There’s something magical about walking into a room that feels just right. The perfect lighting, colour and textures don’t just please the eye; they calm your mind, lift your spirits and make a house feel like a home.

Interior design isn’t just about the latest trends and expensive furniture – it’s about creating a space that reflects who you are.

At the CAE, we run a range of courses in Interior Design and Décor – from a beginner-friendly introduction to interior design, to learning the essentials of the craft, and styling your home for sale.

These courses are led by Ariel Druckman, an architect and interior designer with over 18 years of industry experience. To give you a preview of what you’ll learn, we asked Ariel for his six essential interior design tips so you can start planning to redesign your home today!

Understand colour theory

“For us designers, colour is more than just visual. It is emotional.” Ariel explains.

“Colour theory shapes the mood of a space, creates harmony, and expresses personality. The right colour combinations can completely transform a room. It is one of the most powerful tools in an interior designer’s toolkit.”

Know your decorative scheme

As an architect, Ariel brings different elements together in a decorative scheme. A decorative scheme is a plan or arrangement of colour, furniture, lighting, textures, finishes, accessories, and, most importantly, the space. It is about creating a cohesive look and feel that balances the purpose and practicality of the space with beauty, comfort and style.

Focus on functionality

In Ariel’s words: “functionality is everything!”

Well-placed furniture and creative storage solutions help your space adapt to your daily needs and help you feel at home.

Interior design is about improving lives, and that means considering how you move, live and feel within a space. Great design does not just look good, but it functions effortlessly.

Accessorise!

Accessories are the elements that transform a room from average to outstanding. Think of items like cushions, artwork, plants, and rugs. Ariel says they’re easy to update, and add life, texture, and a personal touch to any space.

Maximise your space

Ariel has found that in architecture and interior design, space is the most crucial aspect that is overlooked:

“A well-laid-out space will feel natural, comfortable, and easy to use. It considers flow, balance, proportion, and purpose. Whether it’s a cosy bedroom or a café, a good layout will enhance the experience of being in the space.”

Follow your intuition

Interior design is more than following the latest trends in magazines to know what looks good. It is about trusting your intuition to create spaces that feel right for you. In Ariel’s courses, you’ll develop your eye and learn to trust your instincts to design spaces that reflect your personal sense of harmony.

Great spaces start with great advice! Discover more ways to reinvent your home by enrolling in a CAE Interior Design and Décor short course.

Explore short courses