Photos courtesy of Vetter Stone
You’ve got the floor plan finalized and the electrical, plumbing, and general contractors lined up, and it’s time to focus on the final design decisions for your space. When it comes to any interior design project, whether it’s a simple refresh or a new build, there are many details to consider. From paint colors to surfaces, you’ll want to choose features that harmonize together throughout the interior and exterior of the home. As you establish your desired end result, consider these three things when evaluating your options to ensure you’re making the best selection possible.
Flow
When contemplating different materials, think of how they will fit with the flow of the home. You don’t want each room to feel like an island, so it’s important to carry a similar look throughout. Whether you choose a natural accent like stone or wood, or a synthetic such as laminate or vinyl, remain as consistent as possible to give your home consistent flow that feels good and makes sense.
Feel
How do you want your family and guests to feel as they spend time in your home? This will help determine what products to use; for example, darker colors or harder materials can create a sense of quiet luxury and make a space feel cozy. Lighter colors and warm accents (think natural wood tones and white walls) create a natural, open, and welcoming feel.
Function
While this may be the least exciting aspect to think over, the function of a selection is extremely important when contemplating what material is right for each project. If the material will be used in a high-traffic area, can it withstand the wear and tear of life? If you’re taking on an exterior project, you’ll have to think about details such as weather and climate; can the medium handle high heat and sun exposure or heavy rain? With simple care and maintenance, products such as limestone can be a great option for various climates.
Every home and space is unique, and you don’t want to lose sight of yourself in the design. Don’t be afraid to make it your own or feel tied into making decisions based on trends alone. Most importantly, have fun with it. If necessary, lean on a trusted designer or company to help you make these final choices and provide a sounding board to keep your project in budget and on track.
