It’s been some time now that wallpaper has been back on trend, but, as you know by now, it’s nothing like what our grandparents used!

With modern technologies, there are wallpapers of different materials which can now be adapted to any environment, even unthinkable ones such as kitchen and bathroom, even in the shower interior!

Even in terms of colors and patterns, there really is such a varied and wide choice that getting lost is a snap!

How to choose the best wallpaper?

EVALUATE THE MATERIAL

The first thing to figure out is WHERE we want to put the wallpaper; this is important to understand the most suitable material!

As I mentioned earlier, today, wallpapers are made of different materials, not only pure paper; in fact, there are also fabric wallpapers, vinyl wallpapers, fiberglass wallpapers, etc.

Depending on where the wall to be decorated is, there will be the best material:

– for example, to use wallpaper as a kitchen backsplash, the ideal is to use fiberglass one, in the bathroom, and even in the shower vinyl or PVC paper will be suitable.

– in all other rooms that do not have as much humidity and thermal stress, all kinds of paper will do, although perhaps the best is a nonwoven paper composed of fabric and vinyl, making this paper durable, washable, and also very pleasant to the touch.

(credits: wallsauce.com; Lime Lace)

(credits: london-art-naiadi-wallpaper; Jenn Feldman)

ATTENTION TO THE CONFIGURATION OF THE ROOMS

For the correct choice of paper, it will be essential to consider the condition of the room where you want to put the wallpaper.

Patterns, especially, should also be chosen according to the size and lighting conditions of the room.

For example, if the room is small, better to use wallpapers with light contrasts and designs that are not too small to avoid over-saturating.

You could even dare with decidedly oversize patterns because that also tricks the eye and makes you perceive larger spaces.

In small spaces also better not to put the paper on all four walls.

The thing that actually, I personally advise against regardless, is to avoid “trivializing” the choice of wallpaper, but mainly because the eye also needs solid colors to rest!

However, it is clear that, in huge environments, you can dare a little more!

(credits: archiproducts; cartadaparatiartistica.com)

For the other walls, you can use colors similar to the paper ones to harmonize it better or neutral and simple colors to enhance it more.

Wallpaper is a great way to emphasize a wall, and create a focal point, so choose the most important wall in the room, the one where you want to draw the eye!

N.B. the focal point doesn’t have to be the wall…it could also be the ceiling!!!

That would undoubtedly give a strong personality to the environment!

(credits: wdesigncollective.com; Magnolia Network)

FOLLOW THE STYLE

Having figured out the best material, the room configuration, and on which wall (or ceiling) to put the paper, you can choose colors and patterns!

Wallpaper is a piece of furniture in its own right; it must coexist with the rest harmoniously.

Then it will be necessary to look for papers with colors included in the palette selected for the house and from the patterns that can enhance the chosen style.

For colors, the “rules” for choosing solid colors apply, so in addition to referring to the palette, it will be based on the feelings you want to experience.

Light-colored papers will visually enlarge spaces, while dark ones will create more intimate environments.

You can also combine it with the other elements using the color wheel and its various combinations (I’m talking in detail about this here).

(credits: wallpaperdirect.com; cutewallpaper.org)

As mentioned earlier, for these reasons, it will be paramount to look for something that enhances the style you choose and can perfectly complement your type of decor.

In general:

– Black and white papers fit well or poorly with all styles and match any floor easily

(credits: estahome.it; uwall.it)

– Geometric wallpapers combine well with modern and contemporary style

(credits: ebay.com)

– jungle-style cards go well or poorly with all styles, even maybe it may sound strange to you!

(credits: artofit.org; tecnografica.net)

– Damask and floral cards give a retro and romantic touch.

(credits: nattyandpolly.com.au; leroymerlin)

I recommend you to think carefully about your choice so that you don’t have to get bored soon, and by the same token, get something you love madly!

(credits: mobilipolizzidesign.it; sancarwallcoverings.com)

WARNING…

If you decide to use wallpaper in your home, as always, I recommend not to overdo it; not only is it better not to paper all four walls, but it is also good to avoid putting it in every room of the house.

That is because otherwise, this choice will become less distinctive and original!

Also, if you choose striking patterns, don’t repeat them too often because instead of characterizing the environment, they can annoy the eye.

(credits: stan-concept.com; bricoflor.it)

Many brands study custom designs so that the pattern is proportionate and in scale to the size of not only the wall but also the rest of the room.

Finally, I recommend not skimping on choosing suitable wallpaper; if you choose low-quality materials, it will be ruined soon!

If you want to make the investment, do it well by choosing the most suitable material!

(credits: tecnografica.net; edilcomes.com)

I hope this article was helpful and you loved it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your home, or some environment of it, does not reflect you enough, do not wait any longer and book your advice: just contact me!

A defining element in the bedroom is the headboard because it somehow determines the style and mood of the whole room.

I have already covered the topic of the bedroom with tips on how to decorate it in general and how to decorate the bed wall in particular; today, I would like to focus on this detail, which can actually make a real difference!

Of course, there are bed frames that already feature a headboard, and honestly, you can really find all kinds and tastes of them.

But, if you are an imaginative person and want to customize the headboard to your liking, you can do so, just buy a sommier bed, that is, a bed that has only the base!

Let’s now see some types of headboards to choose from!

1 – WOODEN

Wood is a versatile and, if desired, low-cost material for a headboard.

The easiest solution is to use wooden planks vertically or horizontally!

(credit: shop8.onlinestoresoutlet.ru; colorsandcraft.com)

You can use bamboo rods or thin logs, or even, you can use pellet pallets.

With pallets, you could also create side niches using their thickness.

(credit: booking residence-capraggia.de; shop04004.shadrychant.com)

In all cases, you can leave the wood raw, pickle it for a shabby style, or stain it with the colors you have chosen as a palette.

You could also make a low boiserie that takes the length of the wall, or even, for an original idea, you could think of using one or two old doors!

(credit: mondadori editore; var-dags-rum)

2 – PADDED

You can find pre-made ones on the market, you can have it made by an upholsterer, but if you want to, you could make it yourself by creating something really unique!

All you need to do on your own is a wooden panel, some foam, and the fabric you like.

You can make it smooth for a more modern room, but if you have craftsmanship, you can also do some work like the quilted effect for a classic bed!

(credit: Holms Homes; overstock)

It must be well-padded for a more elegant and refined effect.

You can choose a headboard in fabric, velvet, as well as leather, or faux leather for a more impactful effect!

There are also modular panels and modules on the market for a unique and original bed headboard!

If you like, you could even cover the whole wall with these modular modules!

(credit: archiproduct.com; Alessandra Fedorova)

3 – WITH CUSHIONS

If a fully padded headboard seems too much, but you like the idea of something soft, you might want to think about hanging pillows!

They will be cushions (two separate ones or a single one doesn’t matter) with large loops to be stuffed into a rod and hung on the wall!

The rod can be a simple curtain pole and can be of wood or metal: the important thing is that it is at least as long as the bed.

