Interior design
Interior design is the process of shaping the experience of interior space, through the manipulation of spatial volume as well as surface treatment. Not to be confused with interior decoration, interior design draws on communication and construction documents
Essential parts of all design styles are concept, colour, proportion, balance, ergonomics, and function of design. Although all styles differentiate their usage of each of these, they are all an integral part of the overall look and feel of a room or space. Designers incorporate the seven elements of design to create and enhance style: form, mass, shape, line, color, texture and pattern.
Interior decoration is the art of decorating a room so that it is attractive, easy to use, and functions well with the existing architecture. The goal of interior decoration is to provide a certain "feel" for the room; it encompasses applying wallpaper, painting walls and other surfaces, choosing furniture and fittings, such as light fixtures, and providing other decorations for the area such as paintings and sculptures.
Interior decorating is done professionally by interior decorators. It is considered a design field.
There is a distinct difference between interior decorating and interior design. Interior decorating is generally focused on finishes, such as wallpaper, paint, window coverings, and furnishings. Interior design involves manipulating the architectural integrity of the interior space as well as the creation of a lifestyle experience through the study of environmental psychology.
Quick Design Ideas
Not all home decorating ideas require a huge investment of time and money. If you're looking for a few affordable home interior decorating ideas to freshen up a room over a weekend, try our tips:
Rearrange your Furniture- Pull your furniture away from the walls. Try re-positioning it at different angles. For example, a sofa arranged diagonally across a narrow living room will make the room look wider.
Eliminate Clutter- Clutter has a way of eliminating the desired mood and effect of any room. Find storage spaces for papers, toys, and other items that take from the personality of a room.
Paint - Paint one wall your favorite color and make it the focal point. Hang art on that wall and move a nice piece of furniture there.
Plants- Greenery adds a breath of fresh air to a room. If you don't have a green thumb, try silk plants and trees, its hard to distinguish them from the real thing.
Rug- A rug is a great way of defining an area. Try one that complements the room. Lay it at an angle beneath your coffee table.
Pictures or Mirror- Hang pictures that reflect your personality. Try frames that are more ornate. When hanging a mirror, try and position it so that it reflects and nice view or an interesting architectural element.
Figurines- Pull out your favorite collectibles. Show off your personality. Find a display area and group related objects together, in sets of three or five. Try and vary the shapes.
Decorative Pillows- The good news about decorative pillows is that they are an easy way to add textures and patterns to a room.
Lamps- Lamps are probably the one thing in your home that will give others a clue that your room is outdated. Look for new and fresh lamps that make a statement.
Throw - Similar to decorative pillows, throws add texture to your furniture. They come in all kinds of natural and man made fabrics. Find a pattern and style that you like.
Resources
Interior design experts love the affect a Spiral Staircase can have in your home.