Getting Inspired Without the Overwhelm

Let me set the scene for you. You decided to renovate your space. You have your initial consultation scheduled with your designers. Naturally, you decide to use this time to prepare for your design plan meeting. Images of your dream home come to mind, but now you have found yourself at a standstill. How do you get these ideas and images flooding your mind organized?

We are here to help.

Irwin Construction is here to help you. The beginning of the renovation process can be the most exciting and overwhelming step. You will likely have many ideas, so be specific when communicating with your designer. When gathering ideas, here are some helpful tips to get you started.

Step 1: Just Breathe

No, really. Sit down, pause, and close your eyes. (Actually, maybe grab a piece of paper or a pen first.) Once you are settled, close your eyes and envision the space you want to create. What does your ideal space look like? How does it make you feel? Perhaps certain scents are filling up the room? Are there specific colors that make you feel at home? Is there a particular design aesthetic you are consistently drawn to? Set a timer for five to ten minutes and use this time to let your imagination run wild. When the timer goes off, grab a piece of paper and a pen. Write down your thoughts.

Step 2: Expand

Now that you have a vague idea of aspects you’d like to incorporate in your space, it is time to expand on these thoughts. Do you like the clean, polished, open look of a modern home? Do you prefer something more cozy and traditional? Perhaps you are looking for a balance of each? Do some research on typical home design styles and take note of what you like (and what you don’t like!).

Step 3: Make an Aesthetic Board

This is where the fun begins. Use your notes from the previous two steps and search for images using short, specific phrases. For example, try “spa bathroom marble tile”, or “modern galley kitchen”, or “midcentury bathroom vanity”. Some of your notes may not return any images that speak to you, while others may produce a flood of images you love. Organize these ideas into an aesthetic board. An aesthetic board is a collection of images to help you stay organized in the design process. The best and easiest way to make an aesthetic board is on Pinterest. When making your board, try to concentrate on options that fit your style best and are scaled realistically for your space. Look for inspiration rooms that are similar in size and scale to the room you’re renovating. Design for a 300 square foot luxury bathroom will be very different from design for a 60 square foot hall bathroom! As your ideas transform while creating your aesthetic board, make sure to note your top priorities (the aspects of the space you care most about or of which you have the clearest vision). This will indicate the best place to start when actually selecting materials.

Share your aesthetic board with your designer, and you’re sure to collaborate on a space that’s just right for you!

Here are some common home design styles to get you started:

Don’t forget to pay attention to details. Color, flooring, countertops, cabinetry, lighting, hardware, etc. are important factors to consider and communicate to your designers.

So there you have it.

Three simple steps that will get you started on designing the space of your dreams! And if you’re still stressed, don’t sweat it. Just find us on Pinterest, and you will find interior designs that are sure to trigger your creativity.

We can’t wait to help you make the space you’ve been dreaming of become a reality!