Interior Decorators: Buying Home Decor or Making It Themselves?
As an experienced interior decorator, my approach to designing and decorating spaces is multifaceted, blending elements of good taste with a creative flair. It is not uncommon for me to buy pre-made home decor items, commission custom designs, and even source materials to create my own pieces. The decision often hinges on the specific needs of the project and the desired outcome. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence my choices and provide insights into the thought process behind each approach.
The Benefits of Buying Home Decor
Purchasing Pre-made Home Decor Items offers several advantages for interior decorators. Firstly, it enables us to work quickly and efficiently, as ready-made items can often be tailored to fit specific dimensions and styles. Additionally, buying pre-made decor ensures consistency in quality and style, which is crucial for achieving a cohesive aesthetic across multiple rooms or projects. Moreover, it allows us to maximize our creativity by selecting items that perfectly complement the overall design vision, often providing a more polished and professional look.
The Advantages of Custom Creations
On the other hand, custom designs and creations offer unparalleled flexibility and uniqueness. When designing something from scratch, we have the freedom to experiment with innovative concepts and materials, resulting in truly one-of-a-kind pieces. A prime example is the conference room I recently designed. I drew a detailed design initially, then collaborated with a cabinet shop to create a marquee board encased in a shallow cabinet with four framed sliding track mirrors in front. This custom creation not only provided the necessary space-saving benefits but also enhanced the room's visual appeal. The mirrored design doubled the perceived space and added an elegant reflection, making the room appear more spacious and bright. Additionally, the concept was so novel that it could easily be adapted for use in digital displays, expanding the potential applications of this custom creation.
Thinking Outside the Box
One of the most important aspects of an interior decorator's role is to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. Custom designs are ideal for situations where a project requires something that no other solution provides. In my experience, custom creations often result in more memorable and impactful designs. For example, when designing a small conference room, I was faced with the challenge of making the space feel larger and more inviting. My solution was to incorporate mirrors in a way that reflected the available light, creating a sense of openness and depth. This approach not only maximized the room's natural lighting but also made it appear twice its actual size.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between buying pre-made home decor and making custom creations depends on the specific requirements of each project. Whether it is a practical solution or a novel design, the end result should always reflect the decorator's vision and provide a unique and inspiring living or working environment. As an interior decorator, my goal is to balance creativity with functionality, ensuring that every project is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the clients.