New year, new look

New Year, New Look: Transform Your Home in 2026

Interior Design and Decorator Tips

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New year, new look

New Year, New Look: Transform Your Home in 2026

Happy New Year. There’s no better time to transform your home this new year, and create a new look space that you will love.  Let’s rethink your living areas and give your home the refreshing new look it deserves. A well-designed interior not only enhances the beauty of your home and also, as a result, elevates your mood and overall well-being. Let’s explore three key ways to bring some change this year.

1. Embrace Fresh Trends for a New Beginning

2026 brings with it exciting design trends that can help you completely revitalise your home. From soothing earthy tones that promote calmness to sleek minimalist styles that focus on function, you’ll find inspiration everywhere. Consider tapping into biophilic design, which enhances your connection to nature through organic materials and indoor plants. Introducing these trends into your home can refresh its energy and create a serene environment you can enjoy year-round.

2. Decluttering for a Clear Mind and Fresh Start

Embarking on a new year is an excellent opportunity to declutter your space, making way for a fresh start. While the task of transforming your home can be overwhelming, envisioning the end look can provide the motivation needed to strip away excess items. Start by visualising your ideal space; this will guide you in letting go of belongings that no longer serve you. A clean and organised environment is pivotal in unlocking the beauty of your decor and ensuring that each piece has a purpose in your home.

New Year New look, decluttering
Decluttering for a new look this new year

3. Customise Your Space: Making Bold Choices

When it comes to customising your home, think beyond small accessories and consider making bold statements with larger items. Investing in new furniture, like a stylish sofa or a unique coffee table, can set the tone for your entire space. Layering in rich rugs can define areas and add softness, while eye-catching artwork can serve as a focal point that sparks conversation.

Paint is another powerful tool to transform your environment. For example, a fresh coat in a vibrant colour can energise a room, while soft hues on the other hand, can create a soothing atmosphere.

Additionally, if you’re ready for something more comprehensive, new flooring can completely change the look and feel of your home, adding both value and comfort. Ultimately, each of these choices not only adds to your home’s aesthetic appeal but also breathes new life into the environment you inhabit.

Blue walls, shutters at windows. Teal abstract art. Grey king size bed with blue grey bedding and abstract print cushions. Stone based table lamps. Timber bedside tables. Boucle ivory bed stool. Light grey swivel chair, with white side table and floor lamp behind. Room is carpeted.
Round dining table with upholstered dining chairs, black and glass feature pendant light, bold geometric blues and black artwork, shutters at window.

As we move into 2026, it’s a perfect time to reflect on how your space can inspire and uplift you. Embrace new trends, make decisions to declutter with purpose, and don’t shy away from bold updates that can transform your home. If you’re looking for expert guidance on making these changes, let’s work together to create a stunning space that feels uniquely yours. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s bring your vision to life!

Prue

Are you keen to start your journey to a well designed home but would like some further information?  Go to the top of this page and click ‘Get Guide’ and receive your Free Guide today or alternatively click ‘Interior Design Guide’ here.  This guide will help you discover more about what you need to know before hiring a designer, eases your concerns about colour, style and so much more.

If you would like us to assist you to create your dream home, or would like to chat about this possibility please contact us today.

10 Ways to Bring Christmas to Your Home

Christmas, Interior Design and Decorator Tips

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10 Ways to Bring Christmas to Your Home

 

I absolutely love this time of year, especially because it’s Christmas! Not only does it bring warm, sunny weather, but it also means delightful parties where we gather with friends and family to relish yummy food and celebrate the birth of Jesus. Additionally, I truly enjoy getting out our Christmas decorations and styling our home for the festive season.

 I’m excited to share a few decorating tips I’ve gathered along the way.

 

1. Think Outside of the Box

I have been known to put 6″ high Christmas trees on a low table in the corner of rooms (between two lounges); this way, they create a commanding impact and an amazing welcome to all who enter. On another occasion I moved a full dining table and chairs to a different room in order to give the Christmas tree centre stage. Therefore, in reality, there are many opportunities to think more laterally so that you can achieve the particular look you’re wanting for your home.

