15 Quick and Easy Interior Design Style Tips for Beginners

1. Choose neutral colours (like white, beige, grey or soft pastels) for your walls, floors and larger furniture pieces. A neutral base provides a clean canvas that allows you to experiment with different styles and accents. It’s easy to add colour later through decor, textiles and accessories.

2. Every room should have a focal point—a key feature that draws the eye and anchors it. This could be a fireplace, a large piece of art, rug, ceiling light, a statement piece of furniture or even a stunning view. Arrange your furniture and decor to complement and highlight this focal point.

3. Layering different textures (like velvet cushions, a wool rug, a leather chair or a metal lamp) can add depth and interest. Combining materials like wood, metal, glass, and textiles also creates a balanced and dynamic environment.

4. Natural light can transform a space, making it feel open, airy and welcoming. Avoid heavy curtains and opt for sheer or light-filtering options. Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and make the room appear larger.

5. The 60-30-10 rule is a classic interior design technique for creating a balanced colour palette:

• 60% of the room should be a dominant colour (walls, large rugs, etc.).
• 30% should be a secondary colour or texture (furniture, accent walls).
• 10% should be an accent colour (decor, throw pillows, artwork).

This rule helps ensure your room has a cohesive look without overwhelming any one element.

6. Start with a few high-quality foundational pieces like a sofa, dining table or bed. These pieces are the anchors of your room and will last longer. Once you have your basics in place, you can layer in more affordable, trendy accessories.

7. Mixing different sizes and heights in a room creates visual interest. Pair tall, dramatic pieces with lower profile items. Avoid placing everything at the same height—layering various heights keeps the eye moving around the room.

8. Plants are an easy and effective way to bring life and colour into a space. They also improve air quality and add a natural element to your decor. If you’re a beginner, start with low-maintenance options like succulents, snake plants or pothos.

9. Art and decor are where you can truly express your personality. Start by choosing pieces that resonate with you or reflect your interests, such as a favourite quote, a framed photograph or travel souvenirs. Mixing personal items with store bought decor adds character.

10. While aesthetics are important, your home should be functional and suited to your lifestyle. Think about the purpose of each room and choose furniture and decor that support its use. For example, opt for comfortable seating and ample lighting in a reading nook or add a cosy rug to a play area.

11. Less is often more in interior design. Avoid overloading your space with too many pieces. Instead, select items that truly contribute to the room’s style or function. Regularly assess your decor to keep it feeling fresh and uncluttered.

12. Interior design is all about creativity and personal expression. Don’t be afraid to mix styles, colours, and patterns to see what works best for you. Remember that you can always rearrange or swap out pieces as your tastes evolve.

13. Lighting can make or break a room's ambiance. Incorporate a mix of lighting sources: ambient (overhead), task (reading lights) and accent (table lamps or sconces). Use dimmers where possible to adjust the mood for different occasions.

14. A clutter-free space is essential for a well-designed room. Invest in smart storage solutions like floating shelves, baskets, and multipurpose furniture (e.g. ottomans with hidden storage). These keep your home tidy while adding style.

15. Before diving into decorating, create a mood board that collects colours, textures, and decor pieces you love. This visual guide will help you stay focused on your theme and ensure all your choices complement each other.

Remember, there are no strict rules in interior design—just guidelines to help you find your style and make your home uniquely yours.

Happy decorating! x