Ever thought about what makes a room full of character and style different from boring, empty rooms? It’s all in the little details – specifically, in the finishes. Today, we’re going to look into what are finishes in interior design. From discovering why they’re important to finding many different types out there, this blog post is the answer to all these questions.
What are Finishes in Interior Design?
Think about your favorite room—a space where you’re in your pjs, in that comfort zone, and every element comes together just right. A key contributor to that well-done interior? The finishes. But what are finishes in interior design? In simple terms, finishes are the final touches that complete the overall look of any interior space. They can be everything from paint colors and wallpaper patterns to flooring materials and lighting fixtures. Finishes in interior design are the icing on the cake, the cherry on top—the elements that tie the entire room together in perfect harmony.
Why Do We Need Finishes?
Now that we know what finishes are, let’s look into why we need them. Finishes are the final layer of expression, adding depth, texture, and character to a space. Choosing the right finishes for your space sets the mood, evokes emotions, and creates a cohesive visual narrative that brings the room together in unity. Additionally, finishes play a practical role by protecting surfaces from wear and tear, enhancing durability, and even improving the acoustics or lighting conditions of a room. Whether you’re looking to achieve a cozy cottage vibe or a sleek, modern design, the right interior design surface finishes can make all the difference.
The Diverse Types of Finishes in Interior Design
Given the answers to what are finishes in interior design, let’s take a tour of some popular types of finishes:
- Paint: Paint colors come in every shade you can think of, allowing you to set the tone and mood for your space.
- Wallpaper: From bold geometric prints to delicate floral patterns, wallpapers can transform your space into your favorite interior design style.
- Flooring: Whether you prefer the rustic grains of hardwood or the sophisticated appearance of tile, the right flooring finish can elevate your interior to new heights.
- Textiles: Think of warm rugs, elegant curtains, and drapery, as well as plush upholstery to soften the edges of any interior space and add a touch of luxury.
- Lighting: Whether it’s a sparkling chandelier or recessed lights, the right lighting can create ambiance and drama like nothing else.
Where Can Finishes Be Applied?
So where exactly can these finishes be applied? The short answer? Almost anywhere! From walls and floors to ceilings and furniture, finishes have the power to transform virtually any surface. Whether you’re giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh coat of paint or installing polished marble countertops in your bathroom, there are limitless possibilities to apply these finishes.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Finishes
With so many options available, choosing the perfect finishes for your space can be challenging. But don’t worry! Here are a few tips to help you in your decision-making process:
1. Understand Your Client’s Requirements
Before you move on to creating their dream space, take a few moments to understand client tastes, styles, and preferences. A great idea is to have your client provide examples of rooms or homes that inspire their material and interior design finish choices.
2. Consider the Mood
Yes, how a room feels is a thing. Think about the atmosphere or feel you’re trying to achieve for your interior. For example, incorporating dark colors and hard materials gives a sense of luxury and peace so are used mostly for private spaces while bright colors and warm materials are much more inviting and encourage conversation. Therefore, you’ll see them more often in shared common areas like kitchens and living rooms.
3. Design with Function
An important point to consider when choosing the right finish is the function of the space. Each finish has different properties including durability, acoustics, maintenance, and thermal performance. You might want to go for a tough and easy-to-wipe-down surface for kitchens whereas employ soft and sound-absorbing materials for bedrooms where you want to chill and unwind.
4. Careful Material Consideration
Material selection is crucial and should match your room function. Think about what are finishes in interior design for client homes with kids and how this will affect their material choices. Such homes will require noise-dampening materials to avoid noises or clinking dishes being heard across rooms.
5. Budget
Keep your budget in mind. Using custom materials such as stone, woodwork, and metals can incur notably higher costs compared to off-the-shelf alternatives. If budget constraints are a concern, consider allocating funds for small details and accents to incorporate more luxurious or distinctive materials and finishes.
Conclusion
So, what are finishes in interior design? To sum it up, from painting walls to selecting flooring materials, the finishes you choose have the power to turn your space into a place you’ll love coming home to.
Reference: Architectural Digest