(credit: @sarahmontgomerydesign; drom living)

4 – WROUGHT IRON

It is not mandatory to have the entire wrought iron structure: you can only have the headboard!

Here too, there is plenty of choices, from simple and linear headboards to very elaborate ones.

You can also have a padded wrought iron headboard or attach cushions to it, to maintain the charm of the iron as well as the comfort of the padding!

(credit: cosatto; aliexpress)

5 – MASONRY

It is possible to create a small counter-wall, in masonry or plasterboard, which can be as long as the wall, or just a little wider than the bed, at the desired height.

In this counter wall, you can make niches that can act as bedside tables.

If this wall is high enough, you could think of a long niche at the top.

(credit: Jover Construcciones; @vevamall)

Finally, the thickness of this wall will serve as a shelf to rest what you prefer, from decorative objects to lamps!

Of course, these niches can also be illuminated, thus creating a bit of play and atmosphere.

(credit: estudiomatmata.es; Ons Haarlemse Huisje)

6 – WITH FURNITURE

Do you like the idea I gave you before but don’t want to do the masonry work? You can use a piece of furniture!

It can be a low, perhaps modular bookcase: you would always have the top shelf and space to use as a nightstand, actually freeing up space near the bed.

(credit: iStock; uoifa.com)

7 – DRAWN

Why not draw it? Nowhere is it written that the headboard must be something physical!

If you are an original person, you can draw a headboard of the shape and size you want: using stickers or washi tape.

(credit: clemaroundthecorner.com; audreysjl)

This solution would allow you to change the headboard whenever you want, just detach the tape and create a new one.

You can use the stencil and, again, give your headboard the shape you want or just use color blocking!

(credit: Sarah Cooper; historiasdecasa.com.br)

8 – WITH TILES

That is not a solution you often see, but you can also make the headboard of your bed with ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware, the same used for the coatings of bathrooms and kitchens.

Like the masonry option, this is a more “invasive” and, I dare say, definitive solution, but also of considerable scenographic impact.

The modularity and various tile sizes allow you to create a wide variety of wall designs.

Here you can really give space to your imagination!

A not insignificant advantage of this solution is that it is really easy to clean, thus being very hygienic!

(credit: beriestain.com; Patchwork Harmony)

Which of these ideas did you like the most? Let me know in the comments!!!

Whichever type of headboard you choose, remember that for a regal and distinctive look of the bed and the room in general, the headboard will have to be huge!

I hope this article was helpful and you enjoyed it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share the article with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored and it will help me get my name out there.

And if you need advice for your home, do not hesitate to contact me!

Who doesn’t love the idea of having a luxurious and sophisticated living room?

But is it necessary to spend crazy amounts of money to have such a living room?

No! It is not mandatory: some tips and tricks will help to achieve great results without having to “splurge”!

Let’s see them together

1 – COLORS: START FROM A NEUTRAL BASE

Luxurious environments, regardless of style, have in common that they use neutral colors, at least as a base.

Neutrals make spaces relaxing, elegant, and sophisticated, and because of their versatility, they match any style!

Use neutrals for walls, floors, and larger furnishings, then give them a pop of color with smaller furnishings and decorations!

I remember that when I talk about neutrals, I am not just talking about white, gray, and beige, but any color to which a lot of white (to get a light neutral) or a lot of black (for a dark neutral) is added.

Adding white or black to the color will allow color lovers to not give it up!

The neutrals thus obtained will lose their exciting component but will maintain the mood of that color that will still remain in the background.

If you want to learn more about neutral colors, I describe them in detail here!

(credits: rh.com; interiorbutikker.no)

2 – BOISERIE AND MOLDINGS

Moldings on the walls help give some movement and depth to the room, especially when you have neutral-colored walls.

They also provide textures and warmth, make the room more “rich”, and create visual interest.

Simple and linear moldings go very well with modern or contemporary styles but also with the minimalist one.

The slightly more elaborate ones will go better with the classic style!

You can use low paneling, about a meter high, this has a high visual impact giving importance to the room, especially if colored differently from the wall.

If you make this paneling a little overhanging, you can use this shelf to put decorative objects or frames on it!

Alternatively, but also in addition, you can use full-wall moldings to create frames that will give a very stylish and sophisticated effect.

It is better, in this case, to keep the same color between the wall and the boiserie.

(credits: Sergey Krasyuk; leroymerlin.fr)

– CREATE A FOCAL POINT

The focal point is an essential element in interior design: it catches the eye by creating visual interest!

It is always relevant, but it becomes even more so when you want to make your environments sophisticated and luxurious!

In the living room, the focal point can be the sofa wall or, if well-designed, the TV wall!

For the lucky ones, of course, it could be a beautiful fireplace or a window with a stunning view.

It must be something that “dominates” the rest of the room and around which everything else revolves.

You can use a different wall color to make what is placed next to it stand out.

You could also use a particular wallpaper, a large mirror, or an important painting.

The focal point doesn’t need to be the wall; it could be the sofa itself or a piece of furniture perhaps of particular value (not necessarily economic value!)

(credits: Shiri Ganesh Home Solutions; Etsy- ArttideArt)

4 – CONTRASTING SEAT

Buying coordinated furniture, we have seen it before, is a “mistake” that people often make, for fear of making a wrong…

So people often buy the sofa-armchair set and, in fact, miss out on great opportunities.

For a more luxurious, sophisticated, and studied living room, it is a good thing to have one or two seats contrasting with the sofa.

Different shapes, textures, and colors will break the monotony and make the environment even more interesting, giving it character.

If the seat is totally different from the sofa, “justify” it by picking up the color in the covers of the decorative pillows: this will harmonize the whole thing!

(credits: article.com; textureliving.com)

5 – MIRRORS (AND PICTURES)

Mirrors amplify space and natural light, making the environment more refined, elegant, and luxurious.

Ideally, put them near a window to amplify the light as much as possible; however, be careful what it reflects, that it is a tidy area, or you will duplicate the clutter!

Dare with even oversized mirrors resting on the floor: you’ll give an extra touch of character; by doing so, the mirror could become the focal point of the living room!

That also applies to paintings: compositions of several small-medium-sized paintings are all right, but if you want something to make the living room look more luxurious and sophisticated, then dare with large ones!

They have a higher visual impact and make the environment less stuffy, more linear, and clean!

(credits: living-corriere; Meridiani living)

6 – CURTAINS

Curtains, in general, dress a home by bringing warmth, texture, and color.

They become significant when you want to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your living room.

They don’t have to be super expensive because it’s their scenic effect that changes the perception of the environment!

The best choice, in this case, is drapery curtains, perhaps a double curtain, with a filter curtain and a blackout curtain always open at the sides.

The double curtain brings a bit of contrast and color, making the living room even more elegant and luxurious.

For a perfect result, the rod should be as close to the ceiling as possible to enhance the heights and give more breathing space to the window.

When ceilings are really very high, the rod should still be placed at least 15-20 cm above the window.

