<a href="https://www.instagram.com/whisperingbold/" target="_blank">Marieke Rijksen</a>

Indoor and outdoor spaces serve distinct purposes to create a balanced home lifestyle. Inside areas provide privacy, comfort, security and weather protection, while the yard promotes good health and increases curb appeal. Despite these differences, everything should look and feel harmonious. Considering the home interior when contemplating front and outdoor decorating ideas matters to achieve cohesion.

A house without a cohesive design is like an entertainment resort with individual theme parks trying to appeal to various audiences. It works for Disney but translates into disharmony and drives down most homes’ values. Use these six tips to avoid any incongruity when decorating outdoor spaces.

The aesthetic is the property’s soul — the quality that makes it unique and special. It’s the product of the house’s architectural style and the owner’s personal preference. Identifying the aesthetic precedes everything because it’s challenging to reconcile inside and outside space designs without understanding the unifying force underpinning them.

This factor establishes redecoration rules, dictating what backyard decorating ideas are acceptable and sensible. It guides decision-making to keep the house from appearing inadvertently eclectic.

Say a modest person inherits a Queen Anne-style house. This new owner tones down its ornate decor and replaces the most flamboyant details with unassuming elements while leaving many defining features — <a href="https://www.lowellma.gov/1547/Queen-Anne" target="_blank">such as irregularly shaped rooflines</a>, prominent bay windows and unmistakable gables — alone.

Breaking tradition renders the house an extension of the owner’s self without keeping it a quintessentially Queen Anne property. The resulting aesthetic simultaneously evokes the inheritor’s taste and philosophy without causing the house to be significantly out of character.

The homeowner should take the same approach when reimagining the house’s landscape design. Going completely minimalist outdoors would create a jarring effect. The yard would feel like a different world — the opposite of cohesive design.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ChFoI5ZJM0H/" target="_blank">Samantha Klein</a>

A well-thought-out color palette sets the house’s overall tone. Rooms function differently, so they can have their own character to achieve the kind of mood they aim for. The kitchen must appear hygienic to promote cleanliness, the dining area can feel energetic to stimulate appetites and the <a href="https://renovated.com/how-to-decorate-your-bathroom/" target="_blank">bathroom should feel calming</a> to induce relaxation. However, their common hues tie them together.

Maintaining a similar degree of color combination outdoors can be challenging. Earth tones and shades of green are generally more apparent in outside areas because of the natural terrain and vegetation. Still, use the interior color palette’s dominant and secondary colors where possible.

Adopting the same hues risks creating a boring landscape design. Using shades lighter or darker outdoors is one of the neatest outdoor decorating ideas for blending inside and outside areas. It gives the yard its own personality without deviating from the house’s overarching visual theme.

<a href="https://www.dazeyden.com/" target="_blank">Dani Dazey</a>

A cohesively designed house has a motif. It’s an element repeated throughout the house on purpose to allude to a theme — an idea the owner wants to convey explicitly or implicitly.

Motifs can be anything — abstract shapes, line arrangements, animals, plants, crops, initials, wordmarks, excerpts, emblems, religious symbols, caricatures, fictional characters, pop culture icons, hieroglyphics, celestial bodies, mythological beings and zodiac signs. They can manifest themselves in various forms, including:

Incorporating a motif into the home design is an effective way to tell a narrative. It may suggest something close to the owner’s heart, like an interest, a beloved pet or a favorite story. A motif may also indicate the owner’s occupation, religion or fandom.

This pattern should remain evident outdoors to create rhythm and strongly establish the connection between the indoor and outdoor areas. A motif appearing on lawn art, walkways, planters, a grill, deck balustrades, tree house railings, pergola beams, garden flags, fire pit chairs, and as custom lighting fixtures are tried-and-true <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/spruce-up-your-backyard-18-decorating-ideas-for-a-beautiful-outdoor-space" target="_blank">backyard decorating ideas</a>. It makes a fantastic outdoor space focal point, serving as the mother of all the Easter eggs scattered throughout the house.

Drawing inspiration from a house’s architectural style for an outbuilding’s design marries the indoors with the outdoors. For example, a gazebo with a green roof and living walls can beautifully accompany a sustainable residence screaming contemporary architecture. A detached garage made with half-timbering and <a href="https://houstontx.gov/planning/frontpage/Historic_Idea_1/historic_districts/boulevard_oaks_arch.html" target="_blank">adorned by decorative brickwork</a> pays homage to a Tudor Revival house. A shed with a low-pitched clay tile roofing system is a natural companion to an Italian Renaissance property.

