Login
Have you ever looked at a beautifully styled home in a magazine or online and thought, “Why doesn’t my house look like that?” You’re not alone. As Karin Bochnik, an Interior Direction Stylist and founder of KB-ID with a talent for creating emotional connections through design, says, “We’re in the business of selling dreams.” And she’s absolutely right.
Karin’s work isn’t just about making a space look pretty; it’s about creating a story, a feeling that makes people think, “I could see myself living here.” Whether it’s helping a developer showcase a new build or guiding homeowners to bring their forever home to life, Karin blends creativity with a practical, human touch to make spaces shine.
Here’s how Karin creates those dreamy spaces—and some insider tips to help you do the same.
Styling for Impact: Where Smoke Meets Mirrors
Styling for a home sale or photo shoot is like dressing up for a wedding—it’s all about the “wow” factor. Karin explains how she often works with developers to transform spaces into show-stopping visuals that grab attention. For example, she might bring in a $20,000 sofa or a statement piece of art just for the day of the shoot. It’s all part of creating a moment that captures the imagination.
But, as Karin points out, it’s not about tricking anyone. “We’re showcasing the architect or developer’s work in its absolute best light,” she says. That’s why these spaces look so perfect in photos. They’re meant to inspire.
For those styling their own homes, Karin advises focusing on fewer, high-quality pieces rather than trying to fill every corner. Comfortable minimalism is key to creating a polished yet approachable look.
Start with the End in Mind
Karin’s advice for developers and homeowners alike is to think about the story you want your home to tell from the beginning. When developers involve her early in the process, she analyses every detail about the target audience—what they wear, where they shop, even how they travel. This level of detail helps ensure that every choice, from the lighting to the furniture, speaks to the right buyer.
Homeowners can adopt a similar mindset. Before decorating, think about how you want the space to feel. Cozy? Luxurious? Vibrant? Having a clear vision will guide your decisions and help create a cohesive look.
The Art of Comfortable Minimalism
One of Karin’s signature approaches is what she calls “comfortable minimalism.” She’s learned that less is often more, especially in creating an emotional connection. “Editing is 80% of styling,” she says. It’s about removing the clutter and carefully curating what stays to let the space—and its story—shine.
This approach is also incredibly practical. Whether you’re decorating for everyday life or staging for a sale, Karin advises focusing on key areas rather than trying to style every room. For example, a well-styled living room and master bedroom can leave a lasting impression without overwhelming the budget.
Bringing Style to Real Life
Decorating for real families in real homes is another part of Karin’s expertise. She calls herself an “interior psychologist” because it’s about understanding not just the space but the people living in it. “It’s all about how they want to feel in their home,” she explains.
If you’re decorating your home, Karin suggests starting with pieces that you truly love and building around them. Layer textures, add lighting that complements the space, and don’t be afraid to mix high-end items with more affordable finds. As she says, “It’s not about how much something costs—it’s about how you put it together.”
Tips for Dreamy Styling
For those styling their own spaces, here are Karin’s top tips:
- Edit, Edit, Edit: Start by removing unnecessary items. A clean slate makes it easier to layer intentionally.
- Layer Thoughtfully: Combine textures, materials, and colours to create depth. Think soft throws, natural woods, and pops of greenery.
- Focus on Key Pieces: Invest in one or two standout pieces, like a sofa or artwork, that anchor the space.
- Lighting Matters: Good lighting is transformative. Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to set the mood.
- Tell a Story: Every space should have a narrative. What feeling do you want to evoke? Use colours, shapes, and decor to communicate that.
The Bottom Line
Styling isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. Whether you’re creating a dream home for a potential buyer or designing a cozy haven for yourself, the goal is to make the space feel like it belongs to someone.
And that’s the beauty of styling—it’s not just about what you see; it’s about what you feel. As Karin puts it, “It’s all about creating moments that sing.”
So, the next time you’re tempted to replicate a magazine spread, remember Karin’s advice: focus on fewer pieces, layer with intention, and, above all, tell your story. You don’t need a $50,000 couch to sell a dream – just a little creativity and a whole lot of heart.
If you’d like to learn more about Karin and view some of her stunning work, head to:
You can also listen to podcast episode where we chat with Karin about this all in more detail here.
