If you’ve ever looked around your house and thought, “I want it to look better, but I have no idea where to start…”—welcome. You’re not alone.
This is the #1 question I get from people who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or totally frozen when it comes to how to start decorating your home. Whether you’ve just moved in or you’re staring at the same mismatched furniture you’ve had for a decade, here’s the good news:
You don’t need a designer. You just need a plan.
If you’ve been wondering how to start decorating your home from scratch, without the stress—this guide is for you.
How to Start Decorating Your Home: Start With a Vibe, Not a Color
Most people start by asking, “What color should I paint this room?” But that’s skipping too far ahead.
Instead, ask yourself: “How do I want this space to feel?” Do you want it to feel calm and restful? Bright and happy? Moody and dramatic? Cozy and layered?
Once you know the feeling you’re after, it becomes way easier to make design choices—from colors to textures to lighting.
Example: A cozy, relaxed vibe might lead you to earthy tones, soft textures, and layered lighting. A more energizing space might call for bold patterns and saturated colors. A moody, cozy vibe might call for deeper hues and darker colors with more saturation and soft textures mixed with woods.
Build a Visual Wishlist
Now that you have a vibe in mind, start gathering inspiration. Not for specific products—just for the overall look and feel. (here are the pins I had for the room above)
Pinterest, Instagram, magazine clippings… save anything that catches your eye and gives you that vibe you’re going for.
Don’t worry if it doesn’t all match.
The more photos you gather, the more you’ll start to see patterns: maybe you’re drawn to vintage wood furniture, or light linen curtains, or pops of deep navy. That’s your personal style starting to come into focus.
Tip: Don’t copy a room down to the pillow. Focus on the mood, layout, or mix of textures that you love.
Shop Your Home First
You probably already own some great pieces—you just haven’t seen them in the right light yet.
Before you go buy anything new, take a walk through your own home with fresh eyes.
Swap a lamp from the hallway. Move a chair from the bedroom to the living room. Try a different throw blanket or piece of art in a new space.
You’ll be surprised what a difference a little rearranging can make.
Bonus: This is the most budget-friendly decorating move ever—and it builds momentum without a single trip to the store.
Start Small, Not Perfect
You don’t have to do the entire room in one weekend.
Pick one corner. One wall. One cozy nook to make functional and beautiful.
Perfection is what leads to paralysis.
Progress is what leads to confidence.
So hang that art. Style that shelf. Swap out that lamp shade. Small wins lead to big changes over time.
Ask for Help. No, Seriously
If you’re still stuck, ask questions.
Drop a comment, DM a designer you trust, or even poll your friends.
And hey—I’m here too. I share tips weekly on Instagram and I’d love to feature your decorating question in an upcoming Friday FAQ post.
Still wondering how to start decorating your home?
Here’s your no-pressure, bite-sized homework:
✅ Pick a vibe
✅ Save some inspo
✅ Shop your house
✅ Style one small area
And if you’re feeling brave—send me your biggest home design question. I’ll tackle it next.
