Editor’s Note: Tina Ramchandani of Tina Ramchandani Creative sits down with us and answers questions on designing a space you are sure to love.
When designing a room, where do you typically start?
I like to look at the space in terms of flow and function. I start by creating a layout that works based on my clients’ lifestyle, needs, and nature of the space. After that, I design the room from the bottom up, rugs, then furniture, then window treatments, then paint and finishing with accessories.
Photo Credit: Lisa Russman
What are the top three design elements that can completely change the way a room feels?
Lighting is the quickest and easiest way to set the mood in a space, especially in a room that doesn’t get much natural light. It’s a part of the design that you can easily manipulate to work for you and the space you’re designing.
Floor coverings make a huge impact on the overall feel. Whether it’s a statement rug, custom tile work, or hardwood flooring of the right caliber, it’s an effective way to make a splash.
Window treatments are a way to customize your space for a relatively low cost by incorporating specialty fabrics and colors that enhance the details throughout the rest of the room.
Photo Credit: Ellen McDermott
When a client has lots of accessories they want to keep, how do you go about deciding what pieces should stay and what pieces should go?
I don’t believe you need to have all your accessories out all the time. I like to look at what the client is attracted to at this moment, decorate with it, and others can be swapped out seasonally. Focusing on items that have personal meaning is a great starting point when you need to filter.
Photo Credit: Jacob Snavely
When it comes to mixing and matching textures, shapes and finishes, are there any cardinal rules you always follow?
It’s all about the feeling you’re trying to evoke and what works well together to create that feeling. I don’t follow a specific rule, so there’s no formula to replicate when it comes to juxtaposition, but generally speaking you always want things that create balance.
Photo Credit: Ellen McDermott
What’s the number one thing should people know going into the design process?
As an interior designer, I like to remind clients that the furniture and fixtures they are choosing are often made by hand, so things take time. Bespoke items that are designed and handcrafted by artisans take time to create, so appreciation and patience are crucial to having the best outcome.
Photo Credit: Ellen McDermott
For more on Tina Ramchandani and Tina Ramchandani Creative, visit her Haute Residence profile.