<a href="https://www.julianporcino.com/post/the-urban-tree-house-1-399-000-active" target="_blank">The Home Consultant</a>

Highlighting the aesthetic similarities between indoor and outdoor spaces is as much about eliminating distractions and obstacles as it is about adding complementary visual elements. A patio door separating an orderly, logically designed home and an unkempt landscape is like a portal to a new dimension.

A yard revamp is necessary to bring any outdoor decorating ideas to life. Landscape redesign projects usually solve problems such as vegetation overgrowth, out-of-placed trees, unwanted sunny areas and uneven terrain. Although a backyard makeover is almost always messy and laborious, the job becomes more bearable with proper tools.

For instance, renting a tree spade makes relocating small plants to where they can provide shade to a finished area <a href="https://www.catrentalstore.com/en_US/blog/easy-tree-removal.html" target="_blank">without compromising their roots</a> and damaging foliage possible. Firing up a weed whacker can trim dense grass in no time. Leveling lumps with a shovel speeds up the flattening of moderately uneven land.

Furnishing outdoor living spaces with similar furniture is a surefire way to highlight a house’s aesthetic inside and out. However, taking this route makes sense only when the interior pieces are versatile.

Using seats, tables or outdoor kitchen cabinetry susceptible to water damage is unwise. Instead, find weather-resistant versions of existing indoor furniture. For instance, buying synthetic rattan <a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/tour-a-cabo-beach-house-with-warm-splashes-of-color" target="_blank">to echo the coastal decor</a> on the patio works wonders. Manufactured material is usually waterproof, so it’s more suitable for outdoor use than its natural counterparts.

Boost Home Cohesiveness With Thoughtful Backyard Decorating Ideas

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CN-ZcyMLm5_/" target="_blank">Alicia Murphy</a>

Reenvisioning the landscape to reflect a home’s interior aesthetic can be burdensome. Still, it’s worth the trouble. Everything is better when indoor and outdoor living areas agree with each other, so use these tips to lend more coherence to the overall home design.

Ready to bring these ideas to life and achieve a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces? <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the DecorMatters app today!</a> With our app, you can explore endless design inspirations, experiment with different styles, and visualize your perfect cohesive home right from your smartphone. Make your dream home a reality—download DecorMatters now and <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">start designing!</a>

This article was written exclusively for&nbsp;<a href="https://decormatters.com/" target="_blank">DecorMatters</a>&nbsp;by Evelyn Long. Evelyn is a writer passionate about simplifying interior design for homeowners and renters alike. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of&nbsp;<a href="https://renovated.com/" target="_blank">Renovated Magazine</a>&nbsp;where she shares her expertise on interiors.

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Create a cohesive home by seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor design styles. Follow these expert tips to ensure harmony between your home's interior and exterior spaces. Transform your home into a unified masterpiece with our practical advice.

How to Blend Your Design Style Outside for a Cohesive Home

Many people are drawn to a minimalistic life and it’s not hard to understand why. Minimalism can have many positive effects on your life, mental wellness, and health.&nbsp;

In this article we will be discussing the upsides of minimalism and learning how decluttering the mind can have profound psychological benefits.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/skandinaviskinteriorakademi/">Scandinavian Interior Academy</a>

<a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/minimalist-interior-design-embracing-simplicity-in-2023" target="_blank">Minimalist interior design</a> is defined differently by different people. Some describe minimalism as a rejection of all material things and a turning away from consumerist culture. Others describe it as a mindset of thoughtfulness around purchasing decisions and a focus on simplifying your way of life.

However, we think <a href="https://www.breakthetwitch.com/minimalism/" target="_blank">Break the Twitch</a> defined it best when they said, “Minimalism is defined as a design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to create the maximum effect. [...] It has become representative of a lifestyle that aims to remove clutter from all facets of life. [...] We define minimalism as a lifestyle practice focused on minimizing distractions that keep you from doing what matters to you.”

By focusing on the changes you can make in your life, you can create a simplified way of living that benefits your mental clarity. What’s more, by decluttering your home and focusing on simplifying your space, you can <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/interior-design-and-mental-health-creating-a-positive-space-for-a-positive-life" target="_blank">create a positive home interior</a> that supports a positive mindset.

Let’s discuss the mental health benefits of minimalism and how this practice could change your life for the better.

