Have you set out to furnish and decorate your home? Every amateur decorator knows how bewildering it may be to choose the right items from a variety of styles on offer. Though interior design ultimately comes down to personal taste and style, there are also some important rules you should follow in order to achieve the desired look.

If you’d like to learn how to style like the pros, find out more about the guidelines they go by when they design a space. First things first: discover what different elements of interior design are and how to successfully use them. Then you’ll be ready to browse the large selection of items at home decor stores in San Diego and take your picks confidently.

What are the 7 elements of interior design?

Before you actually piece together your new design, take a look at the key elements to consider:

Space

When you begin thinking about how to decorate your home, start by assessing the advantages and limitations of your particular space. Measure the length, width and height of the space at your disposal, as its size and configuration will be the basis for furnishing. You’ll determine how much of the space to fill out or leave empty depending on the style you’re going for.

Line

Vertical, horizontal and dynamic lines form the basis of every design. Vertical lines are created by doors, tall furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows. They make a space seem taller. On the other hand, horizontal lines are found in tables and shorter furniture pieces. Dynamic lines are diagonal, curved or zigzag, so they attract the most attention.

For balance, try to include some of each.

Form

Form stands for the various shapes that can be seen in interior design. In general, they fall either in the natural or the geometric category. If a shape is considered organic, it’s curvier or irregular, as if naturally occurring. On the other hand, geometric shapes produce a harsher effect. They tend to be clear-cut and sharply outlined.

Light

Lighting is an important element of interior design as it can deeply affect the perception of the space. It can be divided into three types.

Ambient lighting is the main kind of light in the room, illuminating the whole space. Task lighting is fitted in spaces which require clear and bright illumination, such as above kitchen countertops. Accent lighting puts emphasis on certain objects only.

Color

The art of color combination is a wide and complicated field which requires lots of skill and research. Colors have a huge impact on our emotions and mood, so they should be carefully implemented in a space. When you’re choosing the color scheme for the room, start by thinking about the purpose of the room and what feelings you’d like it to evoke.

Texture

The texture of the surfaces you choose should harmonize but not be absolutely uniform either. A variety of textures, such as smooth, shiny, rough, fuzzy etc. adds interest to the room. Don’t underestimate the importance of these elements, as they can truly take the appearance and the feel of a space to the next level.

Pattern

Mixing and matching patterns makes the space look lively and energetic. However, don’t forget that pattern is a powerful tool and can quickly become overwhelming if used in excess. Don’t go overboard with patterns and make sure their colors match for the best effect.

Where can I find one of the leading home decor stores in San Diego?

If you’re furnishing your home in Mission Hills or another part of San Diego, visit D3 Home’s store or website to browse our extensive home decor offer. Whatever the style you’re after and no matter which room of the house you’re decorating, here you’ll find something that fits your taste and budget.

We’ll be happy to give you expert advice on how to pick a design style, as well as tell you what furniture is always in style if timeless classics are the thing you’re going for. Make your choice from a wide range of stunning designs. Take your new pieces home, set them up with furniture safety in mind and enjoy the refreshed look of your space. Make your home chic with our help!