Decorating for the first time can feel overwhelming. Remember these basics: create meaningful pieces, not just decorations:

• Do plan your design. Start with a clear style or color palette in mind. Create a realistic plan and budget for each room (furniture, paint, and decor). Measuring your space and sketching a layout helps avoid mistakes.
• Do incorporate nature and texture. Add plants, fresh flowers, or natural materials (wood, jute, linen) to make rooms feel alive. Even a single vase of flowers or a leafy houseplant can add warmth and interest to a décor.
• Do layer lighting. Use more than one light source. For example, combine a ceiling fixture with floor lamps or table lamps. Dimmer switches are also great for adjusting the mood.
• Do add personal touches. Display photos, souvenirs, or artwork that you love. These make your space unique and meaningful.
• Don’t ignore scale. Avoid furniture that overwhelms the room. A sofa that takes up 90% of a wall will make the space feel cramped. Likewise, a teeny chair in a grand room will look lost. Choose furniture sizes appropriate to your room, and remember that some rooms need larger statement pieces.
• Don’t overcrowd or clutter. Resist the urge to fill every space. It’s better to have a few well-chosen pieces than a lot of mismatched items. Avoid overcrowding – open space creates peace.
• Don’t paint before choosing furnishings. Fabrics have limited color options, while paint comes in endless shades. Pick furniture first, then walls. This ensures everything coordinates.
• Don’t sacrifice comfort for looks. A pretty couch is pointless if no one enjoys sitting on it. Test furniture for comfort, and think about how each room is used. Remember function and flow as well as style.