Why Interior Design Is Not a Science, But an Art
January 6, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Experimenting Can Overcome Fear of Decisions
Recently, I was reading an article that stated that before we can learn anything we must perceptive it, usually through our senses of hearing or sight. Then we interpret our perception — and we may misinterpret what we have seen or heard, based on our lack of experience.
Immanuel Kant said, “We see things not as they are, but as we are.” This is why our homes are different from any other and why it is not a scientific approach that we need when decorating, but an artful one.
Many people are fearful and anxious about the decisions they have to make to create a home that is comfortable and visually pleasing.
They worry about so many things—things that are not either right or wrong—and make decisions out of fear rather than confidence.
Clients’ confidence comes not only from knowledge, but also from their own perception of what they like and don’t like. It requires self-discovery and willingness to be open about their needs and wants. I have often said to my clients, “If it feels right, it is right!”
Trust your perceptions of what you like and don’t like. You know what you definitely don’t want to live with and things that you like but aren’t sure if they will work in the space. Experiment—don’t be afraid. Try something new and see how it works in your environment. Here are some things to consider:
- Filling space is scary to some people. They are concerned that a picture might be too big, so they buy something that is too small –and then have to buy something else to fill in the space.
- This also applies to furniture, area rugs, and tables and chairs. Whenever possible, bring it home and try it. Many stores will bring a few different- sized pieces– even of the same thing– to see how it looks in your home, with the ability to return what doesn’t work. It gives you the experience, which is invaluable.
- Color is another big fear for many people. Knowing you have to live with your decisions prevents even trying something that feels outside your comfort zone. I highly recommend—no, I even insist– that you paint the color you are considering on a substantial portion of the wall to see how you like it. Even try it on several areas to see the difference the light makes to the color. Then, if possible, see how it goes with the other things you have chosen for the room.
- Change your room layout. Begin by just moving one thing, like a chair or a table, and it will change the balance of the room. The next thing that needs to be moved will become apparent, and so on. Keep moving things until you are satisfied. You can even bring things in from another room or move something to another room.
- Rearrange a shelf unit. Remove everything and try to forget how it looked. If the shelves are adjustable, change the spacing. Next, look around your home for other things to use on the unit. Decide if you want a particular theme and then put things back in a brand-new order.
Many people think there are “have to’s” when it comes to interior design, but there are few, and the less you adhere to them, the more creative the outcome.
Interestingly, most people think they are not creative (in a traditional manner) but my experience says they are personally and individually creative. It’s the creativity which comes from within, and I encourage my clients to feel their choices. This is what I call “interior” design and the room decoration “exterior” design.
We are all artists in our own way and our homes are our canvas. Feel free to express yourself because rooms have no feelings, you do!
Visit me at www.BarbaraKaplan.com
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