The 10 most frequently asked questions about interior design and interior styling
Are you ready to turn your home into a dream place? Discover everything you need to know about interior design in this blog! We answer the 10 most frequently asked questions, so that you can confidently create and optimize your own living style.
1. How much does interior design or advice cost?
The price for interior design or advice can vary from an entry-level rate of € 250 for a separate styling advice to € 2,500 – € 5,000 for a complete plan with furniture and lighting plan. Good to know:
- Basic advice (online or one-hour consultation): from € 250
- Half design (sketch + mood board): from € 750
- Full interior plan (floor plan, 3D visualization, lighting plan): € 2000 – € 5000
2. How do you find your own interior style?
Discovering your style starts with gathering inspiration. Create a mood board on Pinterest, browse through home magazines and save photos of interiors that touch you. Ask yourself questions like:
- Which colours and materials appeal to me?
- Do I like sleek and minimalistic or warm and eclectic?
- Which furniture do I use every day and what do I still miss?
Combine your favourite elements into one overarching theme, and voilà: your personal interior style!
3. How can you make a small space seem bigger?
Do you have a cosy room that sometimes feels cramped? How to create space:
- Use light colours on walls and ceiling for an airy effect.
- Choose multifunctional furniture (think extendable tables, wall beds).
- Hang mirrors opposite windows to reflect light.
- Work with vertical lines, such as long curtains that reach the ceiling.
4. How to choose the right colours for your interior?
Colour largely determines the atmosphere. Start with a basic palette of 2–3 shades, for example a soft neutral background and an accent colour. Here’s how to do it smartly:
- Make test areas on the wall to see the color in daylight.
- Get inspired by art or photos: pick your favorite accent color.
- Add contrast with accessories in complementary shades.
5. How do you determine the best furniture layout and choice?
A good layout is all about balance and walking space. Here’s how:
- Measure your space and furniture accurately.
- Sketch different layouts on paper or in an app.
- Choose furniture in proportion: a large corner sofa in a small living room can be cozy, but keep 60–80 cm of walking space free.
- Think about sight lines: make sure the sofa is not directly in the doorway.
6. How do you ensure that your interior becomes a harmonious whole?
You create unity with repetition and rhythm. Work with:
- A consistent color palette throughout the house.
- Repetition of materials (wood, metal, textiles) in furniture and accessories.
- Variety in shapes: combine round and angular lines for dynamism.
7. How do you create more atmosphere and coziness in your home?
Coziness (or ‘coziness’) is all about layers and personality. Try:
- Multiple light points: standing lamps, wall lamps and candles.
- Vary in textures: soft plaids, coarsely woven cushions, wool rugs.
- Plants and natural materials for life and warmth.
- Personal items such as photos, books and souvenirs.
8. Should you hire a professional interior designer?
Doing your own interior design is fun and cheap, but a professional can help you with:
- A well-thought-out plan so that furniture and materials really come together.
- Technical drawings and a lighting plan for a flawless execution.
- Access to business discounts and expertise on trends and sustainability.
Choose a designer if you want to save time and want a truly unique interior.
9. How long does an average interior design process take?
From introduction to delivery, you usually count:
- Intake and sketch: 1 to 2 weeks.
- Development of mood board and floor plan: 2 to 4 weeks.
- Lighting plan, furniture selection and technical details: 2 to 6 weeks.
- Realization and styling: 1 to 4 weeks, depending on delivery time of furniture.
Usually 6 to 12 weeks in total, but you can phase it if you don’t want to tackle everything at once.
10. How do you plan the lighting and what does a lighting plan add?
A good lighting plan makes your interior both functional and atmospheric. Think in three layers:
- Basic lighting: ceiling or track spotlights for general lighting.
- Functional lighting: reading lamps, work spotlights at desk and kitchen.
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