What I Learned from Domino: The Book of Decorating – A Fresh Take on Interior Design

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed about decorating your home, you’re not alone. Reading Domino: The Book of Decorating by Deborah Needleman is like having a trusted friend guide you through the chaos of choices, with just the right mix of inspiration and practicality. It’s a beautifully laid-out guide for anyone, from absolute beginners to seasoned design enthusiasts. Let me take you through some standout lessons and why this book might just change the way you approach your home.

Start with Your Story

The book begins with a simple yet transformative idea: your home should reflect who you are, not just trends. It encourages collecting inspiration from anywhere—movies, travel, a favourite painting—and creating a file of these influences. The magic happens when you sift through these ideas, spotting recurring patterns. Maybe you love earthy tones and mid-century modern furniture, or perhaps you lean towards French chic with a pop of colour. Either way, naming your style helps filter out what’s not “you,” saving you from costly mistakes.

Here’s the kicker: it’s okay to mix and match. Domino emphasizes that most people’s tastes are “mostly this with a little bit of that.” The book invites you to embrace your eclectic side.

Function Before Flash

One of the best nuggets of wisdom is to design for how you live. Fancy a plush velvet sofa? Great—unless your kids and pets treat it as a jungle gym. The book suggests thinking practically: consider durability, traffic flow, and even lighting when choosing materials and layouts.

For example, instead of a glass coffee table in a high-traffic area, why not opt for an ottoman with hidden storage? This functional mindset extends to every room. A room that doesn’t meet your everyday needs, no matter how stunning, will end up being unused—and what’s sadder than that?

Layering Makes All the Difference

If you’re starting with a blank canvas, don’t rush to furnish it all at once. Instead, Domino advocates for layering—a process of building a room piece by piece. Start with larger elements like sofas and rugs, then gradually introduce accents such as lamps, art, and throw pillows.

One standout tip is to play with textures and materials. Pair soft, cosy fabrics like wool or velvet with harder surfaces like glass or metal for contrast. This approach creates depth and a sense of balance. A room, the book argues, should feel collected over time, not like it was plucked wholesale from a catalogue.

It’s Okay to Break the Rules

While Domino offers a wealth of guidance, it also encourages breaking the “rules.” For instance, conventional wisdom says that all four legs of your furniture should sit on a rug. But if your budget or space doesn’t allow, just having two legs on the rug works just as well.

The book also suggests rethinking traditional layouts. Why not position your sofa to face a gorgeous window instead of the TV? Or hang artwork in unexpected places, like leaning against a bookshelf? These little tweaks add personality and keep your space interesting.

Details Set the Mood

One of my favourite sections of Domino is about finishing touches—the “jewellery” of a room. Think lush curtains that kiss the floor, an oversized mirror that creates a sense of space, or a playful light fixture that becomes a conversation piece. Even practical items, like trays for keys or baskets for blankets, can double as decor if chosen thoughtfully.

There’s also an emphasis on personalisation. Have a quirky collection of hats? Display them. Picked up some vintage plates at a flea market? They can double as wall art. These details tell your story and make a house feel like a home. For a more professional recommendation, you could simply consult a pro by searching ‘interior designers near me.’

Small Spaces Can Shine Too

Got a tiny entryway or a cramped living room? Don’t worry—Domino has you covered. It offers clever ideas, like using slim console tables in hallways or hanging sconces instead of relying on bulky lamps. The book also highlights the power of mirrors and light colours to open up a room.

One memorable tip is to use bold wallpaper in a small space, like a powder room or an entryway. It creates drama and gives the illusion of depth. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experiment with patterns without overwhelming a larger area. If you’re planning a workspace or retail location, exploring commercial interior designers Sydney or commercial interior designers near me is worth considering.

Budget-Friendly Doesn’t Mean Boring

For those of us without a bottomless wallet, Domino provides plenty of thrifty solutions. One idea I loved was layering affordable sisal rugs with smaller, more vibrant ones for a layered look. Another tip: rearranging what you already have. Sometimes moving a chair from the bedroom into the living room or swapping art between rooms can completely refresh your space.

The book also suggests prioritising. Splurge on one show-stopping piece, like a stunning chandelier or a vintage dresser, and balance it with budget-friendly finds.

A Nod to the Professionals

While Domino is geared towards DIY enthusiasts, it doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the expertise of professionals. For those in Sydney, there’s a wealth of talent among interior designers Sydney and luxury interior designers Sydney. They can help refine your vision and save time on large-scale projects. Whether you’re dreaming of a home that’s laid-back and coastal or chic and modern, hiring the best interior designers can take your space to the next level.

Why You Should Read Domino: The Book of Decorating

At its heart, Domino is about empowerment. It demystifies decorating and makes it accessible, whether you’re tackling your first apartment or revamping a forever home. The book doesn’t promise perfection—it embraces the messiness of real life and celebrates the joy of finding your style.

If you’re ready to make your space your own, grab a copy of Domino: The Book of Decorating. It’s more than a guide—it’s a source of endless inspiration. And who knows? You might just find that decorating is less about rules and more about having fun. Happy decorating!

5 FAQs About Domino: The Book of Decorating

1. Who is Domino: The Book of Decorating for?

The book is perfect for anyone looking to improve their home decor, regardless of skill level. Whether you’re a total beginner or an interior design enthusiast, it offers practical tips, inspiring ideas, and actionable advice that cater to a wide range of budgets and styles.

2. What makes this book different from other decorating guides?

Unlike many decorating books that focus solely on high-end designs, Domino is approachable and relatable. It balances professional insights with DIY ideas and encourages readers to personalise their spaces rather than follow trends. The conversational tone makes it feel like chatting with a design-savvy friend.

3. What are the most helpful tips from the book?

Some standout tips include:

• Layering furniture and decor gradually to create a curated look.

• Mixing textures and materials for depth.

• Using mirrors and light colours to make small spaces feel bigger.

• Prioritising function over aesthetics to design spaces that truly work for your lifestyle.

4. Is the book relevant for small spaces?

Absolutely! The book is packed with ideas for maximising small spaces, like using slimline furniture, bold wallpaper for impact, and clever storage solutions. It’s ideal for apartment dwellers or anyone dealing with compact rooms.

5. Why should I read Domino: The Book of Decorating?

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of design choices, this book simplifies the process. It’s more than just a guide; it’s a toolkit for finding your style, solving common decorating dilemmas, and making your home a reflection of who you are. Plus, it’s packed with stunning visuals and design inspiration you’ll want to revisit again and again.