2. Consider Nature

How about a fresh tree this year?  Enjoy the forrest fresh aroma a pine tree will bring to your home.  You could get some pine cones and display them in a nice big basket or bowl.  Take your party outside, set up your dining table in your backyard and enjoy the great aussie outdoors.

3. Choose a Colour Scheme and Theme

Change it every year to keep things fresh. Our colour scheme this year is silver and gold. All our Christmas decorations are silver and gold, we have left the tinsel of this year as we were wanting a more classic look and opted to use gold pearls instead. You could also have a fun colourful colour scheme and use pinks, yellows, greens, blues etc… Get the kids to make colourful paper chains and their own fun colourful baubles for a more casual bright fun look.

4. Add Meaning

always love to have a Nativity Scene as this reminds me of the meaning of Christmas.  Another meaningful addition, is our Christmas snow globe that reminds us of family members that aren’t with us.  You may have special handmade decorations that you hang on your tree every year that remind you of someone special or a special memory.  You can add meaning to Christmas by creating new memories.  Christmas is a special time, sentiment and continuing family traditions really do add meaning to this beautiful season.  

5. Style a Christmas Table

It doesn’t have to have all matching chairs or even tables for that matter. Put on a table cloth and a lovely home made centrepiece pulling through your colour scheme, or use some fresh flowers, candles, bon bons and sit down together to enjoy the delicious feast of food and great conversation.

6. Create Inviting Seating Nooks

If you are hosting a party, look at your seating layout and put out some side tables near chair clusters for people to put their drinks on and for some nibbles to be sat on so you are creating a nice little spot for 2 or 3 people to sit and chat. You can do the same with bean bags and low coffee tables. Your guests will love and appreciate this extra effort.

7. Don't Forget the Rest of Your Home

Don’t forget the rest of your house. Style the surfaces of your home with your Christmas theme, remove and store everyday decorator items and recreate each space with a new look.

8. Fairy Lights bring Ambience

Don’t be afraid to use them and lots of them. They add fabulous atmosphere to your home and to party’s. I am using warm white lights this year to go with my classic theme.

9. Festive Music

Make a playlist. Get some Christmas carols playing. Get your guests in a good party mood from the moment they arrive.

10. Bake some Christmas Treats

Bake, create, get out the old favourite recipes and spoil your guests with some scrumptious delights.

 

I’d love to read your tips of how you decorate your home.  Feel free to comment below.

I’d also like to say thank you for reading our blog this year and wish you and your family a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2026!

Thank you for taking the time to read our post.

 

Prue

Are you keen to start your journey to a well designed home but would like some further information?  Go to the top of this page and click ‘Get Guide’ and receive your Free Guide today or alternatively click ‘Interior Design Guide’ here.  This guide will help you discover more about what you need to know before hiring a designer, eases your concerns about colour, style and so much more.

If you would like us to assist you to create your dream home, or would like to chat about this possibility please contact us today.

Christmas Decor Colour Combinations

Christmas, Interior Design and Decorator Tips

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Christmas Decor Colour Combinations

 

When it comes to decorating for Christmas, many of us including myself, often fall into the trap of traditional red and green. This year, let’s step outside the box and explore refreshing colour palettes that breathe new life into our holiday decor! Here are three unique combinations you can use to create a stunning festive atmosphere in your home.

 

Citrus Burst: Bright Yellow, Zesty Orange and Crisp White

Infuse your Christmas decor with the lively energy of citrus shades. Imagine vibrant yellow ornaments mixed with zesty orange accents and crisp white textiles. This colour palette encapsulates the joy and vitality of the season, offering an invigorating twist to your holiday decor.

Style Tip: Use the bright colours on your tree by selecting ornaments in various shapes and finishes—from matte to glossy. Incorporate patterned fabrics through table runners or chair cushions in lemon and tangerine hues. Add touches of white with twinkling fairy lights and white ceramic decorations to keep the space feeling fresh and airy.

