For many of us, our homes are our personal sanctuaries, and despite the unpredictability of life, being able to come home to a space that we love brings comfort and stability. Our homes are an outward expression of our personalities and tastes, and it’s important to create a space that we can be proud of and to which we can raise the bar whenever we like. We may also want to create a space that is inviting and peaceful, one that enables us to truly relax, work, or be with friends and family. Decorating with purpose is the best way to achieve this.

When prepping for a redecorating project, it’s always important to start with an open mind and a clear goal for the space. It can be helpful to have a color palette in mind or pick colors that match the existing furniture. A few simple guidelines for decorating can make a world of difference:

• Function – When creating a space, you want to ensure it is functional. Invest in furniture that is multi-purpose and has the ability to easily transition from day/working activities to relaxation.
• Flow – Creating a sense of flow in a room is important. A well-decorated room should look inviting and seamless. Make sure that your furniture is arranged in a way that people can move around naturally without obstruction.
• Focal Point – Every room should have a focal point. Whether it’s a piece of artwork, a fireplace, a statement couch, or a built-in bookcase, identify the piece that you want to draw attention to. This is the piece that will be the starting point for the rest of the decor.

When it comes to accessories, scaling them is key. You don’t need to fill a room with a lot of small items, instead, add a few select larger pieces to create the desired effect. Use larger furniture pieces to balance out the room and create a sense of order and stability. Things like coffee tables, rugs, and lamps can all increase the “wow” factor and are great for adding height, texture, and depth. Balance out the overall look by mixing in some antiques or vintage pieces you can find at flea markets or antique stores.

By incorporating a few of these simple tips into your next redecorating project, you will be well on your way to transforming your house into your own personal sanctuary.