Interior design: ideas and tips

Interior design begins with good planning

A coherent interior is rarely created by gradually purchasing individual pieces of attractive furniture. These items often later fail to match one another or the proportions of the room. A simple plan prevents unsuitable purchases and makes it easier to define the budget and priorities.

1. Measure the room

Record not only the length and width, but also:

• the room height,
• the position and opening direction of the doors,
• the window width and sill height,
• radiators and ventilation openings,
• power sockets, light switches and connections,
• recesses, projections and sloping ceilings,
• built-in cupboards,
• access to balconies, terraces or adjoining rooms.

A simple floor plan on paper is sufficient for an initial plan. Cut the most important furniture pieces out of paper to scale or use a digital planning tool. This allows different arrangements to be tested before heavy furniture is moved or new furniture is purchased.

2. Define the functions

A living room can simultaneously serve as a family room, play area, dining area, home office and guest room. The more functions a room performs, the more important clearly defined zones become.

Record the following for each room:

• the main and secondary functions,
• the number of regular users,
• the required seating, work and surface areas,
• the storage requirements,
• special requirements relating to children, pets or older people,
• the desired atmosphere,
• daily circulation routes.

3. Take an inventory of what already exists

Check which furniture and objects should remain. Photograph and measure larger pieces. A room can often be changed significantly simply by rearranging furniture, replacing fronts or updating textiles.

4. Define priorities and the budget

Divide the furnishings into three groups:

• Essential: bed, table, office chair, lighting and basic storage.
• Important: sofa, rug, curtains, additional cupboards or improved task lighting.
• Optional: decoration, designer objects, additional armchairs or trend-related accessories.

Colour schemes: influencing atmosphere and spatial perception

Colours shape the atmosphere of a room and influence whether it appears calm, warm, fresh, elegant or lively. Light colours can make a room appear more open, while dark or strong shades create depth, comfort and personality.

Define a colour palette

A harmonious concept often consists of:

• a neutral or calm base colour,
• a complementary secondary colour,
• one or two accent colours,
• recurring wood, metal or natural tones.

The base colour should work on large surfaces such as walls, rugs or cupboards. Accent colours can be introduced through cushions, artwork, lamps or individual furniture pieces and can be replaced more easily later.

Consider the daylight

A colour appears different depending on the time of day and the orientation of the room. In rooms with little direct light, cool grey or blue shades can quickly appear austere. Warm white, beige, sand or muted earth tones can create greater comfort.

Wall colours should therefore be tested:

• on a sufficiently large sample area,
• on several walls,
• in daylight and artificial light,
• in the morning, at midday and in the evening,
• together with the flooring, curtains and furniture.

Visually alter the proportions of a room

Furniture placement: proportions and circulation routes

The furniture should suit both the room and the other furniture. A very large sofa can dominate a small living room, while numerous small items can make a large room appear restless and random.

Place the main piece of furniture first

Define one main piece of furniture or functional focal point for each room:

• sofa or seating group in the living room,
• bed in the bedroom,
• dining table in the dining area,
• desk in the study,
• play or floor area in the child’s bedroom.

Arrange the secondary furniture, lighting and storage afterwards. This creates a clear hierarchy.

Keep circulation routes clear

The most important routes should be direct and free of obstacles. Particular attention should be paid to the following:

• Doors and windows must be able to open fully.
• Drawers and cupboard doors require clear opening space.
• Radiators and ventilation openings should not be completely obstructed.
• The route between the entrance, seating area, kitchen and balcony should not run through furniture.
• Wider, obstacle-free routes are advisable for older people or those with reduced mobility.

Create conversation areas

In a living room, the seating should not be directed solely towards the television. An armchair placed at the side of the sofa or two seats facing one another encourage conversation and make the group appear more cohesive.

Do not automatically place every item against a wall

Freestanding furniture can create zones in larger rooms. A sofa can, for example, separate the living area from the dining area. An open shelving unit can serve as a room divider without completely blocking the light.

Lighting: planning for function and atmosphere

One ceiling light is not sufficient in most rooms. A good lighting concept combines several layers and takes account of both the use and the desired atmosphere.

