How to Define Your Style Before Starting Any Design Project

Most people jump straight into buying furniture or paint samples when they’re itching to start a project. But the truth is, the first step has nothing to do with a shopping cart — it’s about building a vision.

Why Images Work Better Than Words

The best place to start is by collecting images. Words mean different things to different people. For example, when someone says “traditional,” you might picture something dated, while I think of florals, stripes, and beautifully aged natural materials. That’s why visuals work so well in the beginning.

Collect Inspiration

Pinterest is a great tool to gather images in one place, but it can also be as analog as clipping out photos from magazines. And your images don’t have to be interiors. Think travel destinations, a celebrity, a favourite place in nature. Pull it all together without overthinking.

Find the Through Line

Once you have your collection, step back and look for the connections. What repeats? Is it certain colours, textures, moods, or shapes? Reading between the lines will reveal the direction your project wants to go.

Bring It Back to Your Home

After that, start narrowing things down. Create separate boards for each room so you can see how the style flows throughout the house. These boards will become your compass. You’ll come back to them again and again as you source materials and make decisions.

Style With Confidence

Defining your style at the start will keep you grounded through the entire process. It helps cut through the noise of endless options and makes each decision easier.

And if you’d like a little extra support clarifying your style or creating a plan for your space, I’d be happy to help through a 1:1 interior design consult — book here.