Need help getting your decorating project started?  Here's my Top 8 Favorite Tips to help!

Every project needs a way to get started and good is the cornerstone.  Recently I was asked to talk about best practices for starting a project at a conference called In the Interest of Women in Louisville KY in October 2007.  I've received requests from a tremendous number of individuals to reprint or provide this information again.  So, please find my Top (8) Favorite Decorating and Redesigner Tips to help you get your project started!  Happy Decorating!

1. Organize your Project. 
Organization is the key to a successful project. Getting organized can save you time and money and reduces stress.

2.  Develop an Inspiration Folder and Budget. 
Getting started can be overwhelming. Take time to dream, explore and discover. Look through magazines, websites, and newspapers. Clip pictures and articles that catch your attention. Choose an inspirational photo that has the look or “feel” that you LOVE. It’s easy to find what everyone else is buying…..it’s harder to find the furniture or accessories that you can’t live without.

3.  Determine a Decorative Focal Point. 
A focal point is what connects the elements of a room together and provides your eye with a place to settle comfortably.  Whether it’s a view, a fireplace or even the TV, the focal point is the first place to begin.  When in doubt, ask a professional for help.

4.  Develop a floor plan. 
Evaluate the space you want to decorate. Decide what you want to keep in the room and what you can live without.  This is the basis of creating the correct “flow” of a room and helps determine the appropriate size of the furniture you may want to purchase or move.

5.  Hang Art or Mirrors for a reason. 
Mirrors can add beauty to a room if placed properly. Hang a mirror where it will reflect a beautiful view.   Art is meant to enhance or extend a piece of furniture or to be used as a gallery effect on a blank wall.   By choosing different frame styles, wood and sizes of your art, you create visual impact.

6.  Group collections together. 
Want to showcase your collection?  Choose only the BEST and you’re FAVORITES when placing them around any room.  Too much of anything can be distracting and tiring to the eye. Carefully placed, collections can be beautiful and appreciated by those who view them.

7.  Choose your Color Punch. 
By adding punches of color to a room with colorful accessories, art, pillows and interesting arrangements, you a mood that reflects your personality.  Look in your own closet…..that’s where you’ll find the colors you like the most and help get choose your color faster.

8.  Relax and Enjoy. 
Good planning and organization will help you relax have fun when you decorate!  Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and to be a little adventurous to make your house a home you’ll love to live in.

Interior Redesign On A Dime – In The Interest of Women, Louisville and Lexington KY, 2007
Dana Dickey; CID, IRIS; Inside Redesign™, LLC.  Special Thanks to The Decorating Assistant for their input.   PH:  270.839.2790 - www.InsideRedesign.com; info@InsideRedesign.com
Copyright 2007.  All Rights Reserved.