55 Designers Share the Decorating Secrets Only Professionals Know...Until Now

Some people have a natural eye for design, but if you're more in the camp of those who can't do anything without consulting Pinterest board upon Pinterest board before making any major changes, we feel you. And even for those of us who live and breathe interior design, some inspiration and guidance never hurts. We'd love to have an interior designer on speed dial before deciding exactly where and how hang to hang that new wall art we bought on a whim so we don't make any major mistakes. But until we win the lottery, we'll have to settle for trusting our gut—and taking plenty of interior design tips where we can get them. We've compiled some secrets straight from the pros to help you with all your decorating needs.

Each week, Mansion Global tackles a topic with an elite group of designers from around the world who work on luxury properties. This week, we look at how to up your video meeting game.

As in-person meetings have, for the most part, officially been replaced with virtual ones, looking the part means having to get dressed (at least from the waist up) and presenting oneself in a space that’s also telegenic.

It’s a big ask right now, but tidying those paper piles and curating a nook that looks put together is the only way you’ll (at least) appear poised for success even if the rest of your home is in disarray.

Here, tips on setting a chic stage for your video meetings.

More: How to Use Feng Shui Principles for a Calmer Interior

The background is the most critical aspect for a successful zoom setting. If the camera displays a corner in the background, I suggest setting an armchair with a throw, a standing lamp, and some books. A plant would also be a must to add warmth.

“Lighting should be a combination of natural and artificial light and a mix of cold and warm ceiling and table lamps. If the light is too warm, it reads yellow on Zoom; if it’s excessively white, it can make you look greyish.

“I suggest placing [your desk] in front of a bookshelf or a wall displaying art. Shelves need to be styled and books should be ordered by color. Adding some decorative objects makes it all look more attractive.

“In terms of art, be careful about what you display. The art should be elegant and not too whimsical, or the audience will focus on the art rather than on the meeting.”

— Alessia Corpino, founder of Alessia Corpino Design in New York

More: Transforming Your Home With Small Design Tweaks

Get the Light Right

“Key elements to include are good lighting, a comfortable chair, and a clean space. Most important, your computer should be set at a good height for capturing you. Your head should have space around it and not be cut off at any point. You should not be too close, nor too far away from the camera. This will ensure good sound and that you don’t look like a mugshot.

“You should be lit from the front and as straight on as possible. If you are lit from behind, you will appear in shadow like you’re in witness protection. Lighting from above and below can highlight lines and wrinkles. Ring lights are best, and those with various settings for color enable you to look your best at all times of day. Another trick is to have light at a distance behind you that is not too bright; it can add a nice depth to your look.

“Create a space that feels approachable and warm. Add some greenery, a mid-size plant or succulents. A bookcase with some books and a few decor items like vases, boxes or a small sculpture. Adding photos or pieces of art make your virtual space more welcoming. Don't over style it; you don't want it to get busy.”

— New York-based designer Patti Carpenter

Keep it Simple

“Less is more. You don’t want a lot of distractions behind you. Have some type of greenery or flowers to give life to the space. And make sure everything that is seen is organized.

“The best areas are your home office or study. If you are working from your dining room, stage the wall behind you simply with a bookcase or some type of shelving.”