As Kyal and I move on to our next renovation project, I must admit that starting at the beginning all over again can feel a little overwhelming. More so however, I’m excited for a new space to make our own.

Creating a home you’re proud of takes time, here are a few tips to get you started.

Have a plan

Before you make any big decisions or purchases, have an idea of the ‘look’ and style you want to create within your home.

Collect magazine clippings or start a Pinterest page of images that inspire you. Make a note of what it is you like about each image. Creating your own collage, scrapbook or ‘mood board’ will assist in identifying a theme for your home and should hopefully begin to guide you. This way, if you’re feeling unsure about a purchase or a decision, refer back to your collage.

If you’re renovating with your partner, sharing your ideas by showing them your mood board will (fingers crossed) help them understand your vision and may prevent disagreement.

Declutter

To create a well styled space, you want to display beautiful objects such as vases, candles, books and pieces that either have sentimental value or you like visually. A cluttered home may detract from these pieces and make your space feel messy or ‘busy’.

Before you begin renovating or redecorating, make sure you’re sorting through your belongings and de-cluttering as necessary. Sorting and organising cupboards will give you more storage space for things that would otherwise be on display.

Use boxes to group unwanted objects you can give to charity or sell, you may even earn some money to put towards your renovations.

Scale

When planning your space, think carefully about the scale of furniture and accessories.

Having a mix of pieces within a room, some larger or ‘bulkier’ and others smaller, will ensure that your room is balanced and in proportion.

When styling pieces such as a sideboard, remember to create small stories or ‘vignettes’ that support your ‘theme’ or the style you are aiming to achieve. For example, if you are aiming to achieve a coastal feel, you may have a selection of vases in varying sizes, layered books and some drift wood and shells.

The idea is to create variations in height to add interest to your display.

Adding character

The important thing to remember is that your goal should be to create a home that is true to you, and not a replication of someone else’s space.

Collecting pieces from travels, local antique stores or family mementoes are just as effective as buying brand new homewares, and will ensure that your home has character. The key is to always consider the theme you are aiming to create (remember to refer back to your collage or mood boards) to ensure that your styling is on track.

Greenery

Depending on the style you are aiming for, use either indoor plants or flowers and foliage to style your home. Greenery will assist in making your space feel welcoming and ‘lived in.