As interior designers, we all aim to create a home that reflects you. friend — from paint and wallpaper to furniture, artwork and decor. But part of our job is also to consider the guest and visitor experience — especially when it comes to presentation, comfort, functionality and overall atmosphere.
If you enjoy hosting and entertaining on a regular basis, you can relate to this sentiment. Beyond comfort and hospitality, we think it’s human nature to wonder exactly what guests will notice about your home, from the ambiance to the decor.
So we asked our team of interior designers about the common sensory experiences and design details people tend to notice in other people's homes, starting with what we consider the most common (and important). From the decorative to the universal, find our candid thoughts below:
1. Scent
For better or worse, scent is always the first thing that hits your senses when you enter a new home, office space, classroom, store or restaurant for the first time – perhaps before you even pay attention to the interior design. A burning candle or a home-cooked meal on the stove goes a long way when trying to make a positive first impression on first-time visitors to your space.
2. Organization – cleanliness
To that end, organization and overall cleanliness—and specifically the lack thereof—comes second. Guests may notice dirty dishes in the sink, clutter in every corner, or dirty clothes strewn across the floor, but they will feel subtly relaxed and at ease in a clean, organized space.
3. Outstanding interior
At the design level, we think guests will notice a particularly unique piece of furniture, whether it’s a classic curved sofa or a chair with an extremely sculptural accent. These design details stand out because they’re different from the norm and therefore worth a second look.
4. Bold upholstery
Likewise, bold prints and patterns often demand a comment or two! From leopard-print chairs to floral sofas, unusual fabrics tend to grab people's attention.
5. Eye-catching artwork
Art is meant to attract attention and say something about the owner, and it does just that in a home – especially if it’s oversized, extremely colorful, or a combination of both. While large, blank walls can feel unfinished or cold, a home filled with thoughtful artwork is eye-catching and inviting.
6. Grand entrance
Curved staircases, high ceilings, and thoughtful entryway décor are literally designed to make a statement, and they always deliver on that promise. If you’re lucky enough to have a home with these features, spruce it up with bold, high-contrast paint colors, striking lighting, and oversized florals!
7. An intentional highlight
Pure design is magic in the sense that you can choose Exactly What guests will notice first is the understated focal point. For example, the striking fireplace in the living room above will immediately grab your attention and draw the eye in.
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