We've all been there … you've recently moved into a new house or were inspired by something you saw online and want to undertake a redecorating project. Most of us, myself included, are completely paralyzed by all the options out there. When it comes to decorating my own place I feel that same sense of uncertainty and pressure you may experience despite my instincts and extensive schooling.
But I recently noticed something that gave me great insight into why its so difficult for most of us to decorate our own space.
It is astonishingly easy for me to redecorate other people's homes, which must mean the way I approach their projects could help with moving my own and yours along.
Fear over wasting money or creating more work for yourself stops most of us from letting go and getting creative.
But approaching your projects as if you are working for someone else just might be what you need in order to get decisive.
The dirty truth no decorator wants you to know is: there is no magic formula you have to master or follow in order to make your room look fantastic.
Its all about following your instinct to make individual choices that get you excited. Actually, truly, excited. If you follow that feeling those choices will add up to something unique and amazing. I promise.
Let go of the rules. Allow yourself to be inspired. And then set a clear vision and stick with it.
5 Ways To Ditch Decorating Paralysis Once & For All:
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Do you want it to be a serene retreat or an energized mix of modern elements? Do you need lots of seating for entertaining or just a great, deep comfy couch for the family to cozy up on? Take some time to sit quietly to get clear on how you want to feel in the room once its done.
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Use this to define your style.
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STEP 2: Pick no more than 2 inspiration photos per room
Choose just two photos of a room that encompasses what you would like to achieve overall and take them with your everywhere. You don't have a photographic memory so you will constantly need these to stay on track. Choosing too many inspiration photos will just leave you flustered and confused.
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Decide how much you will spend on the project from the outset so that you're not clouded by stress over money down the line. Eliminate the choices that are too expensive and instead scour the internet and local shops for less expensive imitations. Decide which elements you can introduce later without compromising the design of the space. For instance, in this laundry room the homeowner opted for less expensive lighting but could always change the fixture out down the road. Blowing your budget on one or two pieces is a surefire way for your project to stall.
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Every decorating professional has a deadline that they must meet for their client. It would serve you well to create one for yourself so that the project doesn't drag on. A project loses its creative flow and sense of fun when it continues on for too long. Despite what you may think, looking at your half-finished room everyday hoping for the divine to provide you with direction won't speed things along. Get moving and avoid stagnation at all costs.
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If I'm decorating a dining or family room per say I like to choose the larger investment pieces first, like the dining set or couch. I also prefer to choose the lighting fixtures for a space first. They will dictate the design direction of your room, hallway or entry. In general, keep these selections neutral so that later there is room to play with texture and pattern in the accents, i.e.) curtains, pillows and rugs. Putting your design punch in elements that are easily switched out is perfect for the biggest commitment-phobes among us.
Have you found success in overcoming decorating paralysis? Have a helpful tip for our readers? Let us know in the comments!
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