Navigating the Inspiration Overload: 

5 Tips for Finding Your True Interior Design Style

In the age of Instagram and Pinterest, we're constantly bombarded with an endless stream of picture-perfect interiors. While these platforms can be great sources of inspiration, they can also lead to overwhelm, causing us to lose sight of what we truly love. Mindless scrolling can cost hours of our lives with little to show for it. So, how can we break free from this cycle and find authentic inspiration for our homes? Here are five strategies to help you cut through the noise and discover your true interior design style:

1. Take It Offline

The real world is brimming with inspiration, often more authentic and relatable than curated social media feeds. Next time you're out and about, pay attention to your surroundings:

• That cozy window bench in your local café

• The unique wall finish in your friend's living room

• The captivating sculptures at an art exhibition

These real-world elements can spark ideas that are both practical and personally meaningful. Keep your eyes open during neighborhood walks or even bushwalks - nature itself can be a profound source of design inspiration.

2. Have Realistic Expectations

It's easy to get caught up in the allure of sleek, modern homes with glass facades and concrete finishes. But if you've got a charming brick cottage, it's important to work with what you have. This doesn't mean lowering your expectations, but rather adapting your vision to your reality.

An interior designer can be invaluable here, helping you strike a balance between your aspirations and the practical constraints of your space. They can identify the design elements that drew you to those aspirational images and find ways to incorporate them into your existing home.

3. Manage Your Inspo

Create a system for organizing your inspiration:

• Sort images into folders on your phone or computer by design style, room, or mood

• Regularly revisit and curate these collections, deleting what no longer resonates

• Analyze the images you keep: What drew you to them? Was it a feeling, a material, or an architectural feature?

This process will help you identify common themes and refine your personal style over time.

4. Look to Other Eras for Inspiration

5. Be Picky

In the vast world of interior design content, be selective about your inspiration sources. Instead of following every trending influencer, focus on curating a small collection of high-quality, reliable sources:

• Seek depth over surface appeal: Choose platforms that explain design choices and offer insights into the creative process.

• Follow industry leaders: Publications like Est Living and Architectural Digest often feature in-depth project breakdowns and designer interviews.

• Explore design firm portfolios: Reputable interior design firms often share professional-grade inspiration with project descriptions.

• Engage with educational content: Look for design blogs and podcasts that explain principles and techniques.

By curating your sources thoughtfully, you'll build a more meaningful collection of design ideas, refining your personal style and deepening your understanding of interior design principles.

5. Take Breaks 

It's crucial to step away from the constant stream of inspiration occasionally. Disconnecting allows you to:

• Clear your mind of external influences

• Reflect on what truly matters to you

• Return with fresh eyes and renewed perspective

Consider taking a week or even a month off from design-related content. You might be surprised by the clarity this break provides.

By implementing these strategies, you can cut through the noise of social media and discover a design style that's truly reflective of your personality and lifestyle. Remember, the goal isn't to recreate someone else's space, but to create a home that feels authentically you. Happy designing!