One of the most exciting times for couples is deciding to merge spaces and live together. For the best outcome, a lot of communication and compromise are necessary. Both parties need to feel heard and happy with their living situation, from decor to practicality. Before diving in, consider these four tips to help smooth the transition. 

Discuss What You Want 

Although you may be excited to start unboxing your things, it’s best to talk things through before taking action. Come together as a couple and discuss the details. How do your aesthetics match and clash? What do your daily routine and hobbies look like and how do they affect the space?

If you don’t know where to get started, make a date night out of it! Find magazines, films, or websites to gain inspiration and put together a mood board. Take turns pointing out your favorite looks and items, and if something is a must-have for you, clearly state it so you can both find a way to make it work. 

Create A Budget

One of the biggest stressors in many relationships is finances. When you decide to move in together, expenses like bills, rent, furniture, and decor will impact you both. While you may have one budget in mind for decoration, your partner may not feel the same. Start discussing official numbers so you can work together.

Remember, not everything needs to be done at once. Most beautiful homes take months to years for the finished look to come together. Find a timeline for how you will decorate the home to help relieve some of the stress. 

Shop Together

What better way to make sure both of your styles get represented than to shop together? Furniture and accessories that will be seen and used every day should be okayed by both parties to avoid conflicts. When shopping, think about how it will look in your space, but also keep in mind the level of comfort it will bring. If you love curling up on the couch for movie night, the function is just as important as form.

If you are struggling to compromise, or are feeling barraged with choices in stores or online, try to stick to a specific theme or color scheme, as it may make things easier when you are narrowing down choices. 

At the end of the day, it’s important that you create the feeling you both want to experience each time you step into the door. Whether it’s cozy, elegant, or fun, don’t forget the small details like framed mementos or one-of-a-kind pieces that emphasize the mood.

Be Creative

If you both have clashing tastes, or maybe neither of you have a knack for interior design, you can still make the space beautiful and cohesive with a little creativity. Maybe both of your styles can come together to create something really special.

Don’t be afraid to mix the old and new. If you love vintage pieces and they have modern tastes, find new ways to make it work. Experiment with the blend by incorporating artwork, rugs, and accessories that juxtapose your furniture. You can also try hanging old-fashioned art pieces in fresh ways like layering heights and sizes or find innovative uses for older pieces, like turning an art-deco mini-bar into a side table. 

A lot of collaboration is trial and error, so keep trying new things and communicating about what works and what doesn’t. The beauty of interior design is everything can always be renewed!