Minimalism and Mental Health: The Benefits

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sandraweingort/?next=%2F" target="_blank">Sandra Weingort</a>

The goal of minimalism is to remove unnecessary things from your life thereby freeing you from physical constraints and removing your mental load.&nbsp;

When you practice minimalism you physically remove clutter from your life. This in turn dissolves your mental load and diverts the energy you spent worrying about things that don’t matter to what’s more important to you.&nbsp;

Let’s take a look at the mental health benefits associated with minimalism and discuss why decluttering your life can benefit your wellbeing.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/normarchitects/?next=%2F" target="_blank">Norm Architects</a>

Did you know that a messy and cluttered home can greatly affect your feelings of anxiety? This is because there is a link in the body between the cause of anxiety (a cluttered home, in this instance) and the levels of cortisol in your body (the primary stress hormone). When your cortisol levels are raised, due to a stressful situation such as a cluttered home, this leads to spiked feelings of anxiety.&nbsp;

According to Olivia Marcellino, VP of Research at <a href="https://recovery.com/resources/anxiety-treatment/" target="_blank">Recovery.com</a>, “Research shows that anxiety and sensory sensitivity are related. People who are more sensitive to sensory input may have higher levels of anxiety than others. Each of us has our own breaking point when our nervous system becomes overstimulated. When surroundings are too bright, too loud, or too intense in other ways, everyday environments can get overwhelming.”&nbsp;

Minimalism promotes lower anxiety and stress levels for those who find clutter to be overwhelming. This helps to keep your cortisol levels at a healthier, manageable level and reduces problems such as anxiety and the health symptoms that often come with it such as, an upset stomach, excessive sweating, shaking, social anxiety, and more.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/inside_the_painted_door/?next=%2F" target="_blank">Lara Lucas</a>

A messy and cluttered space can have a hugely negative impact on your mental wellbeing, contributing to symptoms of anxiety and depression and making it extremely difficult to focus and be productive.

According to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/10/well/mind/depression-cleaning-clutter.html" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>, “a messy home can also contribute to feelings of overwhelm, stress and shame, making you feel worse than you already do. [...] Nearly everyone has a junk drawer or two in their home, but these piles of clutter tend to be more ubiquitous for people who struggle with executive functioning. [...] It’s almost like decision fatigue all the time. ‘I can’t decide what to do with it, so I’m just not going to do anything with it.’”&nbsp;

Practicing minimalism leads to improved focus and productivity. It helps you eliminate clutter and distractions from your life, therefore minimizing the likelihood of overwhelm. This has the added benefit of making it easier to concentrate and focus on the things that are important to you.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/dekorator_wnetrz/?next=%2F" target="_blank">Monika</a>

Have you ever heard of the concept of standing in a crowded room but feeling utterly alone? We’ve probably all felt this way at one point or another. According to <a href="https://screening.mhanational.org/content/feeling-lonely-crowd/?layout=mhats,actions_j" target="_blank">Mental Health America</a> the reason for this is that “humans have a need to feel connected to other people. Not one of us can meet all of our needs on our own. Loneliness is our brain’s way of motivating us to reach out and build up our support system. When we feel lonely, we naturally want to surround ourselves with other people.”

In today’s society, your wealth and general success as an adult is often connected to the amount of material possessions you have. This can cause us to focus on the wrong things. And for many people, material possessions can have an impact on their sense of self-worth as they compare what they have (and most importantly, what they don’t have) against those around them.

Minimalism removes this need for material gain and focuses instead on investing that time and energy into the relationships in your life. From family members to friends and colleagues, what we really want is to be connected with the people around us.&nbsp;

Minimalism helps to redirect your attention from the constant pursuit of material possessions to the nurturing of healthy relationships in your life. This helps you feel less lonely and more fulfilled and happy as a human being.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C3k4ozYrxvh/?img_index=1" target="_blank">Amber Lewis</a>

When you are surrounded by clutter, your mind can feel full and overwhelmed. There is so much around you that you don’t know where to start and you’re feeling stressed as a result.&nbsp;

Minimalism encourages you to give away some of your physical possessions so you have less stuff taking up your space. You can donate old clothes, get rid of books you’re not reading, and clear out all that unused tupperware from your kitchen cabinets (as a starting point). Decluttering in this way will give you more freedom in your space and therefore more freedom in your choices.

So, rather than feeling overwhelmed and stressed all the time, you can have a clutter-free space that you enjoy spending time in.

Minimalism encourages you to simplify your life and practice mindfulness. In doing so, you create a more tranquil and simple way of living. You nurture a home environment that is free from excessive material possessions and clear of clutter. This allows you to make room for the important things (reading with your kids, pursuing your hobbies, spending time with loved ones) and having the space to do so.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10249935/" target="_blank">The National Institutes of Health</a> defines wellbeing as “a condition of flourishing that includes health, happiness and prosperity.” They went on to explain that a link has been found “between materialistic ideals and diminished wellbeing, as well as heightened unpleasant emotions. This could be due to the fact that focusing on material possessions diverts our attention away from other aspects of life that bring us joy.”&nbsp;

Practicing minimalism is an opportunity to embrace the simplicity of daily life. It helps you feel more present in the moment and nurtures a greater sense of well-being in you overall as a person. For more decluttering tips, read our <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/22-spring-cleaning-tips-to-refresh-your-home-from-the-experts" target="_blank">Spring Cleaning guide</a>.