It is also important that the stick is wider than the window by at least 10 cm on each side so that the curtain, when open, does not block the passage of light.

The curtain then can rest lightly on the ground or barely touch it; short curtains shrink the room and look “unfinished”!

(credits: pinimg.com; Tom Stringer)

7 – RUGS

I know this point is controversial because many people do not like rugs, yet, in the living room, it is an essential element to make it elegant and sophisticated.

The rug brings warmth and texture, but most importantly, it ties the elements together!

A large rug that encloses the sofa, seats, and coffee and side tables will create a conversation area, a more intimate and welcoming environment.

I’m talking about rugs here!

(credits: theblushhome.com; @homepolish)

8 – PILLOWS

Dressing the sofa with some decorative pillow (and maybe a blanket) is extraordinary for a luxurious living room!

The pillows, such as the curtains and the rug, bring texture and color, and this creates rhythm and contrast.

It is important to alternate between large patterns, solid colors, smaller patterns, and even geometric designs (I’m talking about how to mix patterns here).

Also, use different textures by alternating smoother fabrics with rougher and more worked ones; this tip will make the sofa look more sophisticated and elegant.

A little trick for pretty puffy pillows: get the inside of a material that can be easily “molded” like down and then always take it a little larger than the lining (example: 45×45 pillow with 40×40 lining).

(credits: studio mcgee; french.alibaba.com)

9 – LIGHTS

Artificial lighting will play a significant role in the final result!

First of all, there must be good general light for visual comfort, but ambient and task lights (perhaps near the sofa for reading) should still be added to the general one.

Having multiple types of light helps create contrast and depth.

Where possible, use dimmable lights to manage the intensity of the light as needed!

Then, in choosing lights, be daring, as with mirrors and pictures: get large, distinctive chandeliers or floor lamps that immediately grab attention!

(credits: nomadbubbles.com; Bronxes Studio)

10 – SEARCH FOR PARTICULAR ITEMS

When looking for decorative accessories, avoid ordinary objects; instead, search for unique and out-of-the-ordinary items.

For example, look for vases and candle holders with unusual shapes and finishes.

Buy also trays and create inside your compositions: giving it a sort of border, you will set it more importance.

Remember to create compositions with an odd number of objects, which have different heights and sizes, and distinct colors and finishes.

Another trick that gives a touch of sophistication and luxury is to use, here and there, the principle of symmetry; for example, on the sideboard, you could put two equal lamps on the sides and a beautiful central painting.

It is not to be done constantly and at all costs: on the contrary, it would become boring, but the principle of symmetry immediately gives the impression of something sophisticated!

(credits: etsy.com; east.co.uk)

(credits:pinimg.com;sarahshermansamuel.com)

11 – PLANTS, FLOWERS, BRANCHES, AND ESSENCES

Plants bring a touch of nature into the house, and this is really very important; they also purify the air and elevate the perception of the environment!

They immediately give that touch of elegance and sophistication!

Fresh flowers are also great, but for a more low-cost elegant effect, you can also decorate with branches!

Even these bring movement and freshness with simplicity!

The perception of spaces is not only visual but also concerns what we feel with touch and smell.

The scents of fresh flowers immediately elevate the perception of the environment, but of course, you can also help yourself with candles and diffusers.

Perfumes do not have to be aggressive, it goes without saying, but adding them in the living room will immediately make it more refined and luxurious.

(credits: @homepolish; tileclub.com)

12 – ORDER!

It seems obvious, but clutter is the exact opposite of luxury, even the visual one: a living room too full of things is not good.

We need to embrace a little more of the rules of minimalism, including “less is more”!

Then use storage furnishing to store things that are too much!

Poufs, coffee tables, benches, or baskets are excellent allies for this purpose.

(credits: coffeetableonline.com; wallmart.ca)

I hope this article was helpful and you loved it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your bedroom, or some other room in the house, does not reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultation, all you need to do is contact me!

Decorating a home with geometric shapes and patterns is a great way to add character to a space and make it feel special and unique!

Geometric shapes and patterns are versatile and unique elements for decoartion!

Today, I’d like to explore with you how and where to use these designs to give your spaces an eye-catching and original look!

GEOMETRIC SHAPES AND PATTERNS

Let’s start by taking a look at different shapes and what patterns actually are.

GEOMETRIC SHAPES

The basic geometric shapes are the square, the circle, and the triangle.

Just like colors, these three shapes have symbolic meanings that are good to know to use them in the best possible way:

– The square is a symbol that represents the Earth.

Thanks to its straight, parallel sides, it conveys a sense of solidity, stability, balance, and protection.

– The circle is a symbol that represents the sky.

Its shape, with no sharp edges, feels like an embrace!

And since it has no beginning or end, it also represents spirituality and the idea of cycles and continuity.

– The triangle sits in between.

It has a stable base like the square, but its two slanted sides point upward, giving it energy, movement, and vibrancy!

(credits: Anjo Tintas e solvente;blog.mybespokeroom.com; Decoideas)

LINES

– Vertical lines symbolize strength – when used on walls, they visually make a space appear taller.

– Horizontal lines symbolize balance – when used on walls, they visually make a room look wider.

– Diagonal lines, often used in contrast to each other to create the pattern known as Chevron, are dynamic and lively.

When applied to walls, they can also make a space feel broader!

(credits: verniciroma.it; tuttocasa-piemonte.com; cityfarmhouse.com)

PATTERNS

A pattern is a decorative design that repeats vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.

There are countless types of patterns in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and they definitely add movement and rhythm to a space!

(credits: Serena & Lily; archiproducts.com; medium.com)

HOW AND WHERE TO USE THEM?

How and where to use geometric shapes and patterns to decorate your home?

FURNITURE & DECOR

That is the best way to introduce these types of designs in small doses!

You can find furniture or accessories with geometric shapes or patterns.

Textiles are an easy win: you’ll definitely come across lots of curtains, cushions, and rugs featuring these motifs.

You can also decorate your walls with geometric-patterned artwork, which you can make yourself!

Try using colorful wall decals, or if you are a bit crafty, paint directly onto the surface.

If you love patterns, you can also create wall art using fabrics in the designs and colors you like most.

These will be truly unique and personal touches for your space!

(credits: tikamoon.it; margoselby.com)

(credits: americanflat.com; livingspaces.com)

WALLS

You can decorate your walls with geometric shapes and patterns in many ways:

– Tiles

– Paint

– Wallpaper

– Wall decals

– Wainscoting or paneling

– TILES

Tiles are most commonly used on walls in the kitchen—usually as a backsplash—and in the bathroom, especially around the shower or bathtub area.

There’s a great variety to choose from: you can go for hexagonal tiles or ones with decorative patterns.

There are even 3D tiles that add texture and a tactile feel to your space!

And don’t forget—mosaic is also a pattern in its own right!

tiles to decorating geometric shapes and patterns

(credits: designmag.it; cesiceramica.it; dom_ceramiche)

– WALL PAINTINGS

Beyond vertical and horizontal stripes, it’s quite common to see walls divided by diagonal lines forming large triangles, each painted in different colors.

