Let’s start with what moves you– what styles, color palettes, and patterns really light you up? Our designers love it when clients bring in mood boards or photos they like for reference; it helps give a better sense of what your personal taste might look and feel like, which can then inform which brands or workshop partners you’ll gravitate to most. Our journal of past blogs is a great place to start if you’re looking for inspiration or useful highlights about some of our favorite furniture and home decor workshops. Then once you have an idea of the styles you like, you’ll want to measure your new space to be sure of any size requirements you’ll need to consider when you start shopping.

Furnishing a new home can be a big, and often expensive project, but that doesn’t mean you have to start from zero. Take inventory of any items you already own, especially the ones you know you love and want to keep, since these will likely guide the purchasing of any future pieces you find to complement them. There’s no need to go out and buy everything all at once either, and taking your time can help you make smarter investments that turn into cherished heirlooms, instead of fast furniture waste that ends up in landfills. 

While the aesthetic beauty and quality craftsmanship of a piece is certainly important, you might also want to consider the types of materials your furniture is made of. Furnishing a healthy, more environmentally friendly home is easier when you prioritize things like FSC certified wood, certified organic cotton, natural fibers, and non-toxic, plant-based materials. Even the mattresses and bedding you choose can have a significant impact on reducing the number of harmful chemicals present in your home, so shopping transparent brands like Naturepedic who adhere to strict certifications for their processes and materials is a healthier, more sustainable solution. 

One great way to make the most of any sized space is to seek out multifunctional pieces that can serve two or more purposes in one. An extension table, for example, might make an ideal workspace, as well as a dining table to host larger gatherings. Similarly, a comfortable and stylish sleeper sofa can turn a home office into a spare bedroom, or a living room into the perfect kids’ sleepover space! Think about all the ways you need your furniture to serve your lifestyle, and you’re much more likely to find the pieces that best suit you.

No new place would be complete without a few finishing touches that make it feel like home. Perhaps you love the sustainable beauty of Libeco Belgian linen for your bedding, throws, pillows, and tablecloths; or maybe you appreciate the art of hand thrown ceramics like the tabletop decor, vases, and dishware from East Fork Pottery. Don’t be afraid to personalize your space with wall art, mirrors, and lighting that inspire a sense of joy and serenity in you; after all, even the smallest detail can go a long way when furnishing the home of your dreams. 

Working with a professional interior designer may not always be in the budget, but these savvy and creative experts can be real game changers when it comes to problem-solving or brainstorming your ideas. In fact, our Urban Natural design team even offers a complimentary consultation to start you off on the right foot, or talk through any questions you might have. Reach out to schedule your free design consult today, and we’re always happy to lend a helping hand, or spark of inspiration along the way!