how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor Interior design isn’t just about picking out pretty furniture and throwing up some art. It’s a full-blown creative process that combines functionality, style, and personality. Whether you’re designing your dream home or just refreshing your living room, knowing how to make better interior design choices is a game changer. At MintPalDecor, we believe that anyone can elevate their space with a few smart strategies and a little bit of inspiration.
Here’s how to become better at interior design without needing a design degree—just a love for creating beautiful spaces and a willingness to learn.
1. Understand Your Style Before You Start how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor
One of the biggest mistakes people make when designing a space is not knowing their style. They jump into trends or buy furniture just because it’s on sale. But without a clear direction, your space can end up looking disjointed or chaotic.
Start by figuring out what you genuinely love. Are you into minimalist Scandinavian vibes? Or maybe you’re drawn to bold colors and eclectic decor? Scroll through Pinterest, follow Instagram designers, or browse the MintPalDecor blog for mood boards and style inspiration. Pay attention to what feels like “you.”
Next, create a style profile or mood board. This can be digital or physical—whatever works for you. Include colors, textures, materials, and even inspirational rooms. This will serve as your guide through the entire process.
Finally, don’t be afraid to mix styles. Some of the how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor most stunning interiors come from combining unexpected elements. The key is to find balance—if you go bold with furniture, keep the color palette neutral, or vice versa.
2. Master the Art of Space Planning how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor
No matter how beautiful a room looks, if it doesn’t function well,how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor it won’t feel good to live in. That’s why space planning is crucial. Think of it like laying out the bones of your space before you even start decorating.
Begin by measuring your room. Seriously—get that tape measure out. Note the size and position of windows, doors, and built-in features like fireplaces. This will help you understand how much space you really have to work with.
Now, sketch out a basic floor plan. You can use graph paper or a digital tool like the MintPalDecor Room Planner (if available). Play around with furniture placement until it makes sense. Leave enough walking space—ideally 30 inches between pieces—and think about flow. For example, you don’t want the sofa to block the path to the kitchen or the TV to be opposite a sunny window with glare.
And remember: bigger isn’t always better. Oversized furniture can swallow a room whole, especially in smaller homes or apartments. Stick with pieces that fit your space proportionately, and always test your layout before committing.
3. Play with Color, But Don’t Go Overboard how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor
Color can completely transform a space. It sets the mood, defines style, and adds personality. But it can also overwhelm if not used thoughtfully. To be better at interior design, how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor you need to understand how to use color intentionally.
Start with a base color for your walls or large furniture—something neutral or calm. This creates a solid foundation and makes it easier to mix in accent colors. Then choose one or two accent shades to add visual interest. These can show up in pillows, rugs, artwork, or even a painted feature wall.
MintPalDecor often recommends the 60-30-10 rule: 60% of the room should be your dominant color, 30% a secondary color, and 10% an accent. It’s a simple formula that keeps your color palette balanced without being boring.
If you’re not confident with color, start small. Add pops through accessories and see how it feels. You can always layer more as your confidence grows. And don’t underestimate the power of natural tones—wood, stone, and metals can all add depth without being overly colorful.
4. Focus on Texture and Layers
Great interior design isn’t just about what you see—it’s also about how a space feels. Texture adds dimension and richness, making even simple rooms feel curated and cozy. This is especially important if you’re working with a neutral palette.
Mixing textures means combining different materials like linen, how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor velvet, metal, wood, glass, and ceramics. For example, a velvet couch paired with a wooden coffee table, a chunky knit throw, and a woven rug creates instant depth.
Don’t forget the soft stuff—pillows, blankets, rugs, and curtains. These elements make a room feel complete and invite you to relax. MintPalDecor’s tip: every room should have at least one cozy layer, like a throw or sheepskin rug.
Another layer to consider is lighting, which brings us to the next point…
5. Lighting Makes or Breaks a Room
You could have the most beautifully designed room in the world, but if the lighting is off, the whole vibe falls flat. Good lighting highlights the best features of your space and makes it more livable.
Start with natural light—maximize it where possible. Avoid heavy drapes unless needed for privacy or insulation. Use sheer curtains to soften the light without blocking it.
Next, layer your lighting. This means combining three types:
- Ambient lighting (main overhead lights)
- Task lighting (reading lamps, kitchen under-cabinet lights)
- Accent lighting (sconces, candles, string lights)
Each type plays a different role, and together they create a balanced, how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor inviting environment. At MintPalDecor, we always suggest adding dimmers to give you more control over the mood. And don’t forget decorative lighting—fun pendant lights or sculptural lamps can become art in their own right.
6. Personalize with Purpose how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor
It’s easy to get caught up in showroom-perfect rooms, but your home should reflect you. Interior design is personal—it’s about telling your story through your space. That means incorporating items that have meaning, not just things that match.
Display your favorite books, souvenirs from travels, vintage finds, or family photos. But edit carefully. Not everything needs to be on display. A curated selection always looks more intentional than a cluttered shelf.
One great trick? Rotate decor seasonally. You don’t need a whole new set of furniture—just swap out artwork, pillow covers, or flowers to keep things fresh without a major investment. MintPalDecor has seasonal decor guides to help with this if you’re stuck.
And finally, don’t be afraid to break the rules. Interior design is part logic, part instinct. If something makes you happy—even if it’s unconventional—find a way to include it.
7. Keep Evolving and Stay Inspired how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor
Here’s a secret most pros won’t tell you: great interior how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor designers never stop learning. Trends shift, materials improve, and your own tastes will evolve over time. Being better at interior design is about staying curious and open to new ideas.
Follow design blogs, read magazines, and visit showrooms for inspiration. Keep a running list of ideas that excite you, whether it’s a new color combo or a furniture layout you hadn’t considered. At MintPalDecor, we encourage our readers to treat their home as a living canvas—always changing, always growing.
Most importantly, be patient. Great design doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process of experimenting, editing, and adjusting. Give yourself room to make mistakes. That’s how your unique style will emerge.
Final Thoughts how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor
Interior design isn’t about copying trends or how to be better at interior design mintpaldecor chasing perfection—it’s about creating a space that works for you. With a little planning, some creative thinking, and the right guidance, you can design rooms that are not only beautiful but truly livable.
At MintPalDecor, we believe anyone can become better at interior design with the right mindset and a few practical tools. Start small, trust your taste, and let your home tell your story—one room at a time.
Editor of The Best Update, with over 10 years of writing experience, delivering insightful, well-researched, and engaging content across diverse topics to keep readers informed and inspired.
