It’s true what they say – the devil is in the details. In my world (the interior design world), the devil is in the details not captured or overlooked. When we think of interior design, most minds jump to the big elements—furniture, paint colours, and layout. However, it’s the small details that often make the biggest impact. These subtle touches can turn a good room into a great one, giving a space character, warmth, and personality. Let’s explore some of the little things in interior design that truly matter and how they can transform your home.
My List of Devil-ish Interior Design Details
This is my list of elements that are small but impactful in terms of interiors.
1. Drapery
Don’t underestimate the power of good drapery and hardware in a space. I’m telling you, this is one of those elements that can easily cheapen a space. Luxurious drapery just hangs differently than cheap Amazon drapery. Good drapes give you that luxe hotel feeling. When it comes to hardware, adding sophisticated drapery hardware is like adding the perfect piece of jewellery to an outfit, it can make a huge impact. I suggest exploring funky drapery hardware such as metal tones; gold, gunmetal, polished nickel, or whatever suits you.
2. Hardware
The handles on your cabinets, the knobs on your doors, and the faucets in your bathroom may seem insignificant, but they’re like the final touches of any space. These small pieces of hardware can elevate the look of an entire space. Opt for brushed brass for a warm, timeless look or matte black for a sleek, modern feel. It’s all about those small finishing touches that tie a room together.
3. Lighting
Lighting isn’t just about functionality; it’s about creating the right atmosphere. Consider using dimmers to adjust the intensity of your lights, and layer your lighting by combining overhead fixtures, table lamps, and accent lighting. Small details like choosing the right lampshades or even the colour temperature of your bulbs can drastically affect the mood of a room.
Consider adding a light fixture that serves more of a purpose of decor than function. I love artistic lights such as Moroccan lights for this reason. They enhance spaces while adding so much detail with the beautiful shadows they cast.
4. Trim and Moulding
Baseboards, crown moulding, and door frames are often overlooked, but they add depth and sophistication to a space. Even simple trim work can make a room feel more complete and polished. These architectural details define the boundaries of a room and can either blend seamlessly with the walls or stand out as a design feature.
Nowadays, I think many see moulding as dated – and let me be the one to tell you that is not the case. Moulding adds depth, interest and sophistication to any space. It might not be your thing, but it certainly isn’t dated.
5. Framing
You’d be surprised at how much framing your canvas can do for your decor. Framing is expensive, yes. However, adding the right frame to a piece can outline the art piece and create a beautiful feature which is worth the investment. You can frame your art piece with gold, silver, white, black, wood frames, ornate frames, modern frames…the list goes on. It makes your artwork look official and can a pop of something needed.
6. Colour Accents
You don’t need to paint an entire room to make a statement with colour. Accent colours in the form of throw pillows, artwork, or even smaller furniture pieces can inject personality into a space without overwhelming it. Even something as small as the colour of a picture frame or the hue of a candle holder can subtly reinforce a room’s colour scheme. Read Colour Pop: Interiors with Pops of Vibrant Colours.
7. Scents and Sensory Details
Interior design is about more than what we see—it’s about what we experience with all of our senses. The scent of a room can dramatically affect how it feels. Using candles, diffusers, or fresh flowers can enhance the mood and bring a sense of calm or energy, depending on the fragrance you choose.
8. Plants and Greenery
The addition of plants, whether large statement pieces or small potted succulents, brings life to any space. They add a sense of nature and freshness that can’t be replicated by any other design element. Even the choice of planter or the placement of a small plant on a bookshelf can make a room feel more vibrant and balanced.
9. Personal Touches
Lastly, one of the most important small details in interior design is the personal touch. Your home should reflect who you are. Whether it’s a collection of books, family photos, or souvenirs from your travels, these little things make a home uniquely yours. If you’ve read my blog before, you know I am ALL about personal touches in any space.
The Power of Details in Interior Design
Interior design isn’t just about making a space look good—it’s about creating a feeling, an experience. And often, it’s the small, seemingly insignificant details that make all the difference. By paying attention to these elements, you can elevate the design of your home and make it feel truly special. So the next time you’re redecorating, don’t forget: the devil is in the details…he is also mentioned quite a bit in the Bible. But, in interior design, the devil is lurking in the Homesense beach art you bought for 40% off.
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