Episodes

  • In this insightful episode, Prue delves into the transformative power of interior design. Discover what the benefits of working with an interior designer are for you. Whether you're looking to refresh your home with the latest designs or seeking practical advice on layout optimization, Prue offers valuable insights and practical steps to guide you on your design journey.

    Plus, find out how to access a free guide to kickstart your project and learn how you can get personalised assistance in creating your dream home. Join us for an episode packed with expert tips and inspiration to elevate your living space.

    https://mydecorator.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=b9edfbca6041996c0bd347e2e&id=0e6f6eb9df

  • Missing episodes?

    Click here to refresh the feed.

  • This is the story of how a single consultation with My Decorator began Claire’s journey from chaos to calm, transforming her house into a sanctuary that truly became her heartfelt home. We'd love you to listen along!

    https://mydecorator.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=b9edfbca6041996c0bd347e2e&id=0e6f6eb9df

  • Transforming a compact home into a spacious haven may seem like a daunting task, but with the right design strategies, your cosy living space can appear bigger and more welcoming. Whether you’re living in a bustling city apartment or a charming small home, there are myriad ways of maximising the small spaces in your home and using every inch for both functionality and style. From clever storage solutions to the magic of colour and light, these tips are designed to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels open, organised, and uniquely yours.

  • Interior design is a magical blend of art, science, and vision. It starts with that initial spark of inspiration, followed by strategic planning, and the artful juggling of elements like light, furniture, accessories, and space-saving secrets. These are the ingenious brushstrokes that turn a mere room into a captivating narrative canvas.

    Join us as we uncover the techniques used.

    Are you keen to start your journey to a well designed home? Go to the top ‘Get Guide’ of our website and receive your Free Guide today or alternatively click ‘Interior Design Guide’ here.

    If you would like us to assist you to create your dream home, please contact us today.

  • In today's fast-paced world, the comfort and aesthetic of our living spaces have become more important than ever. However, the thought of redesigning your home might bring with it concerns about costs. This is where the expertise of an interior designer becomes invaluable. Contrary to the common misconception that hiring an interior designer is a luxury reserved for the affluent, it can actually be a cost-effective decision that can save you money in the long run.

    Eager to start your journey to a dreamier home? Go to the top ‘Get Guide’ of our website and receive your Free Guide today or alternatively click ‘Interior Design Guide’ here.

  • Navigating the world of interior design can often feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle without all the pieces. Whether you're daydreaming about crafting the perfect living space or are ready to take the leap into redesigning your home, the journey begins with understanding the essentials. That's where our exclusive, free Interior Design Guide comes into play.

    In this episode we share 3 case studies that give examples of the kinds of clients we assist, that features what design challenges they faced and how we worked toward a beautiful design outcome.

    As mentioned during the episode, the free resource we’ve created just for you, will help you with your next step. If you are like Jenny, Ann or Louise and are keen to make a start on your home’s interior design visit us at www.mydecorator.com.au to get your copy of the guide. You will see it under Your Free Gift at the very top of our Home page.

    Why not embark on your journey to a home that not only meets your needs but exceeds your wildest dreams. Transforming your space into a haven that truly feels like yours starts here. Let’s make your home your masterpiece. Ready to dive in? Get your copy of the guide today.

    Free Interior Design Guide:

    https://mydecorator.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=b9edfbca6041996c0bd347e2e&id=0e6f6eb9df

  • Let’s talk about the importance of collaborating with an interior designer to use our expertise to create a home that truly reflects your personal style. We share 5 key points outlining how interior designers can help you achieve the best outcome.

  • Incorporating indoor plants into your living space not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to a healthier and more vibrant environment. Let’s explore the myriad benefits of welcoming green companions into your home.

  • Join us as we discuss what the Pantone Colour of 2024 is and how it can be used in your homes Interior Design.

    We'd love to hear about how you are using this colour in your home, so please reach out and let us know!

  • We have put together a range of colour scheme options that you could use in your Christmas decorating for your home this year. We hope you get inspired by the options and would love to hear about the colour palette you choose for your home.

    Wishing you and your family a beautiful Christmas and a peaceful and happy New Year!

    Thank you for listening to our podcast this year, we are grateful for your support.

    If you would like assistance with the interior design for your home, maybe you plan on creating your dream home in the new year, please reach out to us. We'd love to assist you. Please feel free to contact us here.

  • Embrace the summer season this Christmas and let your creativity soar as you blend the best of both worlds. Infuse your home with vibrant colours, nature-inspired decor, light and breezy accents, and festive outdoor spaces. Share your own unique summer Christmas decor ideas in the comments below! Let's inspire each other as we create joyous and unforgettable holiday celebrations.

    If you would like some support with your home on the lead up to Christmas please contact us today https://mydecorator.com.au/contact/. We’d love to have a chat and see if we can assist you.

    Wishing you a delightful and sun-filled Christmas season!

    Prue

    Would you like assistance with designing YOUR dream home but don’t know where to begin? Our Guide can help you understand more about how we work and you can access it here. Get Guide

    Please see our FAQ answers here.

  • Are you feeling overwhelmed with your home renovation? Working with an interior designer can be a game-changer!

    Beyond the beautiful aesthetics, here are some incredible benefits of having a professional by your side:

    They can help you define your vision and bring it to life in your renovation. Say goodbye to decision fatigue – interior designers will guide you through every step of the renovation process. From selecting the exact flooring, lighting, benchtop, cabinetry, wall colour, bathroom tiles and vanities to tapware, handles and more. We will guide you in making the best choices that will all work harmoniously together to bring your desired look. They have access to a network of trusted trades and suppliers. An interior designer will save you time and money by helping you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary stress. Hiring an Interior designer in the very early stages of planning (pre floor plan drafting) will ensure your room size, door and window placement will comfortably accomodate your desired furniture pieces. They will also ensure a design plan is in place that will result in a cohesive look, with the rest of your home.

    If you would like some support with your home renovation please contact us today https://mydecorator.com.au/contact/. We’d love to have a chat and see if we can assist you.

    Prue

    Would you like assistance with designing YOUR dream home but don’t know where to begin? Our Guide can help you understand more about how we work and you can access it here. Get Guide

    Please see our FAQ answers here.

  • ***** Don't miss our story at the beginning of the show!

    1. Utilise Colour – Interior Designers use tools such as colour psychology, colour theory and awareness of a rooms natural light and temperature feel for designing and decorating a room. These are all key considerations that are used as one of many elements that go toward making a lounge room feel more inviting.

    2. Use Texture – Adding texture to a space can make it feel more dimensional, comfortable and inviting. Interior Designers use textures like velvet, linen, boucle and wool to make a lounge room feel cosy and really elevate the space to more sensory and interesting heights. Texture goes a long way in making a room feel approachable.

    3. Incorporate Lighting – Interior Designers incorporate a mix of artificial and natural lighting into their interior design schemes. The use of ambient, task, accent and decorative lighting types are key to lighting any given room. Using a variety of floor and table lamps, overhead lighting, accent lighting, mood lighting all serve to create a beautiful sense of atmosphere and character to the room. Properly placed lighting can also create a sense of depth to the space.

    If you would like some support with your lounge room please contact us today https://mydecorator.com.au/contact/. We’d love to have a chat and see if we can assist you.

    Prue

    Would you like assistance with designing YOUR dream home but don’t know where to begin? Our Guide can help you understand more about how we work and you can access it here. Get Guide

    Please see our FAQ answers here.

  • Have you ever walked into a home where the soft furnishings all seem to match? I’m not referring to a 90s perfect match either but rather an elevated, stylish and friendly but lived in match. As if the room itself is inviting you in, to spend some time in it.

    Soft furnishings are items that are made using fabric. These are curtains, blinds, bedding such as quilts, bedspreads and pillows. Dining linen, tablecloths, placemats, even tea towels. Custom upholstered furniture such as lounges, armchairs and ottomans. Scatter cushions, throw rugs and floor rugs.

    Interior designers will often use custom made soft furnishings to create comfortable and inviting interiors in any room. Soft furnishings are used to add texture, colour, and pattern to existing or new decor and decorating elements. These items can be used to add subtle colour, soften sharp lines, and give any room a bespoke look. Soft furnishings may also be used to define a room’s function, such as a cozy reading nook.

    There are thousands and thousands of fabric designs and colours that can be used for creating customised curtains and blinds. Also for upholstery for furniture such as lounges, armchairs, dining chairs, ottomans etc… As a interior designer, we love putting fabric story’s together for our clients, where we use a variety of plains, prints and textures to create beautiful harmonious interiors that are bespoke and unique.

    The selection of fabrics to be used for curtain and soft furnishings are never isolated decisions. The choices made are a planned and strategic part of your design for your full homes interior. Curtains and other soft furnishings are an investment, so it’s important to choose these wisely. The right selection will last and serve you over many years to come.

    When our clients work with us at My Decorator we will remove the overwhelm. Overwhelm can happen when you walk into a curtain store and are confronted with rack after rack of fabric samples to choose from. We will select the best fabric, design and colour for your new Curtains. These will be designed, measured and custom fitted to suit your window, room, interior style and lifestyle needs. We work with a curtain specialist to get the best outcome for you and your home.

    If you would like us to assist you with your soft furnishings to create your dream home, please contact us today https://mydecorator.com.au/contact/. We’d love to have a chat and see if we can assist you.

  • Interior designers use trends to create designs that reflect current tastes. They often incorporate new interior design materials, colors, styles, and textures into their designs to create modern, updated spaces that introduce the current trends.

    The client brief is what guides the extent that including current trends in Interior Design occurs. Sometimes clients want minimal trend pieces added to their spaces. This client will then have the option to easily change out these pieces when a new trend comes. Items such as scatter cushions and decorator pieces work in this instance. On other occasions a client may want their interior design to be completely on trend and current. It's often in Commercial applications when this happens.

    They may also integrate high-tech appliances and fixtures for a contemporary feel. Additionally, interior designers follow emerging trends in the industry, such as green building, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable materials, to offer clients eco-friendly options.

    A Interior Designer is trained in working trends into a variety of Interior Styles seamlessly or in some cases to create interest and friction.

    In residential design, trends can be introduced in full or in part with a contemporary or traditional base for the investment or larger pieces of furniture and then trends can be threaded through with decor items such as scatter cushions, decorator accessories, art and rugs.

    If you would like to discover more about working with us, please reach out to us here https://mydecorator.com.au/contact/. We’d love to have a chat and see if we can assist you.

    Prue

    Would you like assistance with designing YOUR dream home but don’t know where to begin? Our Guide can help you understand more about we work and you can access it here. Get Guide

    Please see our FAQ answers here.

  • Interior designers use colour psychology to inspire different moods in a space. Colours have the power to create a positive atmosphere, energize a space, provide a sense of calm, or even create a feeling of warmth. By understanding colour psychology and how different colours impact people’s emotions, designers can create a successful and purposeful space. For example, blue and green create a calming relaxed atmosphere. The colour yellow is used to bring a cheerful and vibrant environment. Red is used to portray a sense of passion. Designers can also use a combination of multiple colours to achieve a specific mood.

    What is colour psychology?
    Colour psychology is the study of how colour affects our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It looks at how colours influence our decisions, influence our reaction to different situations, affect our mood and behaviour, and even our perceptions of the world. Colour psychology is used in marketing, therapy, art and design, among other disciplines. It can be truly transformative. 
    The best colour choices for a living room depend on the style, lighting, design and home owners personal colour responses and preferences. Generally speaking, lighter hues are ideal for brightening a space and making it look larger. Variations of beige, neutrals, whites all make beautiful choices for a living room. If Interior Designers are looking for something more dynamic they will consider greens, blue and touches of warm tones like orange and red to add a bit of character and life to the room. Designers will also use accent walls or light fixtures in bolder, darker tones. Ultimately, the key is to choose colours that make you feel comfortable and create a space that you’ll want to spend time in.
    What are the best colour choices for a living room and why?
    The best colour choices for a living room depend on the style, lighting, design and home owners personal colour responses and preferences. Generally speaking, lighter hues are ideal for brightening a space and making it look larger. Variations of beige, neutrals, whites all make beautiful choices for a living room. If Interior Designers are looking for something more dynamic they will consider greens, blue and touches of warm tones like orange and red to add a bit of character and life to the room. Designers will also use accent walls or light fixtures in bolder, darker tones. Ultimately, the key is to choose colours that make you feel comfortable and create a space that you’ll want to spend time in.
    What are the best colour choices for children’s rooms from a colour psychology point of view?
    It really depends on the feeling you are wanting to inspire in the room. If the bedroom is only for sleeping you may choose restful cool colours such as blues. However, if the room is a learning space pink may be the ideal choice. If it’s for play you may opt for fun vibrant colour combinations of red, blue and yellow variations. 
    What are the known effects of different colours on our psychology in general?
    1. Yellow: Yellow is a cheerful, uplifting colour that promotes clarity and emotional balance.
    2. Blue: Blue is a calming colour that promotes tranquillity and serenity.
    3. Green: Is a calming, natural colour that can be associated with growth and renewed energy.
    4. Lavender: Lavender is a soothing colour that is believed to improve alertness and creativity.
    5. Pink: Pink is a comforting and nurturing colour that encourages affection and security.

  • This episode is also available as a blog post: https://mydecorator.com.au/2023/05/02/what-top-techniques-do-interior-designers-use-to-style-a-room/

    Have you ever browsed a magazine, or scrolled through Pinterest or Instagram interiors where the room looks absolutely amazing and wondered how the creator put that beautiful, somewhat effortless yet stylish room together? Believe me, a lot goes into creating these gorgeous rooms and below we share some techniques that Interior Designers use.

    1. A room that has been designed by an Interior Designer, is one that stems from a very well thought out design plan. The Designer will have measured, and then strategically put together a plan, be it virtual, or hardcopy in a moodboard that they then used to implement from.

    2. Interior Designers will sometimes begin their design with a statement piece. Before filling a space with furniture and decor, a designer may choose a bold statement piece to anchor the room and then use this as inspiration for the rooms design.

    3. A Interior Designer will Incorporate layers of texture. Adding texture to a room creates visual dimension and interest. Whether it’s through patterned or textured fabrics, wood-grain finishes, natural elements, or different metals, layers of texture always help to make a room feel elevated and inviting.

    4. Designers will use repetition and colour when choosing decor items for their rooms.

    5. A Interior Designer understands the importance of balance when designing a space. They incorporate symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial balance to create harmony between all the elements of the rooms design.

    6. Interior Designers will mix and match old and new. Combining old and new pieces gives depth to a space and makes it look lived-in. Using family heirlooms, antique market finds, and vintage artwork to create unique, one-of-a-kind designs.

    7. Interior Designers know that lighting sets the tone and mood of any given room. Designers will use a varied mix of task, mood and accent lighting in their designs.

    We hope you found these seven techniques inspire you to gain a deeper understanding of all the ‘behind the scenes’ strategies that Interior Designers use to bring beautiful rooms that they design to life.

    If you would like assistance with your homes interior, please email us via our contact page we would love to chat.