Decorating your apartment is a true art. What are the essential first steps before diving in?
As an experienced interior designer, I always prioritize fixing circulation and layout issues before focusing on colors, materials, or decor. Start with a floor plan—even if you're familiar with your space—to gain fresh perspective on volumes in black and white lines. This reveals imbalances, like an oversized dining area versus a cramped living room, a sofa blocking a window, or insufficient entry storage. Daily life might highlight these, but a plan makes them crystal clear.
Once furniture is repositioned confidently, proceed to decoration. Accentuate a sofa with a vibrant wall or wallpaper behind it. Secure a dining table's spot with a pendant lamp overhead, knowing it won't shift.
What are your top tips for a warm, inviting apartment?
Materials are key to warmth and friendliness. I favor wood in all forms—it instantly cozies up a space: solid oak or pine parquet, teak coffee tables, recycled pallet designs, or branches leaning against a wall (decor doesn't have to break the bank!). Add wool or cotton rugs for living room comfort, velvet or coarse cotton cushions for elegance, and cotton gauze plaids or quilts for cheer and lightness.
Avoid uniform 'total looks'; opt for spaces that reflect inhabitants' stories. Mix contemporary, vintage, and heirloom pieces. Use lacquered or glass furniture sparingly for true coziness.
Should homeowners hire professionals for renovations? How to ensure the result matches their personality?
If you're unsure, short on time, or risk-averse, engage an architectural interior professional to optimize space and maximize potential. They'll guide layouts, innovate with volume divisions, and select ideal materials for your lifestyle, location, and budget.
Choosing a pro is about vibe: Review their portfolio for diversity and adaptability to your vision. A decorator with a signature style delivers their aesthetic—not yours—like a designer furniture piece: reliable, but not personal.
What decorative pitfalls to avoid?
Decoration is subjective—no absolute missteps, as 'tastes and colors' vary. A well-arranged, bright space made with love always impresses, even if unfamiliar. The secret? Enjoy the process over imitation.
Steer clear of fleeting trends or overly bold colors unless they suit your bold personality—they can clash. Create a cohesive thread across rooms for a restful home.
What 2018 decoration trends shouldn't be missed?
Decoration offers endless styles; find yours without mimicking neighbors. Colors are bolder yet refined: muted, deep, nuanced—not garish or shiny. Embrace powdery velvet, velvety paints, aged raw wood, varnished metals like steel, wool, and linen.
Maximalism rises over minimalism: Layer shades via cushions, plaids, and bedding against tapestry walls and art for elegant depth, never flashy.
Post-winter fir green, emerald, and turquoise, shift to softer celadon greens and peacock blues. Natural ethnic textures—rattan, rope, jute—keep it grounded, far from bling.
Sophie Ferjani launches her decoration concept store “Sophie FERJANI – La Sélection” at 45 rue de la République in Marseille. 270m² of curated decor objects, budget-friendly furniture, on-trend picks, DIY supplies, materials, and two expert-trained designers for on-site or remote advice.
Find all the information on the website www.la-selection.fr
