3 Room Decor Layers That Add the Most Personal Style
Don’t you love to go into a room that just feels good? Do you ever wonder about the design process to creating a layered look? Let’s talk about the 3 room decor layers that add the most personal style.
What are the rules of decorating?
People often ask about the rules of decorating. And I believe every designer has their own set of “rules”. But rules are different from principles, and there are definitely principles of good design.
The principles would guide us to follow finding a balance, using proper scale and proportion, and providing contrast in a variety of elements for visual interest. But as far as “rules” go, my philosophy is to follow one rule. Do what you love. If you surround yourself with your favorite things, and love everything around you, then your overall look will always be authentic to you and will make you happy.
Layers of decor can and should be very personal. They should bring you to that good place, where you feel peace and are comfortable in your space. Yes, there are seven layers of design (or more) that could be followed. But you will feel most safe and comfortable surrounded by the right paint colors for you, meaningful layers, and the key elements that tell your story. The only rules you should follow are the ones that create a space that show your personal style.
What is the golden rule in interior design?
It is said that the golden rule of design and decorating is proportion. And I wholeheartedly agree with that. The easiest ways to upset function and beauty in your space is have the proportion be off.
I know you’ve seen this before. Small rooms with too big furniture pieces that take up so much space that there is little room for anything else. Or the opposite, in rooms with too much space, tiny furniture and random decorative items scattered throughout that have no rhyme or reason for the space. Unnecessary clutter will also affect the proportion of how furniture looks in your space.
When choosing your main furniture pieces, pay close attention to the scale and proportion in your space. When this is done right, consider the next layer and choose proper scale there as well. Of course, there is always a push and pull to this, which requires a bit more of a discerning eye. But even in the simplest of rooms, when the golden rule is followed, adding personal items and actually living in the space, will feel comfortable and function properly.
Things That Add Personal Style to a Room
In what order should I decorate a room?
I feel like this is always a bit of a controversial subject. Ask 10 different designers, and although you might get similar answers that technically end up the same on the final layer, the beginning might be different.
Many begin the process with a focal point rather than an overall point of view. Depending on the style, some might focus on the architectural elements and then design all the fixed, lasting features in the space.
For most of us, we may be working with what is there in our older homes, and building like a layer cake over the years. For me, I tend to look at a space and create and decorate for the life I want to live in that room. And reaching the “end” (although I truly believe rooms should never be “done”) may begin at different points in a variety of ways.
However you see it, and whatever your budget, begin your task by asking yourself how you want to use the space and how you want the room to feel. Then find an inspiration piece for color (rug, fabric, artwork) that all your choices can come from and that will create the common thread in the design.
If you are beginning with a shell of the room, follow these 3 decor layers that I will be sharing. These layers will be the elements that can give you the most personal style when decorating your room.
The 3 room decor layers that add the most personal style
Wall Treatments
Did you know your room has 5 walls? Many forget the ceiling and the great place it offers for further decor and design. With the variety of treatments for the walls, you can add those layers that really show off your personal style.
paneling
Adding architectural interest to your wall with paneling will add depth and character to your space. You can use shiplap, beadboard, batten board, and many other versions of traditional paneling. Paneling can also take on further style and personality based upon the paint color you choose to use. Even with a simple, more minimalist style, paneling the walls will add much character to the space while keeping your look more streamlined.
wallpaper
I’m not gonna lie, I have a bit of an obsession with wallpaper. Wallpaper is a great way to add a layer of pattern, and can really set the backdrop of a room. It can also simply add different textures to the space, without adding too much visual noise with color. I love wallpaper so much that I even like to add a bit inside a closet, for a surprise of pattern. This is a fun way to bring more personal style to your space and enhance the things that you enjoy.
paint
Paint has power and a wall color can really amp up the style in your room in the most perfect way. Choose a room color that will help create that mood or feeling that you want in the space. Color has power, especially in small spaces where things are seen more saturated. Plus, paint is the most cost efficient of all the wall treatments. And don’t forget that ceiling!
Window Treatments
When I look at a room, to me, the window treatments are the things that really make it. Unless you are living oceanfront (or some other fabulous view location), and the sea is your view, window treatments are essential.
