Ask Erin | The Elements of Home Decorating

by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE  |  erinlove@panachebyerin.com

Knowing how to decorate a home is not an innate skill, and some people need help more than others.  The good news is that with just a little direction, you can obtain the knowledge to decorate a home that you will be proud to show off.  In the rest of this article, you will find simple tips that have the potential to elevate your space instantly.  Sometimes it’s not just about decorating; it’s about styling.  There are typically five elements of decorating that can help you visualize your finished space.  Check them out below!

1. The Must-Haves and The Loves!  When you first begin decorating, or re-decorating, a space, it is important to consider the needs (must-haves) and the wants (loves) of the person(s) who will be using the room.  It is very important to consider all of the potential uses for the room during the planning process.  For instance, who uses the room, your whole family or just one person?  How will the room be used?  Will it be for sleeping, playing, doing homework, cooking, relaxing, or all the above?  Once you figure out the things you must-have, it is much easier to start incorporating the things you love.  The “loves” are typically the icing on the cake – the little things that make you more comfortable and happier.  

2. The Colors and Patterns!  Color and pattern are two of the most important elements in a room.  That’s because they set the tone and feel of a space instantly.  Darker colors can make a space moody, while lighter colors will make a space feel cleaner and brighter.  Of course, there are always exceptions, so I tend to stay with neutral shades for walls and larger furniture pieces and then throw in a bit of color and pattern with rugs, pillows, artwork, etc.  Adding pattern to a room creates interest and gives a room depth and character.  If you don’t feel confident with mixing and matching patterns, it is okay to choose one pattern and then choose a solid color from it to incorporate.  

3. Shapes and Sizes!  Using varying shapes and sizes is the key to creating a cohesive space.  It’s all about contrast!  Contrast flat items, such as books, with taller, rounded items, such as vases and urns.  Objects with visual weight provide balance and scale to the overall look and feel of a space.  That is something that paint can never do.  

4. The Arrangement! This step is all about creating visual balance.  It can be tricky but all it takes is the correct placement of furniture and décor.  I always use the “rule of threes” when styling most spaces.  Simply put, always add a third element to a pair.  When three isn’t enough, just remember that working with odd numbers is always best.  

5. The Lighting!  Lighting is one of the most important elements!  A well-lit space can have a positive effect on our mood and vice versa!  A dimly lit room can have a negative effect on our mood.  Lighting also has a powerful effect on the ambiance of a room.  Too much light can have a clinical feel, while a room with expertly placed table lamps and overhead lighting will have an inviting feel.  I prefer warm white light over the cool white.  Warm light creates a much more relaxing atmosphere and is kinder to your skin tone.  

After considering the five elements of decorating, the next step is to find inspiration.  I suggest looking everywhere for inspiration – the outdoors, a doctor’s office, magazines, online, a friend’s house, etc.  Inspiration doesn’t just come in the form of pictures.  It can come in the form of a mood or scent that you are attracted to.  Or maybe it’s a color or an animal.  Keep an open mind and a pen and notebook with you so you can jot down any ideas that arise.  Happy decorating!