Whilst undertaking our home makeover on a budget I have come across some inspirational resources that I am keen to share with you.

Books..

A while ago I read a wonderful book by Sheila Chandra called Banish Clutter Forever .  Sheila advocates the toothbrush principle and propose that even the most disorganised person never loses there toothbrush (yep I can vouch for that). She says by having a clear designated space for things, that is uncluttered and easily accessible and that is right by where we use an item, we are very likely to put it back there. Such a good point.She gives a toothbrush as an example. Everyone can always access their toothbrush can’t they!

I tried to use this principle when putting our living room back together after decorating. For example,  I found a box for the Wii and Playstation controllers and the remote controls so they weren’t all strewn everywhere.The box is snugly at the side of the TV. So far this is working a treat I am finding them straight away which reduces my stress levels too and the kids are purring them back in the tight place!

 

Journals..

Another workbook that has been very useful to our home makeover planning is this rather beautiful  Cath Kidston Home Ideas Journal: A Style Source book and Ideas Organiser book. It is a lovely journal and it has a pocket and a label for each room and then pages in between where you can bring your plans together. In your audit you are encourage to list your good points and bad points (the rooms not yours!) aims and ambitions and essential improvements.

There is a lot of space for your to do list in regard to each area ie. lighting, windows, walls etc. and then room for you to put your measurements and do your room plan. So brilliant to organise your thoughts an to and keep these details together. So many times I have put measurements on scraps of paper only to have to take them again.

Online Blogs & Magazines…

Inspiration also comes from design magazines and blogs. I adore my friend Jen’s Love Chic Living blog She is completely passionate about homes and design. Hers is a totally free resource and she shows me some brilliant examples through her blog of how great my home could look.

When looking at interiors magazines I tend to get bowled over by cost but most show you tricks for when you are on a budget too …they are a great tool for inspiration. Either covert your friends, check them out at the doctors or look online at House to Home the online website by the producer of all those fab magazines. It is packed with tutorials, shopping sites, ideas and trends. brilliant and again a totally free resource.

 

Picture credit: http://www.housetohome.co.uk/

Yourself

Can I tell you though I think your best resources for inspiration are  actually your own senses. Your senses  tell you what you like, what you like to touch, feel, smell and see. I like soft textures, simple, clear colours, comfy lines.

Listen to your senses and figure out what interiors  makes you feel good…that should be your inspiration.