Building a design scrapbook

I'm always telling my clients to make a scrapbook of ideas for their home. As part of my consultation I go over pictures and such that they have collected and really get to know who they are, what they like and don't like. It is a great way to find an inspiration if you don't already have one.

I like to section off the book to include fabrics, paint colors, design elements, furniture, patterns, places of inspiration, it really can be anything. You don't have to use only pictures, having a sample of the real thing is better. A few months ago I worked with a home owner who had her design scrapbook from when she originally bought her home. It was great! She had pictures and notes of things that she put into her home, for her it was like a memory book as well. It can also be a life saver if you need to repaint! You have all your colors and brands right at your finger tips. I tell clients and I do it while talking with them, add notes right on the pictures, circle, star, do what ever you want to show and remind you why you liked it or didn't like it.

I pretty much always carry my camera with me when I am out and about. You never know when you will see something that you love. I snap a shot and keep it in my file for use later, either for myself or it may work for a client. Inspiration comes from every where, you may see something that strikes your fancy but you cant bring it home with you, so snap a photo or two and build your design around it.

 I have recently been told about this great website: pinterest.com, where its a virtual scrapbook. I have already started building my design library. I warn you it is addicting! But you can upload pictures from websites and upload your own as well. You make boards and keep all you ideas together. There is spot to make notes on what you have pinned. You can look at what other have pinned as well and get ideas from them. Very similar to other social media sites you can follow people with good design style or bad.

Even if your not planning a redesign right now, to the future when you are going to buy a home, rent a new apartment. Having a scrapbook of design ideas physical or virtual is a handy tool to get you started.

Now get out there and start design scrap booking -