 

Earthy Tones:  Warm Terracotta, Olive Green and Soft Beige

Earthy hues bring a grounded and comforting feel to your Christmas celebrations. Embrace warm terracotta, paired with rich olive green and soft beige, to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. This palette is ideal for those wanting to blend a natural aesthetic with the festive feel of the holidays.

Style Tip: Use terracotta pots for your festive plant displays, perhaps housing a rustic pine or festive herb. Add olive green accents through fabric banners or garlands made of natural materials like twine and dried leaves. Complete the look with soft beige textiles for table decor and scatter cushions for your lounges, creating a welcoming space for family and friends.

 

Bold Jewel Tones:  Deep Teal, Plum Purple and Metallic Gold

If you’re looking to make a statement this Christmas, why not embrace bold jewel tones? A palette of deep teal and lush plum, coupled with metallic gold accents, adds drama and sophistication to your holiday styling. This combination is perfect for creating an elegantly styled look.

Style Tip: Choose deep teal for your tree as a base colour and pair it with plum purple ornaments in velvet or glass. Add metallic gold elements through stylish tableware or accent pieces, such as candleholders or napkin rings, to bring in an element of glamour. Finish your decor with plush fabrics and textured throws that bring warmth and luxury to your festive gatherings.

This year, let your imagination run wild and opt for unconventional colour combinations that showcase your unique style while celebrating the spirit of Christmas. Whether you prefer bright and energetic palettes or earthy, grounded tones, these refreshing colour ideas will surely make your decor stand out!

Are you keen to start your journey to a well designed home? Go to the top ‘Get Guide’ of our website and receive your Free Guide today or alternatively click ‘Interior Design Guide’ here.

If you would like us to assist you to create your dream home, please contact us today.

Thank you for taking the time to read our post today.

Prue

Light grey lounges, round stone top coffee table, timber bookshelf, Ratan floor lamp.

Maximising Small Spaces: My Approach as an Interior Designer

Interior Design and Decorator Tips

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Light grey lounges, round stone top coffee table, timber bookshelf, Ratan floor lamp.

Originally published October 2025. Updated and expanded to reflect current design thinking and how homes are being planned more intentionally during periods of change.

How to Maximise Small Spaces - Interior Designer Approach

Small spaces rarely happen in isolation. They often arrive during periods of change — moving into an apartment, renovating a family home, downsizing, or simply reconfiguring life. When space shifts, your home needs to work harder.

Maximising a small space isn’t about squeezing in more furniture or finding clever storage hacks. It’s about understanding how you live now — your routines, priorities and patterns — and designing accordingly.

Here’s how an interior designer approaches small spaces strategically, so they feel intentional, supportive and considered rather than temporary or reactive.

 

Clever Furniture Choices That Save Space without Sacrificing Style

When I design small spaces, I prioritise furniture that is sleek and streamlined, as these pieces enhance the perception of space. I favour furniture with legs, as this design element creates an illusion of space underneath, making the area feel larger. Additionally, I incorporate versatile options, such as sofas that double as guest beds or coffee tables that expand into dining tables. 

Each piece I choose reflects a stylish aesthetic while meeting my clients’ functional needs.

Decorative Tricks to Create the Illusion of More Room

In decorating small spaces, I apply creative techniques that make a significant impact. For instance, I often select lighter colours for walls and furniture to maximise light reflection, enhancing the overall spaciousness of the room. I strategically position mirrors to boost light and visual depth, making the space feel larger. I also utilise vertical stripes in wallpaper or decor to draw the eye upward, enhancing the perception of height. By keeping decor minimal and organised, I create a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Multi-Functional Items That Enhance the Use of Space

Versatility is an essential aspect of my design philosophy, especially when working in small homes or apartments. Therefore, I incorporate multi-functional items that serve several purposes. For instance, I choose ottomans that provide both seating and storage. Additionally, I select beds with built-in drawers, allowing for efficient linen and clothing storage. Moreover, I favor nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use. Ultimately, these thoughtful additions not only enhance my clients’ spaces but also enrich their daily living experiences, as they combine elegance with practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions About Small Space Design

1.  Do I need custom furniture for a small space?

Not always. Sometimes smart layout, multifunctional pieces, and prioritising flow will make more impact than bespoke furniture.

