Inspiration: where design truly begins

People often ask me where my inspiration comes from when I’m designing a space, a room, or even a single piece. The truth is, inspiration is never the same twice. It shifts, evolves, and reveals itself in unexpected ways. But if I had to name the very first source of inspiration in almost every project, it would be simple: my clients.

That may sound like a short answer, but it’s anything but. Inspiration begins the moment I meet them. I listen closely—not just to their words, but to their tone, their energy, their excitement, and even their hesitation. I take in their environment, their lifestyle, their treasures, and the way they move through their home. I ask a lot of questions (a lot), and I pay attention to the subtle cues most people don’t even realize they’re giving. Sometimes I joke that I feel like Wonder Woman, spotting signs only I can see.

Inspiration can come from anywhere—a color they love, a photograph tucked on a shelf, a period piece inherited from a grandparent, or even the way sunlight falls across a room. You never truly know where the spark will come from. But one thing I do know for certain: my client has to feel the inspiration as deeply as I do. Design is a collaboration, and the magic happens when we’re inspired together.

Turning inspiration into form

Finding inspiration is one thing; interpreting it and turning it into a functional, beautiful space is another. When I’m designing a room, the first question I ask myself is: What is the purpose of this space?

Is it meant to be busy and energetic? Quiet and restorative? Playful? Creative? Private?

Understanding the function of a room is the foundation of every design decision that follows.

And then—almost immediately—my mind goes to color.

Color is emotional. It’s powerful. It can calm, energize, comfort, or inspire. I often start envisioning the palette before anything else. What colors support the function of the space? What colors reflect the client’s personality? I pull out my little “bible” of color therapy and begin exploring how each hue will influence the room’s mood.

From there, I move into function and furniture. Do they have young children? Are they craving a quiet retreat? Do they need durability, softness, flexibility, or structure? Every answer guides the next step. Design is a puzzle, and these questions help me find the right pieces.

Starting with what matters most

Most clients come to me with at least one thing they already love—a painting, a color, a theme, a piece of furniture, or even a window with a beautiful view. Sometimes that one item becomes the anchor for the entire design.

When I consult with clients over the phone, I often tell them: Pick the most important thing in the room and start there.

It doesn’t matter what it is. If it matters to you, it matters to the design. Build the room around that one meaningful element. Let it guide your choices. Let it inspire the palette, the textures, the layout, and the feeling of the space.

Because in the end, great design is not just about form or function—it’s about honoring the client’s wishes and weaving them together with color, comfort, purpose, and beauty. That is where inspiration becomes reality.

Enjoy your week and get inspired!

Dori