The last week of December is the time when you hear the word "goals" emphasized the most. People make goals to start exercising, to read more, to eat healthier, and to do so many other productive things. It's exciting; everything is fresh, new, and full of possibility! And it's also the perfect time to draft up your interior design goals for the upcoming year.
Changing the look of your house is a process that you accomplish gradually. That's why making a list of design priorities is a great way to remain focused throughout the length of your project! As we move into 2017, take a look at the three quick steps below to help you start formulating a long-term design plan:
1) Take Inventory
Start at the beginning by taking stock of your current spaces so that you can decide what needs to be changed. Try asking yourself these questions:
Ideally, what is each space for?
What inhibits the main function of this space?
What aids the main function of this space?
What do I love about my space?
What do I dislike about my space?
After that, start making a list of things you'd like to change and order them from the highest priority to the least.
2) Discover Your Style
If you don't have a feel for what your style is, do a bit of self-discovery. Use platforms like Pinterest or Houzz to create collections, look-books, and mood boards of spaces you are attracted to. This is a good thing to do from time to time as your tastes evolve as well.
Once you’ve done that, look back over the images. What are the common elements (such as colors, styles, layouts)? Can you draw out or describe your style based on these images?
3) Set Goals For Yourself
Lastly, take that list you made in step one and begin scheduling out a series of goals. For example: In February, I want to conquer [insert goal] in [insert space or spaces]. Then, narrow in on the specific action steps it will take to accomplish that entire goal. You can even assign dates! Below I've mapped out an example plan:
Goal: In February, I want to conquer decorating my living room.
Action Steps
Feb. 1: Have selected a paint color.
Feb. 10: Have chosen a new sofa.
Feb. 12: Clear out old furniture and décor.
Feb. 16: Paint.
Feb. 20: Print family photos for frames.
Feb 23: Go thrifting for a floor lamp, coffee table and vase.
Remember to be practical about your goals and the time you need to complete them. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself but keep in mind all the other commitments you have so that you can enjoy the creative process while making headway on your projects. You can set smaller goals and give larger timelines if needed.
If thinking about your design goals gets you excited, but you still don't know exactly where to start, you might want to take a look at my free design guide here.
The e-book walks you through eight steps to help in recreating your home. It includes worksheets, exercises, and design tips for discovering your style, thinking intentionally through your design goals, and creating a home you love.
What are your goals for 2017? Do you have any projects you're particularly excited about?
Work with Lauren Figueroa Interior Design
LFID is a full-service interior design firm serving West and Southeast Michigan. We work with clients across West and Southeast Michigan (Detroit metro, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Holland) and anywhere in between, and we pride ourselves on creating bespoke, people-centered spaces—because after all, people are what this life is all about!
If you have a project on the horizon, get started by telling us a little about your vision here.
