So, this is my very first blog posting and I must say, I really struggled with what I could talk about. Blogging seems like it should be easy but like anything else, knowing where or even how to start is the toughest part! So, I thought I’d start with the beginning from a design standpoint and talk about INSPIRATION.
When my clients are undertaking a home interiors project it’s always difficult for them to know where to start so I ask – what do you find inspiring? What feeling do you wish to inspire when you are in your home? Inspiration can come from anywhere. Let me give you an example. I once had a client hand me an ad from a design catalog that featured a faucet. But it wasn’t the faucet that she loved, it was the way in which it was portrayed – the colors, textures and even the gown the model was wearing in the ad evoked a feeling of luxury and richness that my client really loved. When she handed me the ad, she said that this was how she wanted her powder room to FEEL… I know that most of you who are reading this have probably seen something and you’ve immediately identified with it in a feeling way.
So ask yourself, do you want your space to feel quiet or warm? Is there a cherished childhood memory you’d like to recreate? How do you want your space to feel? After all, you’re the one who will be living there so do your best to answer that basic question. Now, what ‘imagery’ inspires that feeling for you? Is it a beautiful piece of costume jewelry, a painting or photograph, a garment, or a wildflower bouquet arranged by a child? Then, work to pinpoint the textures, colors and shapes or what I like to call ‘movement’ that will provide you with that feeling.
Some people find this hard to do for themselves, that’s ok, I can help you through the process. Because when I design, I don’t do it alone, I do it WITH you…. it starts and ends with YOU!
Melissa Said:
on September 4, 2009 at 7:24 pm
This is excellent advise! I have never thought that way when starting a project in my home. I just know I want to do something and decide on colors…Now I have an approach that I believe will help me achieve satisfaction when redesigning my spaces!
Your blogging was outstanding, especially for a first attempt. Thank you!
Markey Said:
on September 5, 2009 at 12:19 am
Michele,
You say it so well!
Markey
elenablogs Said:
on September 10, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Inspiring words on inspiration. This makes me want to start changing my space to reflect, please and nurture ME. It’s a great way to think about design for those of us who aren’t designers — how does this (whatever we’re looking at) make us feel? And what better designer to work with than one like you, who takes those feelings into account.