Do you constantly find yourself in a rush to finish a decorating project?

If so, you probably watch too much television. In reality your decorating project, from start to finish, will take much longer than 30 minutes.

Instead, fall in the love with the decorating process and the rest will come. Take your time.

Here are some main components to remember, the rest is pretty fluid:

• Consider the flow and function of the room (space planning)
• Define your style (click the link for a popular article (Find Your Design Style) I wrote that has helped many in this area)
• Search for inspiration (based on YOUR style)
• Decide on Your Color Palette
• Explore Fabrics
• Decide what to keep, toss, or donate.
• Shop wisely

Notice I mentioned nothing about budget. If you are decorating your own space, budget isn’t usually an issue. For a decorating novice, decorating with the “B” word looming over your head can sometimes hamper your creativity. When decorating for clients I tend to design the ultimate space, then seek cost effective alternatives that they can better afford. This way I can achieve the same look without the buyer’s remorse.

Take your time with this. It should be fun, not stressful.

DONT’ WORK WITHOUT A PLAN!

Designing a space without a plan is like a novice cook preparing a meal without a recipe. The end result has a greater chance of being lackluster, unpalatable and a waste of ingredients. Review the points above to guarantee your success.

DO GATHER YOUR RESOURCES!

A recipe for a well-designed space contains a list of desired functions, a space plan, inspiration photos, a budget and a list of fabulous finds. Having these in one central place will keep you focused and on the path to a delectable design.

TODAY’S TAKEAWAY:

A weekend shopping spree provides instant gratification. While you may be in love with the newness of the room, it will eventually wear off when you realize the room is full of thoughtless purchases.

Happy Decorating!

Erika