✦ BEGINNER FRIENDLY ✦
Design 101
Everything you need to know to design a home you love. No design degree required.
Design Should Feel Approachable
Design 101 is your go-to resource for learning the fundamentals of interior design in a way that’s actually useful in real life. Whether you’re decorating your first apartment, refreshing a tired room, or just trying to figure out why something feels off, this is the place to start.
I believe great design isn’t about having expensive things. It’s about understanding a few key principles and then applying them to what you already have. Let’s dig in.
The Core Topics
Start here. Learn the fundamentals.
Understanding undertones, creating a cohesive palette, and using color to set the mood in any room. Color is the foundation of every great space.
The rules of furniture arrangement, traffic flow, and how to scale pieces to your room. No more awkward spaces or furniture pushed against the walls.
Layering ambient, task, and accent lighting to transform how a room feels. Good lighting is the single biggest upgrade you can make in any space.
Why that rug looks too small, how to choose art that fits the wall, and the secret to making every piece feel intentional rather than afterthought.
The art of the vignette, styling shelves and coffee tables, and how to layer textures so a room feels collected, warm, and uniquely you.
How to prioritize your spending, where to splurge vs. save, and the smartest ways to get a high-end look without the high-end price tag.
How to choose paint colors for your home: work with undertones, test swatches in real lighting, and use the 60-30-10 rule to create a balanced, cohesive palette.
How to decorate a living room on a budget using smart shopping strategies, DIY projects, and designer tricks that make a big impact without the big price tag.
“Your home should tell the story of who you are.”
– Nate Berkus
Design 101 gives you the tools to write that story yourself. No expensive designer required, just the right knowledge and a little confidence.
Where to Begin
Three paths, one destination: a home you love
Practical design tips, room reveals, DIY projects, and honest advice for every budget.
BROWSE ARTICLESCurated mood boards, color palettes, and style guides to spark your creativity.
SEE INSPIRATIONReady to stop guessing and get professional guidance? Explore design services.
VIEW SERVICESReady to Skip the Learning Curve?
Sometimes the fastest way to a beautiful home is having an expert in your corner. Rebecca’s design services make the process simple, personal, and truly fun.
Color Theory for Interior Design: How to Choose Colors That Work
How to Create a Home Decorating Budget (and Actually Stick to It)
Styling and Accessories: How to Decorate Like a Designer
Scale and Proportion in Interior Design: Why Size Matters
Lighting Basics: How to Layer Light in Any Room
