Georgia The Two D's of Home Improvement - Design and Decorate

A great deal of time is spent at home. It is a refuge from a hard day of work and a place to enjoy family activities and gatherings.

We want to make our home attractive, comfortable and efficient for our use. In the process of decorating our home, we want to make sure it fits the architecture of the space. Designing the interior provides a certain "feel." Interior decoration includes applying wallpaper, painting the walls, choosing furniture and fittings such as light fixtures, and adding decorative elements such as paintings, flowers, and statuary.

The concept of home interior decoration began in the late 18th century. The concept has evolved over the years and has gone through many trends and transitions. Today, home interior decoration and design focuses on innovative ways to decorate on a budget.

The objective of interior decorating is to improve the home functionally and have it to reflect the owner's tastes and personality in a unique way. This is a challenge.

An interior designer and/or an architect can help with the design and decoration. In years past, there has been a distinction made between an interior designer and an interior decorator.

Interior decorating focuses on finishing such as wallpaper, window covering, furnishings, and paint. Interior design deals with the architecture in addition to the decoration. Interior design is focused on the space as a whole such as the layout of the rooms as well as custom made furnishings.

Color palettes change, the same as in fashion, as trends change. Color is also a unique preference. While some homeowners may follow current trends, others may use colors that fit their personality whether they are in vogue or not.

Innovative home interior decorating ideas which cost less but give the impression of being up-to-date decorating schemes are what young professionals and newly married couples are trying to achieve. Most of these ideas are eclectic decorating styles in which the home owner can put their own stamp of uniqueness. Harmony has to be balanced with uniqueness so that the home provides functionality.

In one year alone, homeowners spent approximately $175 billion on home improvement. About 65% of this can be attributed to interior decoration. Most money is spent on improving bathrooms and kitchens. Growing in popularity are specialty rooms such as home theaters and craft rooms.

There are new trends, new styles, new decorative elements, and new colors each year. It is difficult to keep track of these trends. The important rule in home decorating is that whatever you choose to do with your home be functional and comfortable for you.