Should I go custom or pre-manufactured?

How do I know which design style best suits me?

What colours induce certain moods and feelings?

Isn't hiring a designer expensive? Do I really need one?

What are ways to introduce pattern and texture inexpensively into a space?

Budget is always going to be a key element in your decision process, but going custom can truly improve the function and aesthetic appeal of any space. It also doesn't have to be that much more expensive. It really does depend on the materials/hardware you select. Going the custom route will definitely ensure that you are receive upmost quality, durability, and lifetime out of your millwork/furniture.

Design styles provide an aesthetic and a "look," but you have to ensure that the associated function and lifestyle of that style suits yours. For instance, we typically associate a 'modern style & look' with a minimialist approach, sleek lines, and a select number of materials and colours. If this is something that doesn't necessarily suit your lifestyle, you could potentiually draw elements that you like and proceed with a more 'traditional style.' The point of different styles is to offer concepts and certain aesthetics, but that's not to say you cannot overlap, combine and re-create them in a more eclectic manner.

Colours definitely induce certain moods and feelings, as there have been countless studies on this mental connection. For instance, you typically do not paint or use blue tones and colours for a kitchen as it does not encourage appetite. A soft blue would work better in a bedroom for feelings of soothing, tranquility, and calmness. Colours can definitely provide a direction to take a space…it's just a matter of realizing its mental effects.

Hiring a designer does cost money, as does hiring a real estate agent, architect, millworker, plumber etc...but a designer can provide countless benefits when designing or putting together a space.

Firstly, a designer enables you to reach and connect with countless resources within the industry such as retailers, private showrooms, wholesalers, trades people etc. As well hiring a designer allows you to receive special pricing at almost all design related retailers and showrooms, this means big savings in purchasing furniture, building materials and finishes, light fixtures, and plumbing. These savings alone typically will pay for the design costs and more in some cases.

Secondly, a designer can assist you in developing a concept for your space and providing a design direction. Taking this concept, the designer can then plan and layout your space to best suit your lifestyle and needs, and specify materials and fixtures, possibly things that you would not be able to forsee or select if arranging yourself.

Lastly, a designer is a partner, your tool to ensure that you have a space that will serve as your personal aesthetic and meet your needs for many years to come.

There are multiple ways to develop texture in a space, but the easiest is through creating layers in accessories. Introduce textiles in the form of accent cushions, toss blankets, or an interesting textured wallcovering. Another way is to add an interesting area rug to develop depth in the space.