Finding Inspiration: In the Details

Ask product or interior designers about their greatest inspiration and invariably travels abroad rank at or near the top of their list. Their muses for a new family of patterns or fresh colorway are often details that many people overlook: rock walls scattered throughout the Irish countryside, the texture of an exotic snake’s skin, spice stands in a Moroccan bazaar, a mosaic in a Mediterranean villa or lavender fields in France.

While taking a trip to Paris to find inspiration for your new kitchen or bathroom remodel isn’t possible, there are plenty of easily accessible resources to help you get started. But before you head out in search of fabric swatches and paint chips, think even closer to home for a little inspiration:

Apparel: It’s no coincidence that the fabrics and patterns you see on a runway bear a striking resemblance to the high-end pillows, upholstery fabrics and bedding ensembles you spotted recently at a home furnishings boutique. Apparel and home furnishings designers openly draw inspiration from both industries. Recall these popular crossover acts: animal prints, ikat and suzani patterns, beaded embellishments, bohemian patterns and ruffled edges. Chances are, what you love on the runway, you will adore in your home. A fabric that mimics the nubby texture and warm color of a beloved sweater, for instance, may be the perfect starting point for a new bedding ensemble.

Food: You’re easily tempted by the too-cute-to-eat cupcakes at a dessert boutique or the locally sourced fare at a new restaurant. But before you dig in, snap a picture—literally or figuratively. Fresh ingredients, uncooked grains, a full-bodied red wine or über artistic plating presentations—they’re all fair fare for finding a favorite color combination. Try this: Does your tot or tween have a favorite brand of candy? Tempt his sweet tooth by painting an accent wall in a shade that matches his favorite flavor.

Magazines: Want to make the most out of an upcoming consultation with an interior designer? Perhaps you’re planning a living room makeover for next year? Start ripping pages from your favorite design magazines and catalogs to build a dream room archive—your equivalent to the interior designer’s trend board. Sort pages by color and room. Each time you revisit the archive, discard design ideas that no longer appeal to you. Over time, you’ll notice striking similarities in the photos you’ve saved. It’s an effective technique if you’re looking to refine your tastes before making a substantial investment in your home.