When it comes to interior design, the principles you apply can make all the difference in transforming a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Our ‘Interior Design 101’ guide simplifies the art of creating harmonious and functional spaces, whether you're working with a cosy apartment or a sprawling home.
Interior Design 101
The interior design scene has adapted from a few centuries ago when ancient civilisations intuitively adorned their homes based on functionality. Nowadays, interior designers coordinate form and function with other design elements to create a naturally flowing, functional and cohesive space. Mastering the art of interior design isn’t always a natural gift, but one that takes time and patience. Our guide intends to set the foundations for you to build upon, and to help you embrace your style. The principles of interior design include equally crucial elements: line, form, colour, pattern and texture.
Interior Design Principles: An SWD Cheatsheet
Mastering the art of interior design principles might seem simple on paper but once you have to start your project, it can easily become overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a cheat sheet to make your next design project seamless.
Prioritise Practical Design: Form and Functionality
Before starting any project, it is crucial to review your lifestyle, habits, and daily routines before making any decisions. Prompt yourself with questions to figure out which areas of your space need improvement.
Am I/my family able to perform daily routines with ease? Is my space hindering me in any way? Do I feel emotionally and physically at ease in my space? Is there enough light in my space? What don’t I/my family like about this space right now?
These questions bring up important aspects for your space to function according to your lifestyle–like traffic flow in a room, storage solutions, and comfort. Allowing yourself to answer freely and start brainstorming will always lead to finding logical and functional solutions. Once you’ve outlined an improved, functional space, the rest of the process will fall into place.
The Importance of Lines
Lines in a room have a tremendous impact on its overall look and feel. They keep your eye moving in and around the room. There are many ways to manipulate how your eye moves throughout a space. You can choose to incorporate lines into a space using furniture, decor pieces, and artwork, embrace existing lines created with architectural features, or create a combination.
For instance, combining horizontal and vertical lines creates a spacious and energetic feel to the room. To enhance this effect, it’s important to be mindful of how these lines relate to one another. For example, if a lintel is set at a certain height, consider aligning joinery or cabinetry at the same level to create a cohesive flow. Random or misaligned linework can feel unsettling, while thoughtful coordination ensures a sense of harmony. Alternatively, introducing a mix of strong, soft, and curved lines can create a balanced and comfortable ambience. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect synergy that resonates with your style.
Working With Colours
The psychological impact of colours is significant. Colours can transform rooms, set the tone, and create specific moods. Understanding the basic principles of colour theory enables you to choose the right colour scheme for spaces, effectively enhancing them and using them to draw attention where needed. For instance, darker tones often work well for floors, mid-tones for walls, and the lightest tones for ceilings.
However, not every space follows the same rules. For example, in rooms with very high ceilings, using darker tones on the ceiling can help bring it visually closer, creating a cosy and balanced atmosphere. Design is about adapting to the unique characteristics of each space, so feel free to break traditional guidelines where it feels right. After all, design and style is a personal journey!
Add Depth with Textures and Patterns
Texture refers to the tactile and visual conformity of surfaces, fabrics and materials in the space and its objects. Varying textures create depth and complexity, especially when patterns aren’t included in the design of the space.
Patterns are a powerful tool to inject personality into a space, highlighting or even disguising particular features of a room. Found across a range of materials, patterns can liven up a design and unify a colour scheme. However, like a bold hairstyle, patterns require confidence to pull off—they have the potential to overwhelm or dominate a room if not balanced thoughtfully. Decor, much like personal style, is an expression of who you are, so don’t be afraid to push boundaries if it resonates with you. If a daring pattern feels like “your thing,” embrace it and let it shine!
Get Designing
Designing is, after all, a personal journey. Even though there are rules and guidelines, the best solutions may come from breaking them and pushing boundaries. Be creative and always work with what resonates with you.
Mastering interior design is about understanding the core principles that bring a space to life, and this takes time. But, by applying these foundational techniques—like balancing proportion, choosing the right colours, and layering textures—you can achieve a home that’s both functional and visually stunning. Whether you're refreshing a single room or redesigning an entire home, these guidelines will make the process more approachable and enjoyable.
Still feeling overwhelmed or tackling a big design project? Before searching “interior designers near me”, contact Sarah Watermeyer Design for inspiration, ideas, and expert guidance. With over 23 years of experience, we’ve designed a lot–from residential homes to commercial outfits and recently the hospitality industry. Sarah Watermeyer Design is passionate not only about creating new homes but also about keeping existing homes and repurposing them for today’s lifestyle and our clients’ needs.
We’re here to help you bring your vision to life with ease and creativity. Let us turn your dream space into reality.
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