The A-Z of Interior Design, I is for Inspiration

Interior design inspiration can come from many sources - not just within the world of interiors.

Fashion often inspires interior decor.  Vintage furniture as well as vintage fashion have helped to revive mid-century modern design, as seen here in Living etc, featuring Harlequin wallpaper.  Fashion design can be a perfect starting point, with coordinating colours and an emphasis on texture and style.


Gathering ideas and soaking up thoughts from the surrounding world helps to consolidate ideas and to  devise an original interior design scheme.  Having a strong concept creates a springboard for change.

Photography: Harlequin
Photography: Harlequin

There are countless beautiful places in the world where creativity can be nurtured; check out London, the design capital of the world, and see what the city has to offer. Visit some design exhibitions and designers’ shops. Don’t miss the amazing V&A (Victoria and Albert Museum) or see their Interior Design in the Archive of Art & Design. Enjoy some of the hundreds of museums in the capital, or other towns and cities worldwide. In London you can also seek out the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre via Sloane Square or the Kings Road, the Design Museum, or specific exhibitions such as the Ideal Home Exhibition or Grand Designs.



Let the blues and whites of Greece inspire your creativity.  Use natural textures such as linen, wood and found materials to enliven your decor.


The amazing Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona is an awe-inspiring display of colour and design…
Photography: Ken Kaminesky

Art can also introduce ideas with a particular focus on colour…


Don’t limit your inspiration. Vintage finds can be hugely inspiring and try to remain diverse in your thinking.  Be eccentric or eclectic. Think about the aesthetics of a potential scheme. Inspiration can come from anything that has caught your eye, be it a decorative, ornate antique brooch, an ethereal dress, art, sculpture or architecture, whilst remembering, of course, that nature remains the greatest inspirer.


Imagery and ideas now come from all manner of media and countless photographs are shared online in an instant. Hone in on what inspires you and fires your creativity.