2.  How do I make a small space feel bigger?

Zoning, decluttering, and using vertical space thoughtfully makes small areas feel more expansive without increasing square metres.

3.  Can a small space work for a growing family?

Yes — by designing with flexibility, multi-use zones, and anticipating lifestyle changes, small spaces can support evolving needs.

4.  Where should I start if I’m downsizing or moving?

Begin with understanding your routines, priorities, and emotional needs. Then plan zones, storage, and flow before buying or moving anything.

Maximising a small space isn’t just about furniture or storage — it’s about designing intentionally for how you live now, especially when your life is in transition. By considering routines, priorities, and the way each space is used, I create homes that feel functional, calm, and truly supportive of the people who live in them. Every small space has the potential to feel considered, adaptable, and reflective of its inhabitants — without feeling cramped or temporary.

If you’re ready to create a home that works for your current life, supports your routines, and feels intentional from the start, a Design Consultation is the ideal first step. Together, we’ll look at how you live now, identify friction points, and create a clear plan for a space that truly supports you.

Thank you for reading,

Prue

If you’re navigating a move, renovation, downsizing or beginning a new chapter and want your home to feel intentional from the start, a Design Consultation is the ideal first step. We’ll assess how you live now, identify friction points, and map a clear direction forward.

Book your Design Consultation →

Listen to our latest episode:  Designing Intentionally When Your Space Changes. Discover how to make smaller spaces feel stable, supportive and considered, even during life transitions.

For more clever small solutions and multifunctional furniture ideas see below blog posts:

5 Must Have Accessories to Elevate Your Home Decor

Interior Design and Decorator Tips

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5 Must Have Accessories to Elevate Your Home Decor

 

Welcome to the world of interior design, where the little details can make the biggest impact! Accessories are the perfect touch that turns a house into a home, allowing you to express your individuality and style. In this blog post, we’ll explore five must-have accessories that can elevate your décor and personalise your spaces. Let’s dive into how these elements can transform your home and create an inviting atmosphere that speaks to your unique story.

Why Accessories are Essential for Personalising Your Home

As an interior designer, I believe that the true essence of a home lies in its details. Accessories are not just decorative items; they are personal reflections of your style, interests and experiences. They tell a story and add warmth to a space, making it feel uniquely yours. By carefully curating your accessories, you create an inviting atmosphere that resonates with both you and your guests. Each piece can evoke a memory, spark a conversation, or simply bring you joy every time you walk into a room. 

Top 5 Accessories That Can Transform Any Room

When it comes to choosing the right accessories, I focus on versatility and impact. Here are my top five must-have accessories that can elevate any room:

Scatter Cushions

These are a game-changer for adding colour, texture, and comfort. By mixing patterns and materials, you can instantly breathe new life into your furniture or space.  Consider opting for scatter cushions that have feather filled inners to create a sumptuous plump look.  

Artwork

Whether it’s a bold statement piece or a gallery wall of smaller prints, art adds character and showcases your personality. Choose pieces that resonate with you to create visual interest.

Floor Rugs

A well-chosen rug can anchor a room, define spaces, and contribute to the overall feel. Look for textures and colours that complement your existing décor while adding warmth and comfort underfoot.

Decorative Objects

Think vases, sculptures, or unique finds from your travels. These small touches can create focal points and add depth to your décor while allowing your personality to shine through.

Lighting Fixtures

Unique lamps or decorative sconces not only provide functional light but can also be beautiful statement pieces. Choosing lighting that enhances your style can dramatically alter the ambiance of a space.

Tips for Arranging Accessories for Maximum Impact

Group Similar Items:

When displaying accessories, group items of similar shapes, sizes, or colours together. This creates a cohesive look and draws the eye naturally. Use odd numbers for visual appeal, as they tend to be more visually engaging.

Vary Heights and Textures:

To avoid a flat and boring display, incorporate items of varying heights and textures. This layering technique introduces depth and keeps the arrangement interesting. Mix hard and soft materials for a well-rounded effect.

