10 Key Decorating Secrets I Learned from Experienced Designers

10.08.2024 - 11:37 / thespruce.com / Nishaa Sharma

After four years as a model tenant, I finally got the green light to decorate our one-bedroom rental however I wanted. As long as any changes can be reversed once we move out, the sky is the limit.

I know exactly what kind I want to accomplish in redecorating: a bright and airy, yet warm and welcoming home. One that is soothing to spend time in, while also showing our love for nature and travel aesthetically.

And with the help of these ten inside secrets from expert interior designers, my apartment will look like my mood board in no time.

@houseofchais / Instagram

I spoke to Aino Heinäsuo, head of design at Redecor, and he spilled that the key to an airy but cozy space is muted, light tones.

He suggested I consider a color scheme that blends neutrals with a few bold hues, softer pastels, or natural tones like sage green.

With gray floors and beige walls as my base, the colors I'm adding to the apartment will need to bring warmth and softness while increasing natural light in the space as much as possible. I'm definitely heeding his advice!

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Desiree Burns Interiors

Dan Mazzarini, the principal and creative director of BHDM Design advises starting with a neutral, light color on the walls—but not necessarily white.

He recommends Calm by Benjamin Moore: an off-white paint color that can feel warm or cool, depending on the room.

«I call colors like this 'chameleons'—they adapt to the other colors and tones in the room,» he explains. «With this neutral base on the walls, you can experiment with other muted tones as relaxing accents in the room.”

Desiree Burns Interiors

Designer Nina Lichtenstein