What order should decorating be done?

When decorating a room, the order in which you complete tasks is crucial to ensuring a smooth and efficient process. By following a logical sequence, you can avoid unnecessary rework and make sure everything comes together in a cohesive way. Here’s the recommended order to follow when decorating a room:

1. Plan and Design

• Start with a Vision: Before doing anything, take time to think about the overall feel and style you want for the room. Consider the room's purpose, color schemes, and desired atmosphere.
• Create a Mood Board: Collect images, paint samples, fabric swatches, and inspiration from magazines or online platforms like Pinterest. This will help you visualize the end result.
• Measure Your Space: Ensure you know the dimensions of the room and the furniture. This will guide you in selecting the right-sized pieces and layout.

2. Set a Budget

• Determine how much you're willing to spend on the project, and break it down into categories (paint, furniture, accessories, etc.).
• Stick to the budget, but allocate some flexibility for unforeseen expenses.

3. Choose and Prepare a Color Scheme

• Select Wall Colors: The walls are usually one of the largest surfaces in a room, so start with a color scheme. Choose a base color for the walls, and then select accent colors for accessories and furniture.
• Consider the Lighting: Keep in mind how natural and artificial light will affect the appearance of the color you choose.
• Test Paint Samples: Test small paint patches on your walls before committing to a color.

4. Wall Treatments

• Paint or Wallpaper: If you're painting the walls or applying wallpaper, this should be done before installing furniture or accessories. Painting can get messy, so it's best to have an empty room.
• Install Wall Treatments: If you plan to add features like crown molding, wainscoting, or other decorative elements, do this next.
• Wall Art and Mirrors: Consider where to place your artwork, mirrors, or any other wall hangings to complement the room's flow.

5. Install Flooring

• If you're changing the flooring (e.g., hardwood, tile, or carpet), do this after the walls have been prepared and painted. This prevents accidental spills or damage to new floors.
• Rugs: After the flooring is done, you can add rugs. Rugs help define spaces within the room, so it's easier to position them after larger pieces are in place.

6. Furniture Selection and Arrangement

• Start with the Largest Pieces: Place the largest furniture items first (e.g., sofas, beds, bookshelves, etc.). Think about the room’s layout and traffic flow.
• Consider the Function of the Room: Arrange furniture based on how the room will be used (e.g., for lounging, dining, work). Make sure there is ample space for walking around and easy access to key areas.
• Balance the Room: Try to keep the room balanced, with furniture and accessories spread evenly around the space.

7. Lighting

• Install Lighting Fixtures: Install ceiling lights, sconces, or chandeliers if they are part of your design. Make sure the lighting complements the room’s color scheme and ambiance.
• Task and Ambient Lighting: After the main lighting is set, add task lighting (e.g., table lamps, floor lamps) for specific activities and ambient lighting for a cozy feel.
• Consider Light Layering: A well-lit room typically has multiple layers of light—ambient (overall), task (specific activities), and accent (for mood).

8. Add Soft Furnishings

• Curtains and Blinds: Once the furniture and lighting are in place, hang curtains or blinds. The right window treatments can make a big difference in the room's style and functionality.
• Cushions, Throws, and Pillows: Soft furnishings like cushions, throws, and pillows add texture, warmth, and color. They also help make the space feel more inviting and comfortable.

9. Add Decorative Accessories

• Artwork and Mirrors: Hang pictures, artwork, or mirrors that complement the room's style. These accessories personalize the space.
• Decorative Items: Items like vases, plants, books, and sculptures bring life to the room and add finishing touches.
• Greenery: Indoor plants can help add color and texture, while also improving air quality. Place them strategically to fill empty corners or table surfaces.

10. Final Touches

• Personal Touches: Add personal items that reflect your personality and interests, such as family photos, heirlooms, or mementos.
• Check Proportions: Walk around the room and assess whether everything feels balanced in terms of size, height, and positioning.
• Adjust as Needed: Make minor tweaks to furniture arrangement, lighting, and décor to fine-tune the final look.

Conclusion:

• Planning and measuring at the start of the process is crucial.
• Focus on walls and floors first, followed by large furniture, then lighting, soft furnishings, and decorative accessories.
• Remember that balance and functionality are key, and don’t rush the process. Take your time to ensure everything complements each other.

By following this order, you’ll ensure that the room’s design flows seamlessly from one step to the next, making your decorating process more efficient and enjoyable.