The three lighting layers

Use natural light

• Do not place tall furniture directly in front of windows.
• Position work areas sideways to the window wherever possible.
• Use lightweight curtains when privacy is required without a major loss of light.
• Position mirrors so that they distribute light without causing glare.
• Illuminate dark corners specifically with floor or table lamps.

Colour temperature and colour rendering

Warm-looking light is often suitable for living and sleeping areas. More neutral and clearer light may be appropriate in kitchens, bathrooms and workspaces. Good colour rendering is also important for colours, textiles and artwork.

Dimming and separately switched zones

Dimmable lights and separate circuits make different lighting scenes possible:

• bright light for cleaning, working or cooking,
• calm lighting for the evening,
• targeted reading light,
• orientation lighting at night,
• accent lighting for pictures or plants.

Wall design: colour, pictures and shelves

Walls provide a great deal of space, but should not be completely decorated. A deliberate combination of designed and empty areas generally appears calmer than numerous small elements without a clear arrangement.

Possible wall designs

• single-colour or two-colour wall design,
• accent wall,
• wallpaper or photographic wallpaper,
• wood or acoustic panels,
• one large work of art,
• an organised gallery wall,
• wall shelves,
• mirrors,
• textile wall decoration,
• personal photographs or keepsakes.

Arrange pictures correctly

A picture should relate to the furniture beneath it. Above a sofa or sideboard, a coherent group of pictures generally works best when it does not appear wider than the furniture and is not hung too high.

The following help when creating a gallery wall:

• consistent frames or a shared colour theme,
• even spacing,
• an imaginary centre line or baseline,
• a trial arrangement on the floor,
• paper templates on the wall before drilling.

Improve the acoustics

Large smooth surfaces can make a room sound echoing. Rugs, curtains, upholstered furniture, bookshelves and suitable acoustic elements reduce reflections. This can significantly improve comfort in a home office or living room with high ceilings.

Textiles and accessories: warmth and personality

Textiles make rooms feel more comfortable, influence the acoustics and light and can be replaced relatively easily. They include:

• curtains and blinds,
• rugs,
• cushions,
• blankets,
• bed linen,
• upholstery covers,
• table linen,
• textile wall art.

Mount curtains correctly

Curtains appear more generous when the rail or pole is mounted sufficiently high and extends beyond the width of the window on both sides. This allows the fabric to hang beside the window without covering a large part of the glass.

Use rugs to anchor the room

A rug that is too small can make a seating group appear disconnected. In the living room, it should clearly relate to the sofa, armchairs and coffee table. Beneath a dining table, sufficient rug area should remain so that the chairs do not continually catch on the edge when pulled back.

Use decorations selectively

More decoration does not automatically create more atmosphere. Group objects according to:

• colour,
• material,
• theme,
• shape,
• different heights.

Empty areas give selected objects greater impact and make cleaning and maintaining order easier.

Storage solutions: organisation without visible clutter

A functional interior requires sufficient storage space. Open shelves are suitable for attractive or frequently used items, while closed cupboards create visual calm.

Plan storage according to use

• Store everyday items within easy reach.
• Keep heavy items lower down.
• Store seasonal items in higher areas.
• Organise small items in labelled boxes or drawer inserts.
• Assign a permanent place to each group of objects.
• Create storage as close as possible to where the items are used.

Use previously unused areas

Additional storage can be created:

• under the bed,
• above doors,
• in recesses,
• beneath benches,
• in full-height cupboards,
• under stairs,
• with narrow tall cupboards,
• with furniture combining seating and storage.

Combine open and closed storage

A mixture of closed fronts and a small number of open areas is often more practical than a completely open shelving system. Visible shelves require more organisation and can quickly create visual clutter through books, cables and different packaging.

Integrating plants and greenery effectively

Plants add colour, natural shapes and life to a room. The decisive factor is whether they suit the actual conditions.

Check the location

Consider:

• direct or indirect light,
• distance from the window,
• temperature fluctuations,
• humidity,
• proximity to radiators,
• maintenance requirements,
• available space for growth.

Design with plants

• One large plant can form a focal point.
• Small plants appear calmer as a group than when scattered individually throughout the room.
• Hanging plants use vertical space.
• Herbs combine decoration with practical use.
• Matching plant pots create cohesion.

