Creating an Idea File

To ensure that your new kitchen is exactly what you want, take some time to

 

envision the kind of space you would love to live, work, and eat in. Is it light and

 

airy? Is it dramatic with high contrast? Also, think about what features you

 

would like your kitchen to have. Do you like the idea of glass doors on cabinets?

 

How about a raised eating bar? Designing a kitchen without inspiration can

 

lead to a poor layout, non-unifying decorative theme, and, ultimately, an

 

unwanted kitchen resulting in a waste of money. If you are unsure about what

 

you want in your kitchen, create an idea file. This will help get your thoughts

 

and ideas organized, as well as quiet any anxiety or overwhelming feelings.

 

An idea file is a collection of images, material samples, color swatches,

 

photographs, and other items that you like. Images from decorating magazines,

 

design books or blogs, or even a treasure you picked up on a vacation, can all

 

provide inspirations for your new kitchen.

Tips for creating an idea file:

 

•Place all the ideas you collect in a notebook or file folder.

 

•Gather ideas that inspire. Tear out pictures from magazines that have design

 

elements that you like. The pattern on a shirt from a clothing catalog could

 

influence your choice of decorations.

 

•To remind yourself what you liked about the image, make notes on the back of

 

the photograph or next to it in a notebook.

 

•Carrying a camera with you at all times will help you capture any unexpected

 

idea.

Start Early, Start Now!

It is wise to begin collecting images as soon as you start thinking about a

 

renovation project. Flip through your idea folder frequently to give yourself

 

plenty of time to absorb the ideas. Pinning them on a bulletin board, taping

 

them on a blank wall, or organizing them by influence will help you determine

 

what your preferences are. You will begin to see patterns emerge, including

 

images with a similar color scheme, contrast, or other design ideas. These

 

patterns all are an expression of your true decorating style.

Last Updated on Thursday, 16 February 2012 06:55