.
Mastering the art of property styling involves paying close attention to both the big picture and the finer details. By following these tips, you can create a space that is not only beautiful and stylish, but also functional and inviting. Happy styling!