As you can see, there are numerous psychological benefits to practicing minimalism in your everyday life. If you struggle with your mental health, it’s worth considering the benefits of decluttering your surroundings so that you can focus on your well-being and lead a simpler life.

Start decluttering your space today with the <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">DecorMatters app</a>! Whether you want to start small with a single room or go big by redesigning your entire home, our app offers the perfect tools and inspiration to help you along your journey. <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the DecorMatters app</a> now and take the first step towards creating your dream minimalist space!

This blog was written exclusively for DecorMatters by interior design specialist&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyedwardsinterior/" target="_blank">Kelly Edwards</a>.

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Embracing minimalism can significantly improve your mental health. By learning how to declutter, you can achieve greater mental clarity and experience the numerous mental health benefits associated with a minimalist lifestyle. Reducing your belongings can help you reduce stress through minimalism, making it easier to manage anxiety and improve overall well-being.

How Minimalism Enhances Mental Health: Declutter Your Mind for Wellness

A patio can be a beautiful place to spend summer afternoons and evenings. It’s where loved ones gather to relax, eat and socialize. Homeowners who want to spend more time in their backyard this season can use these DIY ideas to transform their patio on a budget. It’ll be ready just in time for parties and gorgeous sunsets.

Lighting changes how people feel in any room. Research shows that <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7978391/" target="_blank">21.6% of individuals with generalized anxiety</a> feel physically uncomfortable around fluorescent lights, making mood lighting essential for any relaxation space.

Homeowners can hang mood lighting around their patio to instantly elevate its design while creating a soothing aesthetic. String lights, Edison bulbs, and lanterns could be great places to start. Exploring all potential options designed for outdoor use will help people find the lighting that matches their preferences.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C60dBwYIX4r/?hl=en" target="_blank">Justyna Duchnowska Wnętrza</a>

People build pergolas in their backyards to add character and create unique places to hang out. Each features at least four columns and beams that make a roofing grid. The sun shines through the crisscrossed roof to promote air circulation, so it may not be the best patio upgrade for homeowners in frequently rainy regions.

Anyone can create a pergola by digging 2-foot holes for each column. Secure them in concrete and allow them to set overnight before screwing the roofing beams into place. Vines could grow across the pergola’s roof while curtains hang in the corners. It depends on what each homeowner wants their patio space to look like.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/winniewow/" target="_blank">Winnie Au</a>

No one wants to hang out where the ground remains soggy after a rain shower. Patio pavers solve that problem. They’re flat pieces of brick, stone or concrete that form a rugged floor for a patio. Anyone can place them on flat land and align them side by side before securing the pavers with mortar. Afterward, homeowners can add furniture, grills and more to transform the area into a beautiful summer escape.

Remember, the flattened section of patio space still <a href="https://catused.cat.com/en/how-to-properly-grade-and-level-ayard/122/blogcontent.html" target="_blank">needs a 3% incline</a> to direct rainwater away from your foundation. A motor grader can help make that precise dig by churning and slicing soil to your specified incline percentage.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CutQgFYKhW3/?hl=en" target="_blank">Dani Sandels</a>

People love summer because it’s one of the two annual seasons when plants thrive. A patio might not look complete until it has flowers growing in pots on outdoor tables or in the yard. Spending time around exposed dirt and undecorated outdoor space isn’t as fun as a place blooming with plant life.

Local flowers are an excellent way to add life to any patio and support the ecosystem. The National Wildlife Federation provides a free database so anyone can <a href="https://nativeplantfinder.nwf.org/Plants" target="_blank">find native plant species</a> that thrive in their zip codes. Bees and wildlife will appreciate the recognizable food sources. Native plants also won’t potentially invade the area and threaten other species, keeping your garden eco-friendly.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/saratoufali/" target="_blank">Sara Toufali</a>

There’s nothing better than kicking back after a long day. <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/spruce-up-your-backyard-18-decorating-ideas-for-a-beautiful-outdoor-space">Hammocks</a> are an excellent resource for doing that outside. Homeowners only need two sturdy trees at least 10 feet apart and a carabiner to create the ultimate hammock getaway. Secure the rope with a bow knot or use two tree hooks so it doesn’t slide down the trunks.

Anyone decorating an existing patio can also hang a hammock from porch columns. Attach it with the same methods to relax in style whenever the weather’s nice. Covered hammocks won’t deteriorate from sun and rain exposure, so homeowners should consider if they’d rather place theirs under a covered patio or a decorative umbrella.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/thejoshuatreehouse/?hl=en" target="_blank">The Joshua Tree House</a>

Summer doesn’t feel complete until someone breaks out marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers for s’mores. Anyone can enjoy them in their backyard by adding a fire pit to their patio area. Homeowners should check with their local fire department to learn if there are any legal placement requirements. They may enforce how far away fire pits must be from homes or low-hanging trees.

