About to embark on a home makeover? We asked four interior designers for their top home styling tips to help you get started.
Layer your design
Image courtesy of Joey Khu Interior Design
“Always remember to layer your space. Even the most expensive design concepts look unfinished when visually flat. A successfully designed space should be planned down to the smallest of details and incorporate contrasting textures. Always make your design choices look intentional; even when faced with a challenging space, incorporate the challenges into your design rather than trying to work against them.”
—Joey Khu from Joey Khu Interior Design
Move from large to small
Image courtesy of Ju Design Studio
“I always tell my clients to focus on bigger things first to finalise the right design and colour scheme before moving on to the smaller details. This approach ensures that the furniture (dining table, chairs, sofa, etc.) blends in with the overall design concept. Once that’s taken care of, you can refine the smaller details, such as your decor.”
—Alex Chang from Ju Design Studio
Be bold
Image courtesy of SpaceOne Interior Design Consultancy
“Incorporate colourful accents like cushions to jazz up your sofa and bedspread. When it comes to empty walls, large artworks are a great addition, creating a focal point. If you’re aiming for an uplifting look, go bold with your paint colours and decor. I always recommend including a few large accessories instead of just small ones—big, bold and beautiful!”
—Adrian Heng from SpaceOne Interior Design Consultancy
“Don’t be afraid to be bold. Sometimes a strong accent colour goes a long way. Have a look around and pick an existing colour that you like in your home, then take it up a notch. Just make sure not to go overboard.”
—Joey Ong from Salt Studio
Leave some negative space
Image courtesy of Salt Studio
“It’s okay to have negative space. Not all spaces must be filled. Negative space is good to reduce visual clutter, resulting in a more soothing and comfortable home.”
—Joey Ong from Salt Studio
Don’t follow trends
Image courtesy of Joey Khu Interior Design
“Instead of following the latest design trend, decorate with timeless pieces you love. This ensures that you’ll still love your home next year, and the year after, and the year after that too. Opt for a colour scheme that speaks to your personality, then work in a few key accent pieces that tie the look together.”
—Joey Khu from Joey Khu Interior Design
Add in some plants
Image courtesy of Ju Design Studio
“One fail-proof addition to your home? Plants! Not only do they bring some life and greenery into your home, they can also function as statement pieces in and of themselves. With the variety of plants out there, you’re sure to find one with the right shape and texture to suit your own interiors.”
—Alex Chang from Ju Design Studio
Make use of vertical space
Image courtesy of Joey Khu Interior Design
“When renovating a small space, don’t place everything on the floor, as this will create visual clutter make the room appear smaller than it actually is. Try to utilise vertical space along your walls for storage units and other wall-mounted fittings instead.”
—Joey Khu from Joey Khu Interior Design
