How to Get Out of a Decorating Rut

Photo: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams

Everyone goes through a period where decorating is the last thing they want to think about. If you ever happen to be stuck in a decorating rut--be it right before beginning a massive home renovation or moving forward on a quick room update to complement a new season--step back and take a moment to recharge with these three easy tips:

Take stock of your current set-up. Walk from room to room, pinpointing the elements of your decor that make you feel good and those you'd like to change somehow. Think about any recurring themes that seem to be evident in your home. For instance, have you noticed that you always buy accessories in one specific color? Are you drawn to the same style when it comes to curtains? This will all give you a more clear idea on your personal decorating philosophy and help you determine what needs to be in place to complete your decorating project to your liking.

Reference the experts. Spend some time perusing shelter magazines, books, the online portfolios of your favorite interior designers/decorators and various home stores to see how different spaces are furnished. Sometimes all it takes is coming across that one striking image to reconnect you to your decorating plan.

Be observant of your surroundings. Most decorators will tell you that they draw inspiration from fashion, traveling, or just about any other field not directly connected to their profession. While following your day-to-day routine, pay closer attention to mundane things like how people are dressed, street signs and advertisements, or even the atmosphere in a restaurant. Believe it or not, inspiration is all around you. You just have to be mindful of it.

Happy decorating!