But really, you can get creative with circles and squares, too – offering terrific alternatives!

For instance, a circle or square can frame artwork, shelves – or even highlight a sofa or dining table, giving these elements extra emphasis.

You can also use them to liven up a section of the wall that might otherwise feel a bit empty.

As always, it all depends on what you want to convey and the style of your home!

Remember, you don’t have to paint all four walls – even the chosen wall doesn’t need to be fully covered.

The goal is to create a focal point in the room!

(credits: clubedastintas.com; pinterest; danilocesana.com)

– WALLPAPER

These days, wallpaper comes in every style imaginable – including tons of options with geometric shapes and all kinds of patterns!

Finding one that perfectly fits your home’s style and color palette won’t be hard.

Like with paint, you don’t have to cover all four walls.

You can wallpaper an entire wall, or just a portion of it, to create that famous focal point!

Study the space and your furnishings carefully to decide where the wallpaper makes the most impact and how much to use.

wall paper to decorating geometric shapes and patterns

(credits: caselio.com; etsy.com; newwalls.as-creation.com)

– WALL DECALS

A creative and definitely budget-friendly way to decorate your home with geometric shapes and patterns is by using wall decals!

You can buy them in ready-made shapes or get colorful adhesive sheets and cut them into any shape you like.

A little tip: before sticking anything to the wall, try laying out your design on the floor or a flat surface to see if it looks balanced and visually pleasing.

You could even test it directly on the wall using painter’s tape to hold the shapes in place—then, if you like the result, go ahead and stick them on for good.

Better safe than sorry!

decals patterns

(credits: wandtattoos.de; dreamstime.com)

– WAINSCOTING OR PANELING

When I talk about wainscoting, as I said other times, I don’t mean the old-fashioned kind our grandparents used to have!

At its core, wainscoting is simply wood used as a decorative element on walls—and there’s so much you can do with it!

You can really get creative by designing geometric shapes with the wood, and if those shapes are repeated, they can even become patterns in their own right.

play with WAINSCOTING -decorating geometric shapes and patterns

(credits: The Light Shade Studio; salvatoriofficial.com)

FLOORING

If you think about it, all floors are made up of geometric shapes and, through the repetition of tiles, create patterns.

But there are also creative ways to design more playful, eye-catching flooring!

– MIXING FLOORING TYPES

It’s absolutely possible to use two different types of flooring in the same room—especially if your entry opens into the living area or you have an open-plan kitchen and living space.

Changing the flooring is a great way to divide the two areas visually.

There are three main ways to transition between flooring types:

– Clean break

– Jagged edge

– Degraded

A clean break is easy to understand: a straight, defined line separating the two materials.

A jagged edge is when the tiles are cut to fit into each other in a fun, irregular way—like a plank meeting a hexagon tile.

Finally, a degraded not only uses a jagged edge but also gradually mixes elements of one material into the other, creating a soft, seamless transition.

patterns on flooring

(credits: homepro.co.th; Tua Casa; wowdesigneu.com)

– PATTERNS CREATED BY TILE DESIGNS

Some tiles have decorative designs that, on their own, might not seem particularly striking—but when placed together, they can form stunning patterns!

It’s all about how the individual pieces come together to create an exceptional, more impactful visual.

patterns on tiles - decorating geometric shapes and patterns

(credits: casafacile.it)

SOME PRECAUTIONS…

Decorating your home with geometric shapes and patterns can create striking and inspiring spaces—but the golden rule is: DON’T OVERDO IT!

– Avoid filling every surface—walls, floors, and decor—with these types of designs.

– When the geometric shapes or patterns are bold or oversized, keep the furniture and other decor more minimal to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.

– You can mix different geometric shapes and patterns, but they should have something in common—like color—and vary clearly in scale.

One should always stand out more than the other!

I hope you enjoyed this article about decorating your home with geometric shapes and patterns and found it helpful.

If so, don’t hesitate to share it with someone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get known.

If you feel that your home, or any part of it, doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer: fall in love with your place again and book your consultancy!

How to choose the proper lighting for your home?!
It’s a question I’m often asked, so I decided to answer it with this article.

We know perfectly well that lighting is absolutely essential, and the wrong lighting can ruin your entire furnishing and décor project.

As mentioned other times, you could choose the most beautiful furniture, the best colors, and the finest materials, but if you get the lighting wrong, everything will fade away!

I’ve already discussed lighting by explaining color temperatures, color rendering, and more (you can find the video here!).

Today, I want to focus on choosing the right lights for your home and how to position them correctly for perfectly lit spaces!

Let’s first look at the different types of lighting based on their function.

We can divide lighting fixtures into two main categories:

– decorative

– architectural

(credits: Mooeilight; cb2.com; shopee.com; amazon.com; pinterest; obsoleteinc.com; astrolighting.com; indiamart.com)

DECORATIVE LIGHTS

Decorative lights, of course, provide illumination, but they also enhance the design and aesthetics of our spaces.

They come in various forms:

– Chandeliers

– Table lamps

– Floor lamps

– Wall lamps

 

(Mooeilight; cb2.com; pinterest; obsoleteinc.com)

And each can have different styles!

In addition to providing illumination, decorative lights enhance the design and aesthetics of a space.

Therefore, they are essential elements when designing the décor of any space.

To understand how to choose the right lights for your home, we need to consider two key aspects:

– How the light spreads

– Shape, style, and color

HOW THE LIGHT SPREADS

– SHADED LAMPS

Shaded lamps emit a soft, even light.

This type of lamp helps create the room’s general lighting.

Chandeliers, table lamps, floor lamps, or wall lamps with shades help create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

These lamps are ideal for areas where you want to relax, such as the bedroom or living room.

(credits: urbanoutfitters.com; behance.net)

– DIRECT LIGHTING

This type of lighting illuminates specific areas for tasks like reading, studying, drawing, eating, or cooking!

In addition to being highly functional by providing the right light for each activity, these lights are also a key part of the décor.

(credits: amazon.it)

Depending on how a lamp emits light, it will be more suitable for certain areas than others.

So, this is the first aspect to consider when choosing a lamp!

SHAPE, STYLE, AND COLOR

Once you’ve determined the best type of lamp based on how it emits light, you’ll need to choose its shape, style, and color to match the design you’ve selected for your home!

For example, if you love the minimalist style, you can use lamps with simple shapes and clean lines to maintain the style. Or, if you enjoy mixing, you can add lamps that contrast, making them the focal point!

(credits: jdpinteriors.com)

In a room, there are usually several decorative lamps.

These lamps should have a common thread to ensure the space feels cohesive and harmonious.

You can achieve it by using lamps with similar shapes but different colors and materials or, on the contrary, lamps with different shapes but the same material and color!

ARCHITECTURAL LAMPS

Architectural lamps are subtle lights that, in a way, are part of the structure of a space; for this reason, you can use them regardless of the home’s style.

