tech

'A rug helps anchor all the pieces': how to start decorating your home

Designers share tips on creating a space you love, from mixing eras and colors to not getting in your head

'A rug helps anchor all the pieces': how to start decorating your home

TL;DR

  • Home decorating should prioritize personal preference and functionality over magazine aesthetics.
  • Identify how you need your space to function (storage, workspace, etc.) and how you want it to feel (calming, energetic).
  • Start decorating with large, impactful items like rugs or sofas, and anchor the space with a rug to help determine the color scheme.
  • Make your space personal by incorporating items with connections, such as things you've made, thrifted, gifted, or inherited.
  • Allow your home to evolve over time rather than trying to finish it all at once; don't be afraid to change or replace items.
  • Avoid common decorating mistakes like improper sizing of furniture and rugs, and focusing too much on fleeting trends.