Ideas for Designing a Room

Designing a room involves implementing a variety of ideas from style to function. Planning and implementing a design budget is one of the first steps, followed by choosing style, color and accessories. Homeowners can decorate rooms themselves or hire professional interior designers for assistance.

Budget

Considering how much money will go into the design of a room is essential. A budget can determine price points for a variety of room elements such as flooring, furniture and light fixtures. Make a budget by first figuring out how much money is available for the entire project. Then determine what are necessities, as well as items that would be nice to include but are not essential. Decide what items that are currently in the room can stay in the new design scheme. Determine whether any items can be refurbished by upholstering or painting.

Style

Choose a style for the new room. Contemporary or modern design elements have clean, minimal lines and geometric shapes. Old World and French country decorating elements combine a rustic appeal with a mix of European antiquity. The 1950s can be seen through retro designs that implement vintage advertising pieces. Thumb through magazines to view different style ideas.

Functionality

Determine how the room will be used. A room that will be occupied by pets and children may require furniture and carpeting that can handle additional wear. Consider scrubbable or washable paints in high-traffic areas. Find what key pieces are necessary to make the room most functional. For example, a home office may need additional outlets for computer access and setup, as well as additional task lighting.

Color Palette

The psychology of color can set the mood in a room. Warm, golden colors such as reds, yellows and oranges cause stimulation and increased appetites and are commonly found in kitchens. Cool palettes of blues and violet hues promote relaxation. Dark colors can make a large room feel smaller and cozier, while pastel colors evoke a feeling of open space. Accent walls can be painted a different color to add additional color to a room.

Accessories

Accessories are the finishing touches to a room. Adding coordinating accessories like light fixtures, rugs and throw pillows pull style, color and functionality together. When shopping locally, always ask what the return policy is. Many times an item may look great in the store but not fit as imagined when placed in a room.