Sometimes we rush to buy decor – side tables, lamps, shelves, art – before really living in a layout. Trying a temporary arrangement with what you already own gives you a better sense of how you move, sit and use the space.

For a few days or weeks, you can test: Is the sofa too far from the TV? Do you bump into that chair? Does the dining table feel cramped near the wall? Where do you naturally drop your bag?

Once you’ve lived in a layout, you’ll make smarter decisions about what decor is truly needed and where. Maybe you realise you don’t need a big floor lamp, but a small table lamp would be perfect in one specific corner. Or that an extra side table will actually get used, not just gather dust.

Testing first prevents impulse buys that don’t fit or are unnecessary. It saves money and avoids clutter.