Most Common Decorating Challenges: Design Tips To Help You Tackle Your Summer Decorating Projects With Confidence

Photo Credit: FamilyHoliday.net

Summer is in full swing and for many of us this means tackling some of those home decorating projects we tend to put off during the more hectic fall and winter months.  As a decorator, I am asked advice from my clients on a variety of subjects but, some things always cause people more difficulty when it comes to decorating their home than others. I have put together a short list and some tips to help you with your decorating adventures this summer:




Designing The Monochromatic Room  

Interior Design by Wish Decor www.wishdecor.com

Designing a monochromatic room can be daunting but, when done well, the result can be spectacular.  Tips for decorating rooms in one color:

• The exact same color does not need to be repeated over & over throughout the room. Use various shades or tints of the same color. The elements of this dining room all have various shades or tints of the same hue.
• Adding lighting from various angles will provide a range of shadows that give the room more depth. Here, overall lighting is provided by the chandelier that is placed on a dimmer and, additional accent lighting is provided by the wall scones and candle lanterns on the table.
• Utilize patterns, in this case circles and diamonds, to break up the monotony. Design is all in the details so try to repeat these patterns throughout the room. The diamond pattern is repeated in the sconces and fabric on the back of the two captain chairs. The circle pattern is repeated throughout the room.  In the medallion wallpaper.  The curves of the chairs, dining stools and table legs. Then again with the shape of the mirror and chandelier.

The Dark and Uninviting Basement

Interior Design by Wish Decor www.wishdecor.com

Basements can be dark, dreary and hard to decorate. But, with the right light, colors and accessories, a basement can become just as beautiful as any other room in your home. Here, recessed pot lights were added in the ceiling to create optimal overall lighting throughout. A light wall color paired with bright colorful fabrics and artwork all work together to help uplift the space. Window treatments in a fun pattern help elevate a small and otherwise unattractive window while grass cloth wallpaper bring in natural texture and interest.

The Double Duty Living & Family Room

Interior Design by Wish Decor www.wishdecor.com

A living room is often a gathering spot for the family to relax and spend time together. Create a casual & practical space with the use of durable fabrics, sturdy furniture and extra storage for games & toys.  Here, an investment was made in comfortable, quality crafted Canadian made furniture upholstered in durable heavy weight fabric.  When choosing upholstery, look for flat weave natural fabrics such as a twill, velvet or wool with a touch of synthetic fiber such as a polyester or viscose woven in. They will hold up to a lot of use and disguise stains well.  Always request a stain resistant finish.

Rugs are lifesavers for protecting the floors from kids! Jute and sisal are most durable but, can be rough underfoot. Here, a softer wool blend with a repeated overall pattern was used which wears well and helps hide stains.

Extra storage is always a good idea in a kid friendly living space.  Opt for easy accessible storage like these cubed ottomans. They are easy for kids to find what they are looking for and then put it away in the end. 

Hope you enjoyed this post and found these tips helpful. Hope they help make your summer decorating projects easier and more stress free!  Follow Wish Decor Blog for more tips and ideas to help you with all your decorating needs.  Like us on Facebook for daily tips and inspiration.

Happy Decorating!

Niki