Designer tips

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When designing your new home or planning to renovate there is so much to think about! Often small details with a big impact are overlooked and the end result is compromised.

Here are some design elements to consider when designing your home.

1 Wall treatments

When planning finishes in your home, the first thing that might come to mind are a handful of paint swatches and a roller. While this might be the most cost-effective option, adding texture to your walls might be something you want to consider to add a little depth and character to your space. Something as simple as tongue and groove will immediately transform your room. Other wall details to consider are plaster (yes, this has made a comeback over the last couple of years), wallpaper (don’t be afraid to go bold with it), stone, or wainscotting.

Don’t forget to look up! The “fifth” wall in a room, that often gets neglected, is the ceiling. Adding texture to the ceiling, such as wood paneling, will add warmth, dimension and that custom look you’re longing for.

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2 Interior window walls

Windows aren’t just for the exterior. In fact, they really lend themselves well in an interior space. Consider it an architectural moment - a divide between two separate spaces while still letting the natural light dance around from room to room. Often, we find ourselves wondering how we can get more natural light into a room and this one is sure to be impactful, while functional in your home.

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3 Elevate your hardware

When thinking about ways to elevate your home, hardware may not be the first thing that comes to mind but think again! Your hardware selections can really bring life to a space. Take some time to curate your hardware room by room and don’t be afraid to mix and match metals - even styles. Play with scale and choose a larger pull or knob for a more dramatic look.

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4 Lighting

Lighting can really make a difference in your home. Try adding a series of decorative fixtures where you might think to put pot lights. Add multiple pendants to your dining room instead of just one. Think of lighting as accessories to your rooms and have fun with it!

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5 Other little details

There are other little details that won’t go unnoticed… or, maybe they will because of their seamless incorporation into your home.

Things like outlets, floor/wall vents, countertop edges and window & door trim can really elevate a space when considered in planning.

Electrical outlets don’t always need boring white cover plates. Instead, try going with a metal plate to match your cabinet hardware. Do you have a stone or tiled backsplash and don’t want to draw the eye to the outlets? Opt for flush or inlay outlets for a beautiful minimalistic look.

Instead of the generic metal floor and wall registers, select flush vents that will match your floor or wall finishes.

We often see squared countertop edges, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Make sure to ask your designer what options are available when thinking about your countertops. Increase the height of the countertop edge for a more substantial look.

When selecting trim, add a profile to your casing or baseboard for some character. Low ceilings? Opt for a tall baseboard to make the ceiling look taller.

Mary Furgale
Mary Furgale

Mary Furgale is a Senior Interior Designer with Harwood Design Builders. A full-service residential designer that designs stylish and innovative interiors while transforming her client’s visions into beautifully appointed dream homes.

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