Design Style: How to Create a Space that Tells Your Story
I hate to break it to you, but those fun little “What’s My Design Style” quizzes really don’t work. Why? Because no one has a design style that is simply “Mid-Century Modern” or “Urban Rustic.”
We’re all complex, multi-dimensional, multi-layered creatures who each bring a unique set of preferences, dislikes, experiences, and stories to the design table. So, what is your personal style? And how do you figure that out?
In all things style, I defer to the inimitable Iris Appel. Businesswoman, interior designer, and fashion icon, Iris (now 95 years old!) consults and lectures about style. Says Iris, “The key to style is learning who you are. It’s about self-expression, and above all, attitude.”
Step 1: Gather Supplies for Design Inspiration
When it comes to getting clear and specific on an authentic and personal design vision, there’s nothing like a hands-on, “make it the old-fashioned way with glue and scissors” vision board.
There’s something visceral about the process of concentrating on the images you collect, in laying them out on a page in a way that pleases your eye, that adds incredible positive energy and intention to your vision – something that Pinterest just can’t do for you.
Purchase, make, or acquire an album or journal to contain your vision board. Assemble all your favorite craft supplies. Gather up a big stack of magazines, catalogues, and any other bits and pieces that speak to you. (They don’t have to be design magazines! Some of my greatest design inspirations have come from totally random places.) Set your intention.
Step 2: Assemble Images with an Open Mind
Go through your collection of catalogues and magazines and start to assemble any and all images and words that resonate with you.
Don’t overthink this part. It’s all about operating from your heart and soul, not your head. If an image or word speaks to you, tear it out, put it aside, and move on. Remember, the focus is on resonance and feeling.
Once you’ve assembled a substantial collection of images and words, it’s time to start laying them out on your personal style vision board.
How you organize the images is strictly up to you – there are no rules. You can’t mess this up, I promise! I’ve found that if you spread all the images out, and observe them with an impartial eye and an open mind, the perfect composition will make itself known to you.
Step 3: Use the Vision Board as Your Design Style Guide
You now have a powerful visualization tool that will serve as your design road map for every design decision you make.
When you’re feeling unsure or indecisive about a design purchase for your home, refer back to your vision board. Tap into the images and feelings you’ve gathered together, and you’ll know how exactly what you should do.
I have a confession to make…I’m not a traditional designer. I’m not interested in telling you how your home should look. Nope. Because the juicy stuff of design is finding out what matters to you. What you prefer. How you move through life. The way you express yourself. How you want to tell your story. What you and your family believe in and stand for. The best design comes directly from you.
The journey of refining your personal style will be a never-ending one. At least that is what I wish for you.
May you continue to tell your own unique style story, following no-one’s rules but your own. Keeping your eyes and heart open as you travel this path.
Be alert to your inner voice and the feeling of satisfaction that comes from creating a space that supports and reflects your best life. Design your space. Tell your story!
Have a question about this process? Ask away in the comments below...
Cheers,
Peg