How to Start Decorating When You First Move In

There are few things as exciting as decorating a new home. But how do you start decorating when you first move in to a new space? Moving can be an overwhelming task. But there is an excitement once the boxes are emptied and you’re left with a blank slate to decorate. Every wall becomes a canvas, every surface a display.

Step One: Take Your Time

As exciting as it is to start decorating when you move into a new space, it is very important to take your time. Be patient! It is a great exercise to live in your space for a while before adding artwork and decor. Find the flow of your home first. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve hung artwork only to have it banged by a door, or knocked askew by flow through traffic. Wait a few days and really think about your space.

Step Two: Get Creative

Think outside the box when you start to decorate your new space. So many times we label boxes by room when packing up our belongings. When we get to our new space, the items that were in our previous bedroom end up in our new bedroom. But why? Maybe the artwork from the living room would look better in the new bedroom. Maybe the throw pillows from the bedroom are better suited on the living room sofa.

I encourage people to pack like items together – such as artwork, home decor, and throw pillows. That way, when you move into your new space, you can assemble a color palette and can mix and match items to create the look you want, without spending any money!

Step Three: Have Fun

It’s easy to get bogged down in unpacking the boxes. Let yourself have some fun when it comes to decorating your space. Try several options before deciding on one final look. Pair different pillows with artwork, put together mood boards, really think about the use for your space and how you want it to feel.

Step Four: Take Photos

This may seem silly at first, but when you start decorating your new space, take photos of your room. You’ll be surprised at what a photo will tell you. “A picture’s worth a thousand words,” so listen to your rooms and what they’re telling you. Where does your lighting come from? Is a chair too large for the space? Are the window coverings too dark, too light, or too short? You won’t see what may be glaringly wrong until you see it in a photo.

Step Five: Create a Wish List

Finally, when determining how to start decorating when moving in to a new space, create a wish list. No one ever moves in with everything they want right off the bat. For each room you put together, create a wish list of items you think you may want or need to complete the look you’re going for. Don’t lose heart. Everything will come together in time. For now, enjoy the process – AND your new space.