Real Life Interior Design Tips
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Creating a space that is both stylish and functional, that can withstand the challenges of every day life can seem challenging, but with thoughtful planning and smart choices, you can achieve a balance that gives you the aesthetic you’re looking for while also meeting the practical needs of your home. Here are some tips to help you design a beautiful, durable, and safe space for you, your children, and your pets!
Choose Durable Materials & Easy to Clean Surfaces
Durability is essential when designing a space for the wear and tear that comes with the every day messes, spills, and accidents. Opt for materials that can withstand wear and tear while still looking great. High quality, durable fabrics and flooring are of course an investment but they will hold up significantly better over time than cheaper alternatives.
Fabrics: Use performance fabrics that are stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. Options like microfiber, leather, and outdoor fabrics are excellent for upholstery.
Flooring: Consider hard-wearing flooring materials such as vinyl, laminate, or tile. These options are not only stylish but also resilient against spills, scratches, and heavy foot traffic.
Washable Rugs: Choose machine-washable rugs or those made from easy-to-clean materials like polypropylene, which can handle both spills and pet accidents. Darker, patterned rugs can help disguise dirt, dust, and hair… because who has time to vacuum every day?!
Our favorite easy to clean rugs
Smart Storage Solutions
Keeping a multifunctional space tidy can be challenging, especially with kids or pets (or both!) but smart storage solutions can make a big difference.
Built-In Storage & Shelving: Invest in built-in storage units or opt for the Ikea Billy book case and DIY your own built ins. Built ins blend in with a room's design while also providing space for toys, books, etc. Make sure you create a system that you can maintain to keep your storage tidy or add doors to your built ins which help disguise all manner of clutter! Incorporate open and closed shelving at child-friendly heights to encourage kids to tidy up after themselves, while keeping everything within easy reach.
Multifunctional Furniture: Use furniture pieces that offer additional storage or have multiple uses such as loft beds that double as desks, play areas with cabinets, ottomans with hidden storage, etc.
Shop multifunctional furniture & storage solutions
Personalize with Style
Let personalities shine through while maintaining a cohesive look:
Color Scheme: Choose a neutral base color for walls and large furniture pieces, and then add pops of color through accessories like cushions, art, and bedding.
Themed Decor: Incorporate themes that reflect your child’s interests, such as animals, space, or sports, in a stylish way. Use themed wall decals or framed artwork that can be easily updated as their interests change.
Customizable Elements: Use chalkboard paint on a section of the wall or a piece of furniture to create an area where kids can express their creativity without compromising the overall design.
Subtle styles for personalized rooms
Designing a space that accommodates a busy life without compromising on style is all about finding the right balance between functionality and aesthetics. By choosing durable materials, easy-to-clean surfaces, and smart storage solutions, you can create a space that is both beautiful AND practical. Personalizing your space and investing in high quality, durable items helps you make sure your home will remain stylish and functional for years to come. With these tips, you can design a space that everyone in the family will love.
