The First Things I Notice in a Client’s Home

I love walking through a home and seeing how it really functions — from furniture layouts and flow, to highlighting a room’s best features, to finding ways to weave in favorite pieces seamlessly. The moment I step inside, my designer brain switches on, and certain details jump out right away — little clues that show what’s working, what could use a tweak, and how small changes can make a big impact. Over the years, I’ve noticed there are a few key aspects I always pay attention to, and they’re often the subtle touches that make a room feel balanced, intentional, and truly like home. Have you noticed these aspects in a home?

1. THE RUG SITUATION

A missing rug, one that’s too small, or one that’s overly busy can throw off a space. Rugs are essential for grounding furniture and tying a room together so it feels intentional. If you love a bold, colorful rug, balance it with artwork or throw pillows that pick up those tones so everything feels cohesive.

2. ART PLACEMENT

Artwork hung too high, too low, or missing altogether makes walls look unfinished. Art should feel proportionate to the wall space and connected to the furniture below it.

3. CLUTTER ZONES

Kitchen counters, entryways, and coffee tables quickly collect “stuff creep.” A few intentional pieces go a long way in keeping these spots functional but visually calm.

4. CONSISTENCY OF STYLE & COLOR

I always look for how rooms flow together. A home feels most inviting when there’s a consistent thread of color, mood, or style connecting the spaces.

5. THE FURNITURE LAYOUT

I notice whether the layout allows for natural flow and conversation. Sofas and chairs lined up against the walls make a room feel disconnected, while seating arranged in conversation groups creates warmth and ease.

6. PLANTS & GREENERY

A touch of green instantly brings life to a room. Without plants, spaces can feel flat and bare. Even one plant in a corner or on a shelf makes a big difference.

7. LIGHTING LAYERS

If all the light is coming from overhead fixtures, the room can feel flat and harsh. Floor lamps, table lamps, and sconces create a softer, cozier atmosphere and make the room more dynamic.

8. FOCAL POINTS

Every room needs a clear anchor. Without one, the eye doesn’t know where to rest. If too many things are competing for attention, I usually recommend editing to highlight just one main feature.

Next time you walk into a room, see how many of these details catch your eye. You might notice more than you think!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does an interior designer notice first when entering a home?

Designers tend to notice how a space feels before focusing on individual items. Layout, flow, and balance stand out immediately, along with whether furniture, lighting, and scale work together. These first impressions often reveal how well a home supports daily life.

2. Why does my room feel “off” even though I like my furniture and decor?

Often it’s not the pieces themselves, but how they’re arranged or sized. Rugs that are too small, artwork that isn’t properly placed, or furniture pushed to the walls can subtly disrupt balance. Small adjustments can make a space feel more intentional without replacing everything.

3. How important is furniture layout compared to decor?

Layout is foundational. Even beautifully styled rooms can feel awkward if seating doesn’t encourage conversation or movement. A thoughtful layout creates ease and connection, making the space feel welcoming before decor even comes into play.

4. What are the most common mistakes that make a home feel cluttered?

Clutter usually gathers in high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchen counters, and coffee tables. The issue isn’t having things—it’s not giving them a clear place. Editing these zones and styling them with intention helps restore calm without sacrificing function.

5. Can a home still feel cohesive if rooms aren’t all the same style?

Yes. Cohesion comes from a consistent thread—such as color, mood, or material—not from matching every room. When spaces relate to one another visually, the home feels connected and thoughtfully designed rather than disjointed.