Hi, friends!! We're so glad you made it to your site. This is Hanna and Tracey.. Mother-Daughter Interior Design Team and Co-Owners of Hanna Mae Design Studio and Birch & Bind! We thought we would put our heads together with regular blog postings (yep, we mean it!!) and share more about what we do every day so that we can help make design achievable for all!

Interior design isn’t just about making a space look good—it’s about creating a home that feels just right, and we want to help you do just that. Whether it’s a cozy living room perfect for Sunday afternoons, a sleek kitchen that inspires culinary magic, or a bedroom that’s your personal retreat, great interior design blends style, comfort, and functionality. In this guide, we’ll explore what interior design is all about, its key principles, and why it’s the secret ingredient to a classy, well-loved home.

What Is Interior Design?

Interior design is all about making indoor spaces both beautiful AND practical. It’s a mix of creativity and logic—bringing together colors, furniture, lighting, and layouts in a way that works for your lifestyle. We like to think of it as setting the stage for your everyday moments... from sipping coffee in a sunlit nook (our favorite!!) to hosting dinner parties in a warm, inviting dining room.

So.. Let's dive right in!

Key Principles of Interior Design:

1. Balance – A well-designed home feels harmonious, whether it’s through symmetrical layouts or a mix of colors and textures that complement each other. (P.S. this doesn't mean everything has to be matchy-matchy symmetrical... More on this later!)
2. Proportion and Scale – Ever walked into a room where the furniture just feels right for the space? That’s because the sizes of everything—from sofas to coffee tables—work seamlessly together to optimize a room. Furniture choices are key!
3. Contrast and Emphasis – A bold accent wall, a statement chandelier, or a vintage rug can add just the right amount of visual drama to make a space standout... We loveeeee a good vintage rug! Don't you?!
4. Rhythm and Repetition – Patterns, textures, and colors repeated thoughtfully create a sense of flow and unity throughout your home. (Again, we do NOT go too matchy here... 'Simply coordinating' is key.)
5. Functionality – A home isn’t just about looking good—it needs to work for you, because let's be honest, the reality is that we don't all live in perfect little magazine photos every day. The right design ensures your space is as practical as it is beautiful.

Why Interior Design Matters (Oh, there's so many reasons!):

• Enhances Comfort and Functionality – A well-thought-out home makes everyday living smoother and more enjoyable. Life is short- Love your home!!
• Reflects Your Personality – Your home should feel like you, whether that means modern minimalism, classic elegance, or eclectic charm. It should be a collection of who you are, where you've been, and what simply makes you most happy and at peace.
• Adds Value to Your Property – Beyond the priceless value of your happiness, a beautifully designed space can increase your home’s resale value, as well.
• Boosts Mood and Productivity – Lastly, a thoughtfully designed home can make you feel happier, more relaxed, and even more inspired. I know it does for me!

Interior Design Styles

There are so many ways to style a home, but here are some timeless favorites:

• Modern – Clean lines, neutral tones, and minimal clutter create a fresh, airy feel.
• Traditional – Rich wood tones, elegant furniture, and classic decor elements bring warmth and sophistication.
• Industrial – Think exposed brick, metal accents, and open spaces with a cool, urban vibe.
• Scandinavian – Bright, light-filled rooms with simple yet stylish furnishings and natural textures.
• Bohemian – A relaxed, layered look filled with bold colors, vintage finds, and cozy textiles.

(I'll let you in on a little secret here... I don't just stick to one of these. I like to blend them all seamlessly throughout my designs, and sometimes I will lean a little more one way based on a client's specific taste! It makes for the most fun... AND it helps to keep your design looking timeless and prevents it from looking a little too "themey" in my opinion. Besides, like we said earlier... Your space should be a collection of pieces that truly speak to you!)

Conclusion:

As you can see here, interior design is about more than just looks—it’s about creating a home that truly works for you and those who matter most to you. By understanding the key principles and different styles, you can transform any space into something functional, stylish, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re planning a full home makeover or just adding a few elegant touches, good design makes all the difference! And I'm sooo excited for you to get started on this design journey with us- Whether you're here for DIY tips, shoppable mood board inspiration and links, or you've been inching toward hiring for full design services, we are so excited for you to get to know us along the way so that we can help you bring your vision to life!

If you’re looking for an interior designer in Metro Detroit, Macomb County, Lapeer County, Genessee County, or Oakland County, our interior design services could be the right fit for you! Oh, and P.S. - We do E-Design too! (.. Yes, it's ALL done virtually! Which means we can work with you even if you aren't local!)

Reach out to bring your dream space to life, and let's get started!

Thanks for hanging out,

Hanna & Tracey

HMDS | Birch & Bind