Unleash your inner designer: The art of interior styling

Welcome to the world of interior styling

Interior styling is the art of turning a house into a home - a space that reflects your personality, values, and way of living. It’s where thoughtful choices in furniture, colour, and accessories come together to create not just a space, but a feeling.

Whether you’re starting with a blank canvas or refreshing a well-loved space, styling should feel inspiring rather than overwhelming. You don’t need a design degree or a Pinterest-perfect home to get it right - just a clear vision, a little patience, and a touch of creativity. This guide is here to help you refine your approach, explore your style, and enjoy the process.

The foundation: Understanding your style

Before diving into colour palettes and cushions, it’s important to understand your own style. Do you feel at home in clean, minimal spaces? Or are you drawn to layered, eclectic interiors filled with character and charm?

Spend some time exploring what resonates. Browse Pinterest, flick through interior magazines, or visit a local lifestyle store like Studio + Style for inspiration. Take note of textures, tones, and layouts that speak to you. Once you understand your preferences, styling becomes much more intuitive.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about creating a space that reflects your taste and supports your lifestyle - whether that means mixing vintage with modern, or layering natural materials for a more organic feel.

Colour me happy: Choosing the right palette

Colour has a remarkable ability to shift the mood of a room. It can energise, calm, or add subtle elegance depending on the tones you choose. But with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Start with how you want the space to feel. Soft greens, neutrals, and muted blues are known for their calming qualities, while warm terracottas or rich navy add depth and drama. Choose a base palette and build from there, keeping in mind how the colours will transition throughout your home.

Aim for harmony across spaces. A cohesive palette creates flow and makes each room feel like part of a bigger story. Accent colours can then be used to inject personality, seasonality, or a sense of fun - without overwhelming the overall design.

Furniture: The heart of the home

Furniture plays a fundamental role in shaping a room’s look, function, and feel. It’s not just about how it looks, but how it works for your day-to-day life.

Begin by thinking practically - what is the purpose of the space? A quiet reading nook will require different furniture choices than a busy family kitchen. Once the function is clear, select pieces that balance comfort and character, and reflect your personal style.

Placement is just as important as the pieces themselves. Consider how people move through the room, how light enters the space, and how each item interacts with the rest. A well-placed rug or side table can completely elevate a space when thoughtfully styled.

Accessorise with intention

Accessories bring personality to your space - they’re the layer that makes a room feel considered and lived-in. Whether it’s a ceramic vase, a stack of books, or a handwoven throw, each item tells part of your story.

Choose pieces that resonate with you. Start small and build gradually, creating moments of interest throughout the room. Group objects in odd numbers, vary heights, and mix textures to create depth.

Greenery is an easy and effective way to bring life into your home. A few well-placed plants can make a space feel vibrant and fresh, while also complementing your chosen materials and colour palette.

Lighting: The mood maker

Lighting has the power to transform the way a room feels. The right lighting can make a space feel warm and welcoming, while also highlighting architectural features or favourite pieces.

Think in layers. Combine overhead lighting with task lights, floor lamps, and ambient options to create flexibility and atmosphere. Consider the function of each room—brighter lighting for a kitchen or workspace, and softer, more diffused light for living areas or bedrooms.

Lighting can also be an opportunity to make a subtle style statement. Whether it's a sculptural pendant or a timeless table lamp, choose pieces that complement your overall aesthetic and add character without overpowering the space.

The art of decluttering

A well-styled space begins with clarity. Decluttering isn’t about minimalism for minimalism’s sake - it’s about creating room for the things that matter, both visually and emotionally.

Start with one area at a time and assess what truly belongs. Ask yourself: does this item serve a purpose or bring joy? If not, consider donating or repurposing. This process helps you reconnect with your home and brings a sense of calm to your environment.

Once decluttered, invest in storage solutions that suit your aesthetic - baskets, lidded boxes, or built-in shelving can maintain order while still looking beautiful. A tidy space allows your chosen pieces to breathe and your styling to shine.

Personal touches: Make it yours

It’s the little things that make a house feel like home. Family photographs, heirloom furniture, collected treasures from travels - these are the layers that tell your story.

Create focal points around these pieces. A gallery wall, a styled shelf, or a curated coffee table display can all reflect your personality without feeling overly designed. Don’t feel the need to fill every corner - negative space has its own value too.

DIY projects or upcycled finds can also add individuality. Whether it’s a piece of furniture you’ve refinished or artwork you’ve made yourself, these personal touches bring warmth and meaning to your space.

Styling small spaces

Styling a smaller space can be challenging - but incredibly rewarding. With a few clever choices, even compact rooms can feel functional, open, and beautiful.

Use vertical space wherever possible. Wall shelves, tall storage, and mounted lighting free up floor space and add interest. Opt for furniture with built-in storage or multi-purpose use to maximise utility without crowding the room.

Lighter colours, mirrors, and considered layout choices can all help create the illusion of space. In small homes, every item counts—so choose thoughtfully and keep your styling refined and purposeful.

Conclusion: Embrace the journey

Interior styling isn’t about following trends - it’s about creating a space that feels good to live in. It’s a personal, evolving process that should grow with you.

Your home should reflect your life, your style, and your story. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should feel right for you. So take your time, explore your style, and enjoy the process of creating something meaningful.

Thank you for reading—here’s to homes that are styled with care, lived in with joy, and always evolving.