How do you describe indoor spaces?

“Any tips on how to describe indoor spaces so they feel real and match the vibe of the story without throwing in too much detail?”

Creating immersive indoor spaces is more than just scene setting—it’s an invitation to the reader to step into your world. Getting interior scenes just right is all about finding the balance between setting the mood, showing the unique personality of your story world, and keeping the plot moving. There are lots of ways you can use senses, action, and background to set a scene, all of which can work seamlessly with the type of story you want to tell. Here are some tips on how you can achieve that:

How does it look?

• Lighting: does your space contain the soft glow of lamps, harsh fluorescent lights, or natural light?
• Use colour and textures like peeling paint, plush velvet, or sleek marble.
• Size and scale: is it claustrophobically small or impressively grand?
• Architectural features: does the space have high ceilings, crown mouldings, or exposed beams?
• Furnishings: are they modern, sparse, antique, or cluttered?
• Style and decor: what style is represented, and how does it affect the atmosphere?
• State of repair: is the space well-kept, neglected, or under renovation?
• Perspective and layout: how do spaces flow into each other?
• Unique design features: describe sculptural elements, or things that stand out.
• Spatial relationships: describe how objects are arranged—what’s next to, across from, or underneath something else?

How does it sound?

• Describe echoes in large spaces or the muffled quality of sound in carpeted or furnished rooms.
• Note background noises; is there a persistent hum of an air conditioner, or the tick of a clock?
• Describe the sound of footsteps; do they click, scuff, or are they inaudible?
• Include voices; are they loud and echoing or soft and absorbed?
• Is there music? Is it piped in, coming from a live source, or perhaps drifting in from outside?
• Capture the sounds of activity; typing, machinery, kitchen noises, etc.
• Describe natural sounds; birds outside the window, or the rustle of trees.
• Consider sound dynamics; is the space acoustically lively or deadened?
• Include unexpected noises that might be unique to the building.
• Consider silence as a sound quality. What does the absence of noise convey?

How does it smell?

• Identify cleaning products or air fresheners. Do they create a sterile or inviting smell?
• Describe cooking smells if near a kitchen; can you identify specific foods?
• Mention natural scents; does the room smell of wood, plants, or stone?
• Are there musty or stale smells in less ventilated spaces?
• Note the smell of new materials; fresh paint, new carpet, or upholstery.
• Point out if there’s an absence of smell, which can be as notable as a powerful scent.
• Consider personal scents; perfume, sweat, or the hint of someone’s presence.
• Include scents from outside that find their way in; ocean air, city smells, etc.
• Use metaphors and similes to relate unfamiliar smells to common experiences.
• Describe intensity and layering of scents; is there a primary scent supported by subtler ones?

What can you do there?

• Describe people’s actions; are they relaxing, working, hurried, or leisurely?
• Does the space have a traditional use? What do people come there to do?
• Note mechanical activity; elevators moving, printers printing, etc.
• Include interactions; are people talking, arguing, or collaborating?
• Mention solitary activities; someone reading, writing, or involved in a hobby.
• Capture movements; are there servers bustling about, or a janitor sweeping?
• Observe routines and rituals; opening blinds in the morning, locking doors at night.
• Include energetic activities; perhaps children playing or a bustling trade floor.
• Note restful moments; spaces where people come to unwind or reflect.
• Describe cultural or community activities that might be unique to the space.

How is it decorated?

• Describe the overall style; is it minimalist, baroque, industrial, or something else?
• Note period influences; does the decor reflect a specific era or design movement?
• Include colour schemes and how they play with or against each other.
• Mention patterns; on wallpaper, upholstery, or tiles.
• Describe textural contrasts; rough against smooth, shiny against matte.
• Observe symmetry or asymmetry in design.
• Note the presence of signature pieces; a chandelier, an antique desk, or a modern art installation.
• Mention thematic elements; nautical, floral, astronomical, etc.
• Describe homemade or bespoke items that add character.
• Include repetitive elements; motifs that appear throughout the space.

What is its history?

• Mention historical usage; was the building repurposed, and does it keep its original function?
• Describe architectural time periods; identify features that pinpoint the era of construction.
• Note changes over time; upgrades, downgrades, or restorations.
• Include historical events that took place within or affected the building.
• Mention local or regional history that influenced the building’s design or function.
• Describe preservation efforts; are there plaques, restored areas, or visible signs of aging?

Describing indoor spaces doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Focus on the details that matter most, tie them to the mood or characters, and let your readers fill in the blanks. A well-crafted space not only sets the scene, but builds your characters relationship to it. Use sensory language, background, and action beats to tie it into your narrative, and don’t be afraid to play around with motifs and contradictions, depending on who is experiencing it!