Interior style, individuality and personality

An interior style provides guidance, but should not be treated as a rigid set of rules. A home appears authentic when it reflects the people who live there.

Popular interior styles

Integrate personal objects

Family photographs, inherited items, travel souvenirs, books and art give a room individuality. Personal objects are particularly effective when deliberately grouped and combined with calmer areas.

Combine styles

Several styles can work harmoniously when connecting elements are present:

• recurring colours,
• similar types of wood,
• consistent metal finishes,
• comparable proportions,
• a clear basic furniture shape.

New trends should only be adopted where they suit everyday life and the existing interior. Furnishings with a short fashionable lifespan more often lead to unnecessary replacement purchases.

Furnishing small rooms and apartments

In small apartments, not only the space but also the number of clearly separated rooms is often limited. Furniture must perform several functions without overloading the room.

Fewer but appropriately sized pieces of furniture

Numerous very small pieces are not always more space-saving. A well-proportioned sofa and a closed cupboard can appear calmer than several small shelves, stools and side tables.

Multifunctional furniture

• sofa bed for occasional guests,
• extendable dining table,
• storage stool,
• bed with drawers,
• folding wall-mounted table,
• bench with storage,
• desk used as a console table,
• movable room dividers.

Use vertical space

Full-height cupboards, tall shelves and wall-mounted storage use the available height. Frequently used items should nevertheless remain easily accessible.

Create visual calm

• a limited number of main colours,
• closed cupboard fronts,
• matching storage boxes,
• clear floor areas,
• concealed cables,
• a small number of deliberately placed decorations.

Create zones without solid walls

Functional areas can be divided using:

• rugs,
• lighting,
• open shelves,
• curtains,
• different wall colours,
• the backs of sofas,
• platforms or different furniture orientations.

Interior design tips for individual rooms

Living room

• Arrange the seating according to conversation and use.
• Do not automatically make the television the only focal point.
• Plan reading light directly beside the seating.
• Select a sufficiently large rug.
• Route cables and power strips safely and neatly.
• Integrate storage for media, games and everyday items.

Bedroom

• Position the bed so that convenient access remains possible.
• Combine blackout and privacy protection.
• Use calm colours and a limited number of electronic light sources.
• Size the wardrobe according to the actual contents.
• Do not obstruct direct airflow or radiators.
• Provide sufficient reading light on both sides of the bed.

Dining area

• Adapt the table size to the household size and frequency of guests.
• Leave sufficient space to pull back the chairs.
• Position the pendant light centrally and without glare above the table.
• Store crockery and table linen nearby.
• Consider an extendable table or bench where space is limited.

Home office

• Position the workplace sideways to the window wherever possible.
• Use a separate task light.
• Adjust the screen height and seating position ergonomically.
• Route cables so that they do not create trip hazards.
• Improve acoustics with rugs, curtains or suitable panels.
• Ensure work materials can be stored away outside working hours.

Child’s bedroom

• Prioritise clear floor space for playing.
• Provide storage within the child’s reach.
• Secure heavy or tall furniture against tipping.
• Keep cables, cords, batteries and small objects secure.
• Adapt the furniture to the child’s age and development.
• Separate the calm sleeping area from the active play area.
• Furniture that grows with the child may be worthwhile over the long term.

Entrance area

• Create space for jackets, shoes, keys and bags.
• Provide good lighting and a mirror.
• Use a dirt-trapping mat inside the apartment.
• Keep the passage and apartment door clear.
• Select narrow closed furniture instead of deep shelving.

Bathroom

• Use materials suitable for humid conditions.
• Ensure sufficient ventilation.
• Position non-slip mats securely.
• Do not use electrical appliances dangerously close to water.
• Store cleaning products and medicines out of children’s reach.
• Keep frequently used items easily accessible.

Balcony

• Observe the load-bearing capacity, house rules and tenancy agreement.
• Secure containers against falling.
• Keep drainage openings clear.
• Select weather-resistant furniture and textiles.
• Clarify consent requirements for privacy screens and fixed installations.
• Do not obstruct escape or rescue routes.

