Design expert Theresa Casey's home decor tips

The Interior Design Show opens on January 26 (and runs to the 29th) and in anticipation of what is known as Canada’s largest contemporary design fair, we spoke to some of the top talent in home decor about what inspires them, their best tips and the hottest trends to look out for this year.

Q: Where do you spend on your home?
A: Elements that have impact that take centre stage, be it a fireplace or built-ins, and lighting is key as well. For example if you get a beautiful 40’s chandelier for your dining room this can set the whole tone and ambiance for everything else.

Q: What are your secrets for staying organized?
A: Have a place for everything. If your house has piles of stuff everywhere, it doesn't necessary mean you are a slob just that you don't have a storage system in place. Look at where you have clutter in your house and see how you can create a place for things. For our clients we give them a road map of how to tackle storage issues and provide options that are specific to you and your family.

Q: What’s your most cherished item for your home?
A: The desk that I had sent over from Ireland that belonged to my Grandmother, which was a gift to her from my Granddad in the 1930's.

Q: What’s your number one design rule?
A: Make sure you have a good floor plan. I tell my clients that the most important element that will impact their project most significantly is a strong plan that addresses their needs; one, which analyzes the possibilities for shifting locations of existing functions while making room for expansion. It doesn't matter how beautifully a space is finished – if the planning doesn't work, it will never work.