If you’ve recently moved into a split-level home or are in the process of renovating one, chances are you’re searching for ways to make your space feel more like home. Decorating a split level can be tricky due to its multi-level layout and various rooms connected by stairs or half walls, making it difficult to decide how best to create a unified living space.
But with some thoughtful planning and creativity, you can turn your split-level home into an inviting and stylish haven. In this blog post, we’ll share our top tips on how to decorate a split level home effectively so that you get the perfect combination of fashion and function!
What Does the inside of a Split Level House Look like?
The inside of a split-level house typically consists of two floors, with the upper level being slightly higher than the lower level. The upper floor usually contains the main living area and the master suite, while the lower level typically houses a family room, guest bedrooms, bathrooms, and storage areas.
When decorating a split-level home, you’ll need to consider two main levels and how to utilize the space in each. Consider using bold colors, modern furniture, and other decorating elements that can help separate and define the different levels.
For example, a bright white wall on the upper level can create contrast between the two floors. You may also want to install high-end appliances and fixtures on the upper level, which will help emphasize the more luxurious side of your home.
Furniture placement is also an important part of decorating a split-level house. Consider how you want to use the space in each room, and make sure that furniture pieces don’t block walkways or create bottlenecks. To help define each level, try to keep the furniture on the lower level more casual and family-friendly.
On the upper floor, add pieces that are more sophisticated for entertaining or relaxing purposes.
Finally, don’t forget about lighting when decorating a split-level home. Try to install recessed lights throughout your house that can be adjusted to provide the perfect amount of light for each level. Additionally, consider adding accent lighting throughout your home to create ambiance in specific rooms.
By adding the right lighting fixtures, you can help create a unified look throughout your split-level home.
10 Methods How to Decorate a Split Level Home
Decorating a split-level home can be daunting, as many conventional decorating techniques just don’t apply.
The split-level or multi-level home offers a unique challenge for those looking to create a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing space that reflects their style and personality. However, with the right combination of ideas and techniques, anyone can easily transform their split-level home into a beautiful and inviting space.
Here are ten methods on how to decorate a split-level home:
1. Take Advantage of Your Levels:
One of the main benefits of living in a split-level home is the ability to create distinct zones by taking advantage of its varying levels. For example, you can use one area as an entertainment zone while using other areas as separate living spaces like bedrooms or lounge areas.
Layering rugs along the different levels will help define each area and make it more visually distinct.
If you have a larger home, you can opt for bold and vibrant colors to further draw attention to each level. However, if you have a smaller floor plan, investing in neutral tones will help create an open and airy atmosphere.
2. Make Use of Colors:
Using colors strategically helps draw attention to certain points within the home, such as key design elements like fireplaces or windows. Color can also be used to create visual interest in rooms that lack architectural features, such as hallway landings or stairways.
Consider using bold accent colors in pillows, wall art, and furniture pieces throughout your space for a vibrant look that still feels unified throughout the entire house.
Neutral shades, such as white and beige, can also be used to help create a calming atmosphere. If your split-level home is already brightly colored, try using white and off-white shades to help balance the space. While choosing colors and patterns, be sure to keep the lines between floors and areas of your home in mind.
A well-coordinated color palette will help to unify the room and make it look more cohesive.
3. Illuminate with Lighting:
Lighting is an important factor when it comes to setting the tone for any room, but especially in multi-level homes where ample light sources tend to be limited due to walls blocking out natural light from outside sources. Utilize task lighting for practical purposes such as reading and preparing food while accent lighting can provide subtle illumination and create ambiance within the room—layer lamps at different heights and distances apart for interesting shadows and light play throughout the space.
Incorporate wall sconces and ceiling light fixtures to break up dark corners and hallways while providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lastly, don’t forget to use window treatments such as blinds and curtains to control the amount of light entering the room, ensuring that it’s just right for your needs.
With the proper lighting, you can bring life to your home’s split-level design and make it a truly cozy and inviting space.
4. Create Harmony with Symmetry:
Multi-level homes often feature multiple living areas that are not always equal in size or shape, which may cause an imbalance in your décor scheme if not handled properly.
To alleviate this problem, opt for symmetry when decorating these areas— hang wall decorations directly across from one another, arrange furniture symmetrically around focal points like fireplaces or use two small pieces instead of one large piece for balance—this will help maintain harmony throughout your décor scheme despite having different levels interacting with each other at once.
Additionally, adding a few elements of the same color or style throughout all levels can also help tie them together. Although split-level homes present unique decorating challenges, don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with the space! With a few thoughtful touches and clever ideas, you can create a style all your own.
