Designing a home is exciting—but with so many options, it can also feel a little daunting. Colours, materials, finishes, textures… where do you even start?
The good news: creating a cohesive, considered home doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from understanding your style, making intentional choices, and having a clear framework to guide decisions along the way.
Here’s how to move from inspiration to a well-resolved home you’ll love for years to come.
Before diving into selections, it’s important to understand what you’re naturally drawn to. Start by exploring different architectural and interior styles—Mid-Century Modern, Hamptons, Coastal, Industrial, Contemporary, and everything in between.
As you browse, pay attention to:
Do you lean towards warm timbers and earthy tones, or crisp whites with contrast and clean lines? Identifying these patterns early helps shape a clear vision and makes every decision easier moving forward.
Once you’ve identified your style, it’s time to bring it to life visually.
This is where the fun really begins. Pull together:
Pinterest, Instagram, magazines, and real-life spaces you’ve loved are all great sources. Your mood board isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s a visual guide that captures how you want your home to feel.
Ask yourself:
Your mood board becomes your creative anchor throughout the design and build process.
Pro tip:
Beautiful design is about balance—and that includes your budget.
Once your style direction is clear, it’s time to be realistic about what you can spend and where it makes sense to invest. Identify your non-negotiables early. This might be:
From there, look for smart opportunities to save in less critical areas. A clear budget helps guide selections, keeps expectations aligned, and avoids surprises later in the build.
Pro tip:
If you need help balancing design ambition with budget reality, our Concept Design Phase is a great place to start.
Finishes play a huge role in how your home looks and lives.
From flooring and tiles to benchtops, cladding, and joinery—each choice should suit both your style and your lifestyle. When making selections, consider:
Layering different textures and tones adds depth and character, helping your home feel thoughtfully designed rather than flat or one-dimensional.
With so many decisions, it’s easy to lose track. A checklist keeps everything organised and becomes a valuable reference when building your Schedule of Finishes.
Your colour palette sets the tone for your entire home. It’s not just about wall colours—it’s about how everything works together from room to room.
Natural light plays a big role too—always test samples at different times of day. A well-balanced palette creates flow, cohesion, and a polished, intentional feel.
This is where everything comes together.
Lighting, hardware, tapware, and soft furnishings are the finishing touches that elevate a house into a home. Statement lighting, carefully chosen door handles, and considered tapware finishes can subtly tie your whole design together.
Soft furnishings—curtains, rugs, cushions—add warmth and comfort, while art, plants, and decor inject personality and story.
Don’t rush this stage. The best homes feel collected over time, not forced all at once.
Remember: the magic really is in the details.
Pro tip: We go through all of this carefully during our Concept Design Phase.
Working with a designer, builder, or stylist can help refine your ideas and turn inspiration into a home that truly works for you.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed—or just not sure where to start—that’s completely normal. Whether you’re early in the planning phase or finalising finishes, our team is here to guide you through every step. No question is too small, and sometimes a quick chat makes all the difference.