This or That: 5 Hard Design Choices, And How to Decide

Renovating your home means making dozens of decisions. Some feel exciting. Others… just plain confusing. You love both options or neither. Maybe you're just scared of choosing wrong.

Don’t worry, you're not alone. Here are 5 common interior design dilemmas, broken down with pros, cons, and a few tips from the studio so you can choose what’s right for you.

1. Open-Plan vs. Broken-Plan

Open-plan creates a light-filled, social feel, great for entertaining, keeping an eye on kids, or opening up a small home.
Broken-plan uses partial walls, shelving, furniture, or level changes to subtly define zones without fully closing them off.

Tip: Want openness and privacy? A broken-plan layout lets you keep the flow while introducing cozy corners.

A broken plan dining room and kitchen design sketch

2. Statement Tile vs. Timeless Neutral

Statement tiles dd personality and wow-factor but may date quickly or overwhelm a small space.
Neutral finishes offer versatility and long-term appeal, especially if you plan to sell or change decor often.

Tip: Use bold tiles in a niche, backsplash, or WC. Pair with neutral finishes elsewhere to balance personality with longevity.

3. Kitchen Island vs. Dining Table

Islands give added storage, prep space, and casual seating, and they are ideal for busy kitchens and social cooking.

Dining tables feel more traditional, encourage longer meals, and are easier to move or update.

Tip: If space is tight, consider a hybrid island with overhang seating and movable stools.

Movable folding kitchen island, tap image to see it open and closed!

4. Real Wood vs. Engineered Flooring

Real wood has that natural, warm, and luxurious feel but it needs care.

Engineered wood handles moisture, changes in temperature, and budgets better without losing the look.

Tip: In high-traffic areas like kitchens, hallways, or bathrooms, engineered wood is often more practical and looks just as good.

5. Bold Colour vs. Calm Neutrals

Bold colours inject personality, drama, and depth but can feel overwhelming if overdone.
Neutrals create calm and are easier to live with long-term, but can feel flat without contrast.

Tip: Try bold in small doses like paint one wall, use a colourful headboard, or add art. That way, the room evolves with you.

A simple sketch of a bedroom design with blue and neutral tones

Final Thought:

Design decisions don’t have to be stressful. It’s not about what’s trendy, it’s about what feels right for your life, your space, and your future. Whether you lean bold or timeless, social or quiet, your home should feel like you.

👀 Want to see how these choices would look in your space?
Let’s create a 3D walkthrough and compare your options side by side.

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