“Start with the ground. The material and color of the floor can influence how the space is perceived. Whether it’s carpeting, hardwood stain, or tile, designing from the ground up will help ensure that the room feels cohesive. And be (a little) brave. Whether you’re layering textures, playing with patterns, or including saturated colors, it’s okay to go a bit outside your comfort zone. Bold choices will give the space an elevated, personalized look.”
—Judith Heimowitz, 7B Design
“Great lighting can truly be the jewelry for your home. Just like a carefully chosen accessory can elevate an outfit, the right lighting fixtures and arrangements can bring out the best in your living space. By incorporating a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting, you can create layers of light that add depth and personality to each room. Additionally, don’t underestimate the impact of natural light—it can breathe life into a space like nothing else. When it comes to designing your home, remember that lighting is not just an expense—it’s an investment.”
—Malka Helft, Think Chic Interiors
“When selecting paint colors use only the lighting that’s normally on or use natural light. Don’t turn on extra lighting or lighting that is not normally on. Always yields better results.”
—Maggie Hudson Blau, Hudson Blau Designs
“Find similarities in your inspiration photos. It’s so easy to save ideas that people often end up with an overload of inspiration. Spend some time studying the various images you saved and find out specifically what speaks to you. Do they all have similar colors? Do they all evoke a similar feel? Narrowing down your preferences early on is very helpful in the design process. And know your dislikes! They are just as important as knowing what you love in a space.”
—Barrett Oswald, Barrett Oswald Designs
Related: Follow These Paint Color Tips to Make Your Westchester Home Pop
