Step One- Get Inspired: This is one of the most fun aspects of any new project, but it’s also an important step. As a designer, it is essential for me to know what inspires my clients- what makes them feel truly at home in a space. Once we can uncover inspiration, then the work can really begin!
Some clues to find Your Inspiration:
- What are your favorite design magazines? If you don’t know, take a trip to the bookstore and browse- – flip through a few magazines, see what catches your eye. Purchase a couple favorites to use for your design file.
-Take a look at your favorite pieces in your wardrobe. What kinds of colors, patterns, textures do you like? Do you tend toward a classic tailored style, or perhaps a more bold modern look- or a combination of several styles?
-Do you have a favorite item or items in your home? If so, what style are those items? What color are they? Why do you love that item? What makes it special?
-Rip out pages from those magazines you bought! Pick only your absolute favorite rooms. Don’t worry about why you like them, just rip them out and put them in your design file. After you’ve ripped out your favorites, let them rest a few days in the file. Then go back and analyze them- do you see similarities in the things you chose? Perhaps a similar color was used throughout, or the rooms all have modern furniture, or have a casual feel to them. Take note of these similarities and remember them when you go to make decisions about your project.
Find out what inspires you and you’re on your way to discovering your own personal style! And once you know what you love (your personal style), those design decisions will become easier.
July 13, 2009 at 9:54 am
It is easy to get overwhelmed, I like so many different things. I find it hard to narrow down what I consider to be my favorite. Finding the similarities between the rooms I’m drawn to is a very helpful idea.