They are practical and functional for illuminating areas.

We can include in this group:

– Recessed spotlights

– Ceiling lights

– Regular spotlights

– LED strips

(shopee.com; amazon.com;astrolighting.com; indiamart.com)

In addition to illuminating spaces, these elements can highlight decorative objects or architectural features.

Let’s see where and how to use these lights.

– RECESSED SPOTLIGHTS

People commonly use recessed spotlights for general room lighting.

A false ceiling made of drywall is required to install them.

They are functional and discreet lamps that one can use in any room without altering the style.

They can have a wide or narrow light beam.

You can use recessed spotlights with wide beams anywhere as general lighting.

If the beam is narrow, they are best used to highlight a specific area, such as a wall with unique wallpaper or beautiful artwork.

(credits: lednews.lighting; splash-of-light.co.uk)

– CEILING LIGHTS

Ceiling lights fulfill the same purpose as recessed spotlights and work well when you cannot have or do not want a false ceiling.

Their primary function is to provide general lighting.

There are countless different shapes of ceiling lights, and you will need to find one that best fits the shape, style, and color to match the room’s décor!

(credits: archiexpo.com; lampadaribartalini.it)

– REGULAR SPOTLIGHTS

On the other hand, regular spotlights usually have a narrow light beam, which makes them perfect to highlight a specific area, such as an architectural detail, a painting, a sculpture, or a wall with a unique texture!

You have to position spotlights to point exactly where you want them.

There are also spotlights mounted on tracks.

They’re ideal for spaces without a false ceiling but with a single central light source.

Thanks to the track, you can still distribute the light evenly.

(credits: Vicki Fabian; ikea.com)

– LED STRIPS

Thanks to their versatility, LED strips have become widely used in interior design for the past few years!

LED strips can define volumes and illuminate furniture or functional areas like beneath kitchen cabinets!

They emit a soft, diffused light, perfect for general lighting and setting the mood!

(credits: krow.rs; maisondorstudio.com)

SOME ADVICE

Now that you know the various types of lighting, I’d like to give you a few tips on how to better plan the lighting for your spaces:

– Use multiple lamps

One light source is not enough to properly illuminate a space and create contrast and depth!

The ideal setup is layering light: having general lighting to fully illuminate the room, spotlighting to highlight specific areas, and task lights that assist with activities like cooking, reading, studying, and so on.

– Be careful how space will be used

Try to understand how you will use a particular space to determine which lights to choose!

For example, in a study, you’ll need specific table lamps to make the space more comfortable for working.

– Design the lighting system

When designing a lighting system, base it on how you want to arrange the furniture in the room.

This way, you’ll have a truly functional and efficient lighting setup!

Otherwise, the risk is having lights in places where they’re not needed and lacking them where they are.

 

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful.

If so, don’t hesitate to share it with someone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get known.

If you feel that your home, or any part of it, doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer: fall in love with your place again and book your consultancy!

Is it possible to transform spaces, at least visually?

Of course, it is, without construction work, only with… color!!!

Color has the power to alter our perception of spaces.

That means it can optically change the appearance and proportions of a room, making it feel taller or shorter, smaller or larger, and so on!

Therefore, color is a fantastic ally for those unique spaces: when used correctly, it can trick the mind and give us the impression of entirely different dimensions.

Today, I’d like to share some tips on using color to your advantage to visually transform spaces in line with what you want to express in them!

– LIGHT COLORS AND DARK COLORS

This difference is quite well-known: light colors enlarge, while dark colors make spaces feel smaller.

Light colors also make a space brighter because they reflect light.

If you need to make a space feel huger, it’s best to use light colors everywhere: on the ceiling, walls, and floors.

Using light colors also for the furniture will amplify the effect.

While white is undoubtedly the color that reflects light the most, I don’t mean only white when I refer to light colors.

ANY color in its lighter, less saturated shades can help make spaces feel bigger!

While it’s true that dark colors make spaces feel smaller, they also create a sense of “closeness.”

The space feels cozier.

The risk is making a space feel a bit stifling, but when used in large, well-lit areas, the result can be stunning!

(credits: posterstore.it; room108.be)

– WARM COLORS AND COOL COLORS

We all know warm colors include shades like red, yellow, and orange because they evoke images of sunsets, fire, and similar elements.

They create a sense of warmth, bring cheer, and feel inviting, setting up pleasant atmospheres.
Warm colors shrink the spaces, making them more intimate and cozier.

On the other hand, cool colors include blues, purples, and greens, as they remind us of water and nature.

They give a sensation of freshness, serenity, and relaxation.

Cool colors also help to visually enlarge spaces by creating the illusion that walls are receding.

That makes them ideal for tight spaces like hallways or small bathrooms.

When choosing a color, it is crucial to understand the room’s specific conditions to select the proper shade, the one that will absolutely help you experience the feelings you want in that space.

(credits: Cleo Scheulderman; talianbark.com)

– NEUTRAL COLORS

Neutral colors have a significant visual impact!

Remember that, aside from pure neutrals like white, gray, and black, all other neutrals have an undertone you need to consider.

The undertone is what makes all the difference in the final result, as it determines whether a neutral appears warm or cool.

Even among warm neutrals, the undertone will influence whether a space feels more yellowish or rosy, and this will, of course, affect the perceived mood.

I discuss neutral colors in greater detail here.

Neutral colors are fantastic as a background or base in interior design as they’re incredibly versatile, pairing well with any style and color!

(credits cocolapinedesign.com; H&M Home)

– VISUAL EFFECTS

Now that you know how colors can visually change the appearance of a room, let’s explore how to use them to create specific visual effects!

– Lower/Raise the Ceiling

If you have a room with a low, somewhat suffocating ceiling, paint the walls and leave the ceiling white.

That will instantly give the impression of a taller room.

On the other hand, if the ceiling is high and feels too expansive, paint it a darker color than the walls!

Visually, the ceiling will seem lower, creating a cozier and more intimate atmosphere.

(credits: @coelholimaarq)

(credits: Future; summerthorntondesign.com)

– Widen/Narrow the Space

To make a space appear larger, use a darker color on the ceiling and the farthest wall while keeping the side walls light.

That will visually bring the ceiling and the far wall closer, creating the illusion of a larger room.

That trick works wonders for long and narrow spaces like hallways!

To narrow the space, do the opposite: keep the far wall and the ceiling light and use darker colors on the side walls.

That will elongate the room slightly, making it feel more proportionate.

(credits: @coelholimaarq)

(credits: @IndiverPlast; stherbb.us)

– Shorten the Space

To make a generous space feel more intimate, paint the far wall darker while keeping the other surfaces light.

The far wall will appear closer, making the space more inviting and cozy.

(credits: @coelholimaarq; kmdesignco.com)

– Narrow the Walls

To “shorten” the walls and make them feel narrower, the ideal solution is to add a dark-colored stripe along the upper part of the wall.