After getting placement specifications, clear a section of the ground by removing grass. A few circular rows of brick or stone sealed in place with mortar will keep future fires contained. Consider burning dry, untreated wood that <a href="https://renovated.com/fire-pit-ideas/" target="_blank">won’t release chemicals</a> and relaxing in comfortable chairs to start making memories this summer.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B_fvAa3legl/?hl=en" target="_blank">Móveis de Paletes</a>

Bench swings make it easy to recline on a patio and get a slight breeze during summer heat waves. Homeowners can build one to their patio’s specifications by following a video guide or buying one from an outdoor furniture or hardware store.

Either way, heavy-duty swing hangers will secure the bench to the patio’s roof. Homeowners could also construct a pergola with a closed roof that can support the swing’s weight. Decorate the bench with a sealing paint to weatherproof the wood and add comfortable cushions or pillows to complete the project. A small table to the side is the perfect addition to place cold drinks or magazines.

<a href="https://branca.com/" target="_blank">Alessandra Branca</a>

Relaxing spaces need a soothing ambiance. Although anyone can create a laid-back vibe with mood lighting, comfortable seating, and shade, a fountain lends a luxury feel to any patio. They come in all sizes and styles to suit each homeowner’s needs. Consider adding one to an unfinished patio to make it a serene getaway.

Smaller fountains may only need a hose or water line to work. More elaborate models will require level soil and an underground water hookup. It’s crucial to consider how much time and effort the project will take before deciding which type of fountain to add to any backyard.

<a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Lynne Geis</a>

Anyone can get their backyard ready for the sunny season and all the parties they want to host. These additions transform patios into serene getaways on any budget. <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/small-patio-decorating-ideas-and-inspiration">Patio ideas</a> like laying pavers, building a porch swing, adding flowers, and hanging mood lighting will kick-start any outdoor upgrade project just in time for summer activities. All homeowners need to do after making these upgrades is plan the perfect party to celebrate the season.

Ready to take your patio transformation to the next level? <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the DecorMatters app</a> to visualize and plan your dream outdoor space easily, making your summer escape even more spectacular.

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Transform your patio into a stunning summer escape with these 8 DIY ideas. From mood lighting and pergolas to patio pavers and fire pits, discover budget-friendly tips to elevate your outdoor space. Perfect for hosting parties or relaxing under gorgeous sunsets.

8 DIY Ways to Transform Your Patio Into a Summer Escape

Running your own business is a thrilling adventure. But it can also be full of uncertainties and plenty of learning on the job.

Whether you’re just starting out and hoping to grow your business quickly or you’re well-established but looking to take things to the next level, this article is for you.

We share the solutions you need to grow your interior design business and take your interior design business to new heights.

This tip can be attributed to any area of your life. Starting with a strategy helps to focus your efforts and keep you on the right track. That’s why we’ve listed it as the very first step. It forms the foundation and everything else follows. But how do you create a strategy?

Start with your vision. Where do you want your business to be in 5 to 10 years time? How much do you want to be earning? Where do you want to be located? What kind of customers do you want to be helping? Taking the time to consider what you want from your business is a great place to start. From there you can work backwards to understand what you need to do to turn your business into a reality.

Once you have outlined your vision and you understand the basic steps to achieve that vision, it’s time to create SMART Goals. According to <a href="https://mailchimp.com/resources/smart-goals/" target="_blank">Mailchimp</a>, “To stand the test of time, it’s important to set goals for your business that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely - in other words, goals that are SMART.”

Focusing on SMART goals is important as it helps break down your aspirations into measurable and achievable goals. This is very important as it ensures you remain on track to growing your interior design business.

Setting SMART goals enables you to make proactive changes and take actionable steps towards your ultimate goal. SMART goals are specific. They provide you with a clear focus and are crucial for the sustainable growth and success of your business.&nbsp;

Top tip: As your interior design business grows and you reach your goals, your aspirations will change. Reevaluating your SMART goals every six months will help you maintain a positive forward trajectory for the long term.

If you’re wondering how to make money as an interior designer, you need to rethink your payment solutions. Utilizing payment technology is the best way to make money as an interior designer because it makes it easier than ever for your customers to pay for your services.&nbsp;

According to <a href="https://www.pymnts.com/artificial-intelligence-2/2024/riseangle-leverages-ai-to-streamline-game-development/" target="_blank">PYMNTS</a>, “four in five Americans are interested in faster payment options when paying businesses for goods and services, and 61% of millennials and 59% of bridge millennials say they are highly interested in real-time payments.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

This is why, if you want to grow your interior design business, you should prioritize a <a href="https://www.sumup.com/en-us/card-reader-comparison/" target="_blank">card reader</a> that accept multiple payment options and support contactless and Apple Pay options. Put simply, the easier it is for your customers to pay you the more likely they will be to make those payments sooner.

