With over a decade of experience as an interior designer, I’ve had the privilege of transforming countless homes, from cozy apartments to expansive estates. What I’ve learned over the years is that the best spaces aren’t just aesthetically pleasing—they tell a story. Your home should be a reflection of who you are, and every choice, whether it’s the art on your walls or the furniture in your living room, should feel personal and intentional. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients, each with their unique vision, and the most rewarding part of the process is helping people discover and express their style.

In today’s world of fast-moving trends and social media inspiration, I’ve noticed that many people feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to make their home truly their own. My goal with this blog is to share the knowledge and insights I’ve gained through years of experience, offering practical advice to help you design a space that feels authentically you. Whether you’re taking the first steps in decorating your home or are a seasoned DIY enthusiast looking for fresh ideas, this guide will provide the tools you need to create a space that’s both functional and full of personality.

Your home is your sanctuary, and it should reflect your personality, passions, and preferences. Whether you’re moving into a new space or refreshing your current one, incorporating personal touches can make your house truly feel like home. Below, we’ll explore six expert ways to add personality and uniqueness to your living space—covering everything from art selection to lighting and beyond.

1. Display Art That Speaks to You

Nothing adds personality to a home quite like art. But the key isn’t just filling your walls with trendy pieces—it’s about curating works that resonate with you on a personal level. As interior designer Michelle Gage advises, art should evoke memories or reflect your personal experiences. Whether it’s a print from a local market, a piece you picked up while traveling, or even custom-framed restaurant menus from favorite dining spots, your art should feel deeply connected to you.

Pro Tip: Start small. You don’t have to create an entire gallery wall all at once. Begin collecting pieces over time and allow your collection to evolve. Visit local art galleries, online marketplaces like Etsy, or even antique shops for unique finds that fit your aesthetic.

2. Showcase Your Passions

Your home should be a reflection of what you love. Peti Lau, an expert designer, suggests incorporating your hobbies and passions into your décor. For example, if you’re a passionate cook, consider putting your collection of herbs and spices on display in stylish, unique jars.

Love photography? Frame and display your favorite shots of family, friends, or your travels. Not only will this make your space feel more personal, but it will also create a conversation piece for guests.

Pro Tip: Use matching frames in different sizes to create consistency while showcasing your memories or collections in a refined way. A simple gallery wall in a hallway or above your sofa can bring your passion to life.

3. Personalize Your Space with Paint

Few things transform a room like a fresh coat of paint. And the beauty of paint is that it’s a relatively low-cost way to make a bold statement. According to Whitney Riter Gelinas, think beyond just the walls—ceilings, doors, or even painted furniture can elevate a room.

If you’re feeling adventurous but unsure about how bold to go, don’t hesitate to consult a designer or seek a second opinion from a friend. While trends come and go, the colors and patterns you choose should reflect your true self.

Pro Tip: Geometric patterns created with painter’s tape are an excellent way to introduce an artistic, modern vibe without overwhelming the space. Websites like Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore offer virtual tools where you can preview colors before committing.

4. Rethink Your Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of a room. Too often, homes rely solely on overhead lights, which can feel harsh and unwelcoming. Designer Jocelyn Polce recommends layering your lighting by combining overhead fixtures with lamps and task lighting.

Consider choosing unique lamps with patterned shades or playful designs that add both light and personality to a room. Don’t hesitate to mix up the placement of your lighting—small lamps on kitchen counters or mini lamps on bookshelves can add an intimate ambiance.

Pro Tip: When choosing lighting fixtures, think of them as a design element. Online stores like Wayfair or Lumens have a wide selection of trendy, budget-friendly options that allow you to experiment with different styles.

5. Only Buy What You Love

Impulse purchases, especially during sales, might fill up your home but can lead to a mismatched aesthetic. Brandi Wilkins of Three Luxe Nine Interiors advises investing in pieces you truly love, even if that means waiting a little longer or spending more.

Rushing to buy that discounted sofa might seem like a good deal in the moment, but it may not align with your long-term vision for your home. It’s better to invest in furniture and décor that you are genuinely passionate about and that will stand the test of time.

Pro Tip: Shopping for antiques or vintage pieces can add unique character to your home. Visit local vintage shops, estate sales, or online markets like Chairish or 1stDibs for one-of-a-kind pieces that fit your style.

6. Be Confident in Your Choices

At the end of the day, your home should be a reflection of you—not the latest trends on social media. Laura Hur of Lorla Studio emphasizes that while it’s easy to be influenced by what’s trending online, it’s more rewarding to stick to what you love.

Instead of relying solely on Instagram or Pinterest for inspiration, explore design books, museums, and travel to find design elements that resonate with you. Once you know what style truly speaks to you, embrace it with confidence, even if it isn’t trendy.

Pro Tip: When you’re feeling uncertain, analyze what you like about a space. Is it the color scheme, the furniture style, or the layout? Once you understand that, you can apply similar elements in your home without replicating the trend itself.

Resources to Help You Create Your Dream Space

1. Art and Décor:

• Etsy for custom, handmade pieces.
• Society6 for affordable prints from independent artists.
• Chairish for vintage furniture and décor.

• Benjamin Moore Color Visualizer tool to test colors before painting.
• Sherwin-Williams for eco-friendly paint options.

• Wayfair for affordable and trendy lighting options.
• Lumens for designer lighting fixtures at a range of price points.

• West Elm for stylish, high-quality furniture.
• 1stDibs for unique, vintage finds.

Making your home feel like you is an evolving process, but each choice should feel intentional and deeply personal. By following these expert tips, you’ll create a space that isn’t just beautiful but also full of character and meaning.