Leave Breathing Room: 

While it’s tempting to fill every nook and cranny, leaving some space around your accessories allows them to stand out and be appreciated. It creates a sense of order and sophistication, making each piece feel intentional.

Elevating your home décor doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s all about the thoughtful curation of accessories that resonate with you. By incorporating these five must-have items, you not only enhance your space but also forge a deeper connection with your home. Remember, each accessory carries a narrative while inviting warmth and joy into your life. So, go ahead, embrace your creativity, and have fun decorating your personal sanctuary!

 

Are you keen to start your journey to a well designed, tranquil home? Go to the top ‘Get Guide’ of our website and receive your Free Guide today or alternatively click ‘Interior Design Guide’ here.

 

If you would like us to assist you to create your dream home, please contact us today.

 

Thank you for taking the time to read our post today.

 

Prue

** All design and images by My Decorator

FAQ – How do interior designers like My Decorator work?

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FAQ - How Do Interior Designers Like My Decorator Work?

Originally published August 2025. Updated in June 2026 with fresh insight into how interior designers work, what the design process really involves, and how thoughtful guidance creates homes that truly support the way you live.

As an Interior Designer, I regularly get asked how do interior designers work along with many of the following questions about our services so thought I’d take a moment to answer these questions to hopefully assist you. 

What if I Feel Overwhelmed and Don't Know Where To Start?

That’s actually one of the most common reasons people reach out to us. Many homeowners feel stuck between too many choices, uncertainty about what will work, or frustration that their home no longer supports the way they live.

 

A Design Consultation helps create clarity before costly decisions are made. Together, we identify what’s working, what isn’t and create a more intentional direction forward — so the process feels calmer, more manageable and aligned with your lifestyle. 

How Early Should I Involve an Interior Designer?

Ideally, as early as possible. Engaging an Interior Designer before making major decisions can help prevent costly mistakes, reduce overwhelm and create a clearer overall vision for your home.

 

Whether you’re renovating, building, furnishing, or simply planning future changes, early design guidance helps ensure decisions feel cohesive and considered from the beginning. 

What Happens During an Interior Design Consultation?

An Interior Design Consultation is designed to give you clarity, direction, and confidence before making decisions in your home. We begin by understanding how you live, what’s currently not working, and the overall feel and functionality you want to create.

 

During the consultation, we may help you define your interior style, colour palette, layout, and lifestyle needs. We can provide guidance on finishes such as flooring, cabinetry, benchtops, and paint selections, along with recommendations for furniture, lighting, window furnishings, rugs, and décor.

 

We also look at how your spaces function day to day — considering flow, furniture placement, storage, natural light, and how you move through your home — so the design supports the way you actually live. Where needed, we may measure spaces and explore layout options that feel more functional and intentional.

 

If paint colours are part of the consultation, we discuss how the space is used, the atmosphere you want to create, lighting conditions, and colour psychology before selecting a tailored shortlist of options. Paint samples can then be arranged for you to view in your own home.

 

Following the consultation, you’ll receive a Summary Report outlining the recommendations discussed. From there, you can either continue implementing the project yourself or partner with us for further design support.

Do I Need to Renovate or Furnish My Whole Home at Once?

Not at all. Many of our clients begin with one or two key spaces and continue the design over time. In fact, approaching your home in stages can often create a more thoughtful and financially manageable outcome.

 

What’s most important is establishing an overall direction early on, so each decision feels connected and works cohesively within your home as a whole.

Can You Help With Renovations and New Builds?

Yes. We regularly assist clients who are renovating or building by helping guide interior selections and overall design direction throughout the process.

 

This may include layout input, colour schemes, finishes, cabinetry direction, flooring, lighting, furniture planning and creating a cohesive vision that supports both the aesthetic and functionality of the home.

What Is Your Scope of Work?

Our focus is on creating homes that feel functional, cohesive, and reflective of the way you live. We provide interior design guidance across areas such as space planning, colour schemes, finishes, furniture selection, lighting, window furnishings, styling and overall design direction for both renovations and furnishing projects.