Find Amazing Clients through Word-of-mouth Advertising

When you work with amazing clients it reinvigorates you. It helps you feel excited about the work you do and is a huge part of what makes running an interior design business so enjoyable.

Word-of-mouth advertising is one of the best ways to win new business and attract loyal clients who are willing to stick around for the long term. There are many forms of word-of-mouth advertising but perhaps the most common is having a customer recommend your service to someone they know.

You will be the recipient of great word-of-mouth advertising if you offer a great service and deliver results your clients are happy with. In the words of HubSpot,

“Successful word-of-mouth marketing needs a great product or service and a company that people want to support. Are you creating a brand and a product that people love? Do people want to use and promote your products to their friends, family, and coworkers? If the answer is yes, all it takes is a little effort to help your most loyal fans help you grow your brand.”&nbsp;

According to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/95-your-business-success-dependent-team-julie-bartkus/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, “95% of your business success is dependent on the team you have in place. A dynamic, high-functioning, cohesive team provides higher quality and more value while a dysfunctional team drains your time, energy and saps the quality out of your services.”

If you want to grow your interior design business and see it succeed for the long term, you should prioritize investing in a great team. There simply isn’t a replacement for a team that’s invested in your business, loves what they do, and is passionate about seeing you succeed.&nbsp;

Technology is a huge asset when it comes to growing your interior design business. From faster payments to streamlined processes, there are so many ways technology can benefit your business.&nbsp;

<a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog">DecorMatters</a>

Apps like DecorMatters are an awesome way to take your interior design business to the next level. <a href="https://decormatters.com/" target="_blank">DecorMatters</a> uses augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help futurise the interior design process. With DecorMatters you can immerse yourself in a space and create the aesthetic you want to achieve virtually before turning it into a reality for your clients.&nbsp;

What’s more, you can work with other creative people, receive valuable feedback and suggestions, and collaborate on beautiful interior design projects with your team.

If you want to grow your interior design business, you need to offer a professional service that recommends you to your customers and helps you attract new clients.

Businesses that offer a professional service, from a high-quality website and <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/crafting-an-impressive-interior-design-portfolio-step-by-step-guide-to-landing-your-first-job" target="_blank">stunning design portfolio</a> to official contracts and processes, quickly earn customer trust. Professionalism is invaluable for business growth as it inspires confidence and lets people know that you do things the right way.

Designing a room’s aesthetic on a laptop screen is a lot different than seeing it come together in person. Sometimes, there are spaces in a room that have been missed or areas that are completely unaccounted for.&nbsp;

To help mitigate this issue and take your interior design business to the next level, we recommend exploring 3D scanning. 3D scanning allows you to rapidly scan a room on your phone and reproduce the image on a screen. These highly detailed scans will take your design skills up a notch and help you to provide interior design solutions for your clients that perfectly fit their spaces.

Technology is connecting us more than ever before, particularly when it comes to working. In today’s hybrid-working world, where employees have more opportunities to work from home or the office, it can be challenging to connect with your team regularly and ensure everyone is on the same page.

To keep projects running smoothly and support your business growth, it’s essential that your interior design projects are well-managed and that collaborative elements run effectively.&nbsp;

Tools like <a href="https://miro.com/" target="_blank">Miro</a> enable teams to collaborate and share <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/5-clever-small-space-decorating-ideas-to-maximize-your-area" target="_blank">decorating ideas</a> in a visual format. It’s collaboration at its finest and helps you grow your interior design business in a more streamlined manner.

There are, of course, many more solutions to help grow your interior design business. However, we have focused on those we think are most important in this article. We hope what we’ve shared is useful and that it helps you grow your interior design business this year.&nbsp;To take your interior design business to the next level, <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog">download the DecorMatters app</a> and explore its innovative features today.

This blog was written exclusively for DecorMatters by interior design specialist&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyedwardsinterior/" target="_blank">Kelly Edwards</a>.

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Discover 9 expert solutions to elevate your interior design business. Learn strategies, utilize technology, and attract amazing clients to achieve sustainable growth and success.

9 Solutions to Help Grow Your Interior Design Business

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CwdEjE7Pgi0/">Jessica Pearsall</a>

The coastal grandma aesthetic is making waves on the internet. It captures the essence of comfort, seaside living, and simplicity—the quintessentials of a laid-back life by the beach.