(credits: @coelholimaarq; living.corriere.it)

– Enlarge/Shrink the Space

As mentioned earlier, with light and dark colors, paint all surfaces in light tones to make a space feel larger by reflecting more light.

That creates the effect of a more open and airy room.

Use the same color on walls and ceiling for an even more powerful effect.

On the other hand, if you want to make a room feel smaller, opt for warm, dark colors.

As we’ve seen, these tones bring surfaces closer together.

That approach is perfect for huge rooms that otherwise might feel “empty” or impersonal!

(credits: @coelholimaarq)

(credits: tailoredspace.com.au; igorsirotovarchitects.artstation.com)

As you’ve seen, color is indeed a fantastic ally.

Not only does it set the mood of a room, but it can also help transform visually unique spaces, like long and narrow hallways…

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful.

If so, don’t hesitate to share it with someone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get known.

If you feel that your home, or any part of it, doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer: fall in love with your place again and book your consultancy!

How to decorate a bookshelf?

That is a question asked in the community of my YouTube channel, and today, I have decided to answer.

Whether you’re an avid reader or not, the bookshelf is a piece of furniture found in every home!

It can be a full-wall bookshelf, a divider bookshelf that visually separates two areas of the same open space, or just a series of shelves.

It doesn’t matter: we all have this space in our homes!

The problem is that it’s often not highlighted to its full potential, and books and objects are placed without criteria.

So, let’s see how to decorate a bookshelf to make it truly pleasant to the eye, a little work of art!

– START FROM SCRATCH

That is obvious if you buy a new bookshelf, but if you want to give an existing one a new look, remove everything and start from scratch!

Removing some items and adding others can create chaos and confusion.

Of course, you can take a photo before clearing everything off, so if the final result doesn’t convince you and you want to put everything back the way it was, it won’t be difficult!

HOW TO ORDER THE BOOKS?

Let’s start with a bookshelf primarily filled with books; there are many ways to arrange them:

– ALPHABETICALLY BY AUTHOR

This method makes it really easy to find what you’re looking for.

Start with the author’s name and then the book title; in the case of a series, you’ll have all the books together.

To add a touch of movement and color, you could place decorative wooden letters corresponding to the author’s name!

– BY LITERARY GENRE

If you enjoy different genres, you can divide your books based on their subject matter.

Here, too, you can add an object or image to bring color and movement and “signal” the type of genre!

– BY COVER COLOR

You can also choose to arrange your books according to the color of their covers, creating shelves with a terrific visual impact!

Finding a book might be more challenging, but the look will be stunning!

In all three cases, remember that books should be placed either horizontally or vertically, never at an angle, to avoid damaging them!

(credits: journal.homemania.ru; Emily Solilak; See Jane Work)

DECORATE THE BOOKSHELF WITH MORE THAN JUST BOOKS

It is not mandatory to decorate the bookshelf with only books; quite the opposite, especially if it is in a living room or a double-sided bookshelf, it is possible, and even preferable, to pair other items with the books:

– vases

– paintings, photos

– various objects

– plants

For a bookshelf with a WOW effect, here are some suggestions:

– THE 1/3 RULE

With this rule, you should use 1/3 of the space for a large statement piece, 1/3 for books, and 1/3 for smaller objects.

You don’t have to apply this rule to every shelf: it’s perfectly fine to have one or two shelves just for books!

If followed correctly, however, this rule will create visual movement and give the impression of something absolutely sophisticated!

(credits: roomfortuesday.com; HomeLilys; Jersey Girl in the South Design Company)

– START WITH LARGE OBJECTS

Always look at the bookshelf as a whole, not just each individual shelf.

Try to place large items so that they communicate with each other through height, shape, material, or color.

Don’t place them in the same spot on different shelves; instead, create a zigzag or triangular arrangement.

(credits: domino magazine; but.fr; guggenheim-venice.it)

– ADD BOOKS AND SMALLER OBJECTS

Once you’ve placed the larger pieces, add the books, always keeping in mind a common thread between the various items and across the shelves.

Finally, place the smaller elements, following the same principle and being careful not to overdo the quantity!

(credits: Nancy Artsy Chicks Rule; arredamentiriva.it; leroymerlin.com)

– CREATE SMALL COMPOSITIONS

Create small compositions with objects consistent with each other, but ensure they have varying heights to create movement.

For example, you could place a vase, basket, painting, or photograph together!

You can also use horizontally stacked books to elevate an object, changing its height!

Make each shelf unique, but remember to check the bookshelf as a whole.

Balance the objects, colors, heights, and materials/textures, echoing them across multiple shelves.

(credits: briahammelinteriors.com; farmhouse-decor-home-tour-2020; Kelly-Wearstler)

– DO NOT BE AFRAID OF EMPTY SPACES

Don’t feel anxious about filling every inch; on the contrary, leave some empty spaces here and there on the various shelves.

That will create more breathing room and, more importantly, highlight what you’ve placed on the shelves, which would otherwise get lost!

(credits: prattandlambert.com)

– ADD PLANTS

Indeed, it’s a great idea to decorate your bookshelf with something alive, bringing a bit of nature into the mix!

This detail will instantly add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your bookshelf.

It could be a vase of flowers, a vase with some branches or leaves, or even an authentic plant!

Again, don’t just add one; skillfully repeat the touch of green across multiple shelves!

(credits: Heart & Paper Studio; cutypaste.com; mistudiodesign.com)

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful.

If so, don’t hesitate to share it with someone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get known.

If you feel that your home, or any part of it, doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer: fall in love with your place again and book your consultancy!

How correctly to furnish the entryway? It’s a question I’m often asked!

The entryway is your home calling card, the first impression a guest will have of the rest of the house.

The entryway is a transition from the outside world to the heart of your home, so it should be welcoming and give a sense of the style and atmosphere that awaits inside!

First, you should interpret your available space: a small space does not necessarily have to be less welcoming than a large one!

Sometimes, the opposite is true because a generous space can feel empty and impersonal!

You can create a welcoming entryway even if you don’t have one walking straight into the living room!

Let’s go over 6 rules for furnishing your entryway perfectly, no matter the available space!

1 – FLOORING OR RUG

As we mentioned earlier, the entryway is a transition from the outside to the inside, so ideally, the flooring should highlight this transition.

You could choose different flooring from the rest of the house, which is ideal if your entry leads directly into the living room to divide the two areas visually.

You’d want to avoid having two floors with strong contrasts in a tiny space, but different flooring helps define specific areas.

Alternatively, you could use a rug: only remember to choose one simple to clean.

That can help prevent guests from bringing dirt into the rest of the house!

Naturally, having a doormat outside the door is also helpful to get rid of most of the dirt.

(credits: karstinteriors.com; Stefania Damaggio; Pinterest.com)

2 – ALWAYS HAVE A SURFACE TO SET THINGS ON

It’s paramount to furnish the entryway with a surface whose dimension will depend on the available space.

It could be a beautiful round table in the middle of the room, a console table against the wall, or even a simple shelf!