They control the light, privacy, and temperature in a room. Window treatments are another opportunity to add to the color scheme and textures of your overall design. They also can help fix flaws in the architecture of the space.
blinds
There are many textures and materials that blinds can be made in. Blinds can be made of fabric, soft goods, or hard woods, and everything in between. They can be cordless, or have a variety of mechanisms to maneuver them opened and closed. They can even be layered with draperies as well.
Choose the ones that bring the function you need in your space. I love this source for blinds and have ordered many kinds for multiple homes of mine and for clients.
draperies
Did I say wallpaper was my favorite layer? But then it really could be draperies, hmmm. Adding a pattern in the way of fabric to a room brings that finishing touch that will set the room apart. Draperies add a softness to a room that can be full of hard lines and surfaces.
Don’t be afraid to use draperies in unexpected places and different ways. They can even take the place of a door, if that makes more sense for your space. The height and width can adapt problem areas as well.
Accessories
Accessories are the jewelry to a room, and the side of the room that show more of your intimate journey. Always buy things you love, not just items to fill a space. Be thoughtful about things you add, as an empty room will always seem more hopeful than one filled with clutter and pointless objects.
lighting
There are a whole range of lighting sources available and each are important in their own way. Each room will need different options for lighting. From table lamps, floor lamps, pendant lights, recessed lighting, and much more. Each light source will enable a variety of tasks. Especially if your space does not provide much natural light.
Never buy a boring fixture when one that shows your personal style will do. This will be one of the main ways to really make a statement.
artwork
Maybe I can choose my favorite in each category, because artwork, specifically vintage art really is my fave. This layer is the one that really shows the inside of your soul. It can be the one thing that starts the color palette of a room, of which all decisions derive from it.
If your budget calls for frugality, then hit a flea market or try a DIY project to add artwork in your space. Print photographs from an online source that shares free professional pictures.
decorative elements
When you pull a room together, there are many elements. From area rugs, to throw pillows, decor pieces, and accent fabrics. There will be favorite books on the coffee table, family photos sprinkled about on the fireplace mantel, maybe even gallery walls of all your travel pictures.
Allowing your journey through life to influence your decorative elements is a good thing, as it will allow you to have a room full of personal style. With the variety of decorative items available, choose thoughtfully for things that are useful for this time of your life.
‘Time and a season’ should always be considered when placing decor objects around. If you have small children about, items may need to be placed higher or wait to be displayed. You can and should still have decor, but consider all who live in the space.
The art of layering for personal style
I know that layering a room can feel like a daunting task. Especially when you are attempting it by yourself. But there is plenty of inspiration out in the world for you to draw from. Remember when you are creating a room, you are producing the backdrop to your life. How do you want your room to feel? What activities will you do in the room?
Find a designer that you love and buy their latest coffee table books. Study the look, how things are layered, patterns that are used, or natural elements that warm the space, and get inspired. Don’t feel like you have to copy. Their journey is different than yours, and you should always have items in your home that share your story.
When you separate each layer, study it, and notice HOW and WHAT that layer does to a room, you can then confidently go forward and do your own space. Pick the colors that would work best in your living room or dining room, and make that room feel like you!
Decor layers and your decorating style
Let’s talk real life applications. What’s the first thing that you want to add to your room now? There are no exact room recipes you have to follow. Whether you want solid walls of neutral tones or patterns of wallpaper like me, your decorating style should exude your personal style.
The greatest compliment you can get on your decor is “this room looks just like you”. That should be the goal. When the layers express the look you love, for the life you are living, with the items you have curated, that is the ultimate success in design.
If you’d like to get inspired about more stuff for your home, let’s hang out more. Follow along on these platforms. Check back next week for more design tips and lifestyle hacks.
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Thank you so much Renae! I do love wallpaper.
Your home is so beautiful! I love the paneling and wallpaper, it’s so charming.
Thank you Susan!
Thank you Kim!
You have so many fabulous details, Jill! I love all the inspiration!
Great post! I love the pictures even more now! It’s all so beautiful!