Which interior design rules apply in Switzerland?

Freestanding furniture, rugs, loose decorations and ordinary home accessories can generally be used without structural alterations. Additional rules must be observed as soon as the furnishings are permanently connected to the building, affect utility lines, alter the external appearance or occupy communal areas.

Structural alterations in a rented apartment

Under Article 260a of the Swiss Code of Obligations, tenants may generally only make improvements or alterations to the rented property if the landlord has provided written consent.

Prior written clarification is particularly advisable for:

• fixed built-in cupboards,
• wall or ceiling cladding,
• partition walls,
• alterations to doors or flooring,
• permanently installed shading systems,
• bathroom or kitchen alterations,
• fixed air-conditioning or ventilation equipment,
• extensive electrical installations,
• alterations to the façade, balcony or windows.

The agreement should specify:

• which work may be carried out,
• who bears the costs,
• which professionals will be commissioned,
• whether permits are required,
• who is liable for damage,
• whether the original condition must be restored when moving out,
• how any remaining added value will be handled.

Drilling, pictures and wall shelves

Individual professionally made drill holes and ordinary wall shelves are often part of normal residential use. Particular care is required:

• where electrical, water or heating lines may be present,
• in wet rooms and tiled areas,
• for very heavy loads,
• for acoustic or fire-protection components,
• for numerous or excessively large holes,
• on protected historic surfaces,
• for permanently bonded wall coverings.

Suitable utility detectors should be used before drilling, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions should be followed.

Painting and wallpapering walls

The legal assessment of ordinary, professionally executed design work within an apartment is less clear than that of an actual structural alteration. Strong colours, special coatings, wallpaper, textured plaster techniques or materials that are difficult to remove should be clarified in writing beforehand, including whether restoration will be required when moving out.

Document:

• the condition when moving in,
• existing damage,
• the products used,
• any consent obtained,
• agreements concerning restoration.

Electrical installations

The Swiss Ordinance on Low-Voltage Electrical Installations regulates who may carry out electrical installation work. Work on fixed installations is strictly restricted and should generally be left to authorised professionals.

The following should be carried out professionally:

• new electrical circuits,
• moving or adding connections,
• permanently installed lighting systems,
• work on the fuse box,
• installations in bathrooms and other wet areas,
• smart-home components connected to the fixed building installation,
• electrical connections for kitchens, washing towers or charging stations.

Fire protection and escape routes

Stairwells, corridors, building entrances and landings are escape and rescue routes. They do not form part of the private residential area and must remain safe to use.

The following should not be stored in these areas:

• furniture and coat racks,
• pushchairs,
• bicycles,
• waste paper or cardboard boxes,
• firewood,
• waste bins,
• combustible curtains or decorations,
• objects in front of fire-fighting equipment or doors.

The Swiss Fire Prevention Advisory Centre states that the clear passage width in relevant escape routes must generally be at least 1.20 metres. The fire-protection authority or property management company may impose stricter or property-specific requirements.

Candles and open flames

• Never leave candles burning unattended.
• Maintain sufficient distance from curtains, paper, plants and other combustible materials.
• Use a stable, non-combustible base.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not place tea lights directly on sensitive wood or textile surfaces.
• Extinguish candles before leaving the room.

Condominium ownership

Condominium owners may not freely alter communal building components either. Depending on the regulations and the measure, resolutions or consent may be required for:

• windows and external doors,
• load-bearing walls,
• the façade and balcony,
• awnings,
• air-conditioning and ventilation equipment,
• external antennas,
• communal pipes and shafts,
• alterations affecting the uniform external appearance.

Building and heritage-protection law

Major layout alterations, work on load-bearing components, changes of use or alterations to protected buildings may require permits. The specific requirements differ according to the canton and municipality.

Furnishing safely and accessibly

Position furniture securely

• Secure tall and narrow furniture according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Store heavy items in lower compartments.
• Secure televisions and large mirrors against tipping.
• Do not load drawers in a way that could cause the cupboard to tip forwards.
• Take account of climbing opportunities for small children.

