When people think of interior design, they often picture the glamorous side: already assembled furniture, perfectly fluffed pillows, and perfectly chosen paint colors. However, interior design is so much more than these surface-level tasks. As an interior designer, I've learned that the real essence of this profession is creating functional, safe, and beautiful spaces tailored to each client’s unique needs and tastes. Let me take you through what interior design truly entails, beyond the common misconceptions that I have heard from my own experience.
"I didn't plan to have someone help me just pick out furniture."
Interior design isn’t just about adding furniture to a room. Sure, choosing the right pieces is important, but it's also about understanding how people will use the space and how to make it work best for them. Every piece of furniture must be thoughtfully selected and placed to enhance the room's flow and functionality. This means considering space planning and the lifestyle of the people living there. The goal is to create an environment that’s not only beautiful but also practical and efficient for my client and their family.
"All I have to do is chop my pillows and it will look well designed."
It’s not just about fluffing pillows. Yes, those final touches can make a room look polished, but interior design goes much deeper. It starts with a solid foundation of structural planning and includes everything from lighting design to material selection. Each element is meticulously planned and coordinated to create a cohesive and harmonious space. The focus is on blending form and function to achieve a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
"Can we just go tour all the pretty showrooms?"
Touring showrooms might seem synonymous with interior design, but it’s only a small part of the process. Showrooms are great for seeing and feeling materials and products in person, but the real work involves extensive research, sourcing, and collaborating with suppliers. Designers need to stay updated on the latest trends and innovations, often customizing or commissioning pieces to meet specific client needs. This behind-the-scenes effort is crucial for delivering unique and tailored solutions.
"It's not that hard to choose a paint color."
Likewise, interior design isn’t just about picking paint colors. Color selection is an art that requires a keen eye and an understanding of color theory and psychology. It’s also about how colors interact with light, textures, and other elements in the space. As a designer, I have to consider the overall mood and feel of the room, the natural and artificial lighting, and how the colors will age over time. The aim is to create a balanced palette that enhances the room's purpose and aligns with my client's vision.
At it's core, interior design is a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and project management. It requires seeing the big picture while paying attention to the small details that make a design truly exceptional. It’s about solving problems, improving functionality, and enhancing the quality of life for those who use the space. A designer balances aesthetics with practicality, ensuring that every decision serves a purpose and contributes to the overall harmony of the environment.
Interior design is sophisticated and multi-layered and goes far beyond the basic aspects commonly known. It involves a comprehensive approach to creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and responsive to the needs of the people who live in the spaces. My hope is that by your understanding the deeper facets of interior design, you can appreciate the skill, expertise, and dedication that goes into designing environments that enhance your daily lives.
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