Styling your home through the use of furnishings and decor plays a pivotal role in shaping the look and feel of your home. They go beyond aesthetics; they reflect your personality, your lifestyle, and how you live day-to-day. As an interior designer, one of the most rewarding aspects of our job is curating furniture and accessories that elevate a space and make it truly feel like home. Whether you’re redesigning a single room or undertaking a full-service design project, choosing the right furnishings is essential in creating a cohesive, functional, and beautiful environment.
In this article, we’ll share valuable insights on how to select pieces that not only reflect your personal style but also maintain practicality. We’ll also discuss how our styling choices complement full-service design projects across the Sunshine Coast to the Northern Rivers and everywhere in between, ensuring your space feels thoughtfully curated.
Reflect Your Personal Style and Lifestyle
When selecting furnishings, it’s crucial to choose pieces that resonate with your unique style and the way you live. Think about what truly makes you feel comfortable and happy in your home.
Is your style modern and minimalist, or do you prefer a more eclectic, bohemian feel? Your furniture should act as an extension of you and your family’s personality, making your home feel like a reflection of your life.
At the same time, your furnishings should complement each other and create a harmonious flow throughout the space. A well-curated space doesn’t feel random, it has a rhythm. It’s the art of selecting pieces that work together, both in terms of style and function, creating a space you enjoy spending time in. That seamless feeling you get when you walk into a room and it just feels right – that’s the essence of creating a curated space.
Choosing Functional Pieces That Complement Each Other
Furniture should not only look good but also serve a purpose. Let’s explore some styling choices that elevate a home while maintaining practicality:
1. Round Dining Tables for Small Spaces
A round dining table is a fantastic choice for smaller or square-shaped dining areas. Not only does it improve circulation, but it also encourages a more intimate and inclusive dining experience. In tight spaces, round tables are often easier to move around and allow for better flow. Additionally, they create a soft, welcoming feel, especially when paired with comfortable chairs.
2. The Power of Glass Tops
A glass tabletop is ideal for smaller spaces or when you want to juxtapose materiality. Glass adds visual lightness and a sense of openness without compromising functionality. It’s an excellent choice for dining or coffee tables, allowing the room to feel airier and less cluttered, especially in spaces that already have a lot of heavy materials like wood or metal.
3. Rounded Edges vs. Sharp Angles
In rooms that are filled with sharp, straight lines—like modern kitchens or living areas—incorporating pieces with rounded edges can soften the overall look and feel. Think of a soft, curved armchair or a circular side table. These subtle elements help balance the space by providing visual contrast and adding warmth to the design.
4. Raised Legs for a Light, Airy Feel
Furniture with raised legs, especially sofas and chairs, creates a sense of lightness and openness. In smaller or lower-light rooms, raised-leg furniture helps visually open up the space, making it feel less cramped and more inviting. This is a great choice for homes with limited square footage or rooms where you want to enhance the feeling of space.
Durability and Practicality: Materials Matter
While style is important, the materials you choose must withstand daily use. If you have young children, pets, or simply enjoy hosting gatherings, investing in durable and functional materials is essential.
Leather Sofas: A hardy leather sofa is a timeless investment. Choose a leather with a durable finish that can withstand the rigors of daily life. Leather is easy to clean, ages beautifully, and offers both comfort and style.
Washable Fabrics: For families with young children or pets, washable fabric sofas or slipcovers are a lifesaver. Choose stain-resistant materials that are easy to care for, ensuring your furniture remains in pristine condition despite spills or messes.
Stain-Resistant Rugs: A rug does more than just anchor a room, it softens the space and helps create comfort. Opt for a stain-resistant rug that balances practicality with style. Whether it’s a patterned or neutral rug, it can add texture and warmth to any room.
Investment Pieces vs. Budget-Friendly Furnishings
Not all furniture pieces are created equal when it comes to budget. While you may want to invest in high-quality pieces for longevity, there are also areas where you can save money without compromising on style or comfort.
Pieces to Invest In:
Sofa: Your sofa is one of the most used pieces in your home, so it’s worth spending a bit more on something comfortable, durable, and stylish. A deep-seated sofa designed for lounging can be a focal point in your living room and provide years of enjoyment.
Dining Table and Chairs: If you entertain frequently or have a growing family, a solid dining table is a must. Look for quality materials like solid wood or stone, which offer both durability and timeless appeal.
Budget-Friendly Furnishings:
Accent Chairs: Look for accent chairs that suit your style but don’t break the bank. You can swap out affordable chairs to refresh a room’s look or experiment with colours and patterns without committing to high-cost pieces.
Coffee Tables and Side Tables: These are great areas to have fun with your design, adding personality and character. You can find stylish pieces at budget-friendly prices that complement your larger, investment pieces.
The Importance of Spatial Planning and Furniture Scale
The size and positioning of your furniture are critical in achieving a functional, comfortable space. Even the most beautiful sofa or dining table can feel awkward if it’s the wrong size for the room. Here are some tips for spatial planning and furniture flow:
Proportionality: It’s essential to select furniture that fits the scale of your room. A large sectional sofa in a small living room can make the space feel cramped and uninviting. On the other hand, a sofa that’s too small can create an awkward, underwhelming feel.
Furniture Arrangement: Arranging furniture in a way that encourages easy conversation and movement is key. For example, in a living room, ensure there’s enough space between seating for comfortable circulation, and don’t overcrowd the room with too many pieces.
Creating Zones: In open-plan living areas, use furniture to define different zones, such as a reading nook, dining area, or media space. This helps create a sense of organisation and function within the larger room.
Storage and Functionality: Finding the Balance
Storage is an essential aspect of any home. It’s not just about functionality, it’s about how well your furniture serves the needs of your family while keeping the space clutter-free.
Multi-Functional Pieces: Invest in storage solutions that double as furniture, like ottomans with hidden compartments, storage benches, or coffee tables with drawers.
Open Shelving vs. Closed Storage: While open shelving can look stylish, it can quickly become cluttered. Opt for a balance between open and closed storage to keep things neat but still accessible.
Conclusion: Curating a Home That Feels Right
Choosing the right furnishings is about more than just filling a space, it’s about creating a home that reflects your personality, suits your lifestyle, and is practical for daily living.
From carefully selecting investment pieces to ensuring proper spatial planning and flow, styling your home is a journey that combines function with style.
At JML Design, we believe in curating spaces that not only look beautiful but also serve as sanctuaries that reflect who you are.
Whether you’re renovating a single room or embarking on a full design overhaul, we’re here to guide you in creating a home that feels just right.
