Inspired Design
Where do the ideas come from to design, decorate or remodel? I am asked that question frequently and so here is how I think about it and part of the response that I give.
It’s an interesting process, actually a gift, but the images of a room will just jump into my imagination as to the right way to design the space! Of course some rooms are more vivid than others, but I’ve learned not to second guess the visions that appear. I guess you could call it an attention to the messages that run through my head. Of course after a lifetime of working with design and creating art I’ve learned to trust my instinct with process of design. I try not to second guess my first reaction to a design; it seems to just muddle the original idea.
It may sound strange to some, but even when I’m discussing a project with a client, I will start getting images of what the design should be without even seeing the space. I’m grateful that I have the opportunity to work with clients who trust my vision and am able to develop the design with them or for them. I have even designed spaces without ever seeing them, just based on the vision I have while working with the client.
When working with a space, upon entering the room I will get “the vision” of how it should lay out, the colors or even a remodeling idea. Recently I was meeting with a client on the layout of their newly remodeled home in Majestic Pines. A beautifully updated home, but they planned on splitting up the rooms in a way that would make it difficult to place furniture and to entertain. I showed them the merit of a new floor plan and how the flow would make their living space must more useable. Upon entering the living room, the layout was “automatic” for me to see it. I am amazed myself when these designs just ‘show up’! Anyway, that’s the benefit of working with a professional in design, even if it’s just for the floor plan. It can save the home owner time and money in the long run.
Another area of design where the use of a professional designer is important is in the paint scheme. Nothing screams louder that the wrong colors in an interior. It’s much better to spend a little money ahead of time and hire a pro that has seen hundreds of color schemes together, than to waste money and the stress of choosing the wrong colors.
When I’m working with clients, in order to determine what will be the best design, I observe what they are wearing; their coloring and their personal style to determine not only their furnishings but the colors that I will choose to flatter them and give them a sense of comfort and peace in their surroundings. It’s not necessarily what’s “in style” as far as colors go (although we are all influenced by marketing), but the colors and styles that “fit” them. I also take into consideration what pets they travel with (not only dog’s travel with their owners, but cats and even birds!). Of course I also consider their family’s needs and the overall use of the home.
My clients have told me numerous times that it is the “feeling” of an interior that really speaks to them. So that is where my “inspired intuition” comes into play…Like other art forms, there is a sixth-sense to the development of an creative interior design concept. So, I’m fortunate to be able to bring my thoughts together with the client’s needs into form that serves them in a 3-diamention art form. As time goes on, I see more and more where all the creative people in artistic pursuits have a similar process, inspired creativity…where does it come from? The talent they are born with, the application of that talent, experience and dedication to the process. And then there is the magical spark that brings it all together! As with a wonderful song, a breathtaking painting, an epic novel or a gracious interior, the “Magic” of all these art forms is what makes life exciting and inspirational. It’s a joy to share these ideas and I am grateful for the opportunity to stretch my creativity with the wonderful clients that I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the past 21 years here in Mammoth Lakes and around the world!
Have a Happy New Year and many Blessings to all!
