Decoration and Interior Design: Basic Guide – Part I

“Important differences exist between ‘decoration’ and ‘interior design,’ although both disciplines intervene in the interior space.” With this sentence, architect Guillermo Soto Vásquez, CEO of the Lifeint Design firm, received us when we approached him to ask about the aspects to be considered when people plan to implement a particular style in a property. In this series of two articles, we will review the subject in detail to offer an overview of what it implies.

Decorator vs. Interior Designer

According to our specialist, “The decorator studies the space, observing its dimensions, light and finishes, to propose furniture, decorative objects and other elements in order to generate a harmonious result. For his part, the interior designer has a deeper function that focuses on proposing physical changes in the distribution of space to apply technical and creative solutions that improve and/or facilitate the quality of life.”

“The true value of each project is given in the care of each detail. It is intended that the components fit perfectly and the elements reflect the wishes and expectations of the user, ensuring their comfort.”

 

To Start

Soto mentioned that the first step is having an appointment with the client to learn their tastes, expectations and approximate budget. The next is seeing the intended property, to observe the spaces, finishes, lighting and existing dimensions.

“In case the work is not finished, you can proceed through the floor plans and catalog of finishes offered by the developer. Intervention from the beginning can be very valuable in cases where customization is allowed.”

The Best Time to Remodel

Our expert points out that it is always a good time to carry out interior design and decoration. “In all cases, having the lot without intervention for a residential house or when choosing between several options of properties to remodel, it is valuable to know the scope the professional visualizes. Also, when the property is under construction, before installing the finishes, the range of possibilities the final design can achieve is opened. The more previous time is devoted to interior design, the more beneficial it will be to achieving the style desired by the client.”

In relation to this, when asked about the ideal time to renovate interior design, Soto mentioned that one of his professional objectives is that the investment dedicated to this will last over time, but “always focusing all experience and knowledge on the following goal: no matter the style to be developed, spaces should not be boring or excessive. The aim is to carry out projects that are well-balanced, harmonious and balanced in the use of contrasts.”

He also explained that it is important to know if the spaces will be dedicated to a single family or offered for rent through mobile applications (since the choice of textiles, colors and finishes is determined by this type of use).

“For these cases, the substitution of some parts and preventive maintenance is very important to preserve the initial investment.”

“Interiors take on a life of their own when congruence between surfaces is achieved despite their differences, from the darkest contrasting with colorful/bright accents and when even the smoothest plays against the roughest.”

Hiring a Professional is Essential

“Professional intervention guarantees the ideal management of the style motivated by the client. According to the project, the perfect logistics are established so that each specialty enters the job at its proper time, without hindering or damaging other work that coexists in the same space. The value of this is multiplied when the client is foreign and hopes, on his next visit, to receive all the results of the work turnkey, ready to be enjoyed.”

In fact, Soto added that “whether it is a photo, chair or rug, all the elements are proposed with the intention of contributing to the concept and style, prioritizing the expectations, budget and required delivery time.”

Balance Between Interior Design and Decoration

“The secret to avoid falling into excessive simplicity or complexity is in the hands of the professional, who has the vocation, responsibility and technical knowledge to develop the project, taking into account the management of expectations, congruence, budget, style, balance, serenity, harmony, authenticity, concept, fluidity and contrast.”

Once the basic aspects to be considered are understood, in our next edition we will address the styles that predominate in Vallarta · Nayarit, as well as the coming trends for 2020.