5. Utilize Vertical Spaces:
Don’t forget about utilizing vertical spaces when decorating your split-level home; shelves make great décor features, while hanging plants will breathe life into any room even if there isn’t enough floor space available!
If you have higher ceilings, then consider using floor-to-ceiling curtains, which will add height to any room while allowing natural light into darker areas without overbearing them with too much brightness!
Finally, adding mirrors to your wall will also help create the illusion of a larger space. However, ensure that you keep the style of your décor cohesive and consistent throughout, as this will help to create a unified atmosphere.
6. Repurpose Forgotten Spaces:
Not all multi-level homes come equipped with expansive open floor plans, so don’t forget about those forgotten nooks tucked behind walls or underneath stairwells—these places are perfect opportunities for displaying art collections without stealing away too much attention from other furnishings within the room; simply install some shelves near these hidden spots and use them as miniature displays!
Additionally, since most split levels have plenty of storage space, you can also use them to store any items that you don’t necessarily need but still want to keep around, such as extra blankets or decorative items.
7. Choose Multifunctional Furniture Pieces:
The varying levels within multi-level interiors tend to require more furniture than what might normally be needed, which takes up valuable floor space; opt for multifunctional pieces such as coffee tables with built-in storage compartments so you can save on square footage while adding extra functionality — benches can also double up as seating options when placed against walls!
Additionally, try to buy furniture that can be used in multiple ways and move around the space whenever needed.
This will allow you to easily customize the interior of your split-level home. While choosing furniture, don’t forget to include items that will fit in the split-level entryway – such as a console table or armchair – as this is a great way to make use of the space.
8. Create Focal Points:
Focal points help tie together all your various design elements by creating eye-catching visuals that draw attention away from monotonous color schemes or small details like mismatched fabrics; try experimenting with wallpaper patterns on large walls or incorporate statement furniture pieces like sofas upholstered in velvet fabric — anything that stands out and adds texture will instantly become your new focal point!
Splitting the living room up into two different levels can make it feel disconnected, so adding a few focal points to tie them together will help bring harmony to the entire space.
You can also use artwork, mirrors, or even beautiful curtains to create a stunning focal point that helps complete the look of your split-level home.
9. Use Rugs Effectively:
Rugs add texture while helping define specific living spaces within larger rooms — they also work wonders at camouflaging less desirable aspects like uneven floors that tend to plague multi-level homes; choose smaller rugs beneath dining tables while larger ones are better suited around seating arrangements where people spend most time lounging around – the right rug should complement existing décor elements without detracting from them too much! Lastly, don’t forget to use area rugs on stairs – they make the long descent much less intimidating and safer for those with mobility issues.
10. Include Greenery Whenever Possible:
Greenery is a great way to add life to otherwise dull interiors; hang potted plants near windowsills (to take advantage of natural sunlight) or place some flower vases on display shelves – whatever type you end up choosing, just make sure it matches the aesthetic of overall theme/design scheme – plants should enhance look rather than clash with existing décor items! Plus, they help to improve air quality and can make us feel more relaxed.
Don’t forget to water them regularly, though, or else they won’t survive very long! Additionally, if you have an outdoor area connected to your split-level home, consider planting some shrubs or flowers to spruce up the exterior of your home and bring more life to your backyard space.
Things to Consider When Decorating a Split-Level Home
When it comes to decorating a split-level home, it is important to keep in mind the unique layout of this type of house. Since split-level homes typically have multiple levels, it is important to consider how the design elements will flow between floors. Here are some tips for decorating a split-level home:
1. Incorporate the Stairs:
Split-level homes often have wide staircases which can be used to divide space, provide storage, and create an interesting design element. Consider adding drawers underneath the stairs for additional storage and using the railing to hang artwork or photos.
2. Aim for a Cohesive Look:
Since split-level homes typically have multiple levels, it is important to consider how the design elements will flow between floors. Choose similar furniture pieces and color schemes for each level in order to create a cohesive look throughout the house.
3. Utilize Vertical Spaces:
Split-level homes often have tall ceilings and multiple levels, making it important to utilize vertical spaces. Hang shelves and artwork on the walls to create visual interest and showcase your personal style.
4. Add pops of color:
Split-level homes can sometimes feel a bit monotonous due to their layout, so adding pops of color is a great way to add visual interest and liven up the space. Consider painting an accent wall or adding a colorful rug to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to decorate a split level home, it’s time to put your own spin on things and make your house into a home. Be creative and have fun with it! Just remember to keep the flow of traffic in mind, create distinct living spaces, and use furniture and décor to delineate each area.
With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to designing a split-level home that suits your needs and reflects your personal style.