Whether you're completely redoing your home or just want to add a few touches to your living room, a good grasp of interior design is essential for attractive results. Understanding the principles which underlie aesthetic designs will enable you to bring each room together gracefully. While that may sound intimidating, basic interior design is simpler than it seems. Just follow these principles for a polished, cohesive look.

5 Essentials of Interior Design

1. Choose a Style

You might have a very specific look in mind, such as a decorating theme or a historical period you want to emulate. But if not, don't worry—defining your style can be as simple as choosing between casual and formal, or traditional and modern. Just pick a style and stick to it to keep your design consistent.

2. Color Scheme

The key with color is to be purposeful in your selection. Choose a main color for roughly 60% of the space, a second color for 30%, and an accent color which you'll use on about 10% of the room. Light colors will help open up the space, and colors with a lower saturation will help avoid eye strain.

3. Balance

Visually, you want the room to balance. This doesn't have to mean it's symmetrical, but if you have several bulky objects on one side of the room and very little on the other, the room will feel off balance.

4. Focal Point

To help guide the eye around the room, you should choose one place or object for the eye to return to. It can be a piece of quality furniture, artwork, a fireplace, or anything else which draws the eye. This is the focal point of the room and should be emphasized in your design.

5. Variety & Contrast

An interior design gets boring fast if all its elements are too similar. Choose contrasting colors, patterns, shapes, or textures to create visual interest. They should still be coordinated so they don't clash—but make sure to include a little variety.

A great interior design is a balancing act which takes all these elements into account. Take a look at your current design and try to see what's missing so you can start improving it.

Furniture Classics in Anchorage, AK, is the area's best furniture store. Their high-quality selection and helpful, creative staff are just what you need for a successful interior design project. Drop by today, or call the store with any questions. You can reach them at (907) 278-6844 or get in touch online.