Tips for Designing Memorable Rooms

Last updated on December 13th, 2024

In a perfect world, our homes would resemble our favorite catalogs, Pinterest boards, and Houzz Ideabooks that have resulted from hours spent searching for inspirations and designs we love. And while the entire home should be a memory, we know that it is dramatically easier with a design professional behind you.

So, we are here to give a crash course in creating memorable rooms throughout your home, in places you wouldn’t normally expect. Remember: the devil is in the details.

The first consideration in the design process is the floor plan and the architectural positives and negatives of your home. “Memorable” rooms are not just limited to themed bedrooms and game rooms. They can be great rooms, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and so on.

Look carefully at your home and find spaces that have the potential to create impact.

The Great Room

Pictured below is a great room we designed with “memories” in mind. The enormous volume and magnificent windows are a huge asset here. The question: how do we create a design that shows off what we already have? The answer: draw the eye upward by adding a ceiling box beam detail, highlighted by a large scale chandelier. We then added a simple, horizontal wood trim and designed draperies that frame the view, which highlighted the volume one more time. We created seating that functions for T.V. viewing and entertaining and topped the room off with a baby grand piano. Who could forget this room?

The Kids Room

Now, if you’re one of the millions online searching for ways to create a memorable kids space – look no further. The first thing to consider is that the child should always be kept in mind as the ultimate “designer.” And for kids ages 4-8, you can have a lot of fun with themes. However, it’s important to remember that organization and simplicity are the keys to keeping the space memorable. Stick to one theme and steer clear of clutter; less is more. You are creating an overall environment for the room, so everything down to the furniture should carry the theme. Take a leap out of the Disney playbook. Do not be afraid to make the theme larger than life. If your little one loves the outdoors, consider a tent-like bed design so every night feels like a camping adventure. Add birds on the wall, infuse the space with plant life, and you’ve created memories abound.

Let’s also remember the possibility of a more mature room design. Maybe the room is for the college-aged child in your family. A unique map wallpaper serves as the bed wall, creating an instant memory and “wow factor.” The simple bedding and wood furniture all coordinate with the occupant’s age, stage, and interests. We added accent blankets and then lined the nightstands with mementos and knickknacks, which play into the overall “Explorer” theme, making this room a perfect retreat for an older son finding his way in life.

The Guest Bedroom

If you thought the guest bedroom couldn’t contend for “most memorable room” in your house – think again. Pictured below is a guest room we designed with intricate wallpaper to leave a lasting impression. It’s such an easy, cost-effective way to increase perceived value and really give the room a “WOW” factor. This simple addition transformed the space into the enchanting guest room no one expected. Everything from the chandelier down to the details on the nightstand complement the flowery wallpaper. Voila, you’ve created another memorable space using cohesiveness and simplicity.

We’ve only scratched the surface, but you’re well on your way to becoming a pro at creating memorable rooms throughout your home. Just remember: look for focal points in unexpected spaces; be cognizant of scale, and do not be afraid to supersize one theme – no matter your style or idea.

For more inspiration for interior design, please visit Toll Brothers on Pinterest.