Buying a home is one of the most exciting things you can do in life, but it's also a significant investment, so you want to make sure you end up with a property you’ll love. You want your home to be comfortable and functional, of course, but that doesn't mean it can't also be stylish and elegant.
To help guide you in the right direction, Emily Lafrinere Realty has put together ten tips for designing an elegant home. Whether incorporating unique architectural details or investing in luxe finishes, these suggestions will help turn your house into a chic abode.
Keep reading to learn more!
Define your style
The first step to creating an elegant home is deciding on a style. Once you know what look you're going for, it'll be easier to choose the furniture, accessories, and finishes that fit the overall aesthetic.
Some popular interior design styles in New Jersey include:
Minimalism
This style features simple, clean lines and is often characterized by a lack of clutter. A minimalistic approach is perfect for those who want a sleek, modern look.
Consider using light colors, neutral tones, and sparse decor. You can also add architectural details, like a statement light fixture or a unique flooring material, to help achieve this style.
Industrial
Popular among city-dwellers, industrial design incorporates reclaimed materials and vintage accents into your home. Exposed brick, metal beams, and wood floors are standard features of this style.
Browsing online is the best place to start hunting for antique furniture and decor pieces if you're interested in industrial design. To accentuate your style, you can also add DIY elements, like exposed pipes or a brick wall.
Traditional
If you're looking for a more timeless look, traditional design may be the way to go. This style features classic furniture and finishes like wood paneling and crown molding.
To achieve a traditional aesthetic, use muted colors and avoid too much clutter. Additional interesting architectural details could include a grand staircase or a wraparound porch.
Contemporary
If you want a stylish and on-trend home, a contemporary design may suit you best. This style is all about using clean lines and geometric shapes. It often features minimalist furniture but also incorporates bright, bold colors.
You'll be able to achieve a contemporary look with a few simple changes. Start by painting your walls in bright shades like yellow, turquoise, or coral. You can also add statement pieces like a lucite coffee table or a colorful rug.
Functionality
Before you start decorating, considering how you will use each room is crucial. You don't want to spend money on furniture and accessories that you won't use or only that you’d only use occasionally.
Here are some tips for designing each room in your New Jersey home:
The living room
Your living room is the space where you'll entertain guests and relax with family. It's essential to make the living room feel comfortable and inviting; elegance doesn't have to mean stuffiness!
Some ideas for the living room include:
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A comfortable couch or sectional
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A few statement pieces like an antique armoire or a modern coffee table
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A TV and media console
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Plenty of seating for guests
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Exotic area rug
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Curtains or blinds
The dining room
The dining room is the place for family meals and gatherings. It should be functional and comfortable but also refined and visually appealing.
Some ideas for the dining room include:
Some ideas for the dining room include:
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A large table that can accommodate your whole family
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A china cabinet or credenza to store dishes and linens
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Elegant chairs with upholstered seats
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A mirror or painting to add visual interest
The bedroom
A bedroom is a place for relaxation. It should be calming and soothing, with minimal distractions. Consider using a relaxing color scheme like pale green, soft blue, or creamy white to add elegance to your bedroom. Wall art or a headboard that adds visual interest can also make a big difference.
The Bathroom
The bathroom is an often-overlooked space, but it can be just as elegant as any other room in your home. Consider using luxurious marble or porcelain tile materials, and add high-end fixtures like a clawfoot tub or a rainfall showerhead.
Draw from inspiration
When it comes to design, there are ultimately no rules! Think of what inspires you and use those ideas to create a uniquely your own home. Perhaps you love nature and want to bring some of it inside. Or maybe you're a history buff and want to incorporate antique furniture and decor into your new home.
Whatever your interests are, use them to inspire your home’s design. You can even mix and match different styles to create a unique look. Here are a few ideas:
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Turn your bathroom into a full-service spa
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Transform your kitchen into a chef's paradise
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Build a home theater for movie night or video games
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Incorporate your outdoor space into sports courts for athletes
Pay attention to details
Everything from the type of light bulbs you use to how you hang your curtains can make a difference in your design and style.
This doesn't mean you should obsess over every little thing, but taking the time to choose the correct details can make all the difference. Also, be sure to keep your home updated with the latest trends. Things like lighting and furniture styles change over time, so staying up-to-date is best.
Add some shine
The most luxurious homes in New Jersey always have one thing in common: They're bright and shiny! Adding a few metallic accents can elevate the look of your home. Try using brass or copper hardware on your doors and cabinets or adding shimmery wallpaper or fabric.
Fixtures and finishes that shimmer and shine are always a hit with home buyers, so if you're thinking of selling, add a few metallic accents. Gold, silver, and platinum are always in style, so you can't go wrong with any of these colors.
Experiment with different fabrics
Velvet, silk, and satin are all great options, and you can use them in various ways. For example, you could use velvet as an upholstery fabric for your furniture or choose a silk duvet cover for your bed. You could also use a satin table runner to dress up your dining room table. The possibilities are endless, so be sure to experiment with different fabrics until you find the perfect combination.
Fur, leather, and suede are also great options for adding a touch of luxury to your home. You can use them in furniture upholstery, window treatments, or even flooring.
Smarten up your home
The latest trend in luxury home design is smart-home technology, which refers to any technology that makes your life easier and more convenient.
Some common examples include voice-activated assistants like Amazon Echo or Google Home, programmable thermostats, and security systems that you can monitor from your phone. High-end entertainment systems are also a popular smart-home feature. You can use these systems to control your TV, audio, and even lights!
Invest in signature pieces
One of the best ways to add elegance to your home is investing in furniture that will last. Solid wood furniture is always a good option, and it can be easily updated with a fresh coat of paint or some new hardware. Another great option is leather furniture. Not only does it look luxurious, but it also lasts for years.
You can have the most beautiful house on the street, but it will diminish its value if your furniture is outdated or uncomfortable. Invest in high-quality furniture that will last for years, and you'll be sure to impress your guests!
Incorporate art
If you’re into art, this one is a must. You can use paintings, sculptures, or even tapestries to add some visual flair to your walls. Be sure to choose art that reflects your style.
If you're a fan of modern design, choose abstract paintings or sculptures. Choose landscape paintings or antique furniture if you prefer a more traditional look. No matter your style, plenty of art options will help you achieve it.
Add a touch of nature
Adding a touch of nature to your luxury property in New Jersey can breathe life into your home. Plants are a great way to do this, and they come in various shapes, sizes, and textures.
You can choose plants that match your decor style or go with a more eclectic approach and select plants that clash a bit. Either way, plants will add some life and vitality to your home. Another great option is to use natural materials in your decor. Wood, stone, and marble are all great options, and you can use them in various ways.
These are just a few of the ways that you can add elegance to your home. Be creative and experiment until you find the perfect look for you. Remember, the most important thing is to be true to your style. So don't be afraid to take risks and try something new.
If you're looking for a new home to decorate in the New Jersey area, Emily Lafrinere Realty is here to help. We have a wide variety of homes to choose from, and we can find the perfect one for you. Give us a call today, and let us help you find your dream home in New Jersey!