First and foremost, it’s functional because it’s where you’ll “empty your pockets” when you come home, but it will also serve as the focal point of the entryway.

You can place a lovely plant, a vase of flowers on it, or a tray with candles or diffusers. In short, you can decorate it as you see fit!

That is where you give a preview of your home’s style!

If space allows, you could add a small seat, like a simple pouf!

It can be handy if you change your shoes right at the entrance.

(credits: amazon.com; studio-mcgee.com; ohmeohmyblog.com)

3 – LIGHTING

To welcome your guests, lighting in the entryway is vital; you should study it, recalling that there is a transition from the outside, where lighting is totally different.

Get creative, for instance, using recessed ceiling lights: as for the flooring, if your entryway opens into the living room, lowering the ceiling can visually separate the two areas.

You can furnish the entryway with unique and original chandeliers or wall sconces, anything that not only lights the space effectively but, like the surface area, gives a sense of your home’s style and atmosphere!

Play with different types of lighting: use recessed lights or chandeliers for general lighting, but where possible, add a floor lamp or a beautiful table lamp to create a cozy ambiance!

(If you want to know a little more about how to correctly light I talk about it here)

(credits: vogliadiristrutturare.it; amazon.it; houseofjadeinteriors.com)

4 – STORAGE ELEMENTS

When someone visits you, especially in winter, they’ll likely have something to take off and set down, and the same goes for you when you come home!

Of course, a built-in closet isn’t always possible, but many different solutions on the market can adapt to any space.

There are open shelving units that function as coat racks, classic coat racks, or even wall-mounted hooks—some are incredibly original and, when placed correctly, can be very artistic!

You can add a few baskets for smaller items; this will also give a stylish touch to the entryway!

And don’t forget an umbrella stand—if it rains, at least you won’t have wet umbrellas dripping all over the place!

(credits: cutlerkitchenandbath.com; dienlanhsapa.com; elmueble.com)

5 – MIRROR

Having a mirror at eye level in the entryway is very important because:

– You can take a final look at yourself before heading out;

– Your guests can check they look presentable before fully entering the house!

That is a detail not to overlook! Just as you prepare your home when expecting guests, they also want to look their best when visiting you. Coming in from outside, they might need a quick touch-up, so give them that chance!

Depending on the space, you can place a beautiful mirror above the console table or create a composition of mirrors—feel free to get creative according to your style!

Plus, the mirror will help enlarge the space by reflecting light!

(credits: twotwentyone.net; Marina Karpilovsky; lagnappe.com)

6 – PLANTS AND FRESH FLOWERS

By now, you know that plants are vital in any room of the house; in the entryway, they also have a psychological significance: as earlier mentioned, the entryway is the transition space from outside to inside, and plants help to create a smoother connection (even if you live in the city!).

Plants, vases with branches, leaves, or fresh flowers, it doesn’t matter; what is paramount is to have something, even tiny, that brings a touch of nature!

Plants also add fragrance, texture, and color, making them ideal for decorating an entryway!

(credits: brainstudy.info; Muebles Home Direct; amazon.es)

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful.

If so, don’t hesitate to share it with someone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get known.

If you feel that your home, or any part of it, doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer: fall in love with your place again and book your consultancy!

Making your home inviting and welcoming is paramount, just as is making it personal and unique!

Two weeks ago, we discussed the 5 essential elements to make your home cozy. Today, I’d like to share some of my favorite items that can help make it more personal and intimate.

Things are quickly available at any price and will have a substantial impact on making your home truly special!

Furnishing and decorating your home doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive; you can find unique items for any budget!

But details can indeed make a difference, no matter what style or mix of styles you choose for your home.

Let’s take a look at these items together:

– WICKER BASKETS

As I mentioned in the video about Ikea products (you can find it here), baskets add warmth, bring texture, and even give a sophisticated touch to the room.

You can use them as a magazine holder, near the sofa, or as plant pot covers.

Baskets are a super easy and inexpensive way to add that extra touch to any room in the house!

Ceste in nvimini

(credits: Botteh Tapetes; coastalvintage.blogspot.com; mypie.site)

– CANDLES AND CANDLEHOLDERS

Candles create an atmosphere even when they’re unlit.

When they burn, they add fragrances and warm light.

The right candle holder can help create a beautiful composition.

They come in all shapes and materials, so choose the one that best matches your home’s style.

You might even combine different materials and shapes for a unique effect!

Candles are another inexpensive way to enhance the ambiance and make your home welcoming, inviting, and personal!

(credits: olagiatingunaika.gr; aliexspress.com; ilpampanodesignbimbi.com)

– WALLPAPER

Wallpaper has a powerful visual impact and comes in an infinite variety of colors and designs.

You don’t need to cover all the walls; but use it strategically to create a focal point, which will help emphasize that particular area.

You can place it on the wall behind the bed, sofa, or, why not, even in the bathroom!

In this case, there are wallpapers specifically designed to withstand humidity.

Wallpaper is a great way to add movement, color, and dimension to a room.

When choosing wallpaper, remember to consider the colors and furnishings you already have in your home to maintain harmony!

(credits: wallanddeco.com; artheco.it; lionshome.it)

– COLOR

How many times have you heard me say it?

Color is indeed a powerful ally for decorating and personalizing your home.

Like wallpaper, you don’t have to use it on all the walls; you can paint just one wall or a portion of it.

You can use color only for furniture or accessories, although that might miss that special touch.

One way to make a room inviting and welcoming is to use a color on a wall and then pick up that color in some objects, such as cushions, an armchair, or a rug.

That creates cohesion, harmony, and rhythm!

(credits: wayfair.com; @interiors_dd)

– MIRRORS

A mirror is essential in the case of a small room because it reflects light and amplifies the space.

But regardless, a mirror is an element that immediately adds a touch of elegance and style!

You can place mirrors anywhere: in the entryway, above the fireplace for those lucky enough to have one, in a hallway, above the sofa, or even leaning against the wall on the floor.

Mirrors come in all shapes and sizes, and again, for all budgets!

It’s a decorative element with a strong impact that can make a big difference!

(credits: theurbnite.com; ferm living)

– LAMPS

Lamps are functional because they provide light but can be very decorative, too.

When adding a lamp, consider what you do in that room so you can use it most profitably for you while adding that extra touch of charm.

For example, if you like to read in your favorite armchair, a beautiful floor lamp would be convenient, or if you have a nearby surface, a lovely table lamp!

Like candle holders, lamps come in different materials and various shapes!

(credits: Noted Design Studio; sklum.com; diffusioneshop.com)

– PLANTS AND FRESH FLOWERS

Plants and flowers transform a space, making it instantly more elegant while adding a touch of freshness, color, and even fragrance!

Their organic shapes and air-purifying abilities also help with relaxation.

Look around your space and see where you need life and color; that’s the right spot to place a plant or a vase of flowers!

You might also consider placing a vase with leaves like a monstera, which lasts for weeks and makes a significant impact!