Fortunately, you don’t need to live by the ocean to enjoy the beauty of the coastal grandmother aesthetic. Discover everything you need to know about this trendy interior design style and tips to bring its charm into your home.

Imagine entering a room with wooden floors and light-toned walls reminiscent of sandy shores, soft pastel hues that remind you of summer, and vintage coastal decor such as seashell collections. As you bask in its warm and welcoming vibe, smooth jazz and oldies play in the background like you’re in a Nancy Meyers movie. This is what the coastal grandma aesthetic feels like.

Today, this aesthetic is not only an interior design — it’s a lifestyle and fashion style embraced by many. The whole vibe will look like you’re heading to the beach any time of the day. Coastal grandma is all about living a simple, healthy life.

Many love this trend because of the subdued elegance it evokes. The colors are primarily neutral, making it easy to add new items without worrying about clashing.

Hallmarks of the Coastal Grandma Aesthetic at Home

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4BMXKzrmUo/">Kathy Kuo Home</a>

The elements of coastal grandma interior design are quite easy to pull off. Often compared with the New England style, this aesthetic comprises the following:

9 Strategies to Pull Off Coastal Grandma Interior Design

If you want to commit to this interior design style, here are some things to consider before buying furniture and decor for your home.

Coastal grandma decor has a duality — it’s casual but elevated, simple but refined. What binds all of these characteristics together is warmth. Ensure your space conveys laid-back luxury without being too lax.

For instance, choose furniture that’s timeless, functional and elegant. Invest in minimalist decor like beach-inspired art or subtle stripes to contribute to the seaside theme of your home. However, be careful not to go overboard with nautical-inspired ornaments.

2. Opt for Light and Nature-Inspired Colors

Colors have <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/enhancing-your-home-s-atmosphere-with-color-psychology">impacts on your mood</a>, feelings, and behavior. When thinking about combinations, go for nature-inspired tones. Pair shades that remind you of a sunny day outside — pale and watery blues for the ocean, tan and beige for the warm sand, and muted green and pink for nature. Explore more color combinations:

The coastal grandma style is all keeping it natural. Avoid super glossy finishes, formal fabrics like silk and striking patterns that don’t contribute to the inviting ambiance you’re after. Cotton and linen are preferred because they add to your home's outdoorsy feel.

When it comes to the texture of materials, think of jute, wood and rope. Try adding some to living room walls to cozy up the room quickly. For the sofa and chairs, use natural materials instead of synthetics to add depth to your room. Here are some different types of natural fibers you can choose from:

To elevate natural fibers, complement them with sustainable linen or bouclé. Add a vintage piece of furniture to balance it when the space feels too modern.

4. Add Antique and Curated Elements&nbsp;

Add pieces that evoke warmth and your personality in the space. For instance, in the dining room, the centerpiece should be a big farmhouse-style table to accommodate family and friends. Making it the area's focal point makes your space look curated yet cozy. A beach granny loves antique furniture, so emulate traditional touches in your home.

When adding new decor, choose artisan, hand-crafted or rustic styles that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. You can also choose eco-friendly elements such as reclaimed wood or steel made from recycled materials.

Light or pale woods can come in various colors — creamy white, light golden, or ash. This type of wood's beautiful shades, markings and textures make it easy to incorporate into any space.

When mixing different types of wood, striking a balance is essential. Disperse color or texture evenly throughout your space to make it more intentional. Repeating wood accents can look like anything, from using the same wood on your coffee table to incorporating the look into a furniture piece to bring more character into your home.

When adding wood accessories like antique dough bowls, choose bleached-by-the-sun tints like driftwood or white oak to evoke that beach house vibe. The rule of thumb is to choose one darker or colored piece to juxtapose with the wood to make it pleasing to the eye. For instance, you can contrast a pale-colored farmhouse table top with dark legs.

6. Freshen up With Fresh Flowers and Plants

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mallorymathisoninc/">Mallory Mathison Inc.</a>

Fresh flowers add a splash of color to your home’s appeal. You don’t need to display a high-maintenance bouquet — the goal is to gather a casual, colorful bouquet and place it center stage. You can use a white or rustic pitcher for the vase, and put it on a kitchen island, entryway table or coffee table.

If you have a spacious garden, consider planting flowers to achieve the coastal grandmother lifestyle. Adding gardening to your daily routine <a href="https://renovated.com/best-garden-flowers-for-beginners/" target="_blank">helps lessen depressive symptoms</a> and promotes an active lifestyle.

Aim for a low-maintenance flower garden, especially if you’re a beginner. A ring garden around a tree is a great place to start. Add two to three layers of shredded mulch <a href="https://www.theorchardproject.org.uk/guides_and_advice/the-importance-of-mulching/" target="_blank">to defend your plants against weeds</a>, preventing them from losing moisture.

