As an interior designer, I’ve learned a few tricks that make styling, decorating, and maintaining a beautiful home easier and more efficient. Whether you’re looking to elevate your space or simplify your design process, these hacks will help you achieve a polished, designer-approved look with minimal effort.
1. Custom Pillow Inserts for the Perfect Look and Feel
Pillows can make or break a space, and one of the best-kept secrets is using custom inserts. Instead of settling for standard pillow fills, opt for inserts that are:
- 1-2 inches larger than the pillow cover for a fuller, more luxurious look.
- Made of down or a high-quality down alternative to provide the perfect balance of weight and softness.
- Adjustable to control the firmness and loft, ensuring maximum comfort and style.
2. Elevate Faux Plants with Pool Noodles & Cinder Blocks
Fake plants can be a great alternative to real greenery, but they often need a little help to look convincing. Here’s how I elevate them:
- Use pool noodles inside large pots to take up space while keeping the plant stable.
- Top with foam and decorative rocks for a realistic, polished look.
- Use cinder blocks inside tall planters to lift plants to the right height. This trick saves money on filler material while making artificial plants look high-end and intentional.
3. Museum Gel for Keeping Decor in Place
Ever noticed how objects shift or fall over on tables and shelves? Museum gel is a game-changer for keeping things in place, especially:
- Vases and sculptures on console tables.
- Fragile items on shelves and mantels.
- Decor pieces in homes with kids or pets. Simply apply a small amount to the bottom of an object, and it will stay secure without leaving any residue.
4. Simplifying Paint Selection with Samplize & Color Matching Apps
Choosing the perfect paint color can be overwhelming, but these tools make it effortless:
- Samplize: Peel-and-stick paint samples that help you test colors without the mess of paint swatches.
- Sherwin-Williams ColorSnap® Visualizer App: This app allows you to match existing wall colors and visualize new shades in your space before committing. These tools save time and ensure you choose the right color the first time around.
5. Burn Candles for at Least 2 Hours to Create a “Memory”
One of the best-kept secrets for extending the life of candles is allowing them to burn long enough to create an even wax pool. Here’s why:
- Burning a candle for at least 1 hour the first time prevents tunneling.
- It ensures an even burn throughout the candle’s life, maximizing its use.
- Helps distribute fragrance more effectively in a space. This small habit makes a big difference in maintaining high-quality and aesthetically pleasing candles.
By incorporating these simple but effective design hacks, you can elevate your home with ease. Whether it’s using smart styling tricks, selecting the right materials, or preventing common decor mishaps, these tips will help you achieve a designer-worthy space effortlessly.
