New home, new start: the checklist for your interior
Whether you are moving out on your own for the first time or you are taking the step to move to a bigger or smaller home: moving is stressful, chaotic and hectic. Arguing with your partner because he wants to move that ugly cupboard, that glass coffee table that falls down the stairs or is stuck in a nail, for example. It is all part of it.
That's why we thought it was time to take some of the worry out of your interior design.
In this blog we will go through everything you need to consider when moving when it comes to interior, so that you can be well prepared for your move and you will not forget anything for the interior of your new home. Finally, you can also download this checklist if you sign up for the newsletter at the bottom of the article.
Why a checklist?
A good start is half the battle and that certainly applies to a move. But how do you start? With a clear preparation of course. By thinking in time about what needs to be done, you save yourself a lot of stress.
In addition, a checklist helps you save money. You get an overview of what you really need, avoid double purchases and save last-minute trips to the hardware store.
In short: peace of mind and peace in your home.
Common mistakes when furnishing a new home
Moving is often a rollercoaster: you want everything to be done quickly. But in that haste, many (sustainable) mistakes are made. Below are the most common mistakes - so you can avoid them:
Buying furniture too soon
It seems smart to order a new sofa or dining table right away, but often it is still too early. You have to 'feel' the space first: what are the acoustics like, where does the light fall, where do you want to sit? Many people buy something nice based on feeling, but notice after a few weeks that it does not fit with how they really use the space.
Not taking into account the incidence of light
Daylight has a huge impact on atmosphere, color, and function. Without testing how sunlight enters at different times of the day, you risk making the wrong choices for window coverings, lighting, or even wall colors.
No consistent color or style plan
Pinterest is full of inspiration, but without a concrete color palette or style document, your home can quickly become a mess. A hodgepodge of styles feels restless. Tip: choose one dominant style (e.g. Scandinavian, Japandi, or industrial) and build around it. Add at most one style accent.
No attention to finishing (such as moldings)
Finishing makes the difference between “just moved” and “finished”. Think of tight transitions between walls and ceilings, beautiful skirting boards or subtle moldings. Such details give character to your interior and ensure a more luxurious look without having to do major renovations.
Work in phases
Your home doesn't have to be Pinterest-perfect in one weekend. In fact, working in phases will help you make better choices and avoid impulse regret.
Start with the basics: furniture, lighting, window coverings and storage. Then add atmosphere: wall decoration, plants, textiles, scents and of course finishing touches like our flex mouldings (wink wink) and skirting boards.
This way you can build a stylish, functional and personal home step by step.
Not wanting everything at once
It is logical that you want to settle down as soon as possible, but forcing yourself to decide everything at once often results in chaos (and a waste of money). Focus first on what is functionally necessary: where do you sleep, where do you sit, how do you cook?
First basic functionality, then atmosphere
Think in layers. Start with a good base: lighting, furniture, window coverings and storage space. Then add atmosphere with wall decoration, plants, textiles, scents and yes; finishing touches such as moldings or skirting boards. This way you create peace and space for personal choices, step by step.
General & planning
A good start is really half the battle. In this phase you map out your living wishes, determine a budget and create a mood board or style guide. Also important: measure well! Nothing is as frustrating as furniture that doesn't quite fit or a door that won't open.
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Budget determination per room
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Choice of style (colour palette, materials, atmosphere)
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Measurements of rooms, windows and doors
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Planning of deliveries and installations
Living room
The place where you relax, receive visitors and often live the most. Think carefully about the layout and the atmosphere you want to radiate. Lighting, window decoration and finishing make the difference here.
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Floor selection and protection
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Window coverings and lighting control
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Lighting (basic, mood, functional)
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Furniture: sofa, coffee table, cupboard, TV cabinet
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Mouldings, skirting boards and wall/ceiling finishing
Kitchen
Whether you take over a kitchen or install it yourself, the design requires smart choices. Think of sufficient storage space, logical work routes and materials that match your living style.
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Kitchen appliances and layout
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Wall and floor finishing
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Storage options: drawers, cabinets, shelves
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Lighting above worktop
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Consistency in colour and materials
Bedroom
Your bedroom is your charging station. It's all about comfort, peace and a smart layout. Provide ample storage space and a soothing colour palette.
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Bed and mattress (dimensions, quality)
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Blackout window coverings
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Cabinet or storage system
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Night lights / mood lighting
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Color, textiles and personal touches
Bathroom
Small but mighty: the bathroom deserves just as much attention as the rest of your home. Practical and stylish can go hand in hand.
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Mirrors (at the correct height and size)
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Sufficient storage space
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Wall and floor material (water-resistant and beautiful)
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Lighting at the mirror
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Accessories for atmosphere and convenience
Hall & corridors
The hall is the first thing you see when you enter and the last thing before you leave. Often forgotten, but here you can create a lot of atmosphere with little effort.
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Coat rack or wall hooks
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Shoe rack or cupboard
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Lighting and mirror
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Atmospheric elements (colours, scent, decoration)
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Wall finishing and any decorative mouldings
Ready to furnish your new home smartly and stylishly?
Moving doesn't have to be chaotic. With the right preparation (and a practical checklist) you can keep track, make better choices and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you've just received the keys or are already in the middle of moving stress: this interior checklist will help you turn your house into a real home step by step.
Don't want to forget anything?
Then download the complete checklist for free – clear, checkable and designed to give you peace of mind and direction during your move.
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