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For those of you who have ever done a home remodeling project, I feel your pain. While the outcome is often rewarding, the process can be long and daunting. A great deal of decision-making and hoping not to make costly mistakes.
As an interior designer, not only is it my job to design and collaborate with the client, but I also experience what it’s like through the remodeling projects vicariously.
My biggest advice is never to rush. Thoughtful planning, time to think through decisions, plenty of time for purchasing, and all the mishaps that happen (long lead times, broken / lost items, ….oh so many things!). And plan for contingencies… things always seem to take longer and end up being more expensive, unfortunately.
I’m looking forward to featuring the process of some of my projects here, as well as welcoming the opportunity to take your submissions and provide feedback on your projects as well. If you are interested in design or remodeling advice, I have included information here about submitting your project for design advice.
Here’s my typical step by step process for approaching design projects:
Step 1: Concepts – Defining a Style
Every beautiful room begins with a vision. Think of this step as writing the story of your space—what mood do you want it to evoke? Is it calm and serene, bold and dramatic, or timeless and classic? Gathering inspiration from travel, nature, art, or your favorite interiors helps create a design style that feels authentic to you.
Step 2: Measure & Photo
Even dream spaces need a foundation. By capturing measurements and photos, you’re not just collecting numbers—you’re honoring the architecture and character that already exists. These details become the canvas for your creativity, giving you the freedom to dream while staying grounded in what’s possible.
Step 3: Design Drawings
This is where vision takes shape. Rough sketches or digital drawings allow you to imagine how the space could look once transformed. It’s a moment of possibility—lines on paper that hold the promise of comfort, beauty, and function.
Step 4: Space Planning & Layout Development
Design isn’t just about how things look—it’s about how a space feels when you move through it. In this step, the room becomes a choreography of furniture, pathways, and light. A thoughtful layout makes a space flow effortlessly, where every corner has a purpose and every view feels intentional.
Step 5: Selections & Presentation Boards
Now the soul of the design comes alive. Fabrics, finishes, colors, and textures tell the story you began in Step 1. Mood boards let you see it all together—the shimmer of metal, the softness of textiles, the warmth of wood. It’s the moment when your ideas start to feel real, almost touchable.
Step 6: Budget & Purchasing
Even creativity needs structure. A well-planned budget gives you freedom to dream without worry. This step is about making thoughtful choices—deciding where to invest in timeless pieces, and where to save with smart finds. Purchasing becomes the act of turning vision into reality, piece by piece.
Step 7: Hiring Professionals
Behind every stunning interior is a team who brings it to life. From skilled contractors to artisans and tradespeople, these professionals help transform your vision with precision. Choosing the right team is less about transactions and more about collaboration—a shared commitment to beauty and quality.
Step 8: Final Touches
The magic happens here. A room becomes more than walls and furniture when you add art, books, plants, and objects that tell your story. These finishing touches create atmosphere, warmth, and personality. They whisper who you are, turning a designed space into a lived-in sanctuary.
Conclusion
Design is not a straight line—it’s a journey of discovery. From the spark of an idea to the final styling, each step reveals a piece of the story your home wants to tell. When complete, the result isn’t just a beautiful space—it’s a reflection of your life, your taste, and the moments you want to create within it.
Get a FREE interior design consultation with membership: https://yourdesignguide.design.blog/
blog/
As an interior designer, not only is it my job to design and collaborate with the client, but I also experience what it’s like through the remodeling projects vicariously.
My biggest advice is never to rush. Thoughtful planning, time to think through decisions, plenty of time for purchasing, and all the mishaps that happen (long lead times, broken / lost items, ….oh so many things!). And plan for contingencies… things always seem to take longer and end up being more expensive, unfortunately.
I’m looking forward to featuring the process of some of my projects here, as well as welcoming the opportunity to take your submissions and provide feedback on your projects as well. If you are interested in design or remodeling advice, I have included information here about submitting your project for design advice.
Here’s my typical step by step process for approaching design projects:
Step 1: Concepts – Defining a Style
Every beautiful room begins with a vision. Think of this step as writing the story of your space—what mood do you want it to evoke? Is it calm and serene, bold and dramatic, or timeless and classic? Gathering inspiration from travel, nature, art, or your favorite interiors helps create a design style that feels authentic to you.
Step 2: Measure & Photo
Even dream spaces need a foundation. By capturing measurements and photos, you’re not just collecting numbers—you’re honoring the architecture and character that already exists. These details become the canvas for your creativity, giving you the freedom to dream while staying grounded in what’s possible.
Step 3: Design Drawings
This is where vision takes shape. Rough sketches or digital drawings allow you to imagine how the space could look once transformed. It’s a moment of possibility—lines on paper that hold the promise of comfort, beauty, and function.
Step 4: Space Planning & Layout Development
Design isn’t just about how things look—it’s about how a space feels when you move through it. In this step, the room becomes a choreography of furniture, pathways, and light. A thoughtful layout makes a space flow effortlessly, where every corner has a purpose and every view feels intentional.
