For those of you who have been following my column so far, we have got to the fun bit! Once you’ve got any required planning permissions approved for your interiors project, it’s time to get creative.
Whether you are working with an interior designer or have decided to tap into your own artistic flair, a design concept ensures the finished look will be visually coherent.
So, where do you start with a design concept? This is your opportunity to put your personal creative stamp on your home. Some questions to consider:
- Is your renovation project the first new area in your home you are decorating? Or does this renovation need to fit with the look and feel of the rest of the house?
- Does your house have any period features that should be enhanced (or hidden!)? If the property is of a certain period, are you going to design a look that is sympathetic to the age of the house or contrast with a more contemporary look?
- How do you want to feel when you are in this space of your home? For example, calm and relaxed, or energised and productive? What is the purpose of this area/room in your home?
- Do you have an existing piece of furniture you need to keep or a favourite piece of artwork that can act as the initial point of inspiration?
- What style of interior design resonates with you? What colours and patterns are you drawn to?
An interior designer will ask you all these questions and more to help you explore your creative vision. If you are the project designer, visit home and interiors events like the Ideal Home Show to get some inspiration. Cut out pictures from magazines, save images on Pinterest or take screen grabs on Instagram and create a mood board of the look you’re aiming for. This will become a great design foundation to work from.
If you don’t know where to begin creatively, watch this space for design ideas in the coming months. Alternatively, work with an interior designer who can take that pressure off you and ensure the project delivers a beautiful design that resonates with you.
#shoplocal
If you are looking for a local interior designer to help you with your interiors project, let’s chat!
Deborah Smith is the founder and design director at Menagerie Interiors. Email her on deborah@menagerieinteriors.co.uk and follow her on Instagram.
