Design Tip #2: Start With How You Live, Not Just What You Like

Whether you are designing an entire space or choosing a single furniture piece, it is vital to focus on how you live, not just what you like.

You will appreciate your furniture far more when it genuinely makes your life easier and more comfortable. A beautiful space must also be functional for you to truly enjoy it. What catches your eye in a showroom or on social media may not necessarily work in your home—or fit your lifestyle.

For example, I love the idea of a white sofa with a recliner, where I can lay back and lift my legs at the end of a long day. I’m naturally drawn to white, airy homes that reflect cleanliness, brightness, and calm. In my mind, that is beautiful design.

However, that vision doesn’t align with my current reality.

I have three extremely energetic boys. My walls and sofa are often covered in little fingerprints, dirt marks, and shaded crayon drawings. It drives me crazy at times—but that’s also where memories are being made. Until they are fully grown and off to college, the all-white house will remain a dream.

Instead, when designing furniture and choosing pieces for my home, I focus on intentional, practical choices. I look for multipurpose furniture that can do more than one thing, allowing me to achieve more with fewer pieces. This creates open space for the boys to run around freely.

I invest in fewer but durable pieces—furniture that can carry weight, withstand climbing, and last over time without constant replacement. I also choose colours and finishes that don’t show dirt easily, so the space remains enjoyable despite the daily chaos.

Because of this intentional approach, I still love my home. It works for my life.

At Accora Living Africa, we believe great interior design starts with understanding real life. When your space supports your lifestyle, beauty follows naturally.

Design done properly lasts longer.