So, you’ve decided to give your space a makeover—fantastic! But before you get swept up in mood boards and Pinterest scrolling, there’s one very important task to tackle: creating an interior design brief. Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Ugh, do I really have to?” Well, yes. But don’t worry, we’re here to make it as easy (and fun!) as possible.
Your interior design brief is like the blueprint for your project. It’s the map that guides your designer, ensuring that your vision comes to life without any surprises along the way (because nobody wants to end up with a neon green kitchen unless that’s your thing!). Plus, our design consultation is all about discussing this brief—so having it in place is key.
Here’s how to get started!
Be Honest About Your Budget—Seriously!
Yes, we know… talking about money isn’t always fun, but it’s absolutely essential. Being upfront and realistic about your budget will save you from the disappointment of falling in love with a design that’s outside your price range. Also, trust me, designers aren’t out to spend every penny of your budget. Our goal is to make sure your money goes exactly where it needs to for the best results.
Your designer doesn’t have a magic wand (I know, shocking), so clarity about your budget ensures we can focus on the right materials, furnishings, and designs without the awkward “that’s how much?!” moment.
Gather Your Design Inspiration (and Yes, That Includes Pinterest!)
The best way to explain your style is by showing examples. Whether it’s a Pinterest board packed with ideas, Instagram, or even a screenshot of a friend’s living room that you love (but would never admit to copying), inspiration is key.
If you’re not sure where to start, creating a Pinterest board is a great way to gather all your favourite looks in one place. You can collect ideas for colours, furniture styles, and layouts that catch your eye, and it makes it super easy to share your vision with your designer. Need help? Check out our blog article on👉 how to create a Pinterest board for your interior design project for step-by-step guidance!
When it comes to putting together an interior design brief, the more you show, the better. Don’t be shy about mixing things up—if you love the idea of a minimalist living room but with a statement chandelier, tell us!
And if you’re feeling stuck, our Interior Design Style Quiz is a great way to discover your vibe.
Think About How You Use Each Room
Each room has its own personality and purpose, right? So, when you’re creating a brief for multiple rooms, it helps to think about how each space is used. Is the living room where you unwind after a long day? Or is it more of a space for entertaining guests? Do you want your bedroom to feel like a sanctuary for sleep or do you sneak in some work there too? The details matter.
If you’re tackling more than one room at a time, it may be quicker to create individual briefs for each space. This way, you and your designer can focus on each room’s unique needs without mixing things up.
Fun fact: The number of pillows on your bed can be a direct reflection of how much free time you have in the morning! More pillows = more arranging time = extra effort.
Communicate Clearly with your Designer
When it comes to design, no one is a mind reader (although we’re pretty good at picking up hints!). Being clear about what you need versus what you want is essential to eliminating misunderstandings. Whether it’s a must-have colour palette or a ‘no-go’ on floral prints, these preferences should be in your brief.
Think of it this way: the more detailed and specific you are, the fewer back-and-forths we’ll need to get things perfect. And remember, this is a collaboration, so the clearer your brief, the smoother the process!
Don’t Worry If You Don’t Know Your Style—That’s Why We’re Here!
Design isn’t about fitting into one box. It’s okay if you’re not sure about your style or what exactly you want (yet). That’s where the collaborative part of this journey comes in. We can work with you to explore different styles, but taking our Interior Design Quiz can also help you narrow down the options and identify your preferences. You might just surprise yourself!
Spoiler alert: There’s no wrong answer in design—unless it involves clashing neon colours with cow print.
Why Your Brief Matters More Than You Think
Finally, remember that your brief is more than just a list of ideas. It’s the foundation of your interior design process. It sets the tone, keeps everyone on the same page, and helps avoid those dreaded “Oh, I thought you meant this” moments. It allows us to focus on what matters most to you and create a space that truly reflects your personality.
P.S. Taking the time to put this together now will save us all a lot of time later (and potentially avoid a few “Oops” moments!).
Okay, We’re Done Talking (Almost!)
There you have it—a simple guide to creating the perfect interior design brief. Whether it’s for one room or your entire home, spending a little time on this will save us all a ton of headaches later. And trust us, when you’re lounging in your perfectly styled space, you’ll thank yourself!
Now go grab that cup of tea (or something stronger—we don’t judge) and start planning! ☕