Finding Your Own Design Aesthetic

Finding your design aesthetic can help transform your living space into a true reflection of who you are. It can also be an interesting and fun way to find out a lot about yourself. Here is part one of a two-part series on finding your own design aesthetic.

 

 

Choosing Your Colors

We all see and perceive color differently. Choosing the right colors for your personal preferences is a huge part of finding your overall design aesthetic. In fact, I remember my college design instructor claiming that getting the colors right for your client is ‘half the battle’.

 Colors have the power to influence our mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Here’s how you can choose your colors and create a space that truly resonates with you.

Start by observing what colors you gravitate to naturally in your daily life. This could be the artwork you admire, or even the hues that catch your eye while you’re out and about. These preferences often reflect your innate color palette. For me, it’s often colors in nature.

Next, consider the emotional impact of colors. Different colors evoke different feelings. For instance, blues and greens are associated with calm and tranquility, while reds and oranges are energizing and stimulating. Think about how you want to feel in your home and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Exploring Different Design Styles for Your Home

When it comes to designing your home, understanding the various styles can help you create a space that truly reflects your personality and supports your well-being. Here are some popular design styles to consider:

Modern Design

This focuses on simplicity and functionality. It often features clean lines, neutral colors, and minimalistic decor. This style is perfect for those who appreciate a clutter-free environment and a sleek, contemporary look.

Traditional Design

Trad design incorporates classic furniture styles and rich colors and seldom if ever truly dates. Although freshening it up every ten years definitely helps.

Transitional Design

I love transitional because blends elements of both modern and traditional styles. It offers the best of both worlds, combining the clean lines of modern design with the warmth and comfort of traditional decor. This style is great for people who already have a lot of furnishings.

Rustic Design

Rustic style brings the beauty of the outdoors inside. It features natural materials like wood and stone, earthy colors, and a cozy, inviting feel. This style is perfect for those who love a warm, natural, and relaxed environment.

Industrial Design

This style is inspired by old factories and industrial spaces. It often includes exposed brick, metal accents, and a neutral color palette. This style is ideal for those who appreciate a raw, edgy, and urban look.

Bohemian Design

A fun and creative look for the home, it is all about individuality. It features a mix of colors, patterns, and textures, creating a vibrant and eclectic space. This style is perfect for those who love a free-spirited, artistic, and unconventional atmosphere.

Scandinavian Design

If you love simplicity and function, Scandinavian design might be perfect for you. It emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and a beautiful connection to nature. It often includes light colors, natural materials, and minimalistic decor. This style is great for those who appreciate a clean, airy, and serene environment.

Scandinavian design style can also take on an elevated look when you add beautiful, valuable antiques and sophisticated fabrics and art to the mix.

Identifying Your Lifestyle

Understanding your lifestyle is key to creating a home that truly supports and enhances your daily life. Here are some common lifestyle types and how they can influence your home design choices.

Casual

A casual lifestyle often means comfort and ease are top priorities. Your home might feature cozy furniture, durable materials, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Think of spaces that are easy to maintain, that invite you to unwind.

Formal

Homes with a formal lifestyle might include classic furniture, refined decor, and a well-organized layout. This style often emphasizes symmetry, high-quality materials, and a polished look with vaulted ceilings and shiny building materials.

Entertaining

If you entertain a lot, your home could be designed with social gatherings in mind. Open floor plans, ample comfy seating, and a well-equipped kitchen and baths can make hosting easier and more enjoyable. Consider spaces that flow seamlessly and encourage conversation.

Great sound systems. Rooms that open to the outdoors. These are all great design features for you if you love to entertain.

Active

An active lifestyle requires a home that supports movement and activity. This might include a dedicated workout space, easy access to outdoor areas, and storage solutions for sports equipment. A standalone workout room is a great idea. Well-designed kitchens and baths are musts.

Travelers

For frequent travelers, a home that reflects your adventures can be very fulfilling. Incorporate souvenirs and decor from your travels and create a space that feels like a retreat. Practical considerations like secure storage and easy-to-clean surfaces can also be important.

Meaning and Connection

If you’re sentimental like me, that means your home is filled with memories and personal touches. Display family photos, heirlooms, and meaningful objects that tell your story. Leaving well-chosen blank spaces on the walls, and careful editing of your accessories will give the home an edited look, rather than busy or cluttered.

Healthy Lifestyle

For those focused on health, a home that promotes well-being is crucial. This includes natural light, plants, and spaces for relaxation and mindfulness. Consider materials and products that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly to create a healthy living environment.

By identifying your lifestyle, you can make design choices that truly enhance your daily life and create a home that feels uniquely yours.

Your Design Persona!

Stay tuned for Part Two where we’ll delve into mixing the lifestyles and design looks together to come up with your own unique design persona!

Before you go grab a free download, the Wellness Home Checklist below!

 

 

 

Wellness Design is a huge topic! Creating a healthier, more beautiful lifestyle in your home is easy when you have my pretty little, easy to skim download, the Wellness Home Check List that gives you quick, at-a-glance details on the many aspects of wellness design.

Here’s that link again. Bye for now!

Shiree’

For more on wellness design and easy home makeovers, check out my post “Give Your Home a Wellness Makeover in One Weekend” plus, the link to my interview with award winning anchor Deirdre Fitzpatrick!