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/grandmillennialmama/">Lindsay Lewis Interiors</a>

Whether it’s stacks of beach reads, seashells, record albums or clocks, display your prized collection to make an artful statement at home. Use floating or built-in shelves for large items like bottles and figurines, and organize them neatly based on color for a more cohesive look.

For smaller things like travel magnets, use a magnetic board to give your items a place to shine. You can use lighting to highlight your prized collection.

Even if you don’t have fresh ocean air flowing through your windows, you can achieve a coastal grandma look with sheer curtains in subtle patterns or neural shades. Although light curtains help block the view of the outside world, they allow the perfect amount of sunlight, <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benefits-of-sunlight" target="_blank">which helps you improve your mood</a> and produce vitamin D.

The right amount of sunlight helps protect your furniture from the harmful effects of the sun. While sheer curtains may not completely block the view, they create a screen to blur the view from outside, providing you privacy during the daytime.

If you’re ready to spruce up your space, take the coastal granny style to your patio. Remember, using natural fibers is the key to balancing elegance and comfort.

Use a mix of floral and stripe patterns in throw pillows to give the perfect summer coastal vibe. For a space where everyone can gather and have fun, add Adirondack chairs around a stylish fire pit.

Bring the Coastal Grandma Aesthetic to Your Space Today

At the end of the day, your home should feel comfortable and familiar, not like a screenshot straight out of trending TikTok videos about the coastal grandma aesthetic. Select decor that matches your personality instead of pieces that look good to make your space uniquely yours.

Want to capture the cozy coastal grandma vibe in your home? <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog">Download the DecorMatters app</a> to easily decorate rooms and have fun with design games. Start creating your dream beach house vibe today with our app!

This article was written exclusively for <a href="https://decormatters.com">DecorMatters</a> by Evelyn Long. Evelyn is a writer passionate about simplifying interior design for homeowners and renters alike. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of&nbsp;<a href="https://renovated.com/" target="_blank">Renovated Magazine</a>&nbsp;where she shares her expertise on interiors.

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Explore the Coastal Grandma aesthetic in your home with our top 9 tips. Learn how to blend seaside simplicity with comfort and elegance, transforming your space into a serene, stylish retreat—no ocean view required. Perfect for achieving laid-back luxury.

Top 9 Ways to Incorporate the Coastal Grandma Aesthetic

Maximalist decor combines someone's favorite items, bright colors, textures and patterns to create a unique room with personality. The style embraces boldness, trinkets, and touches minimalist avoids.&nbsp;

Maximalists embrace the idea that more is better. At the same time, they step back, look for balance and ensure one part of the room is not overwhelmed with clutter. Create a bold statement by layering beloved items with contrasting colors and materials.&nbsp;

Layering patterns and textures make a room inviting. People should look for pieces that tell a story for a homey feel. Here are some tips for embracing a maximalist attitude.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/studiobeckycarter/" target="_blank">Becky Carter</a>

Choosing a primary pattern is the <a href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/layer-in-lots-of-pattern-texture-223972" target="_blank">first step in building a maximalist</a> design. Start with the largest or boldest piece in the room. The statement piece should tell a story. A huge area rug, a stunning sofa or a beautiful lamp inherited from a great-aunt all work to begin the design process.&nbsp;

Find something with an interesting pattern or texture for the main focal point in the living room. While solid colors add some nice contrast, they do best behind bolder looks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/fawngalliinteriors/" target="_blank">Fawn Galli</a>

Use the statement piece’s bold colors, patterns or textures to coordinate other design elements. For example, if a floral pattern has little green dots here and there, one could pull in a unique, textured fabric for the accent pillows with green polka dots or stripes.&nbsp;

Coordinate by matching colors, bits of the pattern and varying the scale of the pieces. The daring statement piece should be the most prominent element. Add features of varying sizes for a more cohesive look. Think big, medium and small.

If matching shades or patterns seem off, look at textures. The design should include smooth and rough. Designers should select three pieces with similar textures. One might be irregular, such as a large driftwood coffee table. The next might have a slightly smoother natural wood grain. The final piece could be petrified wood or a small item sanded and finished to a high polish.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/isabel_ladd_interiors/" target="_blank">Isabel Ladd</a>

Consider the textile types used in the room design. The global textile market was worth approximately <a href="https://www.swavelle.com/in-the-news/the-different-types-of-fabric/" target="_blank">$1.7 billion in 2022</a> and should grow 7.6% through 2030. The availability of fabric ranges from natural to synthetic.&nbsp;

Master the art of maximalist design with our guide on layering patterns and textures. Learn to combine bold colors, unique items, and contrasting materials for a personalized, vibrant home space. Embrace maximalism's boldness with our expert tips.

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