I always start with a spiral notebook, 5 x 7 or so. I buy those little stick on tabs and devote several pages to each room and space ( space=back hall, front entry, upstairs hall, walk-in closet, etc). The very next thing, I measure with a real tape measure (no 12” rulers) and draw a to scale sketch of each room, including doors, windows, closets, fireplaces, alcoves, etc. Each room then gets addressed with my first impression ideas; guest room-soft blue walls, 2 brass lamps, Grandma’s bench, Roman shades?, small dresser..... I then set my budget for many of these items or “ shop my house” ( can I use the two lamps from the previous house’s family room?). I add to my idea books on Houzz and Post It note magazines and add captions like “cute shades, interesting use of baskets, rug like this but darker”. I do this for every room, space, and outdoor area. I tape paint samples to the appropriate page. I take this notebook with me to fabric shops and consignment stores, to Ethan Allen and to interior designers shops. There is no question of the appropriate size of a dining table if I have the actual measurements of the room, no question about a lamp 16” in diameter fitting the end table if I have the measurements of that end table. I obviously can change my mind, and often do, but the plan helps keep me on track. I don’t erase my changes, but note why I did something else. I check each item on my list as it is completed and watch my budget. If I budgeted $400 for those two little lamps but found them on sale for $250, I can use the $150 towards the beautiful hand stitched blanket throw I wanted. This system helps me organize my thoughts, keeps me on track with my master plan, and saves returning something is too large or too small.
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Bedside lamps?
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