Step 5: Selections & Presentation Boards
Now the soul of the design comes alive. Fabrics, finishes, colors, and textures tell the story you began in Step 1. Mood boards let you see it all together—the shimmer of metal, the softness of textiles, the warmth of wood. It’s the moment when your ideas start to feel real, almost touchable.
Step 6: Budget & Purchasing
Even creativity needs structure. A well-planned budget gives you freedom to dream without worry. This step is about making thoughtful choices—deciding where to invest in timeless pieces, and where to save with smart finds. Purchasing becomes the act of turning vision into reality, piece by piece.
Step 7: Hiring Professionals
Behind every stunning interior is a team who brings it to life. From skilled contractors to artisans and tradespeople, these professionals help transform your vision with precision. Choosing the right team is less about transactions and more about collaboration—a shared commitment to beauty and quality.
Step 8: Final Touches
The magic happens here. A room becomes more than walls and furniture when you add art, books, plants, and objects that tell your story. These finishing touches create atmosphere, warmth, and personality. They whisper who you are, turning a designed space into a lived-in sanctuary.
Conclusion
Design is not a straight line—it’s a journey of discovery. From the spark of an idea to the final styling, each step reveals a piece of the story your home wants to tell. When complete, the result isn’t just a beautiful space—it’s a reflection of your life, your taste, and the moments you want to create within it.
Get a FREE interior design consultation with membership: https://yourdesignguide.design.blog/
blog/
Want ideas for your room? Get a room review audit here for just $47: https://www.jillseidnerinteriordesign.com/blog/interior-design-room-review-for-just-47
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Get personalized solutions, insider tips, and exclusive perks with Design By Subscribe - your all-in-one design membership + newsletter.
With Design By Subscribe, you get professional design advice, resources, and discounts delivered to you every week - for less than the cost of a throw pillow.
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Only 5 design submissions featured each month-secure your spot today!
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Tips For Elevating Your Living Room
Anchor the Room with a Statement Sofa
Add Art That Defines the Palette
Anchor the Room with a Statement Sofa
- Choose a bold sectional or sculptural modern sofa based on your space and layout.
- Go with neutral or rich-toned upholstery for a timeless look—charcoal gray and soft beige work well.
Add Art That Defines the Palette
- Large-scale abstract or modern art adds sophistication and can guide your color scheme.
- Use one or two key pieces for balance without crowding the walls.
- Incorporate floor lamps for ambient light and height.
- Use table lamps or sconces if space allows to warm up corners.
- Combine wood, metal, marble, and fabric to create contrast and texture.
- Try a marble top table with a black metal frame or a wooden accent piece for richness.
- Add a stylish armchair, bench, or pair of ottomans to offer variety and fill space without crowding.
- Play with curvy vs structured silhouettes.
- Curate a few modern objects (vases, bowls, sculptural decor) on tables or consoles.
- Natural touches like plants or woven baskets soften the room.
- Use sculptural or grouped wall art (like the wire pieces shown) to add personality.
- Keep it simple and centered over key furniture.
- A neutral or textured rug grounds the furniture and unifies the look.
- Go large enough that front legs of furniture sit on it.
- Throw blankets and contrasting pillows (different textures/colors) make the space more inviting.
- Earthy colors like rust and charcoal add warmth.
- Not every surface needs to be filled. Use negative space to let key pieces shine.
- Symmetry in layout helps a room feel cohesive, while asymmetry in accessories adds personality.
Tips For Elevating Your Bedroom
Invest in a Statement Bed
Layer Bedding Thoughtfully
Invest in a Statement Bed
- Both designs feature upholstered beds—neutral, clean-lined headboards add comfort and sophistication.
- Choose a fabric that complements your room’s color palette (taupe, grey, beige).
- Use wall decor or framed art as a focal point.
- The metal wall sculptures and abstract paintings add texture and color without overwhelming the space.
- Include matching table lamps or modern statement lighting on nightstands for both ambiance and function.
- Mix materials like ceramic, marble, or glass to elevate the design.
- A fiddle leaf fig tree or fresh flowers bring life and softness into the room.
- Try organic textures like wood finishes, linen bedding, and ceramic accessories.
- Place a bench at the foot of the bed (great for functionality and polish).
- Use an ottoman for extra seating or as a style accent—opt for plush, textured fabric.
- Choose abstract or soft-toned art that ties in your bedding or accessories.
- Hang it at eye level or as a pair for visual balance.
Layer Bedding Thoughtfully
- Mix textured throws, layered pillows, and a variety of neutral tones.
- Accent pillows in velvet, boucle, or linen can elevate the bed styling.
- Pair dark wood with lighter upholstery or soft accessories to create contrast.
- Nightstands and dressers don’t need to match exactly—choose coordinating styles for interest.
- Use curated pieces like ceramic vases, clocks, or sculptural decor—keep clutter to a minimum.
- Focus on items with unique shapes or finishes that reflect your personality.
- Symmetry in lamps and nightstands = polished.
- Asymmetry in accessories or art = dynamic and personal.
Want ideas for your room? Get a room review audit here for just $47: https://www.jillseidnerinteriordesign.com/blog/interior-design-room-review-for-just-47
