I thought for my first blog post, it would be wholly relevant to address the beginnings of the redesigning or redecorating process.

Decorating and designing within your own home can be a daunting task. So daunting in fact that the redecorating you were planning to do last spring may have been put off until, well, this spring. Hopefully, after reading this, you can get the ball rolling on your own project.

First, you need to consider the space that you want to work with and ask yourself some questions. What is this space used for? How much time do you plan on spending in this space? Do you entertain a lot? Do you want to go for formal or a more casual look? Do you need more storage space? Do you need to block out the sunlight so your spouse who works night shifts can sleep during the day? You get my point. Obviously, these aren’t the only questions. However, your answers to vital questions such as these should ultimately guide you as you craft your master redecorating plan.

After this initial brainstorming phase, you should name a budget and prioritize. What’s more important to you–reupholstering that loveseat that has the heinous fabric or getting a new bookshelf to display your loved one’s prized National Geographic collection? More decisions–I know it’s hard.

Next, measure the room and all the furniture that you already own and want in this space. Draw a diagram. Ideally, you will use a pencil, ruler, graph paper, and the part of your brain you haven’t utilized since 10th grade geometry. Map out where you want furniture to go within the room. Decide on any new purchases you may have to make. Do you want to paint the walls? Redo the floors? Get a plan of the end result on paper before you even move that lamp to the other side of the room.

We hope that your initial planning phase will ultimately provide you with the motivation and inspiration to finish this year (and last year’s) spring redecorating. Good luck!