Since I got it, everyone thinks I hired a decorator

Getting your space to look like it belonged in a magazine doesn’t have to mean you hired a professional decorator! Sometimes, a keen eye and a little creativity make all the difference. This article delves into why people assume the work of experts when in reality, it might just be a touch of personal flair.

Why everyone thinks you hired a decorator when you didn’t

It’s funny how a few well-placed accents can totally transform a room and suddenly neighbors start whispering about an “interior decorator.” But often, it’s all about those tiny details—like choosing the right color swatches or adding accent plants—that really make a space *pop*. That little bit of polish tricks the eye and speaks of a professional touch without the hefty price tag!

People crave that polished look, and we tend to assume great style comes only from hiring a specialist. In truth, sometimes it’s just a cool cushion here or a cleverly chosen lamp there. The charm is in the mix, not the wallet!

How to get that ‘decorated’ look without calling in the pros

Not everyone has a flair for picking the right throw pillow or coordinating curtains, I get it. But even a little research is gold—flipping through magazines, watching home makeover shows, or even hitting up local home tours can spark inspiration. What’s surprising is how borrowing ideas and making them your own catches people off guard.

You don’t need to be a pro to pull an eye-catching look. Start small, like mixing warm Bavarian textures with light, Mediterranean hues. The key is balancing cosiness (‘Gemütlichkeit’) with fresh sophistication that whispers, not shouts, elegance.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the final stretch of decorating, you’re not alone. Many wonder if they should hire a pro just to sprinkle the finishing touches or give advice on where to add that pop of color. Sometimes, a short consultation with a decorator is all it takes—but only if you go in with your tastes clear. Beware the trap of losing your own style in the shuffle!

Finding a decorator, or just the right inspiration?

The idea of hiring a decorator can be intimidating, especially if budgets are tight or personal style is well-defined. Lots of good decorators charge by the hour or offer project consultations. Sometimes, even buying a few items through them knocks down the consultation cost. It’s about balance—making your space yours without breaking the bank.

Word of mouth is the secret sauce. Realtors, neighbors, or friends can point you to hidden gems who respect your style and budget. Plus, some places offer decorating tips bundled with services like custom drapes—a practical way to get expert input while shopping.

If you’re serious about a total makeover but don’t want a designer bulldozing your personality, try a brief consult. A couple of hours might be enough to pick complementary paint colors or find that perfect plant to cheer the corner. Sometimes the best decorators know how to highlight your existing furniture and use affordable accents to craft a cohesive story.

Why your space deserves that final “pop”

Every room needs a focal point. Whether it’s a statement mirror, a vibrant bookshelf filled with quirky tchotchke, or that quirky lamp picked up on holiday, these details inject life and personality. They don’t scream “decorator-approved,” but shout “homey and loved.” That’s the secret no decorator will tell you openly.

Certain color pops — maybe a daring flamingo pink or warm terracotta – bring unexpected joy and make people pause. The subtle clash of Bavarian tradition and the zest of Mediterranean zest adds just the right dash of surprise to keep your friends guessing how you pulled it off.

Fiona Godlee

At 38, I am a proud and passionate geek. My world revolves around comics, the latest cult series, and everything that makes pop culture tick. On this blog, I open the doors to my ‘lair’ to share my top picks, my reviews, and my life as a collector