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10 Tips to Make Your Home Look Like an Interior Decorator Passed Through It

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You’re bound to learn a thing or two from interior designer Jason Grant’s down-to-earth approach to home decor. Here, he shares his styling advice for every room of your home so you can pull off that effortlessly put-together look like a pro.

1. Dining rooms shouldn’t feel stuffy.

The dining area should feel communal and relaxed. After all, you gather, eat, and entertain there. Bring personality to the table with mismatched chairs, tableware, and an interesting centerpiece. Grant alternates between fresh flowers and objects he finds on the beach.

2. Use a bar cart.

If you love to entertain, a bar cart is a dapper way to greet guests, and it doubles as a clever storage solution. No more hiding your crystal in the cupboard — display your best glassware on a bar trolley where it’s ready for cocktail hour. Campari, gin, and a great bottle of rosé are Grant’s must-haves. To minimize plastic waste, he recommends paper or metal straws.

3. Mix texture and color.

Don’t be afraid to mix textures and colors when styling a cozy space like the couch. Grant’s favorite fabrics: “Natural materials, chunky knits, and throws.” Adding tactile accessories creates layers that will make the sofa feel even more comfortable, so buy items that will last. “Invest in cushions you love — three on one sofa is plenty.”

moodboard

(Photo Credit: Getty Images)

4. Create a mood board.

Creating your own mood board is a budget-friendly way to add art to a home office or study. “I always display images that inspire me,” Grant says. “The boards above my desk are inexpensive ones.” Passionate about travel? Pin postcards from your adventures. Is photography your latest hobby? Print your own pictures and add them, too.

5. Make the most of wall space.

Positioning cupboards and shelves against the walls of your kitchen will make the space seem bigger and will free up more room to move. If you’ve got open shelving, use it as an opportunity to create visual interest and show off your favorite dinnerware. Group similar items together and color-block each section to keep the unit neat and uncluttered.

6. Buy the biggest rug you can afford.

Rugs are an ideal starting point to create visual dimension and define the living space, Grant says. “Buy the biggest rug you can afford, because small rugs make the room feel out of proportion.” From there, allow the space to evolve over time rather than adding lots of furniture and textiles all at once.

coffee table books

(Photo Credit: Getty Images)

7. Collect coffee table books.

While most of us can only dream of having a home library, Grant says your favorite novels will look just as good displayed on a coffee table. Books make a great conversation starter when stacked with candles and vases — but remember to leave room for your coffee!

8. Less is more.

“Less is more when decorating the bedroom,” Grant says. Start with a neutral palette to set a calming tone, then incorporate a color you’re drawn to. Grant uses side table lamps because they add instant ambience and warmth. And if you have floorboards, dial up the comfort factor with a rug or two.

9. Think outside the wall.

Creating a gallery-style art wall can seem daunting, but Jason says over time you’ll gain confidence. “My top tip is to have a common link, like using only timber frames.” Think of this space as a moving work in progress. Don’t be afraid to rearrange pieces, add new ones or use the floor to display art you love. Grant says leaning art against the wall or on a side table gives the room a more casual feel.

10. Up your storage game.

No built-ins? No worries. Multi-tasking storage is the key to styling a super-organized space, so think beyond the basic clothes rack and find a wardrobe that’s got layers to hang, stack, and store. For stress-free dressing, group your clothes by color and assign every item a convenient home of its own.

This post was written by Lindyl Crabb. For more, check out our sister site, Homes to Love.

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