There are easy-to-care-for plants that can definitely enhance the style of your home!

Remember to beautify your plants with pretty pot covers!

(credits: Brianne Penney; thevintagerugshop.com)

– USE SOMETHING YOU LOVE

There is nothing more personal than decorating with your passions!

Do you love photography? Create a beautiful gallery of images!

Do you love books? Place them on a coffee table to add a touch of sophistication.

Using what you have and what represents you is a creative way to decorate and make your home truly unique!

Your home should represent you, so show who you are and use what you love to make your home personal!

(credits: @Brittney Edwards; etsy.com; urbanoutfitters.com)

Are there other elements you think are essential to make a home inviting, welcoming, and personal? Let me know in the comments!

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

Having a small bathroom is really a problem, and in homes where there are two, generally at least one is indeed tiny, maybe even without a window.

The small bathroom is a very challenging space to design, but with a few small tricks, you can make it look bigger, functional, and even definitely trendy!

Let’s look at them together.

– MEASURE THE SPACE

Measure the available space is the first step to understanding how to proceed and buy proportionate elements!

Specific standards exist for the minimum distances between fixed elements like the toilet and bidet. Once you have identified and positioned them correctly, you can decide on the sink (with or without a cabinet), shower or bathtub, and everything else.

(credits: besidebathrooms.com)

Regarding the sink, avoid placing or wedging it in large cabinets that rest on the floor: it’s better to use wall-mounted cabinets, simple shelves, or light, open structures.

Being able to see beyond or having floor space amplifies the space visually.

(credits: Sonia Meneghin; xlab.design)

Remember, for the sink, there is no minimum size; it depends on how you use it and your needs.

For a secondary bathroom, a smaller sink could make a difference!

(credits: scarabeosrl.com; homedesignlover.com)

If you opt for a hugger sink, beware of its proportions relative to the available space!

Sometimes, it’s just a matter of paying attention to the shape: a rounded sink might be more functional than a square one!

Once you have identified the positions of the fixed elements, you can choose the rest, such as materials and colors, that can help visually enlarge the bathroom.

– WALL-MOUNTED FAUCETS

It may seem trivial, but having wall-mounted faucets allows you to save space by reclaiming those extra centimeters where the faucet is anchored.

A wall-mounted faucet adds a touch of style to the bathroom and is also super functional for cleaning: there won’t be that annoying ring that forms on the sink around the faucet!

(credits: alliedmaker.com; espace-aubade.fr)

With a bowl-type sink placed on a cabinet or shelf, you can also position the faucet on the side.

(credits: group-hadara.com; looox.nl)

– COLORS (light and… dark!)

The trick to make a bathroom appear hugger is to use very little contrast with the colors!

Light colors will illuminate and give a lot of space to the bathroom.

Everything should be light: walls, fixtures, furniture, and details like handles; the latter will illuminate even more if they have a glossy finish!

By light, I don’t necessarily mean white, but any color used in a light, desaturated version.

(credits: thehappyhousie.porch.com; Meg Graf Designs)

Even the curtains should be light and airy, perhaps Roman shades partially pulled up… it’s a small detail that will instantly make the space look larger.

(credits: helloalva.com; ph Michael J. Lee)

However, you should know that you are NOT forced to use only light tones.

It may seem strange, but very dark colors, especially in windowless bathrooms, create a sense of depth and give the illusion of a larger space!

The trick, with dark colors too, is to use very little contrast: everything should be dark (except for the fixtures; if you prefer!).

Another clever strategy is to use glossy colors to reflect light everywhere!

Just as light colors don’t necessarily mean white, dark colors don’t automatically mean black.

Instead, use intense colors and low lighting to make everything appear more dramatic!

(credits: dezignark.com; homedit.com)

– SHOWER ENCLOSURES AND BATHTUBS

It is ideal, whenever possible, to have shower enclosures and bathtubs without frames, as frames create a barrier.

Where a frame is necessary, it should be as minimal as possible and light (if you choose dark colors, it should be dark but still minimal).

Where possible, you can also use a simple fixed panel!

(credits: Jacqui Turk; casework.it)

Of course, in the case of a shower without a door, you will need to pay particular attention to the drain, ensuring it is hugger than usual to avoid water spilling all over the bathroom!

If you have a bathtub, you can opt for a curtain.

When opened, it will create no visual barrier and add a touch of color to the bathroom.

(credits: lovegrowswild.com; stranddesign.com)

– LARGE PATTERNED WALL COVERINGS

Wallpaper or tiles with large patterns help give the impression of a larger space.

The larger the pattern, the more spacious the room will seem!

Going “out of scale, out of proportion,” in this case, is absolutely recommended, so feel free to unleash your creativity!!

(credits: anewall.com; etsy.com)

If you don’t like large patterns, you can choose small patterns ONLY as long as they are tone-on-tone with very little contrast.

That will give the impression of a color rather than a pattern.

(credits: jenkinsinteriors.com; rebeccaatwood.com)

If the pattern you like is particularly bold and busy, consider using it only on the upper half of the wall and tiling the lower half to lighten things up a bit!

– TILES

If you prefer not to use wallpaper but tiles, a trick to make your bathroom appear larger is to tile all the walls up to the ceiling.

That will give a nice effect to your small bathroom!

As with patterns, the ideal is to use huge tiles and minimize the visibility of grout lines as much as possible!

It’s not necessary to have all the walls with the same tile; you can change it in the shower/bathtub area, always being careful to use little contrast!

(credits: redefineinterior.com; lashopagranite.com)

As for the floor, in addition to large tiles, it’s a great idea to use the same tile for the shower floor.

A material change creates a boundary, which makes the space look smaller.

If you don’t have a shower but a built-in bathtub, you can consider tiling the surround with the same tile as the floor.

(credits: hupehome.com; i1.wp.com)

– MIRROR THE ENTIRE WALL

A mirror reflects light, which will instantly make the space feel larger.

So, consider a large mirror that covers an entire wall, perhaps even up to the ceiling, for a dramatic effect.

That is especially useful in windowless bathrooms, where the mirror will act as a sort of window by reflecting and multiplying the light in the room.

(credits: eixoz.arq.br; Ph Alessandra Bonotto Hoffmann Paim)

Of course, mirror only ONE wall; avoid the infinite repetition effect by mirroring all the walls or even just the opposite walls. Doing so will only result in a major headache!

– LEDGES AND STORAGE UNITS

Another effective way to visually enlarge the space is by creating a small ledge along the entire wall to place objects on

I know it may seem counterintuitive because it technically reduces the space by a few centimeters, but having a spot to place, perhaps a picture or a few well-chosen decorative items, will really give the illusion of a larger room.

(credits: oldbrandnew.com; studioezra.com)

As for storage units, they should be well-closed!

In a small bathroom, visible items like towels and containers, even if neatly arranged, create clutter and make the space feel smaller!

 

With these small precautions, even a small bathroom can become functional and trendy, almost like a little gem of the house!

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!