We are always fascinated by the design process of interior decorators. Not surprisingly, many of them have very specific steps they always take when embarking on a new project.
Today, we’re sharing interior design secrets from California-based designer Chris Barrett, who tells us how she approaches turning the blank canvas of a client’s room into a stylish yet accessible space.
“When designing a home, you may want to create a stylish space without knowing how to achieve that goal,” says Chris. The days of room-filling fine antiques and art have been replaced by a more coordinated look that combines comfort and style. An eclectic mix of traditional and modern concepts can be a difficult balance to achieve.
Achieving elegance with a friendly look has always been an important motto when working with the Southern California design team. Whether the project is in New York, Florida or the Pacific Palisades, clients come to me because of my ability to create a sophisticated and friendly interior. To achieve this goal in my design process, I pay attention to the following points.
1. Decide how you want the space to feel
(Photo credit: Chris Barrett)
When starting the design process, first imagine an empty room. Then think about how you want the room to feel. Imagine a room you share with your friends and family – perhaps enjoying martinis in elegant seating or prefer a place where you’ll flop on the sofa and put your feet up? Sophistication and elegance can be found in both places – you decide how you want to live.
2. Knowing finishes to prioritize
By changing the existing finishes in a room, you will begin the process of creating your own color palette. This becomes the basis that you will use as a guide for layering furnishings and decorative items in the future.
Think about what really needs updating. Does a laminate floor require refinishing? Is there a fireplace surround from the ’80s that screams modernization? Now is the time to remove the grout and bring your home back from the tired trends of the past.
3. Find the focal point of the room
(Photo credit: Chris Barrett)
Create a focal point
It’s not uncommon for creating a focal point in a room to be essential. Often ideal candidates are a fireplace or a special artistic peace. Sometimes the subject may not be in the room at all. A nice view of the garden might be the best option. When trying to display high light, consider how the window is framed. The floor-to-ceiling curtain can draw your attention not only to the scenery behind but to the height of advertisements to your space.
4. Know what to keep — and what not to keep
It’s not uncommon for creating a focal point in a room to be essential. A fireplace or a special piece of art is often ideal candidates.
Sometimes the subject may not be in the room at all. A nice view of the garden might be the best option.
When trying to feature a view, consider how the window is framed. A floor-to-ceiling curtain can draw your attention not only to the outside view, and add height to your space.
5. Begin to layer in color and texture
(Photo credit: Chris Barrett)
After I’ve decided on the basic finishes, my next step is often to start with a rug. In a quiet, monochromatic setting, that might call for sisal or coarse wool. For a more fun and lively interior, a rug with punches of color is an excellent starting point.
“Think about mixing your wood finishes, they should compliment each other but don’t exactly match.
When choosing, the combination of fabric and pattern is a must. Consider forgoing layered pillows, pillows of different sizes, and matching fabrics, as this will elevate a simple, clean-lined sofa into an elegant presentation.
6. Lighting input
(Photo credit: Chris Barrett)
‘The last and often underestimated element of a stylish space is lighting. To flood a room with anything but an overhead lamp and a table lamp, you might lose the boat. Ambient lighting on a piece of art makes it sing. Consider dimmers in every fixture.
Think about how you might need the room to function. Creating a work atmosphere, game or festive space is a function of lighting. General lighting might be good for puzzle solving or reading but think of the same room that provides an intimate area for sharing a glass of wine with your loved one.