The Essential Guide to Layering in Interior Design: 5 Secret Styling Tips
Ever wonder why no matter how hard you try, your space never seems to look as good as the magazines? The reason could be you are missing the secret ingredient that professional interior designers and fashion stylists have been using for years: the magical art of layering. Layering is the mindful practice of stacking design elements on top of each other in a way that the whole space feels very polished and unique. Today we will break down the design fundamentals of layering and tell you why and how to layer your space like a pro!
Image by Danielle Rose Design Co
Furniture Arrangement
The furniture layout can make or break a space. It is important to consider not only the style and materials of every piece but also the placement. Take note of the shape and direction of each furniture piece in relation to others along with doors + windows and any other room features such as a fireplace or a television. Ideally everything is centered around a focal point to create a space within a space but not too close together - it is always important to maintain balance. Here are some great ideas for common living room layout solutions.
Why Layer Furniture
Spreading furniture out in a room, not touching, is a fast way to have a room that doesn’t feel comfortable or cohesive. Instead of think of creating little “furniture islands” that will work together to create the essence or mood of the larger space.
How to Arrange Furniture
Can a side table be moved closer, and slightly in front of a lounge chair? An ottoman partially blocking some of the sofa? Can some baskets be placed in front of the fireplace?
Don’t be afraid to put things in front of other things — and experiment to see what happens. Look at some of your favorite vendors advertisements for inspiration. My personal go-to is CB2; I just love the simplicity and elegance of their spaces.
Image by CB2
2. Rugs + Accent Fabrics
The fabrics in a room can include upholstered furnishings, rugs, curtains, and throw pillows+blankets.
Image by Place of my Taste
Why Layer with Rugs & Textiles
Use different patterns, shapes, textures and colors to add depth, balance and create contrast. It’s best to avoid using colors or patterns that will compete with each other, instead select items that still feel cohesive when they are all together.
How to Layer with Rugs & Textiles
Try a smaller non-uniform shape rug on top of a rectangular rug for variation- for additional interest try off centering the top rug or having it partially cover the bottom rug.
3. Wall Art + Accessories
Approach decor elements like wall art and decor as opportunities to really bring in your personal style/personality. I like to think of these as “character objects”.
Why Layer with Wall Art & Accessories
These layers will be completely unique to you and your space- unlike the home decor at Target or Pottery Barn that will be used in thousands of homes. Integrating your own tastes and style is what will make your home feel like home. Your layers will be meaningful and a reflection of your values and the life you live (or want to).
Image by Alyssa Strohmann on Unsplash
How to Layer Wall Art & Accessories
Whether it's artwork, photos, a seashell collection, or your grandmother’s antique vase, layering in something of interest to you makes a room feel complete and helps tell your story.
Be sure to remember design styling rules (like the magic rule of 3) while setting up decorative items to create layered vignettes. For more on the rule of 3 and other designer styling tips check out my post on Coffee Table Styling.
Image by Hannah Busing on Unsplash
4. Lighting
Consider the different types of light while installing like spot light, task light and ambient lights. What activities will take place in the room? What time of day will the room be most used? Will there be a need for different lighting after dark? These are the types of the questions you want to ask yourself when considering lighting. To add an extra edge, add contemporary designed lights.
Image by Andrea Davis on Unsplash
Why Layer Lighting
Lighting is very important as it will impact the overall mood of the space.
Various lighting types will be functional as well as warm and multidimensional.
How to Layer Lighting
As you approach each space make sure you have ample ambient lighting (general overhead lights or daylight) and task lighting (floor and table lamps, pendant lamps, under-cabinet lights) and perhaps an accent light (picture frame lights, puck lights in a cabinet) or two. Try to balance light in the room through either well-spaced overhead lighting or by adding lamps in all corners.
5. Natural Elements
Natural elements include plants, flowers, branches.
Why Layer with Natural Elements
Aside from adding beauty and color to any space, plants have been found to provide a slew of health benefits including relieving stress + depression, increasing productivity + creativity, and improving overall quality of life.
How to Layer with Natural Elements
Consider the scale of the other objects in a specific location as well as the environment in terms of light and temperate. Make sure to select a plant type that will be able to live a good life in the place you are putting it.
For example, if integrating natural elements into the living room and your coffee table has objects that are all under 8-10” consider a taller arrangement such as branches to move the eye vertically. Short on surface space? Consider a hanging plant. Small plant pots like mini succulents can be great on top of books or as bathroom decor.
Photo by Luisa Brimble on Unsplash
The art of layering is every interior designer’s secret weapon. Incorporating variation in scale, textures, colors, patterns, and shapes can add depth and dimension to any space and achieve the ever sought after, polished, magazine cover-worthiness look.
We are here to help make your home into the space of your dreams- schedule an initial design call today- it’s totally free!
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