- Dawn
- December 28, 2023
The world of interior design is often associated with glossy magazines, Pinterest boards, and Instagram-worthy spaces. However, the journey of an interior designer goes far beyond the digital realm. While these platforms serve as excellent reference sources, the heart of inspiration often lies elsewhere.
Where Does Inspiration Come From?
We get asked a lot about where our inspiration comes from, and I think there’s a misconception that we go to Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz and those are the top places where we get inspired for our projects.
While those places provide a wealth of design ideas, trends, and creative solutions as well as serve as references that designers can draw from when crafting unique and personalized spaces, they’re simply just that. While digital platforms offer a vast repository of design references, true inspiration comes from a deeper, more organic source.
Nature as a State of Being: The Ultimate Source of Inspiration
Inspiration is more of a state of being, which requires you to be out in nature. With its boundless beauty and ever-changing landscapes, nature has a unique power to inspire and rejuvenate the human spirit.
Here are some ways in which nature serves as a source of inspiration for interior designers:
- Color Palettes: The rich tapestry of colors found in nature, from vibrant wildflowers to serene ocean hues, offers an endless source of color inspiration. Designers often draw from these natural palettes to create harmonious and visually pleasing interiors.
- Textures and Materials: The textures of nature, whether in the form of rugged stone, soft foliage, or glistening water, inspire designers to experiment with a wide range of materials. The tactile qualities of these materials add depth and character to interior spaces.
- Organic Shapes: The fluid, organic shapes of nature influence the design of furniture, lighting fixtures, and decor elements. Curved lines and asymmetrical forms can infuse a room with a sense of balance and natural flow.
- Light and Shadows: Nature’s ever-changing play of light and shadows through leaves, clouds, and landscapes is a constant source of fascination. Designers harness this interplay to create dynamic lighting schemes that transform interiors throughout the day.
Connecting with Nature: A Path to Creativity
Immersing oneself in nature is not merely about seeking inspiration; it’s about nurturing creativity and fostering a deeper connection with the world around us.
Here’s how nature’s influence extends beyond the design process:
- Mental Clarity: Spending time in nature allows designers to clear their minds, facilitating creative thinking and problem-solving. Nature’s tranquility provides a peaceful backdrop for brainstorming and ideation.
- Emotional Well-being: Nature has a calming effect on the psyche, reducing stress and anxiety. Designers who prioritize nature-inspired spaces aim to create environments that promote emotional well-being and relaxation for their clients.
- Sustainable Design: The appreciation of nature often leads designers to embrace sustainable and eco-friendly design practices. This commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also aligns with the timeless principles of nature.
While digital platforms like Pinterest, Houzz, and Instagram serve as valuable references in the world of interior design, the true wellspring of inspiration lies in nature itself. Nature’s colors, textures, shapes, and the interplay of light and shadow offer endless possibilities for creating unique and captivating interior spaces.
For interior designers, embracing nature as a source of inspiration goes beyond aesthetics; it’s a holistic approach that nurtures creativity, promotes well-being, and encourages sustainable design practices. By immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural world, designers not only enrich their projects but also contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable future for all.
DawnInterior Designer
Dawn has spent her life surrounded by a creative and artistic family who inspired her decision to pursue interior design at the young age of 16. She is a proud Iowa State Cyclone and remembers her college years pulling all-nighters in the design studio singing at the top of her lungs and drinking too much caffeine. Although her college days are long past, she continues to find much joy in the design process and thrives being surrounded by others who inspire her, such as her SDG work family. She treasures the relationships and friendships formed from working closely with clients and watching them fall in love with their homes all over again.
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