 

While we can provide ideas and design input for renovation layouts and how spaces could function more effectively, we are not qualified to authorise structural changes such as removing walls or altering load-bearing elements. Where structural work is being considered, we always recommend consulting with a qualified builder, architect or structural engineer.

 

We are also sometimes asked about exterior landscaping. While we aren’t qualified to provide landscaping or plant recommendations, we have assisted clients with outdoor furniture selection, layout, and the overall visual direction for exterior spaces. This can help create a sense of continuity between the inside and outside of the home, resulting in a more cohesive overall feel.

Can You Work With Existing Furniture and Decor?

Absolutely. We understand that not everything needs to be replaced to create a beautiful and functional home. Where possible, we love incorporating existing furniture, artwork, or sentimental pieces into a refreshed design direction.

 

Part of our role is helping determine what can stay, what may need updating and how everything can work together more cohesively and intentionally.

Do You Project Manage Renovations?

We do not offer construction or renovation project management services. Our role focuses on the interior design direction of your home, helping you make confident decisions around layout, finishes, colour schemes, furniture, lighting and overall cohesion.

 

We can provide clear design guidance to support your builder or trades during a renovation, however we are not involved in site supervision or construction management. This ensures our work remains focused on creating a well-considered, functional and beautifully resolved interior outcome for your home.

How Does the Design Process Work?

A Design Package is often the next step after an Interior Design Consultation if you’re wanting more detailed guidance and ongoing support throughout your project.

 

Your designer will begin by gaining a deeper understanding of how you live, how you want your home to feel, and the overall direction you’re hoping to achieve. From there, we create a tailored design plan that may include recommended furniture, furnishings, décor, layouts, colour palettes, finishes, lighting and styling direction for your space.

 

Once your design plan is complete, we present the concepts and recommendations with you face to face, refining any details as needed to ensure the design feels aligned with both your lifestyle and vision for the home.

 

From there, we can guide you through the implementation process, including assisting with sourcing and selecting recommended items. Once everything arrives, your designer will return to style the space — bringing the design together so your home feels cohesive, intentional and ready to enjoy.

How Much Do You Charge?

Our services are an investment, and we always hear feedback from our clients about how much value they receive. Please contact us to discuss how we can assist you and we can determine what the best service will be for you.

How Long Does an Interior Design Project Take?

Every project is different, so timelines can vary depending on the size and complexity of the space, the level of support required and product lead times. Some projects may focus on furnishing and styling a single room, while others involve larger renovations or whole-home design direction completed over multiple stages.

 

Following your initial Design Consultation, we can provide a clearer idea of timing based on your specific project and goals.

 

We always aim to create a process that feels considered and manageable, allowing time for thoughtful decisions rather than rushed ones — helping ensure the end result feels cohesive, functional and reflective of how you live.

What happens if I don't like what you design?

We work closely with you throughout the design process to ensure the direction feels aligned with your style, needs and how you live. Design is a collaborative process and refinements are part of creating a result you feel confident about. Our goal is always to ensure the final outcome feels considered, functional and true to you.

Whether you’re renovating, furnishing, downsizing, or simply feeling unsure where to begin, working with an Interior Designer can help bring clarity to the decisions ahead.

 

A Design Consultation is often the best first step — giving you professional guidance, a clearer overall direction, and confidence that your home will support the way you actually live.

 

If you’re ready to create a home that feels calm, functional, and intentionally designed, simply click the Book a Consultation button below and we’ll be in touch.

 

Designing with intention,

 

Prue

My Decorator

If you’re navigating a move, renovation, downsizing or beginning a new chapter and want your home to feel intentional from the start, a Design Consultation is the ideal first step. We’ll assess how you live now, identify friction points, and map a clear direction forward.

Book your Design Consultation →

Listen to our latest episode:  FAQ – How Interior Designers Like My Decorator Work

 

Ever wondered what actually happens when you work with an interior designer? In this episode, we walk through how our process works — from understanding how you live, through to creating clear direction and thoughtful design decisions that shape your home. Discover how we translate ideas into cohesive, functional spaces that feel intentional and aligned with your lifestyle.

For more resources related to this topic see below blog posts: