Self-Design and Decor: A Personal Journey to My Dream Home - August 2024

As a homeowner, I took on the ambitious task of designing and decorating my own home, without the assistance of a professional interior design company. My journey was not only about creating a space that reflected my taste but also about making smart, sustainable choices. Here’s how I transformed my 116-square-meter home, with a net area of 93 square meters, into my dream abode.

Embracing Minimalism in Hard Decor

The concept of “less is more” played a pivotal role in my approach. By focusing on minimal hard decorations, I ensured the use of eco-friendly and high-quality materials. Simple wall treatments like clean latex paint, and the absence of overly complex background walls or balcony designs, not only saved costs but also lent a sophisticated touch to the home.

The Significance of Layout and Light

Choosing the right apartment is crucial. While nothing is perfect, I learned that a home’s layout, natural light, floor level, location, and even the size of the windows significantly influence its ambiance. So, it's important to compare different options thoroughly.

Cream-Colored Walls: A Timeless Choice

I chose a cream-colored (specifically, shade 1875) latex paint for my bedroom. This not only made the space look clean and larger but also effortlessly matched with various furnishings. It's proof that low-saturation, light colors are the ultimate choice for a harmonious home color scheme.

Integrating the Balcony with the Living Room

One secret to making a small apartment appear larger is to enclose the external balcony and use the same floor tiles as the living room. My home features 800x800 white tiles with pure white grouting, which, contrary to popular belief, have not yellowed even after seven months, creating a seamless and spacious look.

Investing in Custom-Built Cabinets

Don’t skimp on storage. Having ample, well-designed cabinets is essential for keeping your home organized and tidy, especially as you accumulate more belongings over time.

The Importance of Lighting

Lighting is a crucial element in any space. My home is equipped with 3500K spotlights throughout, creating a warm atmosphere. In the living room and dining area, I chose LS eye-friendly chandeliers that emit no blue light, thus protecting our eyes and skin—a detail that underscores the importance of health in our living environment.

The Latex Paint Revelation

The choice of wall color is significant. Initially, my bedroom wall color didn’t turn out as expected because I relied solely on electronic color cards. Recently, I successfully repainted it in a gentle, creamy white shade that has made the room feel more spacious and brighter.

Cultivating Happiness at Home

Enhancing the sense of happiness in a home boils down to living mindfully. Even small details like choosing waterproof and oil-resistant silicone table mats that blend with the surroundings can make a difference. Every piece of furniture, whether it’s a coffee table, chair, or bedside table, subtly influences the taste and style of your home through its color, design, and material.

In conclusion, creating your dream home is about more than just aesthetic choices; it's about making practical, sustainable decisions that reflect your personal style and cater to your well-being. How do you personalize your living space to enhance its comfort and appeal? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!