Avoid trip hazards

• Use non-slip underlays beneath rugs.
• Route cables along walls or through cable ducts.
• Ensure transitions are well lit.
• Remove unnecessary furniture from main routes.
• Use sufficiently contrasting step edges.

Plan for accessibility

An accessible interior is not only useful when a person already has reduced mobility. It also simplifies everyday life with a pushchair, after an injury or in later life.

Helpful measures include:

• wide and clear circulation routes,
• easily accessible switches and handles,
• sufficient lighting,
• stable seating of a suitable height,
• few changes in floor level,
• non-slip surfaces,
• doors and drawers that are easy to open,
• frequently used items stored at an accessible height.

Using the interior design budget sensibly

A high-quality interior does not have to be purchased entirely new. Spend more in areas where comfort, safety and daily use are particularly important.

Areas with a higher priority

• mattress and bed,
• ergonomic office chair,
• frequently used sofa,
• stable dining table,
• good task and reading lighting,
• safe children’s furniture,
• suitable and sufficient storage.

Areas where savings may be possible

• second-hand furniture,
• refurbished wooden furniture,
• replaceable cushion and upholstery covers,
• used shelving and sideboards,
• self-framed art and photographs,
• existing furniture that is rearranged or repainted,
• a small amount of seasonal decoration.

Budget template

Room:                              [description]
Maximum budget:                    CHF [amount]

Essential furniture:               CHF [amount]
Lighting:                          CHF [amount]
Storage:                           CHF [amount]
Textiles:                          CHF [amount]
Wall design:                       CHF [amount]
Decoration and plants:             CHF [amount]
Installation and professional work: CHF [amount]
Transport and delivery:            CHF [amount]
Reserve:                           CHF [amount]

Existing furniture to reuse:       [list]
Suitable second-hand purchases:    [list]
Items to purchase later:           [list]
Total cost:                        CHF [amount]

Furnishing sustainably and for the long term

The most sustainable interior is often the one that remains in use for a long time. Before purchasing something new, check whether an existing piece can be repaired, adapted or used in another location.

Consider durability

• stable construction,
• repairable connections,
• replaceable covers and fittings,
• available spare parts,
• timeless design,
• adaptable or modular elements,
• materials that can be professionally refurbished.

Second-hand purchases and reuse

Solid-wood furniture, chairs, shelves, mirrors and lamps can often be purchased second-hand. The condition, hygiene, technical safety and current requirements should be examined particularly carefully for upholstered furniture, mattresses, electrical appliances and children’s furniture.

Repair instead of replace

• Sand and refinish wooden furniture.
• Reglue chairs.
• Reupholster furniture.
• Replace fittings and handles.
• Add new internal cupboard fittings.
• Have lighting repaired professionally.
• Adapt furniture to a new use.

Common interior design mistakes

• Purchasing furniture before the room has been measured accurately.
• Placing every item of furniture against a wall.
• Using only one central light source.
• Selecting a rug that is too small.
• Mounting curtains too low directly above the window.
• Combining too many different colours and types of wood.
• Planning storage only afterwards.
• Blocking radiators, doors or ventilation openings.
• Selecting attractive but impractical furniture for everyday use.
• Adopting trends without considering your own lifestyle.
• Distributing all decorations evenly throughout the room.
• Carrying out major alterations in a rented apartment without consent.
• Altering electrical installations without sufficient specialist knowledge.
• Storing furniture or combustible items in the stairwell.
• Overlooking the safety requirements of children or older people.

Practical interior design examples

Step by step towards a successful interior

1. Measure and photograph the room completely.
2. Define the functions, users and storage requirements.
3. Take an inventory of and measure the existing furniture.
4. Define the budget and priorities.
5. Position the main furniture on the floor plan.
6. Check doors, drawers and circulation routes.
7. Plan general, task and accent lighting.
8. Define the colour palette and materials.
9. Plan storage close to where items are used.
10. Clarify tenancy-law, electrical and structural questions.
11. Purchase large furniture and functional elements first.
12. Add textiles, pictures, plants and accessories last.
13. Use the room for several weeks before adding more decoration.
14. Finally check safety, practicality and ease of cleaning.

Checklist